The ROI of Office Plants: Beyond Aesthetics

Biophilic office design enhances workplace well-being

When most people think about office plants, they picture greenery as a decorative touch — a way to soften sterile interiors or add a splash of color. But the truth is, incorporating live plants into your workplace does far more than improve appearances. The right plantscape program can have a measurable impact on your bottom line.

At Kelly Mac Interiorscapes, we’ve seen firsthand how live plants transform offices, multifamily properties, and commercial spaces into healthier, more productive environments. Here’s why office greenery should be considered an investment, not just an expense.

1. Healthier Employees, Lower Absenteeism

Indoor plants naturally filter pollutants and improve air quality by absorbing toxins and releasing oxygen. Studies show that employees working in plant-rich environments report fewer headaches, respiratory issues, and fatigue. Fewer sick days translate directly into higher productivity and cost savings for employers.

2. Boosted Productivity and Creativity

The presence of greenery has been linked to a 15% increase in productivity and improved concentration. Plants also help reduce background noise and create calmer spaces, which can enhance focus. In creative industries, exposure to natural elements has been shown to spark innovation and problem-solving — both valuable outcomes for businesses aiming to stay competitive.

3. Improved Employee Retention and Well-Being

A well-designed workspace shows employees that their comfort and wellness matter. Environments that incorporate biophilic design principles — including natural light, materials, and plants — make people feel more connected to nature, reducing stress and improving job satisfaction. Happier employees are more likely to stay, lowering costly turnover rates.

4. Stronger First Impressions with Clients and Guests

When a client, prospect, or resident steps into a building, their first impression matters. Lush greenery in lobbies, conference rooms, and gathering spaces conveys professionalism, care, and attention to detail. A welcoming environment not only elevates your brand image but can also influence business outcomes by setting a positive tone from the start.

5. A Scalable, Measurable Investment

Unlike one-time décor upgrades, professional plantscape programs are ongoing investments that can grow and adapt with your business. From compact workstation plants to dramatic living walls, greenery solutions can be tailored to fit your budget, space, and long-term goals. And because benefits like reduced absenteeism and improved productivity are measurable, they can be factored into your ROI calculations.

Ready to See the ROI of Office Plants in Your Workplace?

At Kelly Mac Interiorscapes, we specialize in designing, installing, and maintaining plantscapes that deliver more than just beauty — they deliver results. Whether you’re looking to improve employee wellness, impress clients, or create a healthier indoor environment, we can help you build a plan that fits your vision and budget.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discover how live plants can pay dividends for your business.

Earth Day Spotlight: How Interior Plantscaping Keeps Us Connected to the Earth

Every year on April 22nd, Earth Day reminds us to reflect on our relationship with the planet and the role we play in its health. While much of the celebration centers on outdoor conservation and sustainability, it’s just as important to consider how we experience nature indoors—especially since the average person spends 90% of their time inside. This is where interior plantscaping plays a vital role.

Interior plantscaping, the art and science of designing with live plants indoors, is more than a visual upgrade. It’s a living connection to the earth in the midst of our built environments—offices, commercial buildings, healthcare centers, and other indoor spaces where many of us live and work every day.

Reconnecting with Nature Through Biophilic Design

The concept of biophilic design emphasizes our innate need to connect with nature. Interior plantscapes are a key component of this movement, bringing natural elements into the workplace to boost well-being, creativity, and productivity. From lush green walls to elegantly arranged floor plants and desktop foliage, these elements offer daily, tangible reminders of the natural world.

Incorporating live plants into indoor environments supports sustainable design practices. Plants naturally purify the air, regulate humidity, and reduce indoor pollutants. This not only improves indoor air quality, but also contributes to the overall health and wellness of employees and visitors.

Earth Day, Every Day—With Plants Indoors

Celebrating Earth Day can start right inside your office or commercial space. Choosing an interior plantscape isn’t just a design decision—it’s a sustainability choice. Many plant installations use low-water species, recycled containers, and eco-friendly maintenance practices, aligning with your company’s environmental goals.

In addition to environmental benefits, live plants help create a calming, grounded atmosphere that supports mental health. In fast-paced, high-tech environments, even a small dose of nature can reduce stress and improve focus. It’s a daily Earth Day moment—whether you're brainstorming in a conference room lined with green walls or taking a call next to a Fiddle Leaf Fig tree.

Make the Earth Part of Your Everyday Space

This Earth Day, consider how your workplace or interior space reflects your values. Investing in sustainable biophilic plantscape design with live plants is a powerful, practical way to honor the planet—and the people who inhabit it.

Let’s bring the outside in. With thoughtful interior plantscape designs, we create environments that don’t just function beautifully, but also nurture our connection to the earth.

Happy Earth Day from all of us at Kelly Mac Interiorscapes!

Enhancing Aesthetics and Brand Image with Interior Plants: Workplaces and Multi-Family Residences

The Transformative Power of Interior Plants: Enhancing Aesthetics and Brand Image

In today’s competitive business and residential markets, creating spaces that inspire and leave a lasting impression has never been more important. Whether you manage a bustling workplace or a multi-family residential building, interior plantscapes offer a simple yet powerful way to elevate aesthetics and enhance brand image. Here, we explore the value that interior plants bring and why incorporating greenery into your spaces is a must.

Why Interior Plants Make a Difference

Interior plants are more than just decorative elements; they are key to creating a welcoming and sophisticated environment. Research shows that spaces designed with indoor plants not only appear more vibrant but also feel more inviting to employees, guests, and residents alike. Here are some ways they add value:

1. Enhanced Visual Appeal: Plants instantly soften the look of a room, adding texture, depth, and life to what might otherwise be cold, sterile spaces. From tabletop plants to tropical trees or living walls, greenery can be tailored to complement your interior design and create a harmonious atmosphere.

2. Brand Image and Identity: Incorporating plants into your office or residential building conveys a commitment to sustainability, wellness, and innovation. A thoughtfully designed plantscape demonstrates that you care about the environment and the well-being of those who use your space, strengthening your brand’s identity.

3. Boosted Employee and Resident Satisfaction: Greenery has been proven to improve mood and productivity. In an office, plants help reduce stress, enhance creativity, and even improve air quality, fostering a healthier, more enjoyable work environment. In residential settings, they create a sense of comfort and connection to nature, which tenants value highly.

4. Increased Property Value: A well-maintained interior plantscape makes your property more attractive to potential clients or residents. Whether it’s an inviting lobby or a serene common area, plants elevate perceived value and can set your space apart from the competition.

Tips for Incorporating Plants

1. Prioritize Placement: Focus on high-traffic areas like lobbies, conference rooms, or lounge spaces to maximize impact.

2. Choose Low-Maintenance Options: Opt for resilient varieties like snake plants, pothos, or ZZ plants that thrive indoors with minimal care.

3. Partner with Professionals: Work with an experienced interior plantscape company to design, install, and maintain your greenery for optimal results.

Interior plants are a cost-effective and visually striking way to elevate your workplace or residential building. Beyond their undeniable aesthetic appeal, they promote well-being, reinforce brand values, and enhance the overall experience of your space. By choosing to incorporate plants, you’re not just decorating—you’re investing in a greener, more vibrant future.

Looking to transform your space? Contact us today to learn how our expert team can design the perfect interior plantscape tailored to your needs.

The Transformative Power of Interior Plants in Architecture and Design

In the ever-evolving world of architecture and interior design, professionals are increasingly recognizing the profound impact of interior plants on the built environment. As sustainability becomes a central theme in design, integrating greenery into indoor spaces is not just a trend—it's a necessity. This blog explores how architects and interior designers are harnessing the power of interior plants to enhance their projects, while also highlighting the numerous benefits these living elements bring to interior spaces.

Enhancing Aesthetics and Atmosphere

One of the most immediate benefits of incorporating interior plants is their ability to enhance aesthetics. Lush greenery adds color, texture, and life to otherwise sterile environments. Whether it’s a vibrant potted plant in a corporate office or a cascading wall of ferns in a boutique hotel lobby, plants create visual interest that captivates visitors. Designers are increasingly using biophilic design principles, which emphasize the connection between nature and human well-being, to create spaces that feel more inviting and harmonious.

Improving Indoor Air Quality

Live interior plants are not just beautiful; they also play a crucial role in improving indoor air quality. Many common houseplants, such as snake plants and peace lilies, have been shown to filter toxins from the air, making spaces healthier for occupants. This is particularly important in commercial settings where employees spend long hours indoors. By integrating live plants into their designs, architects and designers can contribute to a healthier work environment, which can lead to increased productivity and reduced absenteeism.

Boosting Well-Being and Productivity

Research has consistently shown that exposure to nature can significantly improve mental health and well-being. Interior plants can reduce stress levels, enhance mood, and promote creativity among occupants. For businesses, this translates into happier employees who are more engaged and productive. Designers are now prioritizing plant integration as a key element in creating spaces that foster well-being—an investment that pays off in employee satisfaction and retention.

Sustainability and Eco-Friendliness

As sustainability becomes an essential consideration in modern design, interior plants offer an eco-friendly solution that aligns with green building practices. Incorporating plants into architectural designs not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also contributes to LEED and WELL certification points for sustainable building practices. By choosing native or low-maintenance plant species, designers can further reduce water usage and maintenance costs.

Interior Plants: A Valuable Investment

The integration of interior plants into architectural and interior design projects is more than just a decorative choice; it’s a strategic decision that adds substantial value to spaces. From enhancing aesthetics to improving air quality and boosting occupant well-being, the benefits of interior plants are undeniable. As the architecture and design communities continue to embrace this green revolution, it’s clear that incorporating nature into our built environments is not just beneficial—it’s essential for creating spaces that inspire, heal, and thrive.

By recognizing the power of interior plants, professionals can elevate their projects while contributing positively to the health of both people and the planet. Embrace this trend today and watch your designs flourish!

Boosting Workplace Well-Being: The Power of Biophilic Design

Recent studies have increasingly highlighted the significant value and benefits of biophilic design in the workplace, demonstrating its positive impact on employee well-being, productivity, and overall organizational success.

Understanding Biophilic Design

Biophilic design refers to the integration of natural elements into built environments, aiming to create a stronger connection between people and nature. This approach can include features such as indoor plants, natural light, and materials that mimic natural forms. The concept is rooted in the idea that humans have an innate affinity for nature, which can be leveraged to enhance workplace environments.

Key Findings from Recent Research

1. Enhanced Well-Being: A recent study conducted at PLP Offices found that biophilic design led to a remarkable 200% increase in employee well-being compared to traditional office settings. Participants were monitored across three different environments: one without plants, one with minimal planting, and another with abundant greenery. The results indicated significant improvements in mental health and overall satisfaction among employees in more plant-rich environments[1].

2. Increased Productivity: Research has shown that incorporating biophilic elements can boost productivity by as much as 15%. For instance, a study at the University of Oregon revealed that employees with views of trees took fewer sick days—averaging 57 hours annually compared to 68 hours for those without such views. This correlation suggests that enhancing visual access to nature can significantly reduce absenteeism and increase engagement[2][4].

3. Cost Savings and Economic Value: The financial implications of biophilic design are substantial. The study "Reap What You Sow" indicated that biophilic environments could generate more than double the economic value compared to non-biophilic designs. This includes savings from reduced energy costs due to effective natural lighting and decreased healthcare costs associated with improved employee health[2][3].

4. Creativity and Innovation: Biophilic design has also been linked to enhanced creativity in the workplace. Environments rich in natural elements stimulate cognitive functions and encourage innovative thinking. Employees exposed to such settings reported higher levels of creativity and collaboration during brainstorming sessions[3][5].

The integration of biophilic design in workplace environments offers numerous benefits that extend beyond aesthetic appeal. By fostering a connection to nature, organizations can enhance employee well-being, boost productivity, reduce absenteeism, and ultimately improve their bottom line. As businesses continue to adapt to changing work dynamics, investing in biophilic design may prove essential for attracting and retaining talent while promoting a healthier work culture.

Citations:

[1] https://journalofbiophilicdesign.com/podcast-journal-of-biophilic-design/research-proves-that-biophilic-design-increases-workplace-value

[2] https://www.futureofworkhub.info/explainers/2021/4/7/biophilic-design-and-the-workplace

[3] https://www.sharp.co.uk/news-and-events/blog/The-Benefits-of-Biophilic-Design-in-the-Workplace

[4] https://www.haiken.com/insights/4-benefits-of-biophilic-design-in-the-office

[5] https://arb.umn.edu/blog/2024/05/07/biophilic-design-in-the-workplace-improves-creativity-wellbeing-and-productivity

[6] https://www.gensler.com/blog/why-biophilic-design-is-crucial-in-workplace

[7] https://www.coalesse.com/blog/the-impact-and-benefits-of-biophilia-in-the-workplace/

[8] https://www.ehsinsight.com/blog/the-impact-of-biophilic-design-and-workplace-well-being

How Updating Office Plants Can Help Attract and Retain Top Talent

How Updating Office Plants Can Help Attract and Retain Top Talent

In today’s competitive employment marketplace, businesses must find creative ways to attract and retain top talent. Beyond offering competitive salaries and benefits, the work environment plays a critical role in shaping the employee experience. One powerful yet often overlooked way to enhance your office space is through Interior Plantscaping. Updating the plants in your office can create a more attractive workplace, foster employee well-being, and ultimately help your company stand out as an employer of choice.

The Role of Office Plants in Attracting New Employees

When potential employees walk into your office for an interview, the environment immediately makes an impression. Clean, modern spaces with vibrant, healthy plants signal that your company values well-being and aesthetics. Office plants not only improve the visual appeal but also make the space feel more welcoming and professional. In a job market where candidates have multiple options, a beautifully designed office can tip the scales in your favor.

Plants also help to create a positive atmosphere, which can subtly impact how candidates perceive your company. Studies show that greenery has a calming effect, reducing stress and anxiety. This can make the interview process more comfortable for prospective employees, helping you leave a positive and lasting impression.

Enhancing Employee Retention With Office Greenery

Employee retention is just as important as attracting new talent, and creating a work environment that promotes comfort and well-being is key. Office plants play a significant role in boosting employee morale and satisfaction. Research indicates that plants improve air quality by reducing toxins and increasing humidity, leading to fewer instances of illness and increased productivity. Healthier employees are happier employees, and a well-designed, plant-filled office can contribute to reducing sick days and promoting overall well-being.

Beyond the physical health benefits, plants also have a psychological impact. Access to nature, even indoors, has been shown to improve mental clarity, reduce stress, and enhance creativity. When employees feel more relaxed and inspired in their work environment, they’re more likely to stay with the company long-term. An updated interior plantscape can make your employees feel valued and appreciated, encouraging them to remain loyal to your organization.

Standing Out in a Competitive Employment Market

In an era where workplace culture and environment are key differentiators, investing in your office space is essential. As potential employees evaluate their options, they’re not just looking at salary and benefits—they’re also considering the day-to-day experience of working at your company. By regularly updating your office plants and creating an inviting, green workspace, you demonstrate your commitment to employee well-being and sustainability.

Updating your interior plants not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your office but also plays a crucial role in attracting and retaining top talent. In a competitive employment marketplace, every detail matters. A well-designed, plant-filled office signals that your company is forward-thinking, health-conscious, and dedicated to creating a positive work environment.