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Designing cognitively and emotively attractive urban service environments for prospective employees: An application of biophilic design philosophies

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  • Maneethai, Dustin
  • Legendre, Tiffany S.
  • Suess, Courtney
  • Guzzo, Renata F.

Abstract

Biophilic design involves practices that connect occupants with nature by incorporating natural elements such as natural light, plants, water features, and nature-inspired materials. Given that service environments accommodate both customers and employees, prior research has highlighted the potential positive impacts of biophilic design on employees’ experiences. However, the influence of biophilic design on prospective employees remains underexplored. This study explores how workplace environments can be optimally designed to attract talent, drawing on the theoretical premise that workplace ambiance conveys meaningful signals to prospective employees. Through two studies, we identify key biophilic design elements that elicit strong emotional (organizational pride and awe) and cognitive (job attraction and pursuit intentions) responses in job seekers. Our findings provide both theoretical and practical insights, demonstrating that certain biophilic features can positively contribute to job seekers’ emotional and cognitive evaluations, addressing the need for service firms to attract talent to the service industry.

Suggested Citation

  • Maneethai, Dustin & Legendre, Tiffany S. & Suess, Courtney & Guzzo, Renata F., 2025. "Designing cognitively and emotively attractive urban service environments for prospective employees: An application of biophilic design philosophies," Journal of Business Research, Elsevier, vol. 191(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:jbrese:v:191:y:2025:i:c:s0148296325001067
    DOI: 10.1016/j.jbusres.2025.115283
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