Top 5 Benefits of Adding Plants to Commercial Spaces (That I Absolutely Swear By)
If you’re anything like me, you know plants aren’t just for brightening up living rooms and jazzing up your Instagram feed. Nope, they’re secret weapons for creating spaces that feel alive, vibrant, and welcoming. And when it comes to commercial spaces – from cozy cafes and posh hotel lobbies to bustling offices and boutiques – plants can work wonders. They not only transform how a place looks but also *how it feels*, and believe me, your customers and employees can tell the difference. So, let’s dive into the top five reasons why plants are not just an accessory but an essential ingredient in any business space.
1. Air So Fresh You’ll Wonder Where the Outdoors Went
We’ve all walked into that space. You know the one: air so stale it feels like it was last refreshed sometime around 1985. Not exactly what you’d call invigorating, right? Indoor spaces, especially the closed-off, high-traffic kind, tend to accumulate all sorts of not-so-great stuff in the air – from the chemicals in cleaning products to whatever mystery fumes are floating off the copier. But that’s where plants come in to save the day!
Certain plants – think snake plants, peace lilies, and trusty succulents – are like nature’s very own air purifiers. They absorb carbon dioxide, release fresh oxygen, and can filter out pollutants that lurk in the air. It’s like they’re saying, “Don’t worry, I’ve got this.” And the best part? These guys aren’t needy; they don’t require all-day sunlight or constant watering. They’re basically the employee of the month in plant form.
How-To Tip: If you’re looking to improve air quality with minimal upkeep, place some of these air-purifying champs in high-traffic areas. Your employees will breathe a little easier, and your customers might not even know why they feel so good – they’ll just love it.
2. Productivity Powerhouses (Yes, Really)
Okay, I know what you’re thinking: “Dwona, are you actually suggesting that a potted plant is going to make my employees work harder?” I know it sounds a bit like plant propaganda, but stay with me here. Studies have shown (and trust me, I read up on these things) that plants can increase productivity, boost creativity, and even lower stress levels. When people feel good in their workspace, they’re naturally more engaged and motivated.
And it’s not just for the “creative types.” Whether you’ve got a team of designers brainstorming their next big idea or accountants crunching numbers, everyone benefits from a little greenery. Plants remind us of the natural world beyond the walls, even when we’re knee-deep in emails and deadlines. A tiny bit of life among the desks can remind people that there’s more to life than meetings – and that alone can go a long way.
How-To Tip: I get it, you’re busy, and so is your team. Go for plants that won’t demand a lot of attention, like cacti or, my personal favorite, succulents (which just so happen to look amazing and are low-maintenance). Put a few on each desk or in common areas, and you might just see some happier, more productive faces around the office.
3. A Customer Experience to Remember
Let’s be real: there’s a lot of competition out there, no matter what industry you’re in. And while I’m not saying that a few potted plants are going to blow your competitors out of the water, I am saying that they can help create an experience that customers remember. We all know people aren’t just buying products or services – they’re buying experiences. And creating an inviting, warm, and beautiful environment is a surefire way to get customers talking (in the best way possible).
Plants give your space that extra something. They add color, texture, and life that makes a room feel less like a waiting area and more like a place people actually want to spend time in. Imagine walking into a lobby with bare walls versus one dotted with vibrant greens and natural decor. The second option is not only more visually appealing but also gives off a vibe that you care about the details.
How-To Tip: Use plants as visual anchors. Got a product display? Frame it with some potted plants to draw attention. Need to guide people through a showroom or retail floor? Use larger plants to create a natural flow. And if you’re in hospitality, add some greenery to common areas – you’ll notice that people start to linger, soaking in the calming vibe.
4. Goodbye, Background Noise (Or at Least Some of It)
Ever been in a cafe or office where every cough, keyboard clack, and pen drop sounds like it’s happening right next to your ear? Plants can help with that. Believe it or not, certain plants are natural noise absorbers – think of them as Mother Nature’s soundproofing. Big, leafy greens like rubber plants or fiddle leaf figs can help soak up some of that ambient noise, creating a more comfortable sound environment.
Now, don’t expect them to replace a full soundproofing setup, but plants can help make those echoes and general background chatter a little less intense. This is especially helpful in open-plan offices, lobbies, and even restaurants where reducing noise levels can improve the overall experience.
How-To Tip: If noise is a big issue, try placing a few larger plants in strategic areas, like between workstations or near high-traffic zones. It’s a simple way to create a more tranquil space – and your guests and employees will appreciate the quieter vibe.
5. A Calming, Relaxing Environment That’s Good for Everyone’s Health
If there’s one thing we all need more of, it’s peace. Between the demands of work, errands, and all the little stressors that make up daily life, a peaceful, calming environment can be a breath of fresh air. And here’s where plants truly shine. Numerous studies show that simply being around plants can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and promote a feeling of well-being.
Imagine a customer walking into a space filled with greenery; it signals to them that they can relax, that they’re in a space where comfort and quality matter. And for your employees, a green workspace can help combat workplace stress, boost morale, and even reduce absenteeism. A less stressed team? Yes, please!
How-To Tip: If relaxation is the goal, go for succulents that offer soothing aesthetics – think lush greens, simple pots, and maybe even a few hanging plants. Place them in reception areas, break rooms, or anywhere people gather and need a moment to relax. Your customers will thank you, and your employees might just thank you twice.
Bringing It All Together: The Green Revolution is Real
The benefits of succulents in commercial spaces are hard to argue with. They don’t just add style and character; they bring tangible, feel-good advantages that can improve everything from customer impressions to employee morale. And the best part? Adding succuelnts is probably one of the easiest (and nicest) design upgrades you can make.
Whether you’re in the market for wall art and big leafy greens to create privacy, or even a gorgeous succulent ball to make a statement, the choices are endless. At LAD Succulents, I’m all about making the world greener, one plant at a time – and I genuinely believe every commercial space can be transformed with a little help from nature.
So, take it from me: don’t just decorate your space – give it life.
