Research published by Social Ecologist, Stephen Kellert shows that biophilic design has many benefits, including:
Better recovery from illness and surgery and a reduction in health concerns.
Improved performance, cognitive function and motivation, as well as reduced stress levels for workers.
Healthier development and improved learning outcomes for children.
The tactile experience of touching wood surfaces, the visual appeal of natural wood grain, and the subtle scent of timber stimulate a multi-sensory connection to nature. From education to care settings, this connection has been proven to create spaces where we live and learn better.
People are innately attracted to wood over less natural materials due to our biophilic response. People will often interact with mass timber, feeling the tactile nature of the grain further connecting the inhabitants with mother nature.
Wood is aesthetically pleasing, and studies show that when we spend time in a space made from more than 45% wooden surfaces, we will experience stress reduction, improved cognitive performance, and enhanced moods. The visual presence of timber calms us and bond us to the natural world.
Wood has a stronger sound dampening capacity than most structural materials. While a concrete wall will also reflect sound, it does so in a much harsher way, resulting in stronger echoes. The natural acoustic properties of timber control this excessive echo, or reverberation, by reducing the transmission of sound vibrations creating more harmonious spaces.
