Nature in the Office: A Systematic Review of Nature Elements and Their Effects on Worker Stress Response

Abstract

Work-related stress is a significant problem in many work environments and can have negative consequences for both employees and organisations. This review aimed to identify which elements of biophilic design in the workplace affect workers’ stress response. To enable this, a literature search was conducted using PsycINFO, Scopus, and Medline. The search was limited to articles published from 2012 to June 2023. This review only integrated quantitative data, incorporating twelve records for qualitative synthesis. The selected studies suggest that strategies such as access to outdoor environments or the creation of outdoor areas are effective in reducing stress in the workplace. If these are not feasible, the examined research advocates the use of virtual means to recreate such relaxation or break spaces. Furthermore, aspects of interest for future research were identified, such as multisensory stimulation, including the sense of smell, the exploration of views with natural elements, the creation of shelters, or the study of biomorphic forms.