The RestPod was designed as a biophilic micro-environment aimed at promoting restoration and well-being in workplace settings. Rooted in environmental psychology theories, the design incorporates key elements of the 14 Patterns of Biophilic Design (Browning et al., 2014), emphasizing refuge, prospect, and natural connection. The objectives of the RestPod are to counteract cognitive fatigue and stress, fostering positive emotions and overall well-being among employees. The interior features three wooden walls incorporating stabilized moss and potted plants, which align with research highlighting wood’s benefits on cognitive performance and perceived comfort (Tsunetsugu et al., 2007; Shen et al., 2020). The glass door and satin-finished panels provide privacy while maintaining visual permeability, supporting both refuge and connectivity (Browning et al., 2014). Lighting, with adjustable warm tones (2700K-3000K), fosters a calming atmosphere, enhancing mood and reducing stress (Lee et al., 2014). Airflow and lighting controls further empower users, promoting a sense of agency and reducing environmental stress (Evans & Cohen, 2004). This innovative workspace aims to address cognitive fatigue and stress by leveraging the restorative effects of nature-based design. Preliminary findings indicate significant reductions in heart rate after 15-minute RestPod sessions, alongside reported improvements in positive emotions and overall well-being, underscoring the potential of biophilic interventions in enhancing workplace health and productivity. The RestPod demonstrates the potential of biophilic design in workplace interventions, supporting both psychological restoration and physiological stress reduction. These findings underline the importance of natural stimuli and environmental control in fostering healthier work environments.
THE RESTPOD: A BIOPHILIC APPROACH TO ENHANCING WORKPLACE RESTORATION
Margherita Brondino
;Camilla Marossi;Elisa Menardo;Margherita Pasini
2025-01-01
Abstract
The RestPod was designed as a biophilic micro-environment aimed at promoting restoration and well-being in workplace settings. Rooted in environmental psychology theories, the design incorporates key elements of the 14 Patterns of Biophilic Design (Browning et al., 2014), emphasizing refuge, prospect, and natural connection. The objectives of the RestPod are to counteract cognitive fatigue and stress, fostering positive emotions and overall well-being among employees. The interior features three wooden walls incorporating stabilized moss and potted plants, which align with research highlighting wood’s benefits on cognitive performance and perceived comfort (Tsunetsugu et al., 2007; Shen et al., 2020). The glass door and satin-finished panels provide privacy while maintaining visual permeability, supporting both refuge and connectivity (Browning et al., 2014). Lighting, with adjustable warm tones (2700K-3000K), fosters a calming atmosphere, enhancing mood and reducing stress (Lee et al., 2014). Airflow and lighting controls further empower users, promoting a sense of agency and reducing environmental stress (Evans & Cohen, 2004). This innovative workspace aims to address cognitive fatigue and stress by leveraging the restorative effects of nature-based design. Preliminary findings indicate significant reductions in heart rate after 15-minute RestPod sessions, alongside reported improvements in positive emotions and overall well-being, underscoring the potential of biophilic interventions in enhancing workplace health and productivity. The RestPod demonstrates the potential of biophilic design in workplace interventions, supporting both psychological restoration and physiological stress reduction. These findings underline the importance of natural stimuli and environmental control in fostering healthier work environments.
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