In the heart of New York City, a leading accounting and advisory firm sought to transform its office space into a relaxing environment that would balance professional excellence with genuine warmth. This firm is connected to the historic Grand Central Station, which means it is highly visible, receiving hundreds of clients and visitors annually. The property owner believed the numerous staff, clients, and guests deserved and would appreciate a tranquil space that could appear a world away from the daily grind and hustle of Manhattan’s business district.
Challenges
It’s not difficult to imagine the biggest challenge with enhancing an accounting firm’s office. Making a space that’s known for tax expertise and spreadsheets warm and inviting is not always easy. Blending biophilic design with a professional ambiance is a huge concern. Adding to this aesthetic concern was the requirement to waterproof all the plant containers.
As for the heavy foot traffic at Grand Central Station? It could easily diminish interiorscape professionals’ efficiency and increase the hazards as they enter and exit the building.
Then, there are added issues with interior landscape irrigation. Water damage inside a building must be avoided at all costs, especially in a space with sensitive data and documents. What about this interior space’s climate? HVAC systems suited for large buildings add to plant health challenges as dry air and temperature fluctuations are common. Lastly, building access was an enormous hurdle, limiting our team to after-hours work and having to be escorted in and out of the office.
Results
The following results highlight how Yellowstone Landscape, through our interiorscape partner at Greenery NYC, is overcoming each challenge and exceeding our client’s expectations.
- Custom planters were chosen to complement existing architectural finishes and furnishings.
- Large millwork plantings and hanging vines showcase “new growth,” a core value of this accounting firm for its clients.
- Greenery NYC precisely measured every one of the hand-chosen planters to make sure stainless steel, waterproof liners would fit perfectly.
- Unparalleled experience working with large brands in New York City helps our interiorscape team navigate the hazards and high traffic of Grand Central Station.
- Low-maintenance indoor plants were chosen to streamline interiorscape maintenance while avoiding potential distractions for office staff with hectic workloads.
- Plants with low water needs were selected for longevity and to reduce irrigation needs.
- Hand-watering methods are used to avoid any watering mishaps.
- Humidity levels are monitored regularly to ensure the interior plants’ health.
- We thoroughly vet our maintenance staff and train them on the highest level of security protocols.
- Good communication with our client ensured smooth entry and exit of the office by being escorted by their helpful representative on each visit.
A Pleasant Pause
It’s difficult to imagine an environment that can benefit more from soothing biophilic design than an accounting firm receiving hundreds of visitors each year. After all, clients who show up needing accounting services feel the inherent stress of having their business’ numbers crunched or discussing complicated tax matters. The accountants are under pressure as well, with tight deadlines and complex work with no room for error.
Fortunately, this firm’s leadership looked for options to reduce that stressful environment. What they discovered was a natural solution: greenery that feels warm and welcoming to all. Those curated plants, combined with world-class interiorscaping design skills, have created a relaxing refuge for those waiting between meetings while bringing nature indoors for employees to enjoy each day.
While there are numerous ways to make a building’s interior more comfortable, inviting, and pleasing to the senses, adding the right office plants in the right place is the most natural option. And with study after study showing the boundless upsides of adding a touch of nature to a workplace, it’s hard to imagine a better solution.
It’s easy to take plants and blooming flowers for granted, but impossible to ignore the calming effects they have, even for a few moments out of the day. Especially when compared to staring at a screen full of spreadsheets and cold hard data, far removed from the pleasant pauses nature provides.
If you’re interested in seeing how biophilic design and interiorscaping can enhance your office environment and provide a warm welcome for guests and clients, contact Yellowstone Landscape for a consultation.
