Office Environment: the Tree Overlooking Our Office

The tree overlooking our office was loved by everyone in our business. It was our big natural friend that we could look up to when we had a quiet cigarette or just wanted to get away from the office environment. On particularly stressful occasions, we would all agree to go outr and give the tree a big hug...it was actually therapeutic, and since we all did it, nobody could be singled out as being "crazy". I don't actually think it's crazy anyway - it's just a way to get away from the unnatural environs of the office and "touch base" (to use the office vernacular) with nature.

However, even nature sometimes needs taming. After a particularly bad storm, it was pointed out that some of the tree's branches were getting rather intimate with the office building. These were huge branches that could do some real damage to the office, with the potential for injury or even death if these branches were to come crashing down.

We had not idea whether this meant cutting the whole tree down, or whether just some branches could be "pruned" back. Tree surgeons came around and we were given the good news - the tree just needed a trim, it wasn't going to be "put down". The branches were cut, and the danger was eliminated.

Having said that, I miss the shade the branches provided. We've had to install blinds into the office to provide the shade the branches once did. The tree surgeons did say it's possible that new buds can form to create new branches over the years ahead.

We gave the tree a hug as a way of saying sorry, but we're glad it's still our friendly neighbour.

Article kindly provided by treesurgeoninguildford.co.uk

User Anecdotes

We've solicited a number of user anecdotes on this topic, and have hand picked some of the more interesting ones below. We feel that anecdotes can give a practical, human perspective on a topic.

"I recently moved to a new office with a beautiful view of a large tree just outside my window. At first, I thought it would be a distraction, but I found it to be quite the opposite. The tree provides a calming effect and helps me concentrate on my work. I've noticed an increase in my productivity since moving into this space. Additionally, during breaks, I enjoy watching the birds and squirrels in the tree. It provides a much-needed mental break from the stresses of office life. I believe incorporating natural elements, such as trees and plants, into the office environment is essential for the overall well-being of employees. I feel much more relaxed and energized since moving into this office, and I attribute that to the presence of the tree."
David G.


"In my previous office, there was an enormous tree just outside the building that was visible from most of the office windows. The tree became a sort of unofficial mascot for our company. We even had a competition to name the tree, and the winning name was 'Arborius.' I found that having the tree in view gave me a sense of peace and tranquility during the workday. It also seemed to bring our team closer together, as we would often gather near the windows to watch the changing seasons or witness wildlife in the branches. Unfortunately, when our company relocated, I lost my view of Arborius. While the new office is lovely, I miss the presence of the tree and the connection to nature it provided."
Maria S.


"I've always been a firm believer in the benefits of having natural elements in the office environment. In my previous job, I had a small plant on my desk, which was always a conversation starter and helped me feel more connected to nature while I was working. However, it wasn't until I started my current job that I truly experienced the positive effects of having a larger natural element in the workplace. My office is now located near a park, and my desk overlooks a magnificent tree. This view has allowed me to feel more relaxed, focused, and productive throughout the day. I also find that taking short breaks to observe the tree and the wildlife it attracts greatly helps in reducing stress and promoting mental well-being."
Yuki T.


"At my current workplace, there is a large tree right outside our window that has had a significant impact on my overall work experience. This tree has been a constant source of inspiration and motivation for me since I started working here. Before work, I often find myself gazing at the tree while sipping my morning coffee, mentally preparing myself for the day ahead. During the day, the tree serves as a reminder to stay grounded and focused on my tasks. In stressful moments, I take a few minutes to look at the tree and take deep breaths, which helps me regain my composure and continue with my work. I am truly grateful for this tree and the positive influence it has had on my work life."
Akshay I.

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