What can we learn from a corporate giants foray in to nature-driven design?

As conversations around workplace wellbeing continue to evolve, one of the world's largest employers has demonstrated how thoughtful design can play a role in supporting employee mental health.

At its Seattle headquarters, Amazon created The Spheres three striking glass conservatories spanning around two acres and home to more than 40,000 plants. Designed as spaces where employees can work, meet, and recharge, The Spheres reflect a deliberate investment in bringing nature into the working day.

The motivation goes beyond aesthetics. Growing evidence suggests that regular contact with nature can help reduce stress and support psychological wellbeing, an important consideration as chronic stress and burnout continue to affect office workers worldwide. In the UK 20% of employees have taken time off sick due to poor mental health.

Research conducted with Amazon employees found that exposure to more natural outdoor environments was significantly associated with lower levels of state anxiety, even after accounting for factors such as activity type, location, and individuals' existing connection to nature. The study also found that outdoor natural environments were more strongly associated with wellbeing benefits than indoor natural spaces, highlighting the unique value of authentic experiences in nature alongside biophilic workplace design.

Amazon's approach demonstrates that nature-driven design is more than an architectural statement. It represents a recognition that creating opportunities for employees to connect with natural environments can form part of a broader strategy to support wellbeing, reduce stress, and create healthier places to work.

As organisations continue to rethink the future of the workplace, integrating nature, both inside and outside the office, may prove to be one of the most valuable investments they can make.