In the era of remote work, the home office has become an essential space in our lives. Whether we're running a business, pursuing a hobby, or simply keeping up with daily tasks, our workspace deserves more than just functionality—it should be an environment that supports our creativity, productivity, and well-being. A simple yet effective way to achieve this is through incorporating art, particularly landscape photography and nature-inspired artwork.
A recent study commissioned by the Affordable Art Fair in collaboration with YouGov highlights the substantial influence of artwork in the workplace. Surprisingly, 50% of Britons working indoors reported having no artwork in their workspace, and 65% said they couldn't view any art from their desk. Nonetheless, nearly a third (29%) believe that installing artwork in workplaces could boost productivity, placing it above other popular amenities like sleep pods, ping pong tables, and beanbags.
Landscape art is the favourite choice
The study also found that the two most popular choices for artwork in the office were Landscape photography and then landscape painting.
A photograph of a landscape (35%)
A painting of a landscape (33%)
An abstract painting (25%)
Textile artwork (14%)
A large sculpture (14%)
Connection to the natural world
Research has shown that artwork in the workplace significantly improves mood and productivity. Landscape photography, in particular, has been found to create the most positive impact on workers, offering an aesthetic connection to the natural world. Whether you're working from home or managing an office, surrounding yourself with images of nature can offer profound benefits for both your mental and physical health.
Why Landscape Photography is the Perfect Choice for Your Workspace
Like any other room in your home, your office will reap the benefits of well-chosen art on the walls. Just as real plants and foliage improve mood, well-being, and productivity, artistic representations of nature can have the same effect. Depictions of nature, are like having a window to the outdoors—even in spaces with no view.
A study by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) found that viewing images of nature can lead to a range of health benefits, including reduced stress and improved mood. The study states:
"Like real views of nature, artwork can reduce anxiety, reduce depression, improve mood, increase relaxation, and even decrease the need for anxiety medication." This evidence highlights the power of art, particularly nature scenes, in transforming a workspace into a sanctuary of calm and focus.
The Benefits of Landscape Photography in the Office Environment
1. Stress Reduction and Relaxation
Stress is an inevitable part of the workday, but surrounding yourself with calming images of nature can help reduce that tension. Landscapes featuring peaceful beaches, tranquil forests, or majestic mountains can bring a sense of serenity, promoting relaxation and balance. These visual breaks from the demands of work can help regulate stress levels and even lower blood pressure.
2. Boosting Productivity and Focus
Just as plants in an office environment can improve focus and well-being, so too can landscape photography. These images act as mental retreats, providing moments of relief and resetting focus during long work hours. Viewing nature scenes, through photography, has been shown to refresh the mind and boost creative thinking, leading to increased productivity.
3. Enhancing Mood and Well-Being
Surrounding yourself with art that evokes happiness can have a profound effect on your mental state. Whether it's the soothing colours of a sunset, the vibrancy of a lush forest, or beautiful bathing pink flamingoes, natural photography taps into the joy that our world brings us. These positive emotional responses help your overall mood, making your workspace a place you look forward to being in each day.
4. Harnessing the Power of Colour Psychology
Colour plays a critical role in how we feel in our environment. The blues and greens often found in landscape photography promote calmness and clarity, while warmer tones, like reds and yellows, can inspire creativity and energy. Choosing landscape art that aligns with your emotional and mental needs can help create a more tailored, effective workspace.
5 Office Decor Ideas Using Landscape Photography
If you’re considering adding landscape photography to your office, here are a few creative ways to integrate it into your workspace:
1. Create a Focal Point
A large, serene beach or mountain scene can transform the atmosphere of your office. To draw attention to the artwork, consider hanging mirrors or neutral-colored shelves around it. Or in smaller spaces, use beautiful desk stationery and storage, to create your focal point. This will help make the landscape photography the centerpiece of your office while enhancing the overall design.
2. Consider Size and Placement
Large prints can make a bold statement, especially if displayed without a frame. Positioning a landscape photo in an area where natural light streams in can enhance the mood and aesthetics of the room. If you prefer smaller prints, consider creating a gallery wall where landscape photos are arranged vertically or horizontally.
3. Use Neutral Accents
Pairing colourful landscape photos with neutral furniture helps the art stand out while maintaining a classy and professional look. For example, if your office features soft pine desks or chairs, hanging nature scenes nearby can add a touch of color without overwhelming the space.
4. Display Art Beyond the Walls
Art doesn’t always have to hang on walls. Floating shelves can serve as a creative way to display smaller landscape pieces. These shelves not only add dimension to your office but also allow for the integration of other elements like plants or sculptures, creating a well-rounded aesthetic.
5. Make Use of Negative Space
While it’s tempting to fill every wall, leaving some negative space can help your landscape photography stand out. Choose one or two walls to display your artwork, allowing the images to breathe and become the focal point of your office.
Transform Your Office with the Power of Nature
Landscape photography has the ability to transform your home office from a mere workspace into a place of inspiration, calm, and creativity. Whether it’s for reducing stress, boosting productivity, or simply enhancing the overall mood, the impact of nature-themed art on your environment is undeniable.
Don't wait to make your office your personal sanctuary where you can grow and thrive. I’d love to help you on your art buying journey and choose the perfect natural photography for your workspace. I offer a free mockup service to help you visualise how our art will look in your home or business office.
I offer a free art consultancy service of a 30 minute session to help you find your perfect artwork for your space. It’s a unique experience as I use meditation techniques to help you in your art buying journey.
Explore my full collection of calming and uplifting nature inspired photography here: www.sanctuaryartstudios.com