Green Spaces, Great Minds: How Nature-Inspired Spaces for Teachers can Transform Education

Piper Van Buskirk
University of Southern California

In the evolving world of education, classrooms aren’t the only spaces in need of a makeover. Picture this: a teacher’s lounge transformed into a nature-infused haven, where the stress of grading papers and planning lessons melts away under the calming influence of greenery and natural light. Biophilic design, theincorporation of natural or nature-inspired elements into built environments, promotes a connection to nature that has been shown to reduce stress, enhance creativity, and improve overall mental health (Kaplan, 1995; Paredes-Céspedes et al., 2024). As schools increasingly embrace these natural design elements, we need to recognize that teachers deserve their own tranquil retreats just as much as students do.

Gone are the days when the teacher’s lounge was just a place for a quick coffee break or hurried sandwich. Today, forward-thinking schools need to create spaces designed specifically for educators where they can decompress, recharge, and get their creative juices flowing. Studies have shown that exposure to nature can stimulate the brain, fostering creative thinking and problem solving (Ohly et al., 2016). Providing a natural space for a teacher to brainstorm innovative ways to engage students in an increasingly digital world may be the key to capturing students’ imaginations. Creating an attractive space for teachers to plan their next lesson surrounded by the soothing sounds of a water feature or grading papers next to a wall of lush plants may sounds like a luxury but could be considered a necessity. With high teacher attrition rates due to factors like burnout of increasing concern, it’s more important than ever to utilize alternative resources to enhance the teaching experience and increase job satisfaction in their role (Benevene et al., 2019).

These nature-inspired spaces could also serve as powerful educational tools. As teachers model the importance of self-care using break spaces that allow for mindfulness and a connection to nature, students will pick up on these behaviors. Students learn by example and will experience firsthand the importance of taking a break, seeking inspiration from nature, and managing stress (Pirchio et al., 2021). Creating a culture of mindfulness and mental wellbeing emphasizes the importance of learning vital life skills alongside the traditional school curriculum of subjects like math and reading, leading to better outcomes for students throughout their life.

The benefits extend beyond the teachers themselves. When educators are in a good mental space, their resulting positivity and creativity spills over into their interactions with students. Teachers who are less stressed and more inspired are more likely to create dynamic and engaging learning environments, which, in turn, benefits students. It’s ultimately a win-win scenario: happier teachers, more engaged students, and a school culture that demonstrates its values for wellbeing and learning. The next time you picture a teacher’s breakroom, think beyond the four-walled box. Consider it as a sanctuary, a creative hub, and a vital piece of the puzzle that makes up a supportive, thriving educational facility. With the addition of biophilic design for our educators, we’re not just reimagining spaces, we’re reimagining the entire teaching experience.