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Design Trends

These Are the Sustainable Design Trends That Are Shaping 2018

LEED Gold Certified Denver Union Station

Each year, I like to take note of the interior design trends. And each year, sustainable design trends become more and more prominent, This year, sustainable design is leading. Architects and designers are taking pains to make great-looking buildings that are also friendlier to the environment, and that approach shows in some of this year’s best new buildings. Sustainability adds more value for a building’s local environment as well as its occupants. Gensler’s Nellie Reed writes that “green [design] adds value—long-term environmental, social, and economic value. This is the growing consensus, and it’s starting to reshape the office real estate market.”

So what do the current sustainable design trends look like? Here are a few of the biggest sustainability trends that are redefining commercial architecture.

Biophilic Design Melds Sustainability and Wellness

Mass Timber frame seen at Bullitt Center in Seattle
From ArchDaily: Seattle’s Bullitt Center is one of the best examples of both sustainable design and biophilic design in action

Sustainable design trends often cross paths with biophilic design, which is also one of the largest trends this year. Both sustainable and biophilic design involve utilizing natural elements within design, although the two have different objectives. Whereas sustainable design aims to create more eco-friendly buildings, biophilic design works to make buildings healthier for humans. Some of the best and most progressive buildings in the world combine these two schools of thought, and the results are inspiring.

Take Seattle’s Bullitt Center, a six-story office space that’s billed as the “Greenest Commercial Building.” From the start, it was designed with sustainability in mind, and it boasts an extensive list of green accomplishments. The building is outfitted with solar panels, rainwater treatment systems, and a ground-source heat exchange system, all of which result in a net-positive energy environment. Additionally, the building materials were carefully handpicked so as to avoid 14 categories of chemicals. Impressively, as of 2015, the Bullitt was the world’s largest certified Living Building Challenge (LBC) facility.

Stairs in Bullitt Center in Seattle offer plenty of light and shadows
From the Miller Hull: The Center’s stairwells offer ample light and shadows providing biophilic benefits to occupants

Best of all, the Bullitt Center exhibits many biophilic features as part of its sustainable core. The Bullitt Center is the first timber-framed structure to be permitted in Seattle since the 1920’s, workspaces use ample amounts of reclaimed wood to connect workers to nature, and large, fully operational windows provide unobstructed views of the outdoors and fresh air. In addition, the long vertical windows provide ever changing patterns of light and shadow particularly in the staircase that truly encourages occupants to take the stairs. The Center chose clean biophlic building materials as fewer chemicals make the built environment healthier and reduce building-related illnesses like Sick Building Syndrome.

Buildings like the Bullitt Center have led the way for more recent projects to combine sustainability and biophilia. That more contemporary buildings are following in the Center’s footsteps is proof of its innovative design.

Multi-use Spaces Reduce the Need for New Buildings

Shipping containers create multipurpose workspace
From Decoist: This contemporary, multipurpose workspace brings modular design to the office

Sustainable design is about more than green building materials and environmental initiatives. For a building to be sustainable, its architects and designers have to consider the long term impact. This is a major part of programs like LEED, which considers long-term commitment to its standards when certifying buildings. Usability also factors into the long term impact of a building. Namely, a multi-use space will be more sustainable over time because it can change and adapt to new occupant needs.

One of the biggest benefits of multi-use spaces is a reduced need for new construction. Instead of building spaces for specific functions, architects and designers are creating buildings that can serve a wide range of uses. Many offices are also considering different types of work and collaboration when building, resulting in multifunctional lobbies and adaptable workspaces. As Building Design & Construction reports, multipurpose spaces and load sharing opportunities will be major concerns for interior design this year and beyond.

BOY Siam Square Salon modular rail design
From ArchDaily: BOY Siam Square Salon’s modular rail design provides unique flexibility for occupants

This is also why many buildings are starting to use more modular design, which is incidentally another one of this year’s interior design trends. Modular design helps to unlock the potential of a space and allow occupants to change it to meet their needs. CallisonRTKL architect Grace Lennon notes that modular combines necessity and creativity in design. This pairing is evident in buildings like BOY Siam Square Salon in Bangkok, which a modular rail-based design to allow occupants to use mirror and shelving units throughout the space.

Green Certifications Are Going Mainstream

NOAA Inouve Regional Center received LEED Gold Certification
From HOK: The HOK-designed NOAA Inouye Regional Center received LEED Gold Certification

Due to the ever-growing interest in sustainable design, buildings now have more options than ever for pursuing certifications that prioritize environmental friendliness and wellness. LEED is undoubtedly the industry standard. Its rigorous requirements and keen focus on sustainability make it the building standard of choice for architects and designers seeking to be more mindful of the environment. In 2016, there were already over 80,000 projects around the world participating in LEED, and that number is steadily increasing.

LEED also provides a springboard for further implementation of green building elements, inspiring designers to go above and beyond the basic requirements. In a press release, Perkins+Will President and CEO Phil Harrison said that “LEED certification is just one marker of our commitment. We strive to go beyond what’s currently accepted to create buildings that move the marker of what’s considered sustainable forward.”

LEED Gold Certified Denver Union Station
From USGBC.org: The LEED Gold Certified Denver Union Station boasts excellent design and a sustainable foundation

In the last several years, a host of other standards have risen up to provide complementary programs to the stalwart LEED. The Living Building Challenge encourages built environments that are self-sufficient, biophilic, and beneficial to natural systems. Seven performance areas, called Petals, are analyzed during the certification process to evaluate the positivity of a building’s impact on its environment. In terms of energy efficiency, Energy Star and Passive House are two other standards that encourage net zero and/or net positive energy usage. The WELL Building Standard, like LBC, has a biophilic focus. WELL looks to advance human health and wellness by creating healthier buildings.

Many buildings choose to pursue numerous certifications, as various programs overlap and thus work hand in hand. The Bullitt Center, for instance, has earned both Living Building Challenge and Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) Project (the first commercial building to do so in the US) certifications. The two programs mesh nicely. FSC Project Certification is specific, requiring the timber used to be FSC certified. LBC focuses on positive sustainability on a large scale, requiring wood be FSC or salvaged. Many businesses opt to use especially eco-friendly FSC certified reclaimed wood. Recently, LBC and WELL have begun working collaboratively to find ways to align their two rating systems.

Sustainability is Adapting to Mitigate Climate Change

Nestle Purina's St. Louis campus is LEED Gold Certified
From GB&D Magazine: LEED Gold Certified buildings at Nestlé Purina’s St. Louis campus maintain a low carbon footprint

Today’s buildings must adapt to the effects of climate change in order to be truly sustainable. Sustainable design––which reduces energy emissions, promotes green building materials, and positively affects the local environment––is instrumental to this overarching goal. In fact, many built environments are turning to sustainable design chiefly to adapt to climate change. To that end, green standards like LEED encourage building design that consumes fewer precious resources and emits less carbon dioxide, both of which can help alleviate climate change.

Of course, building materials play an important role here. Using materials that are less taxing on the environment is ideal. This explains the uptick in reclaimed wood usage; it’s one of the best ways to lower a building’s carbon footprint and avoid further greenhouse gas emissions.

On the other side of the coin, architects and designers are seeking to improve resiliency in order to defend buildings from the effects of climate change. Many buildings are susceptible to flooding and other natural disasters due to climate change, so resiliency is fast becoming a key focus for sustainable design. As a result, new initiatives like RELi are emerging to enhance resiliency. RELi is an up-and-coming resiliency standard developed by Perkins+Will senior project engineer Doug Pierce, and it aims to create a codified system to protect buildings from calamity. Pierce argues that “resiliency is the next step in the entire green ecological design framework,” and it’s a concept architects and designers will need to think carefully about from now on.

Conclusion

This year’s trends underscore the fact that sustainable design is shifting to meet the environment’s needs, and they’re indicative of where the Architecture & Design industry is headed as a whole. Understanding these trends will ultimately allow architects and designers to create buildings that are better for the people who occupy them and for the future of the earth and the climate.

Biophilia and Interior Design: Creating a Multi-Sensorial Experience

Allegro Office with plants, large windows, and swings

Design that enables us to be better at our jobs, feel connected and more in tune is particularly intriguing to me. Biophilic design challenges thinking and stimulates design exploration. A space shines and comes to life when natural elements like wood and water are introduced. Central to biophilic design are the 14 foundational patterns of biophilia, and these patterns can be implemented in countless ways. Rooted in science, implementation of the 14 patterns can reduce stress, improve cognitive function and creativity. A mixing of biophilic elements creates a multi-sensorial experience that will maximize the benefits of biophilia.

I’ve rounded up several of my favorite examples of biophilia in commercial design and would like to share them with you. Each example is unique, and most importantly, focused on improving human health.

Daylight and plant life always work well together

Biophilic Design: Singapore Hospital has trees, greenery, and daylight
From HCWH Europe: This breathtaking Singapore hospital is resplendent with trees, greenery, and daylight; a pure biophilic haven;

Khoo Teck Puat Hospital in Singapore is an unforgettable example of commercial biophilic design. Thanks to the abundance of greenery and natural light, the building feels less like a hospital and more like a forest. This is a prime example of what biophilia looks like when several patterns are working together and is an inspiration for anyone interested in the possibilities of biophilic design.

Allegro Office with plants, large windows, and swings
From Archello: This office entryway uses lots of greenery and white decor to mix minimalism and biophilia

The presence of plant life is an essential aspect to biophilic design. Even just a few plants can make a big difference and improve indoor environmental quality. Combining daylight with greenery is especially effective. Daylight not only illuminates plant life but also has numerous biophilic benefits of its own, including mood improvement and increased productivity.

Variety in plant life is also key. Potted plants, hanging plants, and living walls can all work together to help an indoor environment resemble the outdoors more closely. Many businesses elect to use greenery that’s native to the local area to connect occupants with their natural surroundings.

Lush trees in minimal, industrial space at Karolinska Institute
From The Small Garden: Lush trees and a living wall/garden combination transform this minimalist hallway into a natural paradise

This approach has long been adopted by some of the world’s top architects and designers, including Perkins+Will’s Ken Hudson and renowned designer Oliver Heath. Many experts consider biophilic design to be the future of interior design, and given the many benefits that biophilia provides, it’s easy to see why.

Biophilic display at Interface Showrook at Clerkenwell Design Week
From Oliver Heath Design: This Heath installation in a London showroom demonstrates the feel-good power plants provide

Biophilia is ideal for lounges and communal seating areas

Biophilic seating area with living wall and reclaimed wood cladding
From Live Wall: This seating area is full of life thanks to the living wall, reclaimed wood clad walls, and wood tables and benches

One of the most studied effects of biophilia is reduced stress (and thus improved mood). Social gathering spaces and lounge areas are a perfect match for biophilic design. In these shared spaces, biophilia fosters connectivity. Occupants feel welcome, relaxed and are more likely to be social. Plants and wood are particularly powerful here. Many studies have concluded that exposure to wood paneling can reduce blood pressure, and similar results have been reached in connection with indoor plants. Together, plants and wood can revitalize any space and comfort occupants.

Newport Hospital lounge offers pleasant area for patients and visitors
From NAC Architecture: This Newport Hospital lounge fosters a pleasant environment for patients and visitors

Newport Hospital Health Center in Washington state sustains a congruous balance of biophilic elements. In the seating area pictured above, patients and visitors will find reclaimed wood architecture, bright lighting, a natural stone wall and a panoramic view of the outdoors making for an inviting and calming waiting area.

Seating area at Station 101 includes fireplace, stone wall, and greenery
From Margulies Perruzzi Architects: Biophilic elements like this fireplace, stone wall and greenery combine to make for an ideal seating area for Station 101.

Seating areas that incorporate biophilic elements such as water features and fireplaces, bring a serenity to an environment. They enhance the experience by providing non-visual connections with nature such as the crackling of fire or the sound of flowing water. The example shown above from Station 101 is an exterior space designed as a natural extension of the interior biophilic rich meeting area. Other examples of non-visual connections with nature are shadows and sun patches and their movement across a room, textured materials like weathered reclaimed wood, and fragrant herbs or flowers.

Geometric ceiling at Temple Israel of Hollywood
From: The Architects Newspaper: A combination of biophilic elements; the custom-crafted, segmented, geometric wood drop ceiling; abundant daylight; playful shadows and views of nature create a perfect social and spiritual gathering place.

These spaces prove how useful natural materials like reclaimed wood are

Reclaimed wood paneling and cladding at Capital One in Chicago
From TerraMai: Capital One’s uses plenty of reclaimed wood to give their banks a more natural look

Many of the world’s top offices, retail stores, restaurants, hospitals and even banks use reclaimed wood because reclaimed wood supports a connection to nature and has been shown to help people feel better, heal faster and be more productive and social. Reclaimed wood with texture and character will help occupants relate the material more closely with nature. Time after time, reclaimed wood proves that it’s one of the most flexible green building materials.

Biophilic restaurant with living wall and hanging plants
From Planters Group: Biophilic design builds upon the refined, chic design of this restaurant

Reclaimed wood adapts very well to its surroundings and will amplify the existing aesthetic of a space. In a high-end restaurant, it adds sophistication and elegance. In a hospital lobby, it creates a calm environment and reduces stress in both patients and visitors. Of course, reclaimed wood has numerous benefits no matter where it’s used, but it has a unique ability to enhance the design of the built environment in which it lives.

Take a look at how these rooms balance indoor elements

Daylight and wood improve indoor environment at Middlefield CampusFrom the Business Tribune: In this atrium, daylight and wood work together to optimize indoor environmental quality

In biophilic design, it’s not just the presence of natural materials that’s important. Different indoor elements (such as lighting, air quality, and views of nature) have to be balanced so as to optimize the built environment as a whole. Using several biophilic patterns at once compounds the benefits that each pattern brings to the table, resulting in a space that feels great to be in and looks great to match.

Circadian lighting at Swedish Ballard Behavioral Health
From Healthcare Design Magazine: Circadian lighting and the use of natural patterns make Swedish Ballard Behavioral Health stand out

This harmony of indoor elements is of particular importance to hospitals (or other medical facilities) that use biophilic design. The Swedish Ballard Behavioral Health Unit is a noteworthy example here. Its campus features extensive daylighting, connection with natural patterns, and healthy amounts of wood. In addition, in spaces that necessitate artificial light, circadian lighting solutions are employed. In the morning, occupants are exposed to cool blue light, while in the evening a warm amber glow is emitted. This ensures occupants’ regular sleep and wake cycles are maintained.

Ceiling creates patterned shadows at Etham South Project
From Wolveridge Architects: Patterned shadows, lowered ceiling and a protective space that provides visual surveillance of the surrounding area is an ideal example of Refuge.

Combining biophilic elements is most effective when creating spaces meant for Refuge. The best restoration space is one where occupants feel safe and provides occupants a real sense of withdrawal from the surrounding area. Places of Refuge need to feel unique from the greater space but should not be fully enclosed. The intent is to de-stress but keep the senses engaged. If the space is elevated, giving it the ability for Prospect, it has even greater biophilic effect. Places of Refuge have been shown to reduce fatigue and irritability as well as improved concentration.

Biophilic office design is the future of the workplace

Small living wall and plants at This Health office
From Oliver Heath Designs: This Heath creation is designed to enhance workers’ health and productivity

Office spaces have changed for the better particularly over the last decade due to the rise of biophilic design. Today’s offices are well lit and designed to maximize productivity and employee health, and designers like Oliver Heath are at the forefront of this movement. The benefits don’t stop there; biophilic design can also prevent Sick Building Syndrome, enhance comfort, and improve air quality.

Etsy's Brooklyn office uses biophilic design elements
From NBC: Etsy’s Brooklyn office uses biophilic design to facilitate both work and relaxation

These offices are only growing in popularity as more businesses realize the benefits of biophilia. Ultimately, biophilic design is all about people. It puts human health and wellness first, which is why biophilic spaces are so irresistible across all industries.

Natural daylight, wood, and plants at Cook Fox in Manhattan
From the New York Times: Daylight, air quality, and natural materials are crucial for CookFox’s Manhattan offices

The offices of CookFox Architects in Manhattan exemplify this design philosophy. With generous plant life spread throughout each workspace and a healthy amount of daylight, CookFox’s HQ is a spectacular place to work and thrive.

FBiophilic convference room with tiered seating
rom Office Anything: This one-of-a-kind biophilic conference room is ideal for productive collaboration

Conclusion

Interior design hasn’t been the same since biophilia entered the picture, and that’s a wonderful thing. Today’s built environments are healthier and better looking than ever before, and the people working in them feel happier and more satisfied. The biophilia effect proves that humans long for a connection with nature, and when biophilic design elements stimulate more than just our visual senses it is the best way of meeting that innate need.

Take a Look at These 12 Innovative Uses of Living Walls

NYC's Hotel Hugo use a living wall in restaurant

As we learn more about the effects of biophilia; improved mood, reduced stress, and enhanced productivity, more and more businesses around the world are seeking both small and large ways to implement biophilia. If you’re looking to include an element that enhances the aesthetic of a space and turns heads, then you’ll want to take a look at these 12 living walls. Living walls are easily one of the most striking biophilic elements, and are a powerful method of improving quality in the built environment from hospitality to retail.

This living wall brings nature to an enclosed office space

Living wall at G Sky in Atlanta
From PRWeb: This impressive living wall features a variety of plant life creating patterns within the wall

While many offices boast panoramic views of nature and easy access to the outdoors, there are still many windowless workplaces that are completely enclosed. In many cases, installing a daylighting solution may be impractical. For employees who work in cubicles, warehouses, or other spaces with exposure only to artificial light, alternative methods of staying in touch with nature are required. Using a living wall is one of the best ways of enhancing occupant wellness in offices with few or no windows. An abundance of plant life will transform the space, complement any existing daylight, and provide a strong biophilic connection. The result is improved air quality and bolstered productivity.

Living wall at G Sky in Atlanta creates vibrancy in windowless office
From PRWeb: A living wall will amplify any existing daylight, but it can also create vibrancy in windowless offices

Finland startup Naava brings artificial intelligence to living walls

Naava living wall
From Inhabitat: Naava’s living wall uses sensors to track indoor variables and modify the space accordingly

The founders of Naava, a Finnish living wall company, set out to solve the problems of unclean, unhealthy air that many businesses face. To that effect, they’ve made some astounding innovations in living wall technology. Naava’s walls use artificial intelligence to monitor and react to various indoor elements. Impressively, the sensors inside the walls utilize a remote system to gather information from weather satellites. The walls also use fans to circulate purified air into the surrounding environment. In actual use, Naava walls reduce up to 57% of air pollutants after a single filtration and also help remove volatile organic compounds already present in a space.

What Naava has done excellently is to take the living wall concept and augment it with artificial intelligence. The amalgamation of biophilia and smart technology is one designers will be exploring in the near future to unlock the most powerful ways to make biophilic design the most effective it can be.

NYC’s Hotel Hugo uses a living wall to comfort and wow restaurant-goers

NYC's Hotel Hugo use a living wall in restaurant
From Luxury Listings NYC: Diners at Il Principe enjoy a well-lit view of the living wall, which works with reclaimed wood to serve as a biophilic focal point

Many businesses use lighting as a way of emphasizing focal points, but Il Principe in NYC’s Hotel Hugo takes this one step further. The L-shaped restaurant uses wood and light to direct attention to the back, where an enclosed private dining area awaits. This private area is adorned with a living wall that covers the entire central wall of the room. In addition, the space receives ample amounts of natural light from the skylight. By making this biophilic section the center of attention, patrons will remember it as a highlight of the experience, even if they didn’t dine in that particular area. Il Principe’s use of biophilia is especially memorable because the restaurant is located in the heavily commercial Hudson Square area. This apt use of greenery and lighting transforms Il Principe from a restaurant into an oasis.

Curved wood-paneled soffit at Hotel Hugo's restaurant in NYC
From Luxury Listings NYC: The curved, wood-paneled soffit draws one’s attention to the living wall in an excellent example of biophilic design

Henry Ford Hospital provides patients with beneficial biophilia

Living wall at Henry Ford Hospital
From Planterra: A living wall affords a point of respite within this hospital

Hospitals are decidedly suitable choices for biophilic design. The benefits of biophilia in hospitals are not only physical and physiological but also mental and emotional. That’s because biophilic design humanizes clinical spaces, creating a caring, welcoming atmosphere. Henry Ford Hospital in Michigan did just this by installing a living wall in the building’s atrium, which hosts private functions in addition to serving as a community meeting space. A nice touch is the inclusion of poinsettias to add a seasonal color that complements the lively green of the wall itself.

Modular design meets the living wall in this China office

Modular design living wall
From New Atlas: This one-of-a-kind living wall combines industrial modular design with biophilia

Modular is one of the latest trends in office design, and it allows for unparalleled levels of flexibility so designers can use their imagination. One great example of modular creativity is the living wall in the TJY Office Building in Shenzhen, China. The wall uses a grid of piping that has a dual purpose. The piping sends water to the plants, and the grid itself has slots in which plants can be placed. The wall is able to be reconfigured, and workers can even “unplug” plants from the system to bring to their workstations. This living wall both implements current trends and biophilic design making it a great example to follow.

Under Armour’s branded living wall reimagines experiential design

Under Armour logo embedded in living wall
From American Builders Quarterly: The logo embedded in the middle of this living wall makes an unforgettable brand statement

The corporate buildings that stand out the most are the ones that tell a story. Immersing employees and visitors in an experience is a surefire way of improving mood and morale. Under Armour creates this experience, thanks in part to a large living wall that boasts the company logo. The wall’s installation was the decision of Neil Jurgens, the vice president of global corporate real estate, after polling workers to figure out what they wanted in their workplace. Fittingly, the incorporation of the logo symbolically affirms that Under Armour is a company that cares about nature and the health of its workers.

Small living walls can make a big impact

Pair of living walls add to small office
From Good Earth Plants: A pair of small living walls complement the laid-back feel of this space perfectly

Living walls don’t have to fill up a room in order to make a space healthier and more beautiful. Smaller living walls are just as powerful and are able to suit a variety of spaces. In more petite spaces, a small living wall becomes the focal point, and in larger spaces, it elevates the existing design. Of course, you can use small living walls in conjunction with other biophilic design elements like reclaimed wood and water installations, resulting in a multisensorial, natural environment.

This living wall emphasizes the structure and unity of its building

Living wall contours to room's structure
From PHS Greenleaf: This living wall contours to the room’s structure, creating a seamless installation

There’s no doubt that living wall installations designed from scratch look great, but you can also implement a living wall anywhere in your building without completely overhauling the architecture. Existing walls can be adapted to host greenery using a hydroponics system. This approach has the advantage of highlighting the architecture of a space without having to spend lots of time and money remodeling it. If you’ve got a foyer, office, or dining area with an already eye-catching wall, you can make the most of it with a living wall.

This outdoor installation is a fresh take on the living wall

Outdoor living wall at University of Texas, Austin
From the University of Texas at Austin: This outdoor living wall uses local plant life and a novel design

This living wall, installed along the façade of the University of Texas at Austin’s Goldsmith Hall, is unique in both its design and performance. The honeycomb design creates pockets in which a variety of plants, all native to the Austin area, sit, and like the modular living wall showcased above, it creates a robust impression upon students and visitors. The wall is equipped with noise, light, temperature, and moisture sensors as part of ongoing research to evaluate its other benefits of building cooling, city cooling, storm water mitigation, noise buffering, and serving as a natural air filter. (This local flora was specifically selected to attract nearby fauna.)

Diamond Schmitt Architects is designing breathtaking, monumental living walls

Giant living wall at University Guelph Humber
From ArchDaily: This massive living wall at the University of Guelph-Humber instantly awes with vivid greenery

When Birgit Siber, Principal at Diamond Schmitt Architects, was serving as project architect for the University of Guelph-Humber in Toronto, she approached the university’s research team to find a way to implement their work into the campus’s design. The team had recently completed a seven year project on biofiltration, so a living wall was an obvious choice to reflect their hard work. The resulting wall spans the height of the university’s central atrium, which is topped with a glass ceiling to illuminate both the wall and the atrium itself. In an interview, Siber reflected on the biophilic benefits the wall brings to the university: “I feel a light cool breeze coming off the living wall and the scent of plant life. It feels as though nature has been invited in on a grand scale…and I believe that affects us on many levels.”

A living wall adds an exotic flair to this airport

Living wall at Novotel Hotel in Aukland International Airport
From Greenroofs.com: This airport bar and lounge uses a beautiful living wall and standing greenery

Ever wonder if an airport can successfully use biophilic design? The answer, of course, is yes, and this living wall from Auckland International Airport is proof of that. Located in the Square Restaurant & Bar inside of the airport’s Hotel Novotel, the wall features greenery found in New Zealand, such as pan-pacific creepers. The hotel even consulted the local Tainui people while developing the wall to ensure it accurately reflected New Zealand’s landscape.

This building wears a living wall on its second floor

Outdoor living wall at M&S Simply Food
From Fresh Montgomery: This store’s upper level is coated in an assortment of dense foliage

British retailer M&S Simply Food is an example of just how good biophilic design can look. Shoppers will find the exterior second story of one of the chain’s stores covered in a living wall. With pops of purple and tan, the wall is undeniably appealing and instantly memorable. The biophilic store was even shortlisted for the 2016 Surface Design Awards, proving that biophilic design looks every bit as good as it feels.

Conclusion

The living wall is a perfect biophilic design element, literally bringing life to a space while enhancing occupant well-being emotionally and physically with benefits like natural air filtration, reducing noise and helping to maintain humidity and temperature. These 12 examples show how striking living walls can be. Thanks to adaptable hydroponics, living walls are easier than ever to implement. When used alongside other biophilic elements like daylight, reclaimed wood, and water features, a living wall can drastically improve any building’s environment and health.

Here’s How Retail Spaces Can Benefit From Biophilic Design

Apple retail location has copious amounts of natural light and greenery

Retail is all about the customer experience. From the moment a customer walks through your store’s front door, he or she should be immersed in a shopping experience that encourages return visits and reflects your brand. Retail is dramatically growing, and a focus on customer experience is crucial to success. As such, many store owners are looking to different forms of experience design to meet this need.

A particularly interesting and effective approach that’s becoming more common is to combine experience design and biophilic design to create the best possible environment for shoppers. Biophilic design is one of the most potent methods of improving the customer experience, and in this article, I’ll share a few of the numerous ways retail stores can leverage biophilic concepts to wow customers.

Exposure to Daylight Fosters Positive Emotions in Customers

Natural light has a range of benefits for humans: improved mood, better sleep, metabolic regulation, and much more. In A&D, these benefits are commonly discussed in relation to office spaces, but they also cross over to retail. In fact, the results of daylighting in retail spaces are quite astounding. Lighting is one of the heroes of retail design, able to influence sales and improve customer mood in one fell swoop.

Apple retail location has copious amounts of natural light and greenery
From Inhabitat: Apple retail locations are well known for their copious amounts of natural light and usage of biophilic design elements like greenery

One of the most powerful effects of daylight is the creation of positive emotions. Many studies have proven that exposure to natural light releases serotonin in the brain, which in turn improves mood. In general, the more natural light a person is exposed to, the happier they will be. This is the foundation of the research that demonstrates the benefits of light in office workers, and the implications for retail are similar.

Customers who are exposed to natural light while in a retail environment will perceive their experience more positively than they would if the space lacked daylight. This effect can be amplified by including other biophilic elements like reclaimed wood, which has been shown to reduce stress and increase social interactions. When multiple biophilic elements are working together, customers will feel more empowered to relax, take their time, and shop around.

Shopping center mall features vibrant plants and natural light
From CallisonRTKL: This shopping center features vibrant plant life and natural building materials

Biophilic Elements Can Increase Product Value and Overall Sales

The use of daylight and other biophilic elements does much more than create positive emotions. Believe it or not, biophilia can actually increase the perceived value of products and boost overall sales. When customers are shopping in a space that utilizes biophilic elements, the positive emotions they experience will translate into receptiveness. This happens because customers associate visually appealing biophilic spaces with higher quality and thus higher product value.

Sam Edelman uses biophilic building materials
From TerraMai: Sam Edelman’s stylish store demonstrates how biophilic building materials like reclaimed wood can improve the customer experience

This phenomenon has been documented in several studies that examined the effects of natural elements on retail customers. One study found that skylights in retail spaces increased sales by 40%. Impressively, the study found that these results have 99% statistical certainty, so if you use skylights or other daylighting methods in your retail space, higher sales are guaranteed.

Skylights at Skylight Books in LA allow plenty of natural light
From Discover Los Angeles: The aptly named Skylight Books features skylights that shed natural light on the open design and greenery within the store

These statistics have led retail businesses to pay more attention to their in-store lighting, and some stores have come up with creative ways of using light. One German fashion retailer saw a 12% increase in sales after installing a lighting system that was specifically designed for the personality profile of its customer base. This is an excellent example of adapting a lighting system for the people and space it’s serving. Every retail space is different and will require its own specific lighting solution.

Natural light is just one of the many biophilic elements that have positive effects for retailers. Greenery is fast becoming one of the hottest design trends, and it’s a perfect fit for retail. Studies show that greenery enhances the visual quality of a retail environment. This has many of the same effects that lighting does: increased perception of quality, higher levels of receptiveness to prices, and a more positive shopping experience in general.

Thousands of plants grow on NYCs largest living wall at InnisfreeFrom Inhabitat: A living wall and assorted greenery takes the design of this beauty store to the next level

Biophilic elements can also foster comfort and calmness, which are becoming increasingly important as part of the customer experience. These elements are especially important in more industrial or minimalist spaces, as softer, more comfortable materials and spaces help to balance and complement these types of aesthetics. Materials like reclaimed wood add comfort and sophistication while also providing all of the natural benefits that biophilic design brings.

Indoor Quality Gets a Boost from Biophilia

Those biophilic benefits are another reason why so many retailers are including more nature in their stores. Biophilic design improves indoor environmental quality (IEQ), making it healthier for both employees and customers. To holistically improve IEQ, multiple biophilic elements should be present. Greenery helps to purify the air; daylight works to maintain and satisfy human circadian rhythms; and materials like wood contribute to stress reduction. In concert, these various elements maximize wellness, making the indoors a pleasant place to be.

Focusing on enhancing IEQ is an important step in perfecting a retail space. It’s a worthy endeavor to reduce the amount of contaminants and pollutants your customers come into contact with. First, the introduction of plant life combined with air filtration will ensure the air is clean. You might consider a garden installation, or you might simply disperse greenery throughout your store. Many stores choose plants like Boston Ferns and palm trees that have proven purifying power.

Ferns and plants are used at Stock MFG men's store in Chicago
From Time Out: Ferns and other greenery are often used in retail for their air purification properties

Second, choosing materials with low concentrations of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) will further minimize toxins. VOCs are often present in paints, wood preservatives, cleaners, carpets, and other building materials. Ideally, a retail space should have the lowest amount of VOCs possible, since hundreds or even thousands of people will come into contact with the space every day. Opting for green building materials like reclaimed wood and selecting low-VOC materials will help manage the presence of these compounds in your store.

Conclusion

Retail spaces are evolving. In order to develop the most optimal customer experience, retailers need trustworthy methods of satisfying their audience. Biophilic design is a solution that’s able to deliver an unforgettable experience and adapt to the changing needs of the modern customer. By making biophilic design changes to create a healthy, human-first environment from the ground up, you’ll see happier customers visiting your store for longer periods of time resulting in increased sales.

The Intersection of this Year’s Office Design Trends and Biophilic Design

Dropbox's San Francisco HQ uses potted trees

Each year, there are new sets of lists describing the design trends for the upcoming year. This year, I thought I’d view these trends through a biophilic lens. There’s no doubt that the yearly trends are important on their own as they can be indicative of larger, more general changes in Architecture & Design. Thus, it pays to follow them and even implement some. However, for architects and designers who focus on human wellness and environmental sustainability, a new question arises: How can you be inspired by these trends while combining them with biophilic and sustainable design?

It’s no secret that biophilic design and sustainable design improve productivity and performance in the workplace, and green building materials like reclaimed wood are renowned for their abilities to improve collaboration and boost employee morale and satisfaction. But how can these work hand-in-hand with the latest office design trends?

If you’re designing a commercial office space and want it to be eco-friendly and healthy while incorporating some of the latest trends, look no further. Here’s how this year’s predicted trends of comfort spaces, minimalism, monochrome, materials with purpose and modular furniture are creating stylish, sustainable spaces that enhance human wellness.

This Google office seamlessly meshes comfort spaces with biophilic design

Google office meshes comfort with biophilic design
From Bored Panda: This highly biophilic workspace combines trees, reclaimed wood, and a panoramic view

Google has been repeatedly crowned as one of the best places to work, and it’s no surprise why; their offices are designed to maximize employee health and satisfaction. Google’s workspaces are filled with plants, reclaimed wood, views of nature, water installations, and even more exotic biophilic elements like rock walls.

Google also does an excellent job of pairing biophilic design with current design trends. Noticeably, many of their offices incorporate comfort spaces to provide workers with a sense of calm. This combination of biophilia and comfort spaces inspires employees with contemporary design while anchoring their senses in biophilia. As a result, these workspaces are conducive to both productivity and relaxation. It also reflects Google’s brand: purposefully up-to-date and always responsive.

Google office with rock wall and greenery
From Bored Panda: A rock wall and greenery add life and biophilia to this industrial space

Like many other businesses, Google has realized the growing need for more comfort spaces in the workplace. Today’s workers need an office that prioritizes their physical and mental wellness. The ideal office should foster a positive, harmonious work culture that meets all sorts of employee needs from mental breaks to intensive coworking sessions.

Fosbury & Sons uses plant life to enhance productivity in minimalist workspaces

Fosbury & Sons uses plant life in minimalist workspace
From ArchDaily: Fosbury & Sons’s Antwerp office uses plants throughout to bolster employee productivity and mood

Minimalism is one of the more widespread design trends that’s appeared in recent years. There’s a strong appeal to clean, uncluttered spaces, and many corporate offices have implemented minimalism to maintain tidy workplaces that feel good to work in. At the same time, biophilic design is particularly powerful at increasing productivity in the workplace, and this is one huge reason why biophilic elements are so common in top-performing offices.

For Fosbury & Sons, a coworking office space in Belgium, productivity is especially important, so they chose to take their industrial, minimalist space and liven it up with plenty of plant life. Their workspaces feature a variety of potted and planted flora strategically placed near desks and tables to ensure that there’s always a few plants nearby. This also creates an unforgettable first impression. From the moment a visitor enters the lobby, he or she knows that this is a unique office. Most importantly, the inclusion of biophilia prevents the space from becoming too minimal, ensuring that people feel and perform at their best.

Fosbury & Sons office space in Belgium created an industrial, minimalistic space
From ArchDaily: Plants enrich the industrial space and create a welcoming atmosphere

OVH connects workers by using natural elements

OHV's office connects workers using wood, vegetation, and natural light
From Dezeen: OVH’s office is resplendent with wood, vegetation, and lots of natural light

When cloud computing business OVH decided to remodel their Quebec City workspace, they took inspiration from both minimalism and biophilic design. The result is a brightly lit, open space enhanced with greenery, which is steadily gaining popularity. The office uses woods with lighter tones to complement the abundance of natural daylight, and the greenery sprinkled throughout the building adds a healthy dose of biophilia. Aside from being visually stunning, this office is excellent for solo work, group work, and employee interaction, as it prioritizes both working and socializing.

Meaningful and natural design materials reflect a company’s values and they deliver on biophilia

Reclaimed oak paneling at Sam Edelman's NYC Headquarters
From Office Snapshots: Beams clad with reclaimed oak at Sam Edelman’s NYC HQ reflect the brand’s Americana vibe and mirror humble beginnings, hard work and reinventing oneself for success.

The materials chosen in design can establish a meaningful connection for occupants to the office space and the company. Design materials can be selected to reflect the local community and surrounding landscape, and can portray the values of the company’s brand. Choosing sustainably sourced materials and furnishings with non-toxic finishes helps you maintain healthy indoor air quality and supports social and environmental responsibility. And, when these materials are analogues of nature, like reclaimed wood, they can bring the benefits of nature indoors.

Trevor Hoiland’s new biophilic office furniture brings practical modular design to the workplace

Trevor Hoiland's modular furniture
From Contemporist: Trevor Hoiland’s new line of modular furniture is rooted in wood, perfect for any office space

In 2017, Burns & McDonnell Design Manager and former Helix Architecture Principal Trevor Hoiland debuted the Story Collection, a line of modular office furniture manufactured by Hightower. Modular design has already made waves in commercial architecture this year, and it has many benefits for the workplace.

Modular workspaces are gaining traction for their flexibility and adaptability; in the office, this means better and frictionless collaboration and productivity. This is why Hoiland’s furniture is so visionary. It can be used for work, meetings, socializing, or any combination of those. Given that the contemporary office needs to be able to suit a range of demands, the usage of modular furniture and layouts makes perfect sense. In addition, the furniture prominently features wood, which is a nice biophilic touch that makes this highly functional collection even better.

Modular seating set
From Hightower: Modular seating sets can be configured to meet a variety of needs

Dropbox spices up a monochrome design palette with plants

Dropbox's San Francisco HQ uses potted trees
From Office Lovin: This seating area at Dropbox’s San Francisco HQ uses potted trees to provide pattern and a pop of color to the monochrome scheme

These days, many minimalist spaces are opting for monochrome color palettes. The use of monochrome pairs well with minimalism, as the two work in tandem to create a calming, clean interior that layers shades of the same color. The natural light in Dropbox’s lounge area cast shadows that add additional gray tones, pattern and movement to complement the design. The inclusion of greenery provides pops of color and a natural element to soften the monochrome effect. A few well-placed plants or natural installations (like fireplaces or ponds) can add verve to a minimalist office without subtracting from the minimalist design itself. Expect to see more biophilic elements in minimalist or industrial spaces in 2018 and beyond.

Conclusion

From the lobby to the conference room, an office needs to cater to its workers. That can be a tall order, as employees should feel good and also enjoy their time in the workplace. Thankfully, you can easily balance the latest office design trends with the timeless benefits of biophilic design using these techniques. Designing office spaces to create environments that are inspiring and engaging while including biophilic elements will ensure that workers are feeling great. This is the future of the corporate office: a space that combines the cutting edge of office design with the staying power of biophilia. It’s truly a win-win.

12 Unique Ways to Implement Biophilic Design in Hospitality Spaces

Tropical Island Resort Krausnick Germany

The hospitality industry is more vibrant than ever, and with this boom has come an increased focus on customer experience. Hospitality designers have been looking to the field of experience design to provide more targeted, immersive experiences that leave smiles on customers’ faces. Ultimately, this means designing for the people you’ll be serving, and that requires a close consideration of customers’ wants and needs.

One of the best methods to unexpectedly delight and enhance customer experience, no matter what sector of hospitality, is to use biophilic design elements. Here are 12 of my favorite use cases.

1. Abundant natural materials create a strong connection to nature

Westin Buffalo includes several biophilic elements
From C+TC Design Studio: Westin Buffalo boasts several biophilic elements: plenty of reclaimed wood, a living wall, and plants

For an easy way to enhance the biophilia effect of any space, place several biophilic elements near each other. Even the simple placement of a plant next to a wooden wall can make a noticeable impact on people’s mood and behavior. Doing so creates a visual connection with nature as well as a connection with natural systems, which are two of the 14 patterns of biophilic design as stated by Terrapin Bright Green. The more natural elements you include, the happier and more relaxed your patrons will feel, culminating in a positive experience.

2. For indoor spaces, try biophilic focal points

Living wall in Hotel Hugo, New York
From the Design Institute of San Diego: This living wall in New York’s Hotel Hugo is a striking biophilic focal point

Indoor spaces without abundant daylight or sightlines to the outdoors are most in need of biophilic elements. For these types of indoor areas, including a biophilic focal point will foster the natural connection needed for customers to feel their best. Go big so as to draw guests’ eyes, impress them, and satisfy their desires to be closer to nature. Living walls, gardens, waterfalls, fountains, ponds, and fireplaces are some examples of biophilic focal points that can be implemented in any indoor environment.

3. Hanging plants provide a unique biophilic aspect

Hanging plants in hotel lobby
From Mason: Hanging plants can be used to create a suspended garden that wows visitors

This biophilic technique is easy but a bit unexpected. A small assortment of hanging plants placed together can be used to simultaneously add biophilic elements and make a room feel fuller and more alive. You can use different types of hanging greenery to make a floating garden or place the plants more sparsely to create points of visual interest throughout a space.

4. Reclaimed wood adds natural elegance

Hotel bar's reclaimed wood paneling offers classy design
From Metropolis: This bar’s reclaimed wood paneling is a classy design touch that also serves as a biophilic focal point

In terms of green design materials, reclaimed wood is certainly one of the most versatile and beautiful. Its authentic charm is perfect in any built environment. It can complement laid-back or upscale spaces, and it works in tandem with a room’s existing décor. It especially shines in hospitality environments. Whether it’s used for the floors of a lounge, the walls of a restaurant, or to clad a reception desk, reclaimed wood can make customers and guests feel better and more satisfied with their experience.

5. Lobbies present wonderful opportunities for biophilic design

Open lobby with pond, trees, and large windows
From Ambius: This lobby’s breathtaking view is perfectly paired with a soothing pond that stretches between trees

Lobby design is of increasing importance in the world of hospitality. Since lobbies are getting more use today than ever before, it makes sense to optimize them for guests and visitors. Best of all, lobby spaces are ideal for biophilic design, and whether your lobby is small or large, you can transform it into a sanctuary for your guests. Any sort of biophilic focal point will work wonders in a lobby. You may choose to install a small pond or focus attention on a reclaimed wood fireplace. A noticeable biophilic element in a lobby will ensure that guests receive all of the benefits associated with biophilia, and it’s a great way to give an outstanding first impression.

6. Seating areas can benefit greatly from potted plants

Potted plants makes small areas feel more open
From Kinorigo: Potted plants are an easy way to add biophilic elements

Potted plants are small but mighty. Research demonstrates that they can help to purify the air even if air filters are already in use. They also reduce stress and thus facilitate more positive moods. Even just a few indoor plants will provide all these benefits, and when plants are combined with other biophilic elements, the indoor environmental quality of a space improves dramatically. Potted plants work particularly well in lounges and other seating areas, especially ones that don’t have a clear view of nature. As shown above, a few pops of greenery in a seating area can be incredibly effective in enhancing the biophilia effect.

7. Create clear sightlines to the natural world outside

Ladera Resort features breathtaking views
From Matador Network: Ladera Resort in Hawaii features breathtaking views of the lush trees, hills, and ocean surrounding the building

One of the most important patterns of biophilic design is visual connection with nature. A direct sightline of nature often provides the most benefits for guests, especially if your building is located near trees or bodies of water. This can be crucial for hotels; Terrapin Bright Green found that the cost of a hotel room with a view of nature is typically 18% higher than a room without a view. Of course, if a view of nature isn’t feasible, you can simulate the results with other biophilic elements. An appealing natural vista will not only improve guest satisfaction but also increase the chances of them returning.

8. Bring uncommon outdoor elements inside

Hotel in Portugal includes tables with trees
From Traveller Made: This inspired Portugal hotel includes a unique tree-through-table installation

For an especially creative way to implement biophilic design, take an uncommon natural element that exists outdoors and bring it indoors. This is the basic idea behind biophilic focal points like living walls and waterfalls, but there are many interesting ways to bring this concept to life. For example, the hotel pictured above features an indoor tree, which is both biophilic and novel. Other hospitality spaces have brought stone walls, large gardens, and even beaches indoors. The sight of an outdoor element in the built environment will generate interest among guests and can even encourage social interaction.

Tropical Island Resort Krausnick Germany
From the Daily Mail: This German resort’s one-of-a-kind indoor beach is a biophilic design haven

9. Find innovative ways to implement greenery

Plant map provides interesting and biophilic focal point
From Plant the Future: This eye-catching plant map is a wonderful and interesting biophilic focal point

There’s something to be said for coming up with new and exciting ways of showcasing greenery. The more visually interesting an installation is, the more guests will talk about it and enjoy it. This can be as simple as creating a wall garden of potted plants or as complex as installing larger topiaries. This is another concept that’s ideal to execute when an environment doesn’t have a direct and open view of nature.

10. Turn a room into an indoor garden

1 Hotel in Brooklyn turned a space into a indoor garden
From Retail Design Institute: Lots of plants on the walls and throughout the room make this industrial space much more biophilic

I’ve already discussed the merits of potted plants and gardens: improved air quality, better biophilic impact, and heightened moods, to name a few. An alternative idea is to take a room and transform it into an indoor garden. Since this involves creating patches of soil in which plants may grow, it’s a more intensive biophilic design technique, but it’s extremely effective. Seating areas, event spaces, meeting rooms, and eating areas are a few types of indoor environments that can benefit from large gardens.

11. Experiment with raw, unfinished biophilic elements

Rustic reclaimed wood and indoor trees bolster biophilia
From Momentum: The rough reclaimed wood on the desk and the raw tree installation bolster biophilia

Connection with natural systems is one of the patterns of biophilic design I’ve discussed in this article, but it’s so important that it deserves its own section. A connection with natural systems reflects the ongoing changes and processes present in various ecosystems. Some examples include erosion, weathering, aging, and plant cycles. This is one of the reasons why reclaimed wood is such a boon to biophilic design; its natural variances are perfect for creating a connection with natural systems. Other unfinished natural materials like rough stone can strengthen the connection.

12. Ample wood fosters serenity in hotel rooms

Hotel room uses reclaimed wood paneling
From Mocha Casa: This hotel room’s reclaimed wood paneling contributes to the relaxed atmosphere

When your guests are looking to get a good night’s sleep, they’ll be expecting a calming hotel room in which to relax at the end of the day. Since wood works to reduce stress, it’s an ideal material for hotel rooms. It will work with existing elements in the room (like a perfectly made bed or a view of nature) to make your guests feel cozy and at home.

Conclusion

Biophilic design is largely becoming the norm for all kinds of hospitality spaces. Guests expect more than ever, and biophilic design is an effective answer to these ever growing demands and needs. By implementing a few of these concepts, your hospitality space can easily stand out and create an unforgettable experience that will keep people coming back for more.

Is reclaimed wood really an environmentally friendly design choice?

Water reclaimed tropical wood in Bayano Lake, Panama

Today, reclaimed wood is a popular choice for building materials. Some may wonder, however, if it’s truly an environmentally beneficial choice or simply a design trend. From sourcing to installation, the data asserts the truth — reclaimed wood is an environmentally friendly design choice. That, in part, explains why it has become so popular and why it promises to have an enduring place in architecture and design.

One of the first considerations in analyzing the environmental impact of reclaimed wood is the issue of sourcing. The accepted narrative is that reclaimed wood mostly comes from old houses and barns. While it’s true that this does happen, it’s only a small piece of the puzzle. As it turns out, there’s a large supply of reclaimed wood around the world, and it comes from all different kinds of places.

How Reclaimed Wood is Sourced

Reclaimed wood is special in that every piece has its own unique character. There’s a wide variety of reclaimed woods available, each with their own story and appearance. This is due in large part to the range of sourcing methods available. Reclaimed wood can be sourced from everywhere from the forest floor to factories that generate large amounts of scrap wood. Here are some of the more common methods of sourcing reclaimed wood.

Post-consumer reclaimed wood. This wood is sourced from old structures that are no longer needed. It can be derived from buildings, bridges, fencing, dunnage, and bleacher seating, to name a few common sources. This is often what first comes to mind when one thinks of reclaimed wood. Much post-consumer reclaimed wood tends to give a rustic feel to a space. In many cases, this type of wood reflects its past life, making it a great choice for designers who want to create a specific type of atmosphere. For example, reclaimed wood with evidence of bolt and nail holes lends an authenticity to a space.

Hi Tops in San Francisco use reclaimed bleacher seating for a retro look
From cwaltersdesign.com: Hi Tops in San Francisco uses reclaimed bleacher seating to complement its retro-meets-contemporary look

Post-industrial reclaimed. When wood products such as furniture are created, enormous amounts of scrap wood are produced. At TerraMai, we see these waste streams as valuable sources of useful wood. By rescuing this wood, we divert it from landfills. Since post-industrial reclaimed wood comes in many shapes and sizes, repurposing it can require some creativity but the end result is often startling.

Post-industrial reclaimed acacia is used as wall paneling in elevator lobby
From TerraMai: Post-industrial fall down was used to make Acacia Metro paneling used in 901 5th Ave’s elevator lobby.

Water reclaimed. This type of wood has a particularly fascinating history. Throughout the 20th century, ancient forests in Central America, South America, and Africa were flooded for water storage and power generation. Where these reservoirs exist today there rests an abundance of tropical wood below the surface. Bayano Lake in Panama is one picturesque example of such a reservoir.

Water reclaimed tropical wood is renowned for its appearance, strength, and durability. Water reclaimed wood is one of the most ecologically friendly methods of obtaining tropical woods as it does not require any living trees to be cut. As a bonus, water reclaimed wood eliminates a dangerous water hazard for locals who use the reservoirs and lakes.

Water reclaimed tropical wood in Bayano Lake, Panama
From YouTube: Panama’s Bayano Lake is a rich source of water reclaimed tropical wood

Orchard salvage. After many decades of harvest, aging orchard trees that have declined in production are sunsetted. These trees are culled and replaced, but they often end up landfilled. That’s why we work to foster a strong market for old orchard wood so it can be repurposed as reclaimed wood. The wood yielded from culled orchard trees is of exceptional quality and beauty.

Forest floor salvage. During the timber cutting process, many smaller diameter trees are left behind due to their low yield. Typically, this rejected wood is chipped into mulch. However, there’s lots of potential in this wood, which is why we reclaim this discarded wood so that it can live up to its full potential instead of being relegated to the wood chipper.

How Reclaimed Wood Benefits the Environment

The main way in which reclaimed wood is environmentally beneficial is evident in the name––it salvages wood that would otherwise go to waste. However, this is just a big picture view, and there are many other environmental benefits to consider.

First, reclaimed wood directly benefits the environment from which it is sourced. Post-consumer, post-industrial, and orchard reclaimed wood helps to clean up buildings and natural spaces. If the wood isn’t reclaimed, it’s thrown into landfills. Reclaiming wood from these sources helps remove and reuse wood waste, benefitting both the wood source and the environment in general.

Second, many methods of sourcing reclaimed wood reduce the need to cut living trees to obtain wood. On a large scale, this contributes to the reduction of deforestation, preserving the health of existing forests and the habitats of many endangered species. This is a large reason why so many companies choose to use reclaimed wood. It prevents the unnecessary cutting of trees that, if left untouched, could contribute to the environment.

Third, milling reclaimed wood into flooring and paneling or making it into furniture requires fewer resources, and has less of an environmental impact than the manufacture of freshly cut trees into these products. Reclaimed wood has previously captured all of the steps required to grow, harvest and prepare new wood for milling into a finished product. For example, timber companies utilize large quantities of water to ‘irrigate’ or spray freshly cut logs so they stay wet prior to milling. That water and the subsequent waste water is not a factor with reclaimed wood. Furthermore, at TerraMai we work to ensure that the wood we reclaim is milled as close to the source as possible so that transportation energy is minimized.

The Benefits of Implementing Reclaimed Wood

Since reclaimed wood is particularly versatile, it can be used as a central unifying element or as an eye-catching focal point.

In small amounts, reclaimed wood is perfect for reception desks, furniture, and entryways. These are simple and straightforward ways to incorporate reclaimed wood into existing building design. It also doesn’t take much wood to see the benefits associated with the presence of wood. Even just a bit of reclaimed wood can have many positive effects on occupant well-being and happiness.

Priceline lobby uses reclaimed wood reception desk and paneling
From TerraMai: Priceline’s Norwalk office features a reclaimed wood reception desk and wall

Larger amounts of reclaimed wood can be used for everything from flooring to innovative installations. Many businesses choose to create entire spaces centered around the inclusion of reclaimed wood. This benefits productivity and mood, which can contribute to increased brand visibility, brand engagement, and shaping overall brand identity, especially in a retail space like REI (below).

REI SoHo features expansive reclaimed wood flooring
From TerraMai: REI SoHo boasts expansive reclaimed wood flooring that adds beauty, while also emphasizing the brand’s connection to the outdoors

Conclusion

The verdict is in: Reclaimed wood is one of the most environmentally friendly design choices you can make. Both the sourcing and transportation of reclaimed wood are energy efficient and prevent unneeded deforestation from occurring. Using reclaimed wood also ensures that unused wood doesn’t end up in the landfill. It’s truly remarkable to take wood that would otherwise be wasted and make something beautiful out of it.

This is how today’s architects are using experience design to push design tradition.

H&R Block's Heritage Hall shows the company's history and tradition

Experience design is changing the way architects and designers conceive their role. At the same time, it is shaping the way people interact with the built environment.

While experience design isn’t an entirely new concept, it has emerged as a more prevalent practice over the past few years. Many architects have been following John Portman’s advice:

If a building is to meet the needs of all the people, the architect must look for some common ground of understanding and experience.

That is, the question of experience has become increasingly more important to designers seeking to innovate and create spaces that deliver a lasting emotional connection between human occupants and the built environment.

Taking cues from branding and marketing, this movement has already made waves in the building community. I’d like to examine why experience design is so different and what it means for the future of architecture.

The Growing Necessity of Experience in Design

Before I dive into a more specific analysis of experience, I want to examine the idea of experience itself. It’s easy to define experience, but how is it measured? While it’s not a dogmatic resource, the Gensler Experience Index gives a structured, holistic view of how experience can be qualified. Notably, Gensler outlines the goal of the Index “to inspire the creation of great places that engage people’s emotions and keep them coming back.” That ethos is crucial to experience design.

Gensler's 5 Models of Experience
From Gensler: 
The five modes of experience help to decode the purpose of seeking out experiences

On a micro level, the Index considers various modes of experience and looks at how design affects those modes. The five modes––task, social, discovery, entertainment, and aspiration––are essentially the reasons people seek out experiences. Gensler also specifically analyzed the relationship between experience and design, concluding by emphasizing the importance of the two elements working in tandem: “The overall design look and feel of a space influences positive emotions, which in turn influences positive experience—and positive emotions and experience are at the heart of engaging users, whether connecting employees to organizational purpose or shoppers to a brand’s larger mission and story.”

Oberlin College gymnasium shows athletic victory and dedication
From Continental Office: 
Installations in the gymnasium at Oberlin College connect visitors to a larger narrative of athletic victory and dedication

In short, design works as part of the overall experience of a place to engage occupants and visitors. With that purpose in mind, it’s easy to think of experience design as design that creates and facilitates a positive emotional connection between the occupants and the built environment. Furthermore, these emotional connections are what underpin an individual’s reason for visiting any sort of space. People are no longer going out to eat just for food but for an experience. This is especially true of millennials, who are seeking out design factors like authenticity and novelty that are crucial to experience design. Factors like sustainability and aesthetic appeal also come into play, but these factors should contribute to the overall experience.

REI SoHo
From TerraMai: 
Authenticity to branding, like the unified look of REI SoHo, is a key element of experience design

Creating an Emotional Connection with Experience Design

The next step, of course, is to determine how to create and foster these emotional connections. Here, it helps to look at what some architects and designers are doing to push the envelope of conventional design and bring experience to the forefront.

H&R Block's Heritage Hall shows the company's history and tradition
From HOK: 
The H&R Block World Headquarters Heritage Hall anchors visitors and workers to the company’s history and tradition

Heritage Hall at the H&R Block World Headquarters in Kansas City is an excellent example of how experience design can be utilized to ground occupants in a brand story. Designed by HOK, the installation features company milestones, photographs of the founders, and even integrated iPads that provide interactive content opportunities. It evokes a sense of authenticity that allows passersby to attach themselves to the heritage of H&R Block.

El Palacio de Hierro in Mexico City has a novel restaurant space
From GenslerOn: 
This restaurant space stands out with novelty, clarity, and inspiration

When El Palacio del Hierro Polanco, a shopping mall in Mexico City, sought out design help, they tasked Gensler with making the gourmet department “an incredible, one-of-a-kind destination.” To that end, Gensler focused on making a space that was not only beautiful but also authentic to local history and tradition. As Gensler’s Kate Russell said, “What was really important about this particular Polanco location was that it responded to the city, and the character of not just being a luxury department store, but being a department store that has a Mexican heritage.” Eating and shopping at El Palacio del Hierro is an experience of tradition, and the design of the space is an integral catalyst for that experience.

Conclusion

While design concepts like sustainable design and biophilic design have certainly changed the world of architecture, experience design is a completely new animal. Architects and designers are understanding that the experience needs to be the impetus for an environment. For brands, this is especially important to acknowledge, as design then needs to be viewed as a business opportunity. Connecting occupants and employees to a larger narrative and purpose is not to be an afterthought; it should be built into a space from the outset.

How Indoor Environments Affect People’s Lives: 10 Things You Need to Know

Deloitte Amsterdam headquarters provide employees with a human-optimized workspace

There’s lots of research aimed at making the natural environment a better place for humans to be, but what about simulated environments? With research indicating that people spend 90 percent of their time indoors, creating optimal indoor environments is more important than ever. While architects and designers have long prioritized sustainability and eco-friendliness, recently indoor spaces have become a focal point. Builders and designers are becoming increasingly concerned about all kinds of indoor elements from air quality to exposure to natural light. After all, since the built environment is fundamentally a space for humans to be, it makes sense that designers should try to make indoor spaces the best they can be.

There’s a growing body of research that documents how people respond to various indoor elements, and this knowledge is crucial to anyone who spends a lot of time indoors. A poor indoor experience can stifle productivity, waste money, and affect occupant health. So whether you’re an architect, designer, business owner, or employee, you should be aware of these 10 ways the indoors can affect you.

1. Indoor elements are often surprisingly toxic

The first questions that arise when discussing indoor environments are how the indoors affect us and how far-reaching those effects are. Those questions are multifaceted because the average indoor environment is complex, with many factors potentially affecting occupant well-being. The CDC’s definition of indoor environmental quality (IEQ) notes that building dampness and contaminant exposure are typically responsible for occupant health issues. Recently, materials with high levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) have been spotlighted as particularly harmful to air quality; the EPA points out that concentrations of VOCs are noticeably higher indoors (as much as ten times higher than outdoor environments). Since VOCs are so common in paints, varnishes, wood preservatives, and other building materials, people who spend lots of time indoors are likely being exposed to particularly high levels of these damaging compounds.

Chart shows major sources of VOC emissions
From South Coast Air Quality Management District: Architectural and surface coatings are two of the most common sources of VOCs, making many indoor spaces unhealthy for occupants

Thankfully, there are some simple ways to rectify this issue of exposure. Green building materials that have low or no VOCs are ideal for creating healthier indoor environments. However, the fact remains that materials with high concentrations of VOCs are still in widespread use, a fact that occupants and designers alike need to be aware of.

2. Indoor elements affect how you work, interact, and even sleep

An indoor environment doesn’t have to be toxic to significantly affect its occupants. That’s what the Well Living Lab, a collaboration between Delos and the Mayo Clinic, found in its first study. Researchers attached biometric wearables to office workers and monitored their biological response to various changing elements in the environment, including changes in acoustic, lighting, and thermal conditions. The Lab concluded that such changes affected how the workers performed, interacted, and slept. We’re more sensitive than we might think to even more subtle environmental changes, and as a result, if indoor elements aren’t carefully optimized, people won’t feel or perform their best.

Employees working in an office with natural light
From Annual Leave: Elements such as exposure to natural light can greatly affect how occupants feel and behave in a space

3. A poor indoor environment can cause productivity (and profit) to plummet

Unfortunately, the stereotype of the stuffy office is still true today. It’s not uncommon to see workplaces without windows, adequate ventilation, fitness solutions, or places of rest. These conditions can cause a poorer quality of life, and occupants in spaces like these may suffer from major sleep issues. Perhaps most noticeably, productivity rapidly declines and may even hit an all-time low.

Deloitte Amsterdam headquarters provide employees with a human-optimized workspace
From New Atlas: Employees who work in sustainable, human-optimized indoor workspaces, like this one in Amsterdam, perform better than workers in unoptimized workspaces

This may not seem obvious until you take a look at how employees in optimized workspaces are performing. For instance, an increase in ventilation from 20 cubic feet per minute of outdoor air to 40 boosts annual productivity per worker by $6,500. Even the smallest of changes can create a ripple effect; the simple inclusion of one plant per square meter increases productivity by 15%. For business owners and employees alike, these statistics underscore the importance of creating a work environment conducive to health and well-being.

There are also countless worker health benefits that a better workplace brings with it. A 2000 study published in the Annual Review of Energy and the Environment observed that millions of dollars and countless work hours are lost yearly due to a poor indoor environment. The study estimated that better environments could reduce problems related to respiratory diseases, allergies, asthma, and other building-caused health issues, saving an estimated total of $31 billion annually. (And that’s not even counting the estimated $140 billion savings from improved employee performance in general.) All in all, a human-first indoor workspace isn’t a design accommodation but rather a fundamental necessity.

4. Be aware of the 9 foundations of a healthy building

At Harvard University’s T.H. Chan School of Public Health, the Healthy Buildings project is examining exactly what a “healthy building” looks like and how the A&D industry can set new standards for indoor health. The initiative is the brainchild of Environmental Design professor Joseph Allen and his team, who have synthesized a wide range of environmental research into a condensed approach they call the 9 foundations of a healthy building. These foundations are the elements that make up the indoor built environment: air quality, thermal health, moisture, dust and pests, safety and security, water quality, noise, lighting and views, and ventilation. These 9 foundations require the right balance to foster the best possible indoor environment. This list is perhaps best used as a springboard to identify problem areas within an indoor environment and establish a set of criteria by which indoor spaces can be evaluated and explored.

9 Foundations of Healthy Building chart
From forhealth.org: The 9 foundations of a healthy building review the most essential components of the indoor built environment

5. Air quality is one of the most important indoor elements

While all of the 9 foundations for a healthy building are essential to an optimized indoor environment, many designers and businesses are focusing heavily on air quality. This makes sense, as the EPA states that poor indoor air quality (IAQ) can have long-term health effects, possibly including respiratory diseases, cancer, and heart disease. Less severe but nonetheless damaging effects include irritation, headaches, dizziness, and fatigue. It’s well documented that inadequate ventilation (and therefore lower IAQ) can lead to a loss of productivity and satisfaction. The EPA suggests several methods of improving IAQ, such as eliminating or reducing air pollution, improving ventilation, and utilizing air cleaners. Since air quality impacts all occupants and can have lasting effects, it needs to be a top priority for anyone in A&D.

Building with natural light and plants improves indoor air quality
From Aeroqual: Strategic implementation of elements like windows and greenery can help improve IAQ

6. Climate change may impact IEQ

The relationship between outdoor and indoor environments is more interconnected than it may at first appear. That’s what a 2011 report by the Institute of Medicine indicated, noting that climate change may worsen already poor indoor environments. The abstract states, “As the world’s climate changes, buildings that were designed to operate under the ‘old’ climatic conditions may not function well under the ‘new’—affecting the health of those who live, work, study, or play in them.” Indoor elements like air quality, building dampness, thermal stress, and ventilation could all be adversely affected by climate change. If left unchecked, these elements can create detrimental indoor spaces, so it’s critical to monitor these in both old and new buildings.

7. Integrating biophilic design is better for everyone involved

The typical indoor environment today isn’t exactly what I’d describe as “connected to nature.” Indoor spaces tend to be rather shut off from the natural world, and many don’t even have windows. Yet a connection to nature is exactly what biophilic design aims to create in order to foster a healthier environment for humans. Biophilic design can help improve behavioral health as well as social interaction and work performance. Many other aspects of biophilic design are naturally healthy––the presence of plants can enhance IAQ, for example––and it’s also a highly sustainable design philosophy, making it an attractive option for both human occupants and the indoor environment.

Biophilic indoor environment
From Mocha Casa: Biophilic design transforms indoor environments into spaces that respond to our biological needs

8. Studies prove that comfort matters

Most indoor spaces are built to be comfortable, but few builders and designers qualify comfort during the planning and building processes. Comfort can be correlated with the indoor elements that affect occupants (see #2 above). A study in the International Journal of Sustainable Built Environment looked at thermal comfort, acoustic comfort, and visual comfort. Each element is essential to overall IEQ and needs to be regulated to maximize occupant comfort. Furthermore, these elements can be manipulated to create various indoor environments. For example, natural ventilation causes people to feel closer to nature than mechanical ventilation. Thus the particular levels of comfort can be adjusted with occupant needs and the local environment in mind.

Allsteel's DC office boasts acoustic comfort
From Work Design Magazine: Allsteel’s Washington, D.C. office boasts excellent acoustic comfort

9. Watch out for Sick Building Syndrome and Building Related Illness

The range of negative health effects that an indoor space can have on occupants is often categorized under the Sick Building Syndrome term. As defined by the EPA, Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) is “used to describe situations in which building occupants experience acute health and comfort effects that appear to be linked to time spent in a building, but no specific illness or cause can be identified.” While the culprits are often easy to identify (e.g., high-VOC materials, inadequate ventilation, etc.), if left untreated SBS can significantly impact occupant health. SBS can affect more than physical health; workers can experience a loss of energy and productivity, while visitors and guests may experience dissatisfaction with the space. The best prevention against SBS is continuous surveillance of indoor elements and ongoing maintenance to ensure that IEQ is at its best.

lOptimized Ventilation Diagram for Office Workspaces
From EPA: Optimized ventilation can help mitigate SBS and BRI

Similar to SBS, Building Related Illness (BRI) refers to health issues that “can be attributed directly to airborne building contaminants.” A 1994 study in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology categorized the mechanisms by which agents cause BRI into four categories: immunologic, infectious, toxic, and irritant. It’s also possible for more than one of these mechanisms to cause BRI. However, the problems of SBS and BRI are preventable and manageable through vigilance and proactive measures.

10. Circadian-based light exposure can improve productivity and mood

Human circadian rhythms are responsible for the regulation of our energy cycles, but many artificially lit commercial settings disrupt these natural rhythms. In an office setting, this often causes workers to underperform and feel drowsy throughout the day, and in a general commercial setting, this can cause mood drops in occupants. Considering circadian rhythms in the built environment ultimately aids in performance increases and generates more positive emotions. Specifically, circadian-based lighting is greatly beneficial. Unfortunately, many indoor environments don’t have enough light to biologically stimulate occupants and satisfy circadian cycles. When light is sufficiently able to stimulate a biological response, IEQ increases. In one study, occupants who received more circadian stimuli became less depressed and got more sleep. Modifying lighting to the human circadian cycle is a simple yet dramatically effective change that any indoor space can easily make.

LED Continuous Lighting provides circadian-based light exposure
From SAB Magazine: This indoor environment utilizes a LED ceiling to simulate the sky and satisfy occupant circadian rhythms

Conclusion

The indoor built environment is receiving more attention as architects and designers are recognizing the importance of healthy, human-first indoor spaces. These 10 items are some of the most essential factors when developing and improving indoor environments. Design that considers occupant well-being is the future of A&D. With human wellness as a core driver, the impact of design is greater than ever.

How Reclaimed Wood Supports Wellness in the Built Environment

Bullitt Foundation uses wood through office to facilitate strong connection to nature

Reclaimed wood has always been a particularly appealing material but did you know it can enhance human wellness? Reclaimed wood has many benefits; its story-rich and can add a lot of character to any space thanks to its unique patterns and weathering. It’s also a green building material that contributes to sustainability in design, reducing the overall eco footprint of a built environment. These are the more obvious benefits of reclaimed wood, but this versatile material can also enhance human wellness.

With the growth of biophilic design, more architects and designers have been taking wellness into consideration. Materials with low volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are now often chosen over their more toxic counterparts, and elements like adequate ventilation and daylighting are also widely used. However, not all built environments are created equal. Many spaces are still taking ideas from the minimalist school of design, featuring sparse, bare areas. Whereas biophilia (which I’ll discuss in detail later on) posits that humans thrive from a connection to nature, this industrial minimalism detaches occupants almost completely from nature. As Metropolis notes, this trend of “biophobia” is at odds with the human-centric concepts of biophilia: “If this trend goes unchecked, the built environment will eventually become as unfit for human life as the natural environment seems destined to become.”

Minimalist Office Space
From Design Trends: Minimal spaces like this office are popular, but they can be harmful to human wellness

Of course, minimalism isn’t inherently damaging, but when taken to extremes––whitewashed offices and common areas with scant furniture––it can create an unhealthy relationship between occupants and the built environment. The hard lines and artificial lighting that minimalism promotes are not found in nature, and this can have adverse effects on everything from productivity to mental health. One case study from the Netherlands illuminates these disadvantages. An Exeter University professor visited a call center in the Netherlands, which he described as “a beautifully sparse environment.” When some greenery was introduced (one plant per square meter), employee performance on memory retention was bolstered.

So where does reclaimed wood come in? Simply put, it’s one of the easiest and most aesthetically pleasing ways of creating an environment that promotes wellness. Spaces that use reclaimed wood are consistently healthier for people than spaces without wood. In this article, I’ll take a look at some of the ways reclaimed wood can benefit spaces and enhance occupant well-being.

The Health Benefits of Wood

Before I talk about the specific effects of reclaimed wood, I’ll examine the wellness benefits that wood inherently brings to an environment. There have been many interesting findings in various studies that point to wood as an unusually health-forward building material. A report compiled by Australian nonprofit Planet Ark Environmental Foundation reviewed several peer-reviewed studies and discussed some amazing benefits of wood on the body, brain, and environment.

In regard to physical effects, wood serves as a de-stressor and has been shown to lower blood pressure. A Japanese study mentioned in the report examined 14 participants who were placed in rooms with either steel or wood paneling. The study concluded that exposure to wood paneling significantly decreased the subjects’ blood pressure while exposure to steel panels significantly raised it. Similar studies found the same results; wood contributed to lower heart rates and stress responses than environments with no wood.

Reclaimed redwood paneling like this installation have many health benefits
From TerraMai: Reclaimed wooden paneling, like this installation at Gravitate! in Albuquerque, can help lower blood pressure

The effects of wood on the brain are a bit more surprising: heightened social interaction and a more positive emotional response to built environments. Another Japanese study looked at how 44 elderly residents interacted with both wood and plastic products. The use of the wooden products was far more effective, resulting in more social interaction, improved emotional states, and positive self-expression. The research suggested that wood products may even mitigate mental and physical decline in elderly individuals. Of course, these benefits can be seen in people of all ages. The takeaway? The atmosphere that wood helps to create is extremely conducive to interaction and conversation. This is important for corporate offices and workspaces, as wood can be used to facilitate group projects and idea generation.

Salvaged cabin wood is used for Twitter's cafeteria
From Inhabitat: These salvaged cabin wood offices at Twitter exemplify reclaimed wood’s ability to stimulate social interaction

Finally, there’s the effect of wood on the built environment in general. It’s no surprise that wood can create a great first impression, but as it turns out, wood can help organizations improve the built environment for all occupants. Additional research by Dr. Yuki Kawamura of Sumitomo Forestry Research, indicates wood enhances relaxation during times of rest while allowing for greater focus during times calling for concentration. For corporations, this is a critical piece of knowledge, as using materials like reclaimed wood can step-up employee morale and promote a more focused, creative team. Specifically, prominent usage of wood in the workplace can boost productivity, improve crisis response, and increase overall cognitive ability in workers. In a healthcare or hospitality environment, wood can be restorative and enhance healing.

Wood in Kiva's office contributes to employee wellness
From Studios Architecture: Plenty of wood in a workplace environment contributes to employee wellness

Biophilia: Why Reclaimed Wood Is Superior

You’ve likely noticed that all of the studies above didn’t specify what kinds of wood were involved; they only looked at the overall impact of wood in general. So why spotlight reclaimed wood? It’s obvious that reclaimed wood will allow for all of the benefits mentioned, but in addition, reclaimed wood can deliver emotional connection and greater biophilic effect.

Wood furnishings in Capital One Financial improve workplace environment
From Fortune: Wood furnishings can significantly improve the workplace environment

Reclaimed wood has a history and a story. Sometimes this story is provided in a plaque but even if it is not, the wood’s patina and markings convey its prior life; its usefulness and utility live on. The wood’s history enhances the occupant’s experience in the space in an authentic and meaningful manner. We all love a good story, especially when the story taps into our emotions. Occupants will connect with reclaimed wood and that connection will transfer to a brand or the employer.

The raw, weathered nature of reclaimed wood creates a uniquely direct connection to the natural world. While standard wood paneling can still be effective, reclaimed wood simulates the natural environment more closely, making it better suited for biophilic design. It implements many of the 14 patterns that Terrapin Bright Green outlines in its 14 Patterns of Biophilic Design report. For example, the wear, texture and patina of reclaimed wood create a connection to natural systems, reminding viewers of organic change. Unsurprisingly, reclaimed wood is excellent at generating a material connection with nature, and the right amount of wood––approximately 45% coverage, according to Terrapin––can create feelings of comfort and peace. (Higher amounts of wood create even more comfort, which is great for hotels but could be counterproductive for workspaces.)

Bullitt Foundation uses wood through office to facilitate strong connection to nature
From Daily Journal of Commerce: In the built environment, wood facilitates a strong connection to nature

The biophilic nature of reclaimed wood also makes for a better human experience. Since wood offers a host of physical and mental benefits, it enhances the experience of being in a space, an idea experience designers are focusing on. Enrico Dagostini at Perkins+Will reflected on the firm’s use of wood in Vancouver SkyTrain stations, saying, “By incorporating wood in transit stations, we are able to create a warm and inviting experience in these high-volume public buildings, and in turn, reduce stress for passengers and building users, while elevating the perception of the value of public investment in transit infrastructure.” With wood, commercial spaces become more personable and comfortable. The physical benefits of wood (i.e., lower blood pressure and reduced stress) translate into a more pleasurable experience, which in turn creates a strong desire in occupants to revisit a space in which they feel calm.

The Future of Reclaimed Wood In Building Design

Reclaimed wood is much more than a design choice; it’s a catalyst for human wellness in any kind of built environment. Reclaimed wood is surging in popularity as a building material. Additionally, it’s becoming less of an accent piece and more of a focal point, helping to create a stronger connection to nature. More businesses are realizing the importance of wood in built environments, the usage of which varies from industry to industry. Corporate offices can implement wood to improve productivity and morale, while hospitality spaces can use wood as an agent of relaxation in guests. Furthermore, any kind of business can incorporate wood to create comfort and encourage return visits. The possibilities are myriad, but at the core of it all, the focus is on human wellness. Reclaimed wood helps to make the built environment a better place for humans to be, and that’s always a good thing.

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