People would agree that having house plants make any space looks nicer and more welcoming, however, besides the aesthetic benefit, there are so many more reasons to include and thoughtfully consider the use of house plants in home designs. Below are some of those benefits.
The Biophilia Effect
The effect of nature on humans well bring (Biophilia), has been thought of and studied a lot lately. The human affinity to nature and the benefits that come with it is the main purpose behind the trending Biophilic Design. Nowadays, many organization around the world are dedicating their efforts to promoting the Biophilia ideals to the design community while emphasizing its added benefits.
Air purification
Good indoor air quality is an essential element for users’ comfort and health. In homes, this becomes even more critical as it affects both the mental and physical health of the users.
According to the world economic forum a recent study was conducted that showed that indoor plants can cut indoor air pollution by 20%
The study was done on three easy-to-maintain house plants: the Peace Lily, the Corn Plant, and Fern Arum, and it was noted that within an hour the plants successfully reduced the NO2 in the air by 50%. This happened whether the room was dark or lit and the soil was wet or dry.
It is important to successfully choose the type of house plant to use, and its placement to make sure it has the right condition to survive and thrive. House plants will bring any home a natural feel, make the place looks more lively, bringing the outdoor inside and manifest many benefits for mind and body.
Enhance the Immune System
A study conducted by the agriculture university of Norway indicated that adding healthy indoor plants can reduce the chance of developing a cold and increase immunity. A factor that is crucial nowadays to many users, especially after the COVID strike.
Improving the Human Comfort Levels
A study conducted at the Washington State University showed that when plants were placed indoors the humidity levels increased to meet the recommended level of 30-60% range, while plants absence showed lower humidity levels than that recommended for human comfort in an indoor space.
Increasing IQ?
Plants can make you smarter! This was stated in a study cited by Scientific America, which indicated that people who functioned in a room with plants illustrated better cognitive skills. This had to do with improving the direct attention of users when focused on a task. Maybe Einstein had many house plants!
Increasing Productivity
Many studies and sources like Phys.org have reflected on the effect of indoor plants on increasing human productivity and decreasing the feeling of fatigue, especially in the workplace. Where indoor plants can help reduce distractions, increase creativity, and improve task performance.
Sustainability
Designers who subscribe to the ideals of Human Centered Sustainable Design (HCSD) believe that integrating nature in any design is an important step toward sustainability. Using plants have this added effect of bringing nature indoors and bringing the outdoors indoors, to manifest the benefits that nature can provide to the space.
For users to enjoy the many mind/body benefits that indoor plants can provide for their home, it is also important to select the right type of plant and properly consider its placement to make sure it survives, thrives, and functions well.
