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How Reclaimed Wood Supports Wellness in the Built Environment

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.”

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.

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.

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.

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.)

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.

Can airports be constructed with sustainable design? We think so. Take a look.

Sustainable design is second nature for many architects and designers today, but there’s still work to be done to fully integrate sustainability into all aspects of the building world. While you may be familiar with sustainably designed offices and institutions, there are still many types of spaces that are being built without sustainability in mind, but with some changes, these environments can easily become sustainable. In this article, I’ll show you some examples of eco-friendly airports and analyze their sustainability methods.

“The World’s Greenest Airport” in Oslo is the Future of Airport Design

When the folks at Oslo Airport decided to build an extension to double the terminal’s size, they called in Nordic –– Office of Architecture, a local award-winning design firm. Nordic, who had designed the main Oslo Airport in 1998, is known for sustainably designed projects, and the firm delivered. When the new extension was finished in 2017, it raised the bar for sustainable design on a large scale.

The extension uses green building materials such as glulam, recycled steel, and a mixture of concrete and volcanic ash, all of which are much more sustainable than traditional building materials. The structure is strategically shaped to leverage passive solar energy, and low-carbon technologies like natural thermal energy are utilized. Amazingly, the airport also uses snow as a coolant. During winter, snow is stored onsite to be used as coolant in the summer. These techniques helped to reduce the airport’s energy consumption by 50%. All of these achievements earned the airport a BREEAM Excellent rating for sustainability, making it the first airport to ever achieve that rating.

The Oslo Airport is one of the most impressive examples of sustainable design for airports, and future airport designers will undoubtedly use it as a benchmark. While most airports are huge contributors to global waste, Oslo’s terminal is looking toward the future.

Logan Airport’s LEED Certified Terminal is Packed with Sustainable Technology

Boston’s Logan Airport was thinking about sustainability long before many others; it earned LEED certification back in 2006 when it redesigned its Terminal A. Led by the renowned design firm HOK, the redesign incorporated more natural daylight, water conservation, and waste recycling. Solar trees and wind turbines help to generate greener power for the airport, and the roofing membrane and paving reflect heat and reduce stormwater runoff.

HOK is no stranger to sustainable design, and that experience shows here. In addition to earning LEED certification, Logan also received the Jay Hollingsworth Speas Airport Award for creating “a positive and balanced relationship” between the airport and the local environment. Passengers can also contribute by using single-stream recycling stations installed throughout the airport, an initiative for which Massport’s Environmental Management Policy was the catalyst.

Oakland International Airport’s Terminal 2 is Beautifully Sustainable

In 2010, Oakland International Airport (OAK) followed in Logan Airport’s footsteps and redesigned its Terminal 2 to be more sustainable. Soon after, it became the first passenger terminal in the U.S. to receive LEED Silver certification. Low-VOC compounds, conserved water use, and a stormwater treatment system all contribute to OAK’s positive environmental impact. The terminal’s energy efficiency exceeds California standards by 25%, which reduces carbon emissions by approximately 211 tons per year.

Looking Forward to a Sustainable Future for Airports

These airports prove that sustainable airport design is within reach. They may be the exception but are excellent examples for the many A&D firms embarking on or in the midst of airport expansion and redesign. The future is bright for airport sustainability, with more airports using reclaimed wood, daylighting systems, and water treatment technologies.

These hospitality spaces have taken biophilic design to a whole new level.

Biophilic design is steadily growing as a design priority. The concept of biophilia – the innate human desire for a connection with nature – translates easily to the world of architecture, and it’s changing how we look at building design. While biophilic design has been most popular in corporate workspaces, it’s also found acclaim in the hospitality industry. Here are some of my favorite hospitality spaces that utilize biophilic design in truly unique ways.

Westin Buffalo Makes Biophilia Part of the Experience

In 2016, Westin Hotels & Resorts opened Westin Buffalo, a 116-room hotel, 7,300 square feet of event space, a restaurant offering wood-fired cooking, and Westin’s renowned fitness programs. However, unlike most new hotels, Westin Buffalo was built with biophilia in mind. The hotel features abundant use of textured wood, views of nature, and an earthy color palette. A noteworthy detail is the hotel’s meandering pathways; since straight lines do not exist in nature, these curved paths help to reinforce the natural connection. Additionally, Westin continued its tradition of installing vertical gardens in public seating and lounge areas.

Biophilia was a priority throughout the planning process, which makes Westin Buffalo truly noteworthy. Many buildings have been redesigned in a biophilic manner, but Westin Buffalo is part of a growing number of buildings that have biophilia built into them from day one. It’s incorporating many of the concepts that Terrapin Bright Green considered in its Human Spaces 2.0 report, which found that biophilic design enhances the guest experience which in turn increases the value associated with the room cost, making it beneficial for both the hotel and guests.

Hudson Hotel Boasts Strikingly Beautiful Biophilic Features

In terms of biophilic aesthetics, the Hudson Hotel is a masterpiece that includes some extraordinary biophilic elements. Most remarkably, the hotel brings the environment of nearby Central Park to the bar and lobby, where guests can enjoy a canopy ceiling. Ivy is strewn across the brick walls, and wood flooring adds an extra touch of biophilia.

If that’s not enough, the hotel also features Private Park, which is part of the elevated lobby shown above. The park is designed to give guests an additional opportunity to experience nature with a picturesque outdoor terrace. This urban oasis is seasonally open during the warmer months, which improves the experience by allowing guests to explore the space in comfortable weather.

Denton’s Embassy Suites Hotel Showcases Biophilic Design

Biophilic design is easily associated with upscale hotels but designers are bringing the benefits to less costly hospitality spaces as well. In Denton, Texas, guests can find biophilic elements at Embassy Suites. The hotel and convention center was designed by award-winning firm Butler, Rosenbury & Partners and weaves biophilic design throughout the building. Some of the hotel’s biophilic features, like two vibrant 22-foot “living walls” consisting of 1,752 plants, are meant to be visual focal points. Wood on the ceiling incorporates natural material and helps to soften the space. Other features, like a patterned glass wall made to resemble the rings of a tree trunk, are subtle yet nonetheless impactful.

Conclusion

Biophilic design in hospitality is becoming more common and for good reason. As Lorraine Francis of Gensler reflects, “A cost-effective way to enhance the guest experience, it can bolster feelings of community, while improving well-being and health.” The bottom line is that guests are spending more time (and money) in hospitality spaces that leverage biophilic design, so expect to see this trend grow in the near future.

Experiential design improves interior spaces

Using experiential design to build culture and engagement

In recent years, a transformative shift in building design and architecture has emerged, placing an emphasis on human wellness and betterment. At the forefront of this movement is experiential design, a dynamic approach that redefines the parameters of good design. Architects and designers are not only concerned with the visual appeal of a space, but are now dedicated to crafting environments that enhance the human experience. Concepts like biophilic design have helped draw attention to a more human-centric design perspective, and experiential design is part of that trend.

In built environments, experiential design can encompasses a person’s physical, cognitive, social, cultural and emotional experiences with a space. The design considers the purpose and function of the building or room, along with a desired experience a designer intends for each occupant or visitor. Experiences may include physical or digital interactions, social aspects, lighting, visual, sounds, smells, and other inputs and the person’s responses to these.

Consider all of the different environments you have been in, and how the building and rooms have impacted your experience. Think about the way they sounded, looked, and smelled. Here are some examples of commercial spaces with a variety of experiential designs:

  • Art installations and sections of museums
  • Sports arenas and stadiums
  • Theme parks and location-based entertainment venues
  • Restaurants and bars
  • Retail stores and professional service centers
  • Concert and performing arts venues
  • Offices and other workplaces
  • Different areas of libraries from reading ares to the children’s section
  • Hotel rooms, lobbies, and meeting spaces
  • Airports, train stations, and other transportation hubs

In each of these settings, experiential design helps organizations or sponsors communicate their desired message to each visitor–whether that message is one of comfort and reassurance or surprise and excitement.

What is experiential design?

Experiential design prioritizes human interaction with a built environment. In a commercial context, this means strategically using design elements to elicit an emotional connection to a brand and immerse occupants in a narrative. Today, creating an experience is more important than ever before. In its 2017 Experience Index, Gensler notes that “the human experience must be the driving force behind every element of a space––from the design of physical space to the qualities of interaction, expectation, and intention.”

In practice, this can take many different forms, but above all, engagement and emotional connection are the foundation of experiential design. If a space doesn’t allow its occupants to feel connected, it’s not experiential. For example, in an office setting, this might include creating spaces that facilitate workflow and optimize emotional and physical employee well-being.

This is where one of the big differences between experiential design and other contemporary perspectives comes in. Whereas some designers might create a space based on trends or aesthetics alone, experiential design looks at how humans will interact with the space and builds the environment not only around human needs but also the human experience. Input from to-be occupants is thus a crucial part of the process. This collaboration with occupants allows designers to understand users’ needs and expectations.

While experiential design at its core does require a deep look at how people will interact with a space, it goes above and beyond to emotionally connect people with the space. Signage, decor, and messaging that strongly align with the brand message are a few of the ways experiential design accomplishes this connection. In short, the branded content works hand in hand with the design to reflect the purpose of the space.

What Does Experiential Design Look Like?

Human-centric design, branding, and interactivity are all vital pieces of the puzzle that is experiential design. The more connected someone feels to a space, the more they will want to come back to that space. In a business context, this translates to more hotel stays, more returning customers, and more brand ambassadors. More and more businesses and institutions are realizing this and are seeking out experiential designers to help them create these strong emotional connections.

Trillium Creek Primary School in West Linn, Oregon is an excellent example of experiential design in action. Teachers, staff, and students spoke up during the planning process to ensure the design would meet their needs for a school space that gave students a well-rounded educational experience. As a result, the final school design included elements like simulated trees and integrated play areas to encourage interaction throughout the building.

Another outstanding example of experiential design is Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSK) Monmouth. The legendary firm Perkins+Will worked to create a healing environment that would be noticeably different from other cancer centers. That ethic is evident in the facility’s design. A large courtyard, ample views of nature, and clean spaces inspired by the hospitality industry make MSK Monmouth truly unique. Jason Harper, medical planner and associate principal and Perkins+Will, said, “We wanted to give patients a positive, hope-filled and humane experience at a time when they’re feeling down, both emotionally and physically.”

Experiential design also lends itself to internal branding. This is a boon to companies who are looking to improve employee morale by creating a positive, brand-driven environment that reminds workers of a greater purpose. Shimano Cycling World in Singapore exemplifies this. An installation featuring brand imagery and a wall of bicycles connects both employees and visitors to the Shimano brand. That installation was created by Eight Inc., a leading experiential design firm. As Principal Jeff Straesser put it, “It’s more about traditional architects realizing it’s not enough to design something that’s visibly compelling. It’s about bringing all these other considerations into design experiences.”

Experiential Design: Shimano’s wall of bikesShimano’s consistent and compelling branding is another way of utilizing experiential design

The Future of Experiential Design

As more architects and designers are considering what it means to build human-centric spaces, experiential design is rapidly becoming more mainstream. Design is becoming increasingly less about current trends and more about meeting human needs. When people have a quality experience in a space, they are more engaged. Engagement translates into more productive workers, more customers and more social shares of well-designed spaces. The role of experiential design is only bound to grow.

More than reclaimed wood. How these green building materials are being used today

Reclaimed wood is one of the most widely used green building materials for many reasons. It has a timeless look, its diverse sourcing streams provide variable aesthetics, and it adds an enduring natural look to any space. While wood is possibly the most versatile green building material, it isn’t the only one. There are other materials gaining traction. In this article, I’ll discuss a few and show you how they’re being used.

Ananas-Anam Upscales Pineapple Waste to Create Pinatex, a Sustainable Alternative Leather Product

Leather provides beautiful texture, natural appeal and speaks to quality but it comes with a host of concerns. Being animal based, leather has a large carbon footprint and production typically utilizes formaldehyde and other chemicals. Leather alternatives are usually petroleum based but Pinatex is created from agricultural waste meaning it does not use any water, land, fertilizer or pesticides. Pinatex is a durable, versatile leather alternative suitable for furniture covering, upholstery options, or a focal “leather” wall. Dr. Carmen Hijosa, Pinatex developer and owner of the startup Ananas-Anam, feels “Design is not just about Product. Design is about responsibility”.

Cork – Not Your Typical Green Building Material

Cork doesn’t normally top lists of green building materials, but it’s a surprisingly useful and sustainable resource. Workers harvest the material by hand from cork oak trees in the Mediterranean, a practice that has been passed down for the last 2,000 years. Only the bark of the tree is removed, as the rest of the tree can survive without it. The cork trees’ unique ability to regenerate stripped bark, paired with the lack of machinery used to harvest, makes cork an especially sustainable material.

In commercial contexts, cork is commonly used for flooring. However, it has many applications, including acoustic enhancement, that have yet to be fully explored. Expect to see cork in more projects as architects and designers find new and exciting ways to implement this renewable and recyclable material.

Rammed Earth Brings Ancient Technology Into The Future

Rammed earth is an age-old construction technique that consists of compacting earthen materials like soil and clay. The result is a dense, rocklike wall that is both sturdy and sustainable. Rammed earth has always been used for residences, but lately it’s made its way into more commercial projects like the Edmonton Valley Zoo (pictured above), which boasts rainbow-hued rammed earth walls to mark the entrance. Like reclaimed wood, rammed earth brings an immediate sense of nature to any environment.

Conclusion

As these use cases of green building materials display, there’s a lot more to sustainable design in addition to reclaimed wood. Builders, architect, and designers are continuing to seek out and develop alternative materials to reduce waste and benefit the planet, a vision that benefits us all.

Understanding the Biophilia Hypothesis

The biophilia hypothesis. If you’ve worked within the LEED or green design world for any period of time, it’s likely that you’ve run into this term. As intimidating as it might sound, the biophilia hypothesis is actually fairly simple to understand. And, more likely than not, you’ve experienced what the biophilia hypothesis describes.

So, what is the biophilia hypothesis?

The Biophilia Hypothesis: What is it?

The biophilia hypothesis is the belief that humans are genetically predisposed to be attracted to nature. It states that all humans inherently love the natural world.

This idea that we are drawn to and need nature was first put forth by a man named Edward O. Wilson in his book, Biophilia, published in 1984.

The idea that humans have an innate love and need for nature has been adapted to many different areas of study. The biophilia hypothesis has been used to support the idea that humans are healthier when they’re connected to nature and has even become popular within the movement of green design, reusing materials, and eco-friendly architecture.

Though at first the biophilia hypothesis put forth by Wilson was more aspirational than based in scientific fact, researchers are now finding there are health benefits to being surrounded by nature.

The Science Behind the Biophilia Hypothesis

From Frederick Law Olmsted, the designer of Central Park in New York City, to Edward O. Wilson, to Florence Williams, the belief that nature makes humans healthier is an enduring and fascinating topic.

Nature helps to lower levels of cortisol, the hormone typically used to assess stress levels, improve concentration, and heighten creativity. Research finds that taking a walk in a park and even looking at nature through a window can improve someone’s health.

Nature not only improves health, it helps people to feel happier.

Though science has come a long way to measure and prove the link between nature, health, and happiness — most of us intrinsically know that nature makes us feel good. No one needs to tell us.

Whether science proves it or not, the biophilia hypothesis has played a role in making biophilic design, green architecture, and eco-friendly buildings more popular.

The Biophilia Hypothesis in Architecture and Design

Many large companies are getting behind the idea of biophilic and green design. Everyone from Google to Amazon to Clif Bar are incorporating nature into their buildings to help employees to feel happier and healthier.

In addition to building a brand and selling products, companies are shifting focus to creating a workplace and ethos of holistic health. Bringing nature inside has also proven to improve worker productivity.

Embracing the Biophilia Hypothesis: Enhancing Spaces with Nature-Inspired Design

The tenets of biophilic design are simple, just an attempt to bring nature indoors for the health of the people inhabiting the space but, can lead design to new and unexplored possibilities. The Biophilia Hypothesis highlights the innate human connection with nature and suggests that incorporating natural elements into the built environment can have profound positive impacts on our well-being. By embracing biophilic design, we can create spaces that foster a sense of harmony and promote a healthier, more productive lifestyle.

One way to introduce biophilic elements is through the use of reclaimed wood for the floors or wall paneling. Not only does reclaimed wood exude natural beauty and warmth, but it also tells a story, carrying the essence of its previous life. By bringing these elements indoors, we establish a tangible connection to nature, creating an environment that evokes a sense of calm and tranquility.

In addition to reclaimed wood, integrating living green walls can infuse spaces with vibrant vegetation, improving air quality and providing visual delight. These vertical gardens serve as living art pieces, offering a refreshing connection to nature within the confines of a built environment.

Another strategy is to maximize the utilization of natural light by incorporating more windows or optimizing existing ones. Sunlight not only illuminates the space but also enhances our circadian rhythms, boosting productivity and overall well-being. By allowing ample natural light to flood the interior, we establish a closer relationship with the outdoors and harness the energy and vitality that sunlight brings.

The principles of biophilic design offer endless possibilities, encouraging designers to explore new realms of creativity while prioritizing the well-being of occupants. By inviting nature into our built spaces, we create environments that nurture and inspire, fostering a deeper connection with the natural world.

Incorporating biophilia into design not only benefits individuals but also has broader implications for our collective relationship with the environment. By acknowledging and embracing our innate connection to nature, we can design spaces that harmonize with our human essence while promoting sustainability and the preservation of our precious natural resources.

Incorporate the Biophilic Hypothesis: The Power of Plants

Implementing the biophilic hypothesis with the inclusion of plants is a powerful way to create environments that foster a deep connection with nature. Whether it’s a green roof, a living wall, or the strategic placement of potted plants, plants play a pivotal role in biophilic design, bringing the essence of the natural world indoors.

Embracing the principles of the biophilic hypothesis, even on a smaller scale, can have profound effects. A green wall, for example, introduces a vertical tapestry of living plants that not only adds visual appeal but also enhances air quality, reduces noise, and provides a refreshing connection to nature. This vibrant display of foliage creates a living artwork, instilling a sense of tranquility and rejuvenation within the space.

When space permits, a green roof takes biophilic design to new heights. By covering rooftops with thriving gardens, we not only improve energy efficiency but also create lush oases that attract birds and beneficial insects, offering a haven of greenery and respite for building occupants. The juxtaposition of urban skylines with verdant vegetation exemplifies a harmonious balance between the built environment and the natural world.

Whether through grand gestures like green roofs or the simple addition of potted plants, incorporating the biophilic hypothesis transforms spaces into havens where nature thrives alongside human life. By harnessing the power of plants, we purify the air, reduce stress levels, and evoke feelings of harmony and vitality. Let biophilic design guide your choices, cultivating environments that reflect our deep-rooted connection with the natural world and contribute to our overall well-being.

Embracing the Biophilia Hypothesis with Natural Materials

The biophilia hypothesis comes to life when we opt for natural materials in our built environments. Instead of relying on cold metals, plastics, or synthetic materials, the use of wood stands as a sustainable and aesthetically pleasing alternative. Reclaimed wood, in particular, takes this commitment to eco-friendliness and beauty to a whole new level.

Leading companies like Google and Amazon have recognized the transformative effects of incorporating nature elements into their office spaces. By integrating reclaimed wood accents, flooring, and paneling, they create environments that foster a deep connection with nature. The natural warmth and organic textures of reclaimed wood instill a sense of calm and well-being, enhancing employee productivity and satisfaction.

Biophilic architecture: Reclaimed wood flooring in Google's Mountain View HQ
Terramai’s reclaimed wood flooring and tree inside Google’s Mountain View headquarters.

Choosing reclaimed wood aligns with the principles of the biophilia hypothesis, as it embodies sustainability and showcases the inherent beauty of nature. Each piece of reclaimed wood carries a unique history, with distinct characteristics such as weathered patina, knots, and grain patterns. By utilizing reclaimed wood, we not only reduce waste and prevent deforestation but also infuse spaces with the natural elements that evoke a sense of biophilic harmony.

By embracing the biophilia hypothesis through the use of natural materials like reclaimed wood, we create environments that inspire and nurture. Let the timeless elegance and eco-friendliness of reclaimed wood transform your space into a haven of biophilic design, where the natural world seamlessly intertwines with our built surroundings.

The biophilia hypothesis: Amazon Seattle Office uses Reclaimed Wood Paneling
Amazon’s Seattle headquarters uses TerraMai’s reclaimed wood wall paneling.

Biophilic Design: Bring In Natural Light

Incorporating natural light into biophilic design goes beyond its visual benefits; it engages our senses and fosters a deeper connection with the natural world. By designing buildings that embrace their location and maximize light and ventilation, we create spaces that are not only more beneficial to occupants but also more environmentally friendly.

Optimizing natural light in building design offers a multitude of advantages. Beyond reducing the reliance on artificial lighting, it creates an uplifting and energizing ambiance. The dynamic interplay of sunlight throughout the day casts ever-changing patterns and shadows, enhancing the visual interest and adding a touch of natural enchantment to the space.

Windows serve as gateways to the outside world, inviting natural light to flood the interior while allowing for refreshing views of the surrounding environment. Opening windows further allows the infusion of fresh outdoor air, improving indoor air quality and fostering a healthier atmosphere. By integrating windows strategically, we reduce the need for mechanical ventilation systems, promoting energy efficiency and reducing our ecological footprint.

Embracing natural light as a key element of biophilic design not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also creates spaces that support well-being and enhance our connection with nature. By thoughtfully incorporating windows that optimize natural light and fresh air, we establish a harmonious relationship between the built environment and the surrounding natural elements. Let the transformative power of natural light illuminate your designs, fostering spaces where occupants thrive and the environment flourishes.

Embracing Biophilic Design: CreatingSpaces that Nurture Well-being and Connection

The biophilia hypothesis reaffirms what we intuitively understand: nature has a profound impact on our happiness and health. Biophilic design has inspired architects and designers to embrace this concept by seamlessly integrating natural elements like reclaimed wood, plants, and natural light into their creations.

By embracing the principles of biophilic design, we embark on a transformative journey that transcends conventional boundaries. Nature becomes our guiding inspiration, allowing us to craft spaces that go beyond functionality and aesthetics. These spaces become havens of well-being and connection, where the inherent beauty and vitality of nature infuse every aspect.

Let us wholeheartedly embrace the biophilia hypothesis and embark on a design revolution that prioritizes the nurturing of human well-being. By embracing nature in our designs, we create spaces that foster a deep sense of connection, revitalization, and harmony. Together, let us shape environments that not only inspire but also embody the inherent wisdom of the natural world.

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Looking for reclaimed wood to enhance your next commercial or residential project? Explore TerraMai’s wide selection of eco-conscious and stunning reclaimed wood products today.

Biophilia Effect: What It Means for Commercial Architecture and Design

Biophilic concepts are steadily making their way into popular design. The concepts can take a variety of forms as local culture, ecology, project intent, and architect and designer perspective all direct how biophilic elements are applied to a space. The research is clear – biophilic design has many positive outcomes, most importantly it makes us happier. Biophilia seeks to reconnect us with nature, and by doing so provides all kinds of benefits—behavioral, mental, and physical. Studies have shown that biophilic design improves human well-being and boosts productivity.

From a commercial perspective, biophilia is a solution for creating better working environments. Windowless offices, poorly lit common areas, and cluttered design can all have numerous negative effects on humans, ranging from sleeping issues to increased sick leave. By building and designing with biophilic principles in mind, these problems can be significantly mitigated.

Moreover, these biophilic principles need to be deeply embedded in architectural and design philosophies. Access to nature needs to be prioritized in order to create the most optimal environments for humans. In other words, biophilia can’t be an afterthought.

Here are some ways architects and designers might integrate biophilia more holistically.

Nature as a necessity, not a tool

Commercial designers that design from a perspective of nature can gain insight and find inspiration to create re-imagined spaces. Using nature as the design driver and not simply another tool––is a necessity. While it is important to strategically include natural elements in a way that is aesthetically pleasing, nature needs to come before design. Therefore, instead of asking a question like, “How can we complement this space with natural elements?” one might ask, “What natural elements are vital for this space?”

When nature comes first, more biophilic needs are satisfied, and the environment appears more organic. It shouldn’t seem as if nature was thrown into the mix at the last minute. Some noteworthy examples of this concept include the Google Quad Campus and the COOKFOX Architects studio.

Balancing the organic and the artificial is key

Although biophilia aims to restore a connection with nature, it must work hand in hand with constructed materials. As with any design, the elements must be in balance and have relevance. Terrapin Bright Green notes that biophilic design is the inclusion of “aspects of nature that most impact our satisfaction with the built environment.” Designers must uncover how best to implement the principles of Biophilia for each particular space.

A prime example of this balance is the Alliander business park in the Netherlands. The entire environment is outfitted with large skylights, open walkways, and ample vegetation. The natural elements and the constructed architecture work seamlessly together, creating the ideal balance.

Biophilic design must meet real human needs

The basic premise of biophilia is that humans innately need to participate in nature. By extension, biophilic design must consider these needs and work to fulfill them. This overarching need for nature can be broken down into 14 patterns, which provide a framework for architects and designers. Each of these patterns addresses a fundamental aspect of biophilic needs, and when one or more patterns are utilized in a human-created space, these needs are met.

Station 101, a multi-office building in Westwood, Massachusetts, exemplifies biophilic design that satisfies human needs. Wood and vegetation create a natural connection, while the large windows allow daylight to pour in.

Studio 101 uses wood and greeneryFrom TerraMai: Station 101 focuses on biophilia with wood and greenery

Commercial architecture has a need for greater usage of biophilic design principles. By using green building materials and keeping biophilic needs in mind, designers can craft environments that make humans happier and healthier.

This is What Biophilic Design Looks Like In Real Life

Theoretically, biophilic design is a fascinating concept that illuminates the human desire for a connection to nature. It has been the subject of several studies, one of the most well-known being Terrapin Bright Green’s “14 Patterns of Biophilic Design.” This analysis laid out vital concepts behind biophilic design, and I want to illustrate what some of these principles look like in action.

Visual Connection to Nature

Terrapin Bright Green defines this simply as “a view to elements of nature, living systems, and natural processes.” Though it’s simple, this principle can be immensely powerful when applied well. The Terrapin study specifies that studies have shown humans prefer a view involving a slope that leads to some sort of natural scene. Biophilic design needn’t attempt to adhere to this as dogma; rather, this preference provides a guideline for designers to consider. Using natural materials like weathered wood or stone can give a space more visual connection.

Thermal & Airflow Variability

Adequate ventilation and exposure to natural elements like light are both critical from a biophilic perspective. Since being in a natural space would entail changes in what one senses, biophilic design should replicate this variability. Terrapin places heat and air elements in their own category, although elements like sound are still important.

There are several natural and artificial means of creating this sort of variability. Naturally, a space can strategically direct sunlight to focal points that deserve the most solar contact. On the other hand, shadow and shade, which can be accomplished organically through design, are just as essential. Artificial means may include HVAC delivery, window treatment, and cross ventilation. Often, it is ideal to combine both natural and artificial strategies to create variability, especially because most environments are unable to use solely natural methods due to impracticality.

Connection with Natural Systems

Natural processes such as geology and hydrology play an important role in biophilic design. As with thermal and airflow variability, change is inherent in natural systems and thus a necessary inclusion in any biophilic environment. This variability is mostly organic, although there are methods of artificially supplementing the natural systems.

Integrating natural systems can be as simple as an ample view of a forest. On the other hand, it can be complex; for example, it might be desirable to control light to accommodate human circadian rhythms. It is most important for humans to be surrounded by and reminded of the cycles and systems in nature. Simulated options include the installation of wildlife habitats or aged wood with a noticeable patina.

Material Connection With Nature

This biophilic principle is one of the most flexible when it comes to design. Material connection may mean reflecting local ecology or simply utilizing a wide variety of materials to encourage visual difference, which can aid in maximizing the effects of biophilic design. Typically, colors that occur naturally (especially green) are used in conjunction with materials like naturally distressed wood. This can also extend to a textural level, such as using worn leather or stone to more thoroughly integrate natural details and satisfy subconscious biophilic needs.

Complexity & Order

The concepts behind complexity and order emerge from natural and often mathematical patterns in nature such as fractals. Specifically, a space with a moderate amount of fractal usage will keep the space interesting while not making it overwhelming. While design doesn’t need to explicitly use mathematical sequences, it’s important for a space to have a sense of natural purpose. Symmetry also falls into this category and is a valuable tool in the biophilic designer’s arsenal.

Prospect

Terrapin defines prospect as “an unimpeded view over a distance for surveillance and planning,” making it closely related to open design but in a more comprehensive fashion. Prospect can be applied to both inside and outside spaces, and it prioritizes lines of sight. This can be accomplished with elevated planes, unobstructed views, and centering traffic around a central hub. Prospect is also important to allow for the best views of natural elements and systems.

Google Quad Campus shows unimpeded views
From TerraMai: The Google Quad campus has a high prospect level with open views

Conclusion

To get the most benefits from biophilic design, it’s essential to implement several of these biophilic principles. These concepts will turn a space from a nature-friendly environment into a full-fledged biophilic paradise.

How the World’s Top Designers Are Using Reclaimed Wood

Reclaimed wood loans a sense of warmth, history, and wisdom to any room it’s added to. The world’s top designers use reclaimed wood to accent their designs, but reclaimed wood is accessible to any designer or architect.

Turn on HGTV and you’ll see reclaimed wood farm tables on Fixer Upper and reclaimed wood paneling added to treehouses on Treehouse Masters. Some designers are also pushing the limits by using reclaimed wood to build wooden office buildings.

Because of its aesthetic qualities and sustainability, reclaimed wood has become a staple in the designs of the some the world’s top designers. Reclaimed wood is also versatile. Many designers use it as flooring, wall paneling, outdoor siding, and to build furniture.

Here’s how the world’s top designers are using reclaimed wood.

Reclaimed Wood As Used By Michael Green

Reclaimed wood carries its history on every panel, each scratch and scar, each stain from its previous life, and the markings created through natural weathering. If only it could speak, just imagine the stories it would tell.

The mountain pine beetle has devastated and killed millions of acres of pines in the northwestern United States and Canada. Luckily, these trees have found a new life in the form of a wooden skyscraper built by Michael Green.

The T3 building is a 7-story tall skyscraper built entirely of wood, mostly pine. Many designers are touting the benefit of building with wood. The production of beams uses less energy than manufacturing concrete and steel and wood naturally absorbs carbon.

Reclaimed Wood As Used By Robin Guenther

Reclaimed wood is so beautiful that it really can be used anywhere, from the floors, to the walls, to the ceilings.

Robin Guenther is a renowned architect and leading expert in sustainable healthcare design. She promotes the idea that we can design healthier, more healing buildings.

Reclaimed wood comes in many different textures and colors making it the perfect material for adding subtle color to walls. The elevator bay at Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital at Stanford is covered in redwood slat reclaimed from Moffett Field hangar in Mountain View. The wood was milled in the 1920s and was discovered the hangar was being demolished.

Reclaimed Wood As Used by Clodagh

Clodagh’s trademark says it all: “life-enhancing minimalism.” The designer focuses on creating blissful serenity with her designs. She adds life and texture to each space, often using reclaimed wood to add warmth to her minimalist designs.

Whether she’s redesigning the entrance and lobby of an apartment building in New York or incorporating the idea of biophilia into her design for a spa space—reclaimed wood plays a natural role.

Reclaimed wood retains its strength and beauty even with age. Some designers even argue that its age makes it more beautiful. Reclaimed teak flooring and paneling is a sustainable and aesthetically pleasing material to use for any custom design.

Reclaimed wood not only looks gorgeous, it’s also more sustainable and eco-friendly than using new wood. Now that you’re inspired by the designs of these top designers, how will you incorporate reclaimed wood into your next project?

How Biophilic Design Is Making Humans Happier

The great designer Frank Lloyd Wright once said, “I go to nature every day for inspiration in the day’s work. I follow in building the principles which nature has used in its domain.” That’s exactly the ethos of biophilic design. Biophilic design is not only aesthetically pleasing but also mentally beneficial. It’s an important concept for anyone interested in design or architecture to understand and implement.

The History of Biophilic Design

By now, biophilic design has become rather mainstream. More and more designers are integrating elements like wood, natural lighting, plants, and water. However, to truly understand the myriad applications of biophilic design, it’s crucial to understand its history and its philosophies. Metropolis Magazine says that “biophilic design seeks to connect our inherent need to affiliate with nature in the modern built environment.” Basically, it aims to include natural elements into contemporary architecture.

The concept was introduced by E.O. Wilson in his 1984 book Biophilia. Wilson, a renowned biologist and University Research Professor Emeritus at Harvard, outlined a fundamental tendency of human beings to be attracted to nature and emulate its processes and structures in everyday life. This is the basic idea that underlies biophilic design. The goal is to satisfy this biophilia by creating architecture that is an extension of nature.

While biophilic design has quickly risen to prominence in recent years for its broad aesthetic appeal, it also provides mental and psychological benefits that have been well documented in various studies. Biophilic design is especially important when designing spaces that people will spend large amounts of time in, such as a corporate office or classroom. Even though the concept of biophilia is relatively new, there has already been a good amount of research that affirms its claims of making humans happier.

A Natural Happiness

One of the more interesting hypotheses that some advocates of biophilia assume is that humans have developed a lifestyle that is too far removed from what could be considered natural. Therefore, biophilic design can foster happiness and well-being. This hypothesis has been observed and confirmed in several studies.

Clif Bar HQ is resplendent with biophilic design
From TerraMai: The Clif Bar HQ is resplendent with biophilic design

One 2011 study from the Journal of Happiness Studies found that psychological health is linked to nature relatedness (NR). According to the study, “changes in NR mediate the relationship between environmental education and changes in vitality.” This study built upon a previous one from the same journal that cemented the connection between biophilia and mental health. This earlier study posited that the cultural and technological changes brought about by industrialization have caused negative psychological effects. The corollary, then, is that biophilic design can assist in remedying these drawbacks.

The Benefits of Biophilic Design

Biophilic design, whether implemented in the workplace or a public area, has immense benefits that range from improvement in job performance to lower blood pressure. A global study by Human Spaces shared that employees who work in environments with natural elements have a 15% higher level of well-being and are 6% more productive. It seems that biophilic design is a boon to the workplace in particular; the BBC reported that one call center that rearranged its layout to give employees a better view of vegetation enjoyed an annual productivity savings that worked out to an average $2,990 per employee.

Specifically, there seem to be three main factors at work here: natural light, ventilation, and quality of view. A study by the California Energy Commission correlated an increase in these elements to improved performance. In any kind of space that utilizes biophilic design, you’ll find all three in abundance, so it’s safe to say they can be used as a list of vital criteria when evaluating an environment. These elements are often associated with minimalistic design, and while biophilic design works hand in hand with minimalist concepts, it can be used in all kinds of spaces.

Priceline’s office showcases biophilic design
From TerraMai: Priceline’s office showcases biophilic design

One of the best features of biophilic design is its flexibility in scale. A room or building doesn’t need to be completely remodeled to feature a massive garden; positive health effects can happen by making small changes. Simply introducing more plants into an office space has been found to increase productivity by 15%. Nonetheless, design that is inherently biophilic (rather than biophilic principles applied to existing environments) helps to maximize health benefits. Additionally, biophilic design can be applied to outside spaces as well.

Conclusion

Biophiliac design is becoming more common thanks to its positive effects on human well-being, and it will likely become a standard for design in the future. Understanding and implementing biophilic principles are essential to creating environments that are ideal for humans.