Are you stuck in a depressing grey cubicle while summer is in full swing just outside the office door? Luckily for you, a greener workspace isn’t far away, as there are several plants that are not only easy to maintain, but will actually thrive in a fluorescent-lit workplace.

In addition to providing mood-boosting colours and textures, it has been proven that indoor plants offer additional health benefits. Research has repeatedly shown that the presence of plants in the workplace can help workers recover more quickly from mentally and physically demanding activities. They have also been found to assist in lowering stress levels by providing a calming atmosphere and cleaner air. For these reasons, plants are quickly becoming an important factor in office interior design.

A 2008 Texas State University study suggested that a few green plants in the office could have a real impact on employee happiness and corporate atmosphere. Researchers surveyed 450 office workers, and found that those who worked in spaces with plants and window views reported higher levels of job satisfaction than those in windowless offices with no greenery.

Several varieties of indoor plants can also purify the air by removing volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Many office environments have these air-bound compounds which emanate from carpets, furnishings, solvents and ink. Indoor plants also improve air quality by increasing humidity and absorbing carbon dioxide. Cleaner air means less sickness and therefore a healthier and more productive workforce.

You can also make them a fun part of your decor by putting them in a beautiful, modern pot. Be on trend with a geometric pattern or metallic finish, or stay classic with a well-made white ceramic option. Don’t be afraid to experiment with other quirky containers as well.

Three plants for you to consider

The best indoor plants are those that thrive in low light, and dryer conditions:

1. The Snake Plant (Sanseveria trifasciata) is a forgiving indoor plant that will survive in almost any environment, even if not regularly watered. They’re very good at absorbing toxins from the air and are indigenous to South Africa, so they are friendly from the perspectives of both maintenance and conservation.

2. The Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens) is a durable, tropical houseplant that is grown for its graceful feather-like arching fronds. This plant will remove CO2 and convert it to oxygen, making it ideal for stuffy offices with poor air circulation. It will improve your air quality and add an elegant look to your workplace!

3. The Golden Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) was noted by NASA researchers as a top air-cleaning plant, and it is famously low maintenance to boot! NASA noted that its lovely heart-shaped leaves remove up to 73% of VOCs and other pollutants. It is also one of the best plants for low-light positions, making it perfect for your desk.

It really is a win-win – you get to create a beautiful oasis indoors, whilst simultaneously increasing productivity and improving the overall atmosphere in the office, as well as the air quality. If you’re interested in making your workplace greener and incorporating these, and other elements into your office design, please contact us for innovative solutions.