General

Change is a vital part of architecture and design. As occupant needs change and morph, designers constantly reevaluate and redesign the built environment to meet those needs. This is especially evident in the workplace. Over the years, the workplace has undergone a dramatic transformation from a windowless room of cubicles to bright, inviting spaces that inspire and rejuvenate. In this article, let’s take a look at how office design has changed and where it’s headed.

The Open Office Revolution

If there’s a design style that has dominated the workplace for decades, it’s the open office. The open office was developed in the early to mid-20th century in an attempt to create more spacious offices. This layout revolutionized the workplace by removing walls and other borders, and it was meant to improve social interactions between workers, which would theoretically boost everything from productivity to idea generation. Other variations followed, such as Bürolandschaft, a German school of thought that literally translates to “office landscape,” that prioritized informal layouts.

On paper, the open office seems ideal, but in practice, the open office has had its fair share of challenges. When the design first became popular in the mid-1900s, it didn’t quite take the form architects had hoped. Instead of hubs of innovation, open plan offices consisted of long rows of desks packed to the brim with workers. There weren’t any gains in interaction, either; if anything, this early iteration of the open office more closely resembled a factory.

From the Electronic Engineering Journal: A vintage photograph of a mid-20th century open office

Throughout the 20th century, the open office continued to evolve, and while some of the initial issues were remedied, the design was still proven to be ineffective. Contemporary research from Harvard University looked at two Fortune 500 companies that switched to open office layout and found that workers spent 72 percent less time interacting face-to-face. Electronic communication shot up, but personal interaction decreased substantially. However, the open office was an important step in workplace design, and it led to the creation of what would be a hugely popular office design element: cubicles.

The Advent of Cubicles

Today, most people think of the cubicle as an outdated, old-fashioned relic of a past era. So it might be hard to believe that the cubicle was designed with the goal of empowering people. The cubicle was a response to the open office and claimed to solve some of its problems.

First, the cubicle brought privacy back into the office. Instead of working in tight spaces directly next to one another, workers could have spaces all their own. This also brought an aspect of personalization to the workplace.

From WSJ: A typical “cubicle farm” office layout

Second, the cubicle was designed to optimize productivity. Cubicle inventor Robert Propst told Fortune that he envisioned an “Action Office” that provided varying desk levels and multiple workspaces. Like the open office plan, this was excellent in theory but failed in real life. The Action Office became the cubicle, which was much smaller and cheaper. Since the workforce was experiencing a surge of new workers, the cubicle was a perfect way for businesses to minimize costs.

From Wired: A promotional concept image for the Action Office from 1964

For decades, “cubicle farms” took over the workplace. The image of a windowless room stuffed with cubicles is now part of popular culture, and for many, it’s become the standard depiction of an office building. Unsurprisingly, cubicles also lower employee satisfaction and productivity. Even Propst himself was adamantly against the cubicle. In addition, since cubicles were made with materials that contained high concentrations of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), they made workers sick. Over time, it became clear that cubicles weren’t the answer, so designers looked for a better, healthier solution.

The Rise of the Biophilic Office

Today, occupant health in the built environment has become a top concern for architects and designers. The average American worker spends 90,000 hours at work throughout their lifetime, so it’s important to design the office to promote health and wellness. In addition, offices have historically been under optimized for human health. Cubicles aren’t the only parts of offices that make workers sick––many factors can detract from worker health and result in a condition such as Sick Building Syndrome (SBS).

This is where biophilic design comes in. This philosophy of placing nature at the center of a building’s design has gained attention for its numerous health benefits, including reduced stress and lowered blood pressure. For many designers, it’s the design approach of choice for any type of commercial environment. It works well with a variety of layouts, transcending any single design approach.

Material selection is a critical part of biophilic design. In the past, illnesses like SBS often occurred because of the toxic materials used in interior design. These high-VOC materials release chemicals like formaldehyde and other pollutants into the environment. Today, architects carefully handpick and source materials that contain little to no VOCs.

Reclaimed wood is a material that designers can reply on, and it offers unique biophilic benefits. Its rich appearance and vivid textures help to connect people with nature in a way that no other material can. Perhaps most importantly, it enhances occupant wellness. It relieves stress and encourages interaction, which makes it an ideal material for the workplace. And thanks to the zero to low-VOC products we use to finish our reclaimed wood, it won’t be making anyone sick.

From TerraMai: HOK’s biophilic office helps workers stay happy and healthy

Biophilic design is often used to complement flexible workspaces. Unlike the open office or the cubicle farm, the flexible workplace is designed to be modular. Workers are able to modify their surroundings as they need, so at any given moment the same space could be used for a presentation, a solo work session, or a private meeting. Mobile furniture, adjustable surroundings, and multi-purpose furnishings help occupants get the most out of a flexible space. When biophilia is infused into a flexible workplace, it’s an ideal combination of form and function that is inspiring office design today.

Every business has specific needs, and of course budget, to consider when making office design decisions. Before latching onto a trendy (or dated) office concept, it is best to consider different worker needs and personality types. Part of the biophilic design process is polling occupants for their input. Some predict the end of the desk and chair and a trend toward all couches but according to Inc Magazine, “We are naturally territorial creatures with a need for categorization, rules and structure. We also like to have a place to put our stuff, even if it’s just some notepads and a coffee mug.”

Although remote work is becoming more common, it’s unlikely the office will disappear. Office design may be headed toward creating zones; a quiet zone with personal workstations; Collaboration/Social zone inclusive of casual open work areas, work hubs to accommodate small groups and cafe-like areas; and private offices and conference room suites. The zone concept accommodates different worker needs while still providing workers with a sense of place.

Conclusion

The modern office has come a long way since the open office plan of the 1950s. Rows of desks and cubicles have been traded for green building materials and inspiringly natural offices. Architects and designers are constantly innovating to make the office a better place to be. It’s a tall task to create a dynamic, collaborative workplace that addresses the many different working styles and situations while mitigating noise and other distractions. If done right, occupant productivity and worker happiness increase. A biophilic design approach is highly worthwhile when looking to foster a healthier office environment.

The mindful intention spurring the sharing economy is also evident in the world of design and architecture. It’s not prudent or smart to have spaces that aren’t capable of doing double or triple time. Creating multi-functional spaces introduces both challenges and exciting new approaches to the built environment. Crowdfunding. Ridesharing. And, now Flexible Architecture. Hyper consumerism is dead. Collaborative consumption and collaborative, multi-use spaces have arrived.

What is Flexible Architecture?

The term “flexible architecture” was popularized in the book Flexible: Architecture that Responds to Change by Robert Kronenburg. Kronenburg noted that the majority of architecture is static and doesn’t change or adapt over time. This stands in contrast to the natural world, which adapts to its surroundings. Kronenburg’s big idea was that architecture could be as flexible as nature. He posited that the built environment should be able to change to meet shifting needs, whether social or environmental.

Basically, flexible architecture is designed to be malleable, movable, and multi-purpose. Think of it as modular design on a grand scale. Forward thinkers like Kronenburg are realizing that we live in a constantly changing world where we have constantly changing needs. Think of the workspace as an example. At any given moment, workers might need a conference room, collaboration space, or solo work area. In response, designers have created modular workspaces that allow workers to modify the environment around them to fit their needs.

The office of Melbourne-based firm Particular Architects is a good example of flexible architecture in action. Modular furniture allows for workers to completely reconfigure the space on a whim. The design was inspired by small Hong Kong apartments that feature many multi-purpose elements to make the most of the little available space. Most of the office’s furniture boasts storage capabilities, with movable shelves and fold-down desks further enhancing the office’s design.

From Dezeen: Particular Architects in Melbourne designed a modular, flexible studio that adapts to workers’ needs

This is the heart of flexible architecture: the idea that the built environment should act similarly to a living organism, able to respond to changes in its environment. Until only recently, most architecture has been immovable and thus unable to properly adapt. This can result in under-optimized (and underused) spaces. Flexible architecture seeks to change this by reimagining the built environment as dynamic and mobile. It’s inspiring new innovations and resulting in game changing concepts.

From EdSurge: Bryant University’s Academic Innovation Center was designed to accommodate large gatherings or many small collaborative break-out groups.

The Benefits of Flexible Architecture

The largest benefit of flexible architecture is the ability to keep the built environment relevant and useful as time goes on. Occupant needs can change drastically even in the span of just a decade, and this typically results in the need for buildings to undergo renovations or other updates.

Flexible architecture proposes a solution to this problem by conceptualizing how a built environment can be constructed to adapt. It focuses on the long term by considering how occupants’ needs may change and designing with those changes in mind. Theoretically, this reduces the need for redesigns.

The Matsumoto Performing Arts Centre in Japan is an exemplar of flexible architecture. Designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Toyo Ito, the Centre is beautiful and responsive. In a paper, Kronenburg noted the myriad flexible qualities that the Centre boasts. He broke these qualities down into three key categories: changeable spaces, multipurpose spaces, and freedom of operation.

For example, the Centre’s largest theatre features a ceiling that can be raised or lowered to change the space’s acoustics or even shrink the space for more intimate performances. These sorts of changeable spaces are essentially modular design taken to the next level. Multipurpose design was another crucial aspect of the centre. Mobile furnishings allow for occupants to rearrange and split up the space as needed, and open design ensures that the entire campus encourages multipurpose use. Finally, the design encourages occupant movement and flow, enhancing the flexible nature of the space.

From Visit Matsumoto: The open design of the Matsumoto Performing Arts Centre promotes flexibility and multipurpose use

Instead of being designed as one large static structure, the Centre was designed to be entirely modular in almost every respect. As a result, occupants can maximize their usage of the space. If different groups have different needs, the building can meet those needs without causing one group to compromise. This ability to dynamically respond to occupant needs is the chief benefit of flexible architecture, and architects are quickly embracing this unique approach to design.

Impressive Examples of Flexible Architecture

Ever since Kronenburg helped to turn the spotlight on flexible architecture, designers from around the world have been using the philosophy to create some amazing buildings. One of my favorites is the Serene House HCMC, a mixed-use development in Vietnam. Amazingly, it’s a prefabricated structure, and it features ample flexibility for occupants. Most of the furnishings are movable, and the design blends the inside and outside to encourage movement and a wide range of uses. It also implements biophilic design, which further improves the space.

From Inhabitat: The Serene House HCMC is a flexible prefab built for multipurpose use

In fact, it’s so flexible that it can be disassembled if needed: “We can easily break it up when our ten-year lease ends and move it to a new location for another serene house of our own.” This challenges the common notion of buildings as immovable structures and emphasizes the possibilities inherent in flexible architecture.

While flexible design is currently popular in residential spaces, it also has many promising implications for commercial environments, and some of these implications are already becoming realities. One notable example is the Babylon Beach Club, a Turkish restaurant that features a unique sliding wall system. The walls are retracted during the summer, and when colder weather arrives, the walls slide out to cover the dining area. This is a great case that demonstrates the power of flexible architecture, and the same idea can be applied to many spaces in all kinds of industries. This sort of technology could be used for mixed-use spaces, hotels, and even offices that have an outdoor component.

From Libart: This innovative sliding wall system provides seasonal flexibility

Conclusion

As the world changes and occupant needs evolve at an ever faster pace, the built environment must be designed with flexibility in mind. Architects and designers are challenged to meet and exceed these developing demands. Flexible architecture offers an effective solution to the challenges that face designers in this new era of the sharing, collaborative economy. By adopting an agile approach, they are creating truly innovative, configurable spaces that are fundamentally practical but pack a big wow.

Biophilia is one of the most important sources for inspiration in today’s interior design. Architects and designers are looking at design through a biophilic lens to create projects that will have positive long-term impact for the planet and for human health and wellness. Biophilic design creates beautiful spaces that literally make people happy but also spaces that will resonate well into the future.

While there are many ways to implement biophilic design, one popular choice is to use reclaimed wood. Starchitects to Start Architects see its many possibilities, and chances are you’ve seen it in all kinds of commercial environments. Here’s why biophilia and reclaimed wood are such a good pairing.

The Importance of Biophilia

At its core, biophilia is all about connecting humans to the natural world. It’s an increasingly important area of design because it solves many of the problems present in the built environment. Stuffy offices and enclosed retail space environments cut occupants off from nature, which can result in lowered performance and satisfaction. Biophilia’s answer to this problem is simple: incorporate more nature.

One of the most important tenets of biophilic design is the creation of beneficial, enjoyable spaces. We spend 90% of our day indoors, and if our indoor environments are harmful, that can lead to a host of issues. On the flip side, when indoor environments are designed for human health and well being, they become places people love to spend time in.

From Gensler: Biophilic spaces aren’t just healthy––they also create wonderful occupant experiences

So, how exactly should the built environment be designed for humans? In large part, it comes down to using nature as a guide especially when it comes to material selection. Engaging the senses is so important in biophilic design and materials play an enormous role here.

How Reclaimed Wood Achieves Biophilic Goals

Reclaimed wood is a powerful and versatile material. While a lot of designers and occupants love it for its appearance alone, reclaimed wood has many biophilic benefits. Clearly, it is a natural material and establishes an easy connection with the great outdoors. Depending on the species of wood and its patina, the wood can offer many levels of sensorial variability.

Terrapin Bright Green’s 14 patterns of biophilic design underscore the importance of material aesthetic. Since nature is multi-sensorial, biophilic building materials ought to similarly engage our spectrum of senses. Reclaimed wood is able to integrate many of the patterns because of its multifaceted nature. Its appearance, textures, and colors create a visual connection with nature, while its wear and patina make us aware of natural systems. Furthermore, the look of wood grain implements complexity and order into the built environment.

From TerraMai: Reclaimed wood, like the Mission Oak Red Flooring shown above, integrates several natural patterns into the built environment

Natural patterns and fractals are universally soothing. Patterns found in nature deeply affect and nurture us. Incorporating fractals into architecture results in lowered stress levels. Utilizing reclaimed wood in applications like flooring, paneling, tables and stairs are all ways to bring more natural pattern and fractals into design.

Central to the biophilia hypothesis is that people experience better health and happiness when closer to nature. Reclaimed wood has been shown to have many physical health benefits, including lowered blood pressure, slower heart rates, and reduced levels of stress. One fascinating study comes from the Journal of Wood Science. Fourteen participants sat in rooms with either steel or wood paneling, and the researchers found that the participants who viewed wood enjoyed decreased blood pressure. Meanwhile, the participants in steel-paneled rooms experienced significantly higher blood pressure. This landmark study was instrumental in highlighting the wellness benefits of wood.

The Human-Nature Bond in the Built Environment

One of the principles of biophilic design is to use nature as a vehicle to create an emotional connection between occupants and the built environment. Wood can help elicit emotion and feeling better than just about any other surface material. As humans, we are inherently drawn to wood. Wood can help make a geographic connection to a place or help convey a particular spirit of a space. When the wood is reclaimed, it further facilitates an emotional connection through it’s reclaim story and sustainability.

From TerraMai: The Center for Urban Waters in Tacoma, WA uses ample reclaimed Douglas Fir sourced from the Pacific Northwest in their facility

Reclaimed wood also mixes with other biophilic design elements. Ample daylight, greenery, and large windows with views of nature are all commonly used in biophilic design. When used in conjunction with these sorts of elements, reclaimed wood continues the natural design palette, bringing the fullness of nature into the built environment. The result is a refreshing atmosphere that works in any commercial space from a modern office to a relaxing hotel.

From TerraMai: Lost Coast Redwood Paneling frames a living wall at Crown Castle in this bright common area

Weathered reclaimed wood with a barn wood look like Lost Coast Paneling or Dark Horse may be considered as a bigger biophilic contributor because of the distressed patina. Weathered woods boast markings and signs of wear that are evocative of the natural world. This can be ideal for biophilic design but all wood brings a natural element to a space.

Using natural, non-toxic materials is also a vital part of good biophilic design. Reclaimed wood is an excellent green building material. Since reclaimed wood is salvaged from various sources, it keeps useful materials from needlessly being landfilled and eliminates the steps and energy needed to harvest and extract new, raw materials.

From TerraMai: Reclaimed wood paneling complements potted greenery and trees outside this Seattle Starbucks

Reclaimed wood is also a popular choice for spaces that don’t have immediate access to views of nature or excess daylight. It’s an easy way to add a biophilic touch to any design, and it works well no matter the location or type of space. Check out how it creates a natural feeling in the James Perse store pictured below. With no windows nearby, the wood warms and balances the space. This shows it’s completely possible to create an extremely natural look even in a landlocked space.

From TerraMai: This reclaimed white oak flooring works its magic even in an enclosed space

Reclaimed wood’s appeal is universal. It packs a biophilic punch, making spaces instantly healthier and more beautiful. Whether juxtaposed with vibrant plant life or all alone, reclaimed wood excels at bringing nature into the built environment. As you explore biophilic design, you absolutely should take a strong look at reclaimed wood.

Conclusion

Reclaimed wood isn’t just another building material; it’s a top material choice for biophilic design. Nothing says nature like wood, whether worn and weathered or clean and classic.  An eclectic look like Acacia Metro or a rustic wood like Dirty Face, still provide all the biophilic benefits that reclaimed wood brings.

We’d love to share our love of reclaimed wood with you. It’s sustainable and beautiful while being mentally and physically beneficial, making humans happier and healthier. If you’re curious about reclaimed wood, check out some of our articles or take a peek at the types of wood available.

Based on the news, it may feel sometimes like scientists are the only ones focused on mitigating climate change, but architects and designers hold enormous power and opportunity through design to create a better world. The built environment has a significant impact on the earth, and if left unchecked, buildings become sources of pollution, excess energy consumption, and even deforestation.

Thankfully, it’s not all doom and gloom. There is much positive work being done to ensure built spaces are better for the earth. One way is to use sustainable building materials. While many materials can emit carbon and other dangerous toxins into the environment, choosing green building materials can lower greenhouse gases and with low to no toxins, they are the go-to choice for sustainably-minded designers.

Many governments have ambitious goals in place resulting from the Paris Climate Agreement. Within those goals are policies aimed at new construction. Architecture 2030, a non-profit organization, is partnering with many organization in support of these policies. Through Architecture 2030, there are tools and resources available to designers focused on carbon neutral built environments.

The Effect of Building Materials

The numbers are astoundingly high. Buildings have a huge impact on the environment. According to the United States Green Building Council (USGBC), buildings account for over a quarter of all greenhouse gas emissions.

Obviously, normal building operations contribute to greenhouse gas emissions, however, there’s more than just the finished building that impacts the environment. The manufacture, transport and creation of building materials produces heavy amounts of greenhouse gases. One of the most dangerous greenhouse gases is carbon, which is emitted by the production of materials like cement, iron, and steel. This effect is compounded when these materials are turned into buildings. The USGBC found that buildings produce 39 percent of all carbon emissions, and emission levels are only expected to grow.

It’s clear if the 2030 goal to design embodied and operational carbon out of new and renovated buildings is to be met, that traditional building materials are no longer a conscientious option going forward. That’s why green building materials with low/no embodied carbon have been on the rise. These materials produce little to no carbon or other greenhouse gases and are overall environmentally beneficial.

We’re already seeing the benefits thanks to initiatives like LEED in operational efficiencies. A 2014 study revealed that LEED Certified buildings contributed significantly lower levels of greenhouse gases due to their conservative treatment of water consumption, waste management, and transportation. The attention is now turning to the reduction of embodied carbon in the built environment.

With that in mind, let’s look at some of the most popular sustainable building materials and the evidence behind them.

Reclaimed Wood

It’s no secret that we at TerraMai love reclaimed wood, and its eco-friendliness is one of the biggest reasons for our passion. When it comes to sustainable building materials, reclaimed wood is a leader. It’s sustainably and responsibly sourced, harming no living trees and using minimal energy consumption in the process.

From TerraMai: Reclaimed wood can be sustainably sourced from unused structures like this vintage building.

Reclaimed wood is also one of the best materials to use in order to reduce contributions to climate change. Wood naturally sequesters carbon. When wood paneling and flooring are chosen for homes and offices, large amounts of carbon can be stored reducing the emissions associated with the production of other materials. Several studies have confirmed that wood is a particularly beneficial material that produces much lower amounts of greenhouse gases than other traditional building materials. A study from the Journal of Forest Engineering analyzed the use of four building materials: wood, brick and tile, aluminum, and concrete. The study concluded that wood produced the least amount of carbon, with the other three materials emitting noticeably higher levels.

A later study in Forest Products Journal confirmed this fact but noted the importance of sustainability: “use of wood products can help to reduce contributions to GHGs in the atmosphere that increase the greenhouse effect, with the caveat that sustainable forestry continues to occur.” In other words, if new wood is used, there’s still the issue of cutting down living trees and producing the new wood.

Reclaimed wood avoids this problem entirely by repurposing existing wood, which in turn eliminates the processes that accompany the production of new wood. In addition, since reclaimed wood keeps forests intact, it allows those forests to act as natural carbon sinks, further reducing the amount of carbon in the environment. This is one of the biggest reasons why reclaimed wood is so highly sustainable, and it explains why the material is such a popular building material choice today.

From TerraMai: Reclaimed wood’s low carbon emissions make the material highly sought after by eco-friendly designers

Recycled Non-Wood Materials

Over the last several years, some serious progress has been made in the area of recycled material creation. Many traditional building materials, such as steel and tile, can be found in recycled form. The Building Materials Reuse Association (BMRA) is one group that’s pushing for adoption of recycled and reused materials. While these materials initially had a negative impact due to their creation and production, reusing them is a great way to keep them out of the landfill and reduce their future impact on climate change.

From Inhabitat: This vibrant, biophilic cafe in Turkey uses recycled metal plates for its exterior

Many architects are getting creative with using various types of recycled materials. Plastic buckets, bottles, bedsprings, and ice cream containers have all been used for innovative projects that make for some head turning building facades. The very act of reusing materials helps to contribute to carbon emission reduction by extending the lifespan of existing materials while also preventing the harmful production of new materials.

From ArchDaily: The facade of the Bima Microlibrary in Indonesia was constructed from recycled ice cream containers

Rammed Earth

You might not think of the earth itself as a building material, but using compacted earth is an age-old construction technique that’s seeing a resurgence today. Rammed earth is a method of compacting soil in layers to create a surprisingly sturdy and completely organic building material. Naturally, rammed earth is a low carbon option that’s accessible, affordable, and entirely sustainable. Even stabilized rammed earth, which uses small amounts of cement or lime to fortify the soil, is a better alternative to using a material like cement for an entire project.

From WDM Architects: Rammed earth is a great low-carbon substitute for materials like cement

Conclusion

Climate change is an ongoing issue that we need to keep focusing on, and through design, the built environment can minimize its effects and work to prevent further greenhouse gas contribution. Using sustainable building materials is one way to lower carbon emissions. As more architects and designers specify sustainable materials, and with the guidance of organizations like Architecture 2030, Carbon Leadership Forum and Embodied Carbon Network, the built environment will continue to make great progress ––and we and the earth will all benefit.

According to the Pew Research Center, millennials comprise 35% of the American workforce, which makes them the largest generation in today’s labor force. This age group––those born between 1981 to 1996––is one of the most massive and most influential in society, and it’s critical to pay attention to their needs. This is especially true for the workplace since millennials make up such a large portion.

One of the best ways to meet millennial workers’ needs is through workplace design. Millennials tend to gravitate toward certain types of architecture and have specific needs when it comes to the spaces they work in. By considering these preferences when designing a workplace, you’ll ensure that millennials will love the space. Read on to find out what millennials love in architecture.

Sustainable Design

From TerraMai: The Clif Bar HQ is a striking example of a workplace built with sustainable design in mind

Millennials champion sustainability in all areas of their lives. In a 2015 report by Nielsen, 73% of millennials surveyed said they were willing to pay more for sustainable products. This preference crosses over into the workplace as well. According to the 2016 Cone Communications Millennial Employee Engagement Study, 75% said they would take a pay cut to work for a socially responsible company. Moreover, 83% said that they would be “more loyal to a company that helps them contribute to social and environmental issues.” Since millennials prioritize environmental responsibility so highly, they will be more attracted to businesses that use sustainable design.

From ChargeSpot: Deloitte’s The Edge building is one of the most sustainable offices in the world

There are many ways sustainable design can be implemented into the workplace. Many designers use green building materials as a way of enhancing sustainability. Moreover, sustainable building standards like LEED and Living Building Challenge reward the use of green building materials. These materials are also a great option because they provide a visual signal of sustainability, which can greatly affect how millennials perceive their surroundings. If they see lots of reclaimed wood and other sustainable materials, they’ll be more cognizant of the sustainability that went into the design.

Biophilic Design

The contemporary office is undergoing a design revolution, and millennials are helping to make that happen. Stuffy, closed-off offices are out, and nature-inspired workspaces are in. Given that millennials champion sustainability, it makes perfect sense that they similarly love biophilic design. Being surrounded by natural elements creates a hospitality-like experience that helps offices feel more like cafes, and for many millennial workers, this makes for an ideal environment.

Biophilic design aims to connect occupants to nature and blur the line between the indoors and outdoors. This type of design is especially popular in offices as it increases worker productivity and performance. It’s common to find large windows with views of nature, greenery of all sorts, and natural materials like reclaimed wood. Some offices even include water installations or eye-catching living walls. Whatever the chosen design elements are even a little goes a long way. An addition of a few plants or a bit of reclaimed wood can help workers feel rejuvenated and motivated.

From TerraMai: Sam Edelman’s office uses Mission Oak White Engineered clad beams and Forbidden City Paneling to create a biophilic space

Often, biophilic offices will incorporate other types of design (such as flexible design) to create workspaces that align with the needs and wants of millennials. Biophilic design has grown to be one of the most important approaches in Architecture & Design, and it’s only becoming more popular. Biophilia and sustainability go hand in hand, and millennials in particular feel inspired and refreshed when working in these nature-centric spaces.

Flexible Design

Millennials are highly mobile and prefer flexible design to static design. This is especially true when it comes to the workplace. The traditional cubicle layout isn’t conducive to most millennials’ work styles, and modular office schemes are more popular than ever before. As a result, businesses are turning to flexible design to improve worker satisfaction, a trend that’s creating noticeable benefits. Rick D’Amato, a Principal of Architecture at LPA Inc., pointed out that “employee costs are the largest expense for any company, so making staff comfortable benefits the bottom line.”

Flexible design allows millennials to configure their surroundings to meet their needs. In the workplace, this means allowing any type of work anywhere within an office space. A great example is the Vector Firestarter designed by Heller. The Firestarter boasts a completely flexible and modular design with sliding walls, movable furniture, and “plug and play ready desks” that allow workers to set up shop anywhere at a moment’s notice. According to Heller, the office’s design can cater to everything “from big open space communication to small sized introverted working teams,” allowing for each employee, whether working solo or in a group of any size, to make the most of the space.

From Heller: The Firestarter’s flexible design allows workers to modify the space to suit their needs

Tech-Centric Design

It’s not a surprise that millennials love and rely on technology, and this penchant naturally extends to design. Having ample and nearby access to technology helps millennials increase productivity and enhance their workflow. Designers are integrating technology more holistically into the environment with results that feel more natural and balanced.

Uber’s San Francisco HQ is a beautiful example of a tech-centric office. Designed by Studio O+A, the sleek, stylish office features a head-turning wall of touchscreens that displays the locations of Uber cars around the world. Smaller displays and workstations are spread throughout the campus, allowing workers to easily connect when they need to.

From Interior Design: Uber’s San Francisco office features an impressive touchscreen wall

However, too much technology can create a sterile feel, thus it’s important to create a welcoming environment when using lots of technology. To achieve this, many architects implement biophilic design to balance high-tech spaces with natural design elements. Twitter’s Boston office (pictured below) implements living walls, natural light, and plenty of wood, creating a biophilic counterpoint that helps workers to be more productive. It also gives workers a respite from being “always on,” providing opportunities to connect with nature./h

From Columbia Construction Company: Twitter’s Boston offices use biophilic design to offset the high amount of technology

Conclusion

Millennial workers carry with them a unique set of needs and wants, and design is the perfect arena to meet these needs. Since millennials make up the largest age group of the workforce, it’s critical to build with their preferences in mind. As more millennials enter the labor force, they’ll be able to step into offices that they love, and as a result, they’ll work better and contribute more.

Reclaimed wood is a wonderful design option that’s lauded for its eco-friendly nature. It’s a popular green building material for a good number of reasons. It resolves many factors on a designer’s checklist but for some the question of availability is a concern- will there be enough for my project? Will it ever run out? In this article, I’ll take a look at how reclaimed wood is both created and sourced in order to answer those questions.

Where Reclaimed Wood Comes From

First, an understanding of what constitutes reclaimed wood will be helpful. Often, reclaimed wood is sourced from old structures. Vintage buildings such as factories, houses and barns are what usually comes to mind but fencing, gymnasium bleachers, bowling alley floors and bridges are also common sources of post-consumer reclaimed wood. These sources are post-consumer meaning they have been utilized for some time for a specified purpose by people, and are now at a stage where they are being removed or replaced. Other times, the wood is obtained from sources in which the wood would go to a landfill, a wood chipper or be burned. Reclaimed wood is a means of salvaging wood for a higher purpose, keeping valuable resources out of landfills and utilizing resources to offset the need to cut down new trees.

There are five major sources that TerraMai seeks for reclaiming wood: post-consumer, post-industrial, water reclamation, orchard salvage, and forest floor salvage. With each of these methods, we offset the need for generating products utilizing new resources. Instead, we find unused off-cuts and rejected wood and repurpose it into beautiful architecture.

Moreover, reclaimed wood can be found all over the world. Many planks of wood, like our Mission Oak and MC Walnut, are from the United States, but when it makes sense, we will source varieties from overseas as well. An excellent example is our Surfaced Long Plank Teak that comes from Southeast Asia. A wide variety of woods are able to be reclaimed from many locations but a number of factors must be considered when choosing woods from outside the U.S. For example, we have to weigh transportation impact or larger eco issues like finding an alternative tropical wood source to halt the demand for materials that negatively impact the rainforest. CO2 emissions for transporting goods via ocean freight at its worst is still less than transportation by truck at its best but the whole picture must be considered.

From TerraMai: We source our reclaimed teak from unused vintage structures in Southeast Asia like this one

Why Reclaimed Wood Isn’t Going Anywhere

Many people think that all reclaimed wood is decades or even centuries old, and this is largely why reclaimed wood might seem like a limited resource. While much reclaimed wood is old wood, some reclaimed wood is not. Many reclaimed wood sourcing methods are sustainable as in enduring and continual, which means reclaiming wood will remain as a valuable and lasting process. It has to do with the various sourcing methods.

As already mentioned, there is post-consumer reclaimed wood, which occurs when wood is reclaimed from sources where consumers have used the wood and that purpose of use is no longer viable. This reclaimed wood is often older since the buildings it’s sourced from are vintage and sometimes dilapidated. Some post-consumer wood results from processes that aren’t readily known. For example, shipping dunnage or wood that is used to hold cargo in place on rail and ocean voyages is also a post-consumer souce. As long as goods are transported, shipping dunnage will be needed. Often, the wood from post-consumer reclaim shows signs of aging, weathering, and use, giving the wood the trademark rustic or barn wood appearance and character like nail and bolt holes that’s commonly associated with reclaimed wood.

From TerraMai: Our Dirty Face wood is sourced from shipping dunnage, vintage barns, fencing, and other structures

This sourcing method will continue as long as there are structures slated for demolition and other sources like dunnage from which to reclaim the wood. Wood is still one of the most widely used building materials, so this method will continue to be practical. The reclaimed wood used today can be reclaimed and repurposed again. Longevity should be a factor in the material choice decision but at some point the wood chosen today can be reclaimed well into the future.

Another sourcing method that is on-going is post-industrial reclaimed wood. This is the result of scrap wood that is generated when wood products are created. For example, when furniture or items like wooden cutting boards are manufactured, there’s excess wood that ends up in a scrap pile. We reclaim it, diverting it from the landfill and giving it a new lease on life. This wood is salvaged new wood that is deemed as garbage. The resulting end-product can provide a very clean (for example, no nail holes) or eclectic aesthetic (for example, Acacia Metro).

Water reclamation is another relatively untapped source for reclaiming wood that is of very high value. With this method, wood is reclaimed from flooded reservoirs that were created decades ago for purposes of flood control, irrigation, drinking water and to generate hydroelectric power. There are standing trees that have been underwater for decades. The wood is still good and with processes now available to retrieve the wood, it is an ethical method to source tropical hardwoods that will not negatively impact the rainforest. There are a large number of these reservoirs in Central and South America, and Africa that remain untapped.

From TerraMai: Cumaru decking comes from the depths of Panama’s Lake Bayano

Orchard salvage isn’t often discussed, but it produces some hardy and beautiful woods. When old orchard trees are no longer producing they are replaced. The culled trees are either relegated to firewood or worse yet, landfilled. Considering that the oldest orchard in the U.S. dates all the way back to 1913, it’s safe to say that orchards are going to stick around for a while. The important thing is to build alliances with the orchard industry to divert this material to higher purpose use like flooring and paneling.

Finally, there’s forest floor salvage. This happens when trees are left behind as the result of timber cutting. Most companies leave behind smaller timber. Large volumes of wood left after a timber-cut delay regrowth, create fire hazards and can degrade water quality. Sometimes, this rejected wood is hauled away and turned into mulch. We believe it’s much better to reclaim this wood to allow it to meet its full potential. This is another method that will continue to be in use as long as the new wood is being cut down.

The Lasting Nature of Reclaimed Wood

Because wood can be reclaimed from so many sources, reclaimed wood will continue to be available as time goes on. These various sourcing methods provide variety of species and aesthetics to meet the many qualifying factors and demands of any design project. Quantity and quality are items not sacrificed when deciding whether or not to select reclaimed wood. We hope you see the upside to choosing reclaimed wood for your next project and will give it a look.

Ever wonder how the world’s best architects approach sustainable design? Their insight, perspective, and approach to tackling current and forthcoming challenges provide inspiration fuel for future building design projects.

Here are 6 sustainable design tips from leading A&D professionals. Through their work, they push us to have an expanded understanding of sustainable design.

Jean Nouvel: Think into the future

Jean Nouvel is unquestionably one of our time’s most impactful sustainable architects. The Pritzker Architecture Prize-winning architect behind the Louvre Abu Dhabi and Philharmonie de Paris is widely renowned for his groundbreaking work in sustainable design. Projects like the futuristic One Central Park and the National Museum of Qatar showcase Nouvel’s knack for blending eco-friendliness with beautiful design.

Nouvel has always been an innovator, so it’s not surprising that his advice is similarly forward-looking. In a 2017 interview, Nouvel encouraged sustainable architects to think about how their design might adapt to long-term changes: “More than ever, sustainability is at stake…We live in a world of constant and profound transformation, so architects have to radically rethink the way we build. New expressions need to reflect new paradigms and the rise of technology. We have to project our ideas far into the future, they need to stand the test of time.”

From Ateliers Jean Nouvel: One Central Park embodies Nouvel’s consideration for long-term sustainability

Thankfully, many new and exciting sustainable resources and materials are being developed. From the widespread popularity of the LEED building standard to an increased availability of sustainable building materials, architects have more tools at their disposal than ever before. Still, Nouvel’s words ring true; the projects we build today need to be able to adapt to the challenges of tomorrow. Everything from the locally surrounding ecosystems to the durability of materials needs to be considered. What will the natural environment look like in 5, 10, or even 50 years? How can our buildings withstand those changes? These are the questions that must be asked in order to create buildings that stay relevant.

William McDonough: Treat nature as a model

To many A&D professionals, William McDonough is synonymous with sustainable design. This sustainability trailblazer earned the first EPA Presidential Green Chemistry Challenge Award and a host of others, and he designed the acclaimed Ford Rouge plant, which still serves as a beacon of sustainability with an enormous living roof.

From Greenroofs: The Ford Rouge plant in Dearborn, MI boasts an approximately 454,000 square foot living roof

In 1992, McDonough created the Hannover Principles, a set of guidelines for sustainability. His eighth principle says: “Understand the limitations of design. No human creation lasts forever and design does not solve all problems. Those who create and plan should practice humility in the face of nature. Treat nature as a model and mentor, not as an inconvenience to be evaded or controlled.”

McDonough’s statement goes hand in hand with Nouvel’s. Since sustainable design ultimately draws inspiration from nature, it’s only natural that it should also emulate nature. When problems are encountered in the built environment, look to nature for potential solutions. Projects that work seamlessly with nature can give back to the surrounding environment. This approach has led to innovations like biomimicry and energy positive buildings that bring the built environment closer to nature than ever before.

Glenn Murcutt: Choose your materials mindfully

Glenn Murcutt is often called Australia’s most famous architect. The only Australian winner of the Pritzker Architecture Prize, Murcutt is a vocal proponent of sustainability. A quick look at his projects reveals a studied balance between design and nature. (Check out the biophilic Australian Islamic Centre.) His guiding ethos: to “touch the earth lightly.”

From Architecture AU: The Murcutt-designed Australian Islamic Centre is a sustainable masterstroke

Material selection is a large part of that ethos. As Murcutt puts it, “It’s about: where did that material come from? What damage has been done to the land in the excavation of that material? How will it be returned to the Earth eventually, or can it be reused, can it be recycled, can it be put together in a way that can be pulled apart and changed and reused?” For Murcutt, touching the earth lightly means considering the environmental impact of every design choice, not the least of which is choosing the right building materials.

Sustainable designers have been following Murcutt’s lead and investing in green materials like reclaimed wood and recycled steel. It’s important to be able to determine a material’s impact, which is why from sourcing to processing, we continually scrutinize our processes so as to touch the earth as lightly as possible.

Rob Harrison: Water is the new energy

Rob Harrison of Harrison Architects describes what he does as “lyrical sustainable design.” As a Passive House consultant with 25 years of green design experience, Harrison combines his expertise with a passion for making beautiful spaces, and it shows in his portfolio.

In an interview with The Atlantic, he shared his thoughts on why energy is so important: “Now, it’s all about energy. Soon, finding ways to participate in the water cycle more intelligently will become even more important than demand-side conservation of energy. Water is the new energy.”

Hydropower is already a massive energy source, but it still has lots of room to grow. In the future, expect to see more architects using hydropower and other forms of clean energy.

Scott Ceasar: Keep occupant comfort in mind

Increasingly, sustainable designers are thinking about not only a project’s environmental impact but also its effects on occupants. While sustainable design aims to create more eco-friendly spaces, it must also optimize the built environment for occupants.

Scott Ceasar is one architect who deeply understands the symbiosis between sustainability and occupant enjoyment. Ceasar, a principal at Cosentini Associates, has helped to break sustainability through to the mainstream with projects like 4 Times Square.

Whereas some designers view sustainability and occupant comfort as separate issues, Ceasar says they go hand in hand. He considers how a space’s sustainable design will affect occupants: “We select systems that will go the farthest toward reducing energy usage and increasing occupant comfort.”

From Unique Workspaces: Ceasar’s sustainably designed 4 Times Square building shows how Ceasar designs for maximum occupant comfort

For Ceasar, occupant comfort is especially crucial in the workplace. “Basically, when the workspace is designed for occupant comfort, people are much more productive,” he said in an interview. “That hits the bottom line more than energy efficiency because companies spend 75 to 80 percent of their operating budgets on their employees.” That’s not to say that designers can’t have the best of both worlds; sustainably designed offices have been shown to improve productivity. The takeaway: sustainability and occupant comfort need to seamlessly mesh.

Amanda Sturgeon: Imitate nature as much as possible

Earlier I mentioned an area of design called biomimicry, and this approach of architecturally imitating nature is being practiced of the some of the world’s best designers. From insect-inspired pavilions to theaters that take inspiration from cave formations, the results of biomimicry are astounding.

International Living Future Institute CEO Amanda Sturgeon says that biomimicry is one of the keys to great sustainable design. To her, the “perfect building” is one that “is really acting as if nature would” and that “has to be a building that really deeply connects people to nature.” Architecturally, this means a building that operates in a closed loop system. In terms of design, biomimicry can be used to create that essential connection to nature.

From TerraMai: Google’s Quad Campus features an eye-catching multi-story reclaimed wood sculpture that exemplifies biomimicry

Imitating nature can be as simple as using wood to connect occupants with natural patterns or as complex as creating entire buildings that use nature-inspired structures. Utilizing biomimicry as a platform for creative inspiration will lead to more natural spaces that resonate with occupants and have a lasting impact.

Conclusion

Sustainable design continues to evolve with new technology and understanding. Architects and designers are thinking into the future and creating buildings based on a broader concept of sustainability; one that embraces more than improved energy performance. With building design having a profound impact on the environment, its occupants and the economy, A&Ds have a unique ability to impart real positive change.

In just a short few years there has been a real shift in the place we want to call home. Throughout the United States there is a marked increase in mixed-use and multifamily developments. This trend represents the changing needs of homebuyers and provides a glimpse into the future of residential design. Here’s a look at why mixed-use properties are so popular and what these changes say about designing not just residential spaces but whole communities.

Walkability and Convenience: 2 Pivotal Real Estate Desires

From Slate PDX: Portland’s LEED Gold Certified Slate building is a mixed-use space with a high degree of walkability

Walkability and convenience have always been beneficial for both residential and commercial spaces, but today they’re more in demand than ever. This push is not motivated simply for convenience sake but reflects purposeful life choices, changing views on consumerism and the desire to tread lightly on the earth. There are two large groups that are driving this demand: millennials and baby boomers.

Millennials differ from previous generations in many ways, and car ownership is one of the most striking differences. A 2017 study found that millennials own fewer cars than past generations, relying instead on alternative means of transportation such as walking and cycling. This is even true for millennials who own cars; a 2015 survey revealed that millennials actually prefer walking to driving. Naturally, this parlays into the choice and need to live within walking distance of shops, restaurants, city centers and entertainment options.

From TerraMai: Lost Coast Redwood Surfaced Paneling in a Residential Building Bike Kitchen

Given that millennials make up 36 percent of all home purchases––and that millennials are also big renters–– meeting the increased demand for walkability and convenience is sure to change the residential landscape with a big emphasis on community development. When choosing to buy or rent a home, millennials look for a higher level of convenience and want amenities that complement their preferred lifestyle. Ryan Morgan, Project Manager with Morgan Holdings view amenities as the central aspect of their development design, “We’re trying to establish communities with micro-experiences.”

The growing cyclist movement makes ample and secure bicycle storage a must-have for multi-family/mixed-use developments. One sought after luxury is the bike kitchen. “I would describe them as bicycle clubhouses, where like-minded residents mingle, collaborate, share stories and adventures, and create connections,” said Bobby Long, Principal, Kephart.

From TerraMai: MC Walnut Flooring and Paneling adorns this fitness center featuring rock climbing walls and state of the art fitness equipment.

Another big draw are top-of-the-line, on-site fitness centers. Think beautifully designed spaces with high ceilings, plenty of natural light, spa offerings, personal trainers, specialized classes and the latest equipment.

When it comes to dinner, millennials dine out or order in about three times per week. This trend means millenials are looking at the local food offerings and convenience minded grocery stores when choosing a place to live.

Baby boomers are also after the same qualities in housing. As the population ages and become empty-nesters, they are opting to downsize and move into communities and developments with an abundance of amenities either in their building or nearby. Boomers are likely to take 4 to 5 trips each year and are looking for a space that is easy and convenient to close up and leave for extended periods of time.

Additionally, moves into senior housing also demand highly walkable communities as a necessity. As Mel Gamzon, president of the Senior Housing Global Advisors (SHGA), points out that mixed-use is already a popular design approach in senior living because it affords more freedom and opportunity than a nursing home or traditional senior living facility.

From HKIT Architects: San Francisco’s Vera Haile is a mixed-use senior living complex with beautiful contemporary design

For both millennials and the aging population, mixed-use and multifamily developments offer flexibility, convenience, and connectivity. Residents don’t have to compromise location for quality; rather, they get the best of both worlds. Even though it’s clear that mixed-use developments are a growth area, there’s an important central design question: How to build the best possible spaces for people and planet? In addition to ensuring high levels of walkability and convenience, we need to consider how to build lasting communities that holistically support human health, happiness, and well-being.

Wellness: The Future of the Built Community

Architects and designers are thinking of mixed-use and multifamily developments as much more than living spaces. Builders are aiming to create residential communities that foster a strong sense of fellowship. Rosslyn Business Improvement District president Mary-Claire Burick noted that “according to estimates, some 33% of the population desires to live in a walkable, mixed-use neighborhood, and that’s because … it really offers that sense of community to everyone who’s there.”

It’s also important that these communities optimize all possible living and wellness conditions. As such, there’s been a surge of innovation centering around mixed-use complexes. Sustainable and biophilic design are showing up more and the result is a wave of green communities that are inspiring and beneficial.

From Building Design + Construction: The upcoming Nieuw Bergen project in the Netherlands is one of the most innovative and sustainable mixed-use projects

One of the most notable breakthroughs is the WELL Community Standard. WELL launched the pilot in September 2017, and it’s already been widely embraced as a blueprint for healthier communities. The standard is “a district-scale rating system centered exclusively on health and wellness that aims to set a new global benchmark for healthy communities.” This standard was formed with mixed-use spaces in mind, and it represents a new approach to community development.

Architects are following suit and integrating wellness into their mixed-use projects. Aventura ParkSquare is an excellent example. On paper, the 7.4 acre Florida development seems like many other mixed-use spaces; it features fully furnished residences, Class A office space, a fitness center, and a multipurpose social room. However, it was designed with human wellness at its core. Extra-wide sidewalks optimize walkability, while open staircases encourage residents to skip the elevators. There’s even a communal vegetable garden. In addition, the ground floor boasts a tree-lined interior avenue that encompasses two city blocks.

From Building Design + Construction: Aventura ParkSquare combines mixed-use purpose with wellness-focused design

Aventura ParkSquare gives us a peek into the future of the built community. Sustainability and wellness will be two of the most critical driving factors shaping mixed-use projects. We’re already seeing this as more green cities pop up. Architects are finding new and exciting ways to simultaneously satisfy the demand for walkable communities and create health-centric, eco-friendly developments.

Mixed-Use and Biophilia

Alongside wellness, biophilia is one of the most prevalent trends in mixed-use and multifamily design. More and more people are migrating to cities; the UN projects that 68% of the world’s population will live in urban areas by 2050. Consequently, architects are seeking to create urban spaces that are healthier and more connected to nature. The positive effects of biophilia are progressively more evident, and it’s clear that biophilia will be integral to the future of Architecture & Design.

Many of the world’s best mixed-use spaces are already using biophilic design. One Central Park is a breathtaking mixed-use building that incorporates stunning vertical gardens, open-air seating areas with wooden benches, and a cantilevered heliostat that reflects sunlight to the gardens and atrium below. It’s an impressively futuristic design that represents biophilic innovation and opens up a world of new possibilities for mixed-use buildings. One Central Park has been widely acclaimed for its design, and it’s earned three Green Star ratings from the Green Building Council of Australia. The project is sure to inspire many more biophilic mixed-use spaces.

From ArchDaily: Sydney’s One Central Park is a striking mixed-use development that exemplifies innovative biophilic design

Architects around the world are implementing more biophilic design elements into their residential projects. Biophilic design in community residential settings can support hundreds of people simultaneously. In Gensler’s 2018 Impact by Design: Resilience Strategies Shaping the Future of Cities , it is noted that projects should select materials with a lower carbon impact. Re-using or recycling materials should be done whenever possible. Green building materials like reclaimed wood are a good fit for large scale residential programs as wood is a low impact material that stores absorbed carbon and repurposes resources while also providing biophilic benefits of being an organic, natural material.

Conclusion

Mixed-use and multifamily design is on the rise. Building Design + Construction reported that multifamily housing saw an 8% increase in the first half of 2018. Urban housing is moving in a new direction due to the changing demands of homebuyers, and architects are creating innovative and practical mixed-use design solutions that work for everyone. A new emphasis on developing communities that will engage and enhance people’s quality of life while minimizing environmental impact will shape the future of cities.

Stairs afford architects and designers innovative design opportunities and are an ideal vehicle to enhance the experience of being in a space. With stairs now highlighted for prominent placement so as to encourage short bouts of exercise throughout the day and viewed as places to facilitate unexpected coworker social ‘collisions’, stair design has become an even larger opportunity for making a statement. In particular, stair treads offer a unique design canvas with some design elements doing double duty to improve safety as well. When stairs stand out, passersby instantly take notice.

Once again, reclaimed wood proves to be an incredibly useful and versatile stair tread material choice. Here are 8 examples of reclaimed wood stair treads for inspiration.

1. Reclaimed teak stair treads make this staircase picturesque

From TerraMai: These teak stair treads increase the enjoyment of using the stairs

There is something a little thrilling about standing on the upper landing and looking down upon a winding multi-flight stairwell. The height coupled with the spiralling pattern captivates and provides a sense of risk giving an adrenaline rush. As explained by Terrapin Bright Green, design elements with the right risk/peril mix can provide a positive dose of dopamine.

This stairwell is an intentional design element to keep students and staff at UC Berkeley Energy BioSciences building literally on their toes. The Institute was created to find technological solutions to the problems associated with climate change, global warming and the rising price and diminishing supplies of fossil fuels.

Reclaimed teak is a wood that draws the eye and warms and nurtures any space. Its natural oils give the wood a luster and richness that gets better over time. Paired with the grey and orange elements, the teak treads in the BioSciences building help balance out the design palette and create a stronger visual presence. Reclaimed teak is well-placed here as a stair tread. This hearty wood is rugged enough to withstand years of many feet traversing up and down the multi-story building.

2. Beefy reclaimed wood stair treads appear to float

From TerraMai: These rich stair treads create a strong biophilic connection

Large, beefy, floating wood stair treads make a powerful statement. Woods like teak, douglas fir, and oak are perfect choices here. The glass baluster used with the stair treads pictured above ensures an open view of the ultra thick reclaimed wood treads and add to the floating on air illusion. Coupled with natural river rock, the wood treads provide an organic, biophilic element to the space, while the glass reflects natural light and opens up the design.

Old growth teak is the most durable and has the best aesthetic as compared to plantation grown teak. An ethical method to source old growth teak is to seek out reclaimed teak since harvesting the remaining supply of old-growth trees is not a viable option. TerraMai’s reclaimed teak is salvaged from vintage buildings and other structures slotted for deconstruction in Southeast Asia.

3. REI leverages reclaimed wood for an immersive shopping experience

From TerraMai: REI in SoHo uses simple yet evocative reclaimed stair treads

REI is passionate about having “our roots remain firmly planted in the outdoors.” That ethos extends to their retail interiors, which resemble the outdoors with their aesthetic and design. Reclaimed wood is a large part of their store design, and their stairs are no exception. Their SoHo location uses reclaimed oak for both the flooring and stair treads to give shoppers the feeling of being in a space dominated by nature. Juxtaposed with elements like exposed piping, the wood goes a long way to foster a biophilic connection and helps warm the store’s industrial design components. The solid oak stair treads are a prominent feature that are both highly functional and make a brand statement.

From TerraMai: The reclaimed wood treads are a central design component of REI SoHo

4. These Doug Fir treads get a boost from the risers for added eye-catching results

From TerraMai: These reclaimed douglas fir stair treads stand out thanks to the dark risers and reinforce Living Computers Museum + Lab’s brand

It’s easy to spice up stair treads and reinforce your brand with a little imagination. While reclaimed wood is already a perfect match to emphasize a sustainable, eco-conscience culture, there are even more possibilities. Consider the stairs pictured above that add text on the risers in a very on-brand manner to further emphasis what the space is all about. These treads are sure to add an element of delight to museum visitors while also keeping their eyes and attention on navigating the stairs.

5. East meets West

From TerraMai: The Seattle Center stairs are comprised of both oak and teak treads to represent receptiveness and cultural sharing.

The stairs at the Seattle Center accomplish many things as they welcome visitors to the center. First, they are beautifully designed and aesthetically pleasing with their gentle curve and well lit risers that help people of all ages and abilities safely navigate the stairs. But they also help represent the organization’s core cultural values some of which are to manage their business with accountability, integrity and commitment to race and social justice while also fostering a collaborative and trusting community.

The stairs are comprised of two reclaimed wood materials, reclaimed oak and reclaimed teak. The choosing of these two woods symbolizes the harmonious meeting of cultures with an east meets west theme. The oak and teak treads alternate every other tread. Stadium style seating accompanies the steps allowing for resting and seating areas that can be used to collaborate or just hang out.

6. These stairs use clever and powerful lighting

From TerraMai: Simple lighting transforms these stairs into an attraction

Another example of lighting turning stairs into attention-grabbing design pieces are these stairs in Lincoln Square. The stained oak treads are illuminated from underneath to cast a band of light on the back portion of each tread. It’s both an attractive design concept and a practical addition, as it helps people safely ascend and descend the stairs. Trips and falls are the major source of injuries and lost time among the working population with around 1000 major injuries occurring in the workplace on stairs each year. Clear visual cues for surface changes help avoid trip hazards and this is especially true for stairs.

7. Keeping it light and open, especially in smaller spaces

From TerraMai: Reclaimed wood treads utilize the back wall to add interest and safety

The contrasting lighter stone wall allows each of the reclaimed teak treads to stand out so users can truly appreciate them. Eliminating the risers keeps this staircase from feeling too closed in and dark and the stone wall serves as a backdrop to visually separate the treads for safer navigation. As a whole, the staircase is warm, airy and inviting providing a calming space.

8. This modern staircase uses reclaimed basketball court wood

From Schuchart: This staircase and hallway use wood reclaimed from an old basketball court

Software company Tableau worked with renowned architect and design firm Gensler for their Seattle office, which required the demolition of a three story athletic club. Instead of hauling all of the demo materials to the landfill, Gensler repurposed them, which resulted in an aesthetic that honored the space’s previous life. Especially eye-catching is this staircase that’s made of wood reclaimed from the club’s basketball court. Columnal balusters and a view of the original court lines make this staircase a one-of-a-kind installation.

Conclusion

Well-designed stairs can boost the appeal of any built environment. Reclaimed wood stair treads present an elegant solution to reinforce brand messaging, provides biophilic benefits and powerful aesthetics. No longer out-of-sight, out-of-mind and relegated to an enclosed sterile stairwell, stairs are now being designed to make brand statements, facilitate interactions, get people moving and become a central design element––it’s all about creating a better experience for occupants.

As eco-friendly design becomes more important for the health of building occupants and the planet, it’s up to all of us to carefully evaluate materials. The benefits of a particular building material may suddenly pale when its environmental impact is known. Luxury vinyl tile, or LVT, a now popular flooring option, is one material in which its effects on the environment should be weighed before purchase. There are some serious environmental consequences with LVT that every designer and consumer should consider.

All About LVT

Sheet vinyl flooring was introduced after WWII. It was superior to then-popular linoleum flooring for its moisture and chemical resistance advantages. In the 70’s, plank vinyl flooring was introduced so it would more closely resemble wood flooring. With technology advancements, vinyl flooring is now 100% waterproof and looks extremely realistic. Today, the vinyl tiles are known as luxury vinyl tile and from afar one might even think it is real wood or stone. LVT has a fairly good cost point, is easy to install and can withstand hardy cleaning agents. But while LVT looks good on paper, the material leaves much to be desired when considering how it is manufactured. And, those hardy cleaning agents may need to be rethought as well.

LVT is composed of four layers: a urethane or aluminum oxide top layer, a photographic film layer, a protective color vinyl layer and a sturdy vinyl backing. Proponents of LVT will note its durability and affordability, but rarely are its effects on the environment sited. That’s because LVT is more damaging to the environment than you might think.

I first became aware of this from the TedMed, “Why hospitals are making us sick,” presented by Robin Guenther, principal at Perkins+Will and a Senior Advisor to “Health Care Without Harm.” Hospitals are full of vinyl flooring, and hospital workers account for 40% of all adult occupational asthma, an issue linked to the cleaning chemicals used to clean the vinyl flooring. But there is more. Vinyl manufacturing is done in chemical manufacturing plants located on the Mississippi River in Louisiana in a place that is known as ‘petrochemical corridor’ or Cancer Alley. This area of Louisiana is home to many chemical manufacturing plants including those that produce vinyl. Ninety one percent (91%) of residents report health problems linked to chemical exposure.

LVT delivers on durability but at what cost?

LVT aesthetics have greatly improved, it is durable and allows for intensive cleaning but its impact on the people who live in the communities where the vinyl plants are located is alarming. There is much to weigh when selecting a building material but its production should not cause harm to a community’s health. Even if a sustainable or green building material is not on the must-have list, some consideration should be given to this issue.

LVT is made from polyvinyl chloride, or PVC. PVC is hazardous to both the environment and human health. There are many reasons for this. First, the production of PVC causes the release of toxins into the environment. Notably, it releases dioxins, which are highly toxic compounds that pollute the environment and can cause serious human health problems. Dioxin is considered one of the most highly carcinogenic pollutants. It has the potential to be released during the vinyl manufacturing process, and then again if the flooring product is incinerated. Due to a lack of viable PVC recycling options, most vinyl floors will end up in a landfill where there is a high probability of incineration.

While it can be recycled, this process is difficult due to the high levels of hazardous additives present in the material. Today, less than 1% of PVC is recycled. According to Greenpeace, the main methods of PVC disposal are incineration and landfilling, neither of which are sustainable options. Currently, there is no safe way to manufacture or dispose of PVC.

Another issue is the phthalates that are added to PVC to make it softer and more pliable. There are many types of phthalates, some of which cause cancer and others are endocrine disruptors. Some manufacturers are working to reduce the amount of phthalates and toxic emissions but there is a real gap in what is considered safe and research data is mixed depending on who is publishing the report. The EPA and U.S. Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) have both issued studies and reports showing alarming levels of dioxins in the blood of residents that live in the ‘petrochemical corridor’. A university study found residents were 2 to 3 times more likely to suffer from a whole host of health problems.

Environmentally Friendly Alternatives to LVT

From TerraMai: Reclaimed wood, like this Mission Oak, has been proven time and time again to be an environmentally friendly material choice

LVT has many red flags that should make anyone pause. When it comes to sustainable flooring options, there are plenty to choose from. Materials like reclaimed wood, cork, stone, tile, wool carpet and natural linoleum are possible considerations.

Reclaimed wood offers beauty, sustainability, biophilic elements and meets indoor air quality low-VOC requirements. With proper care and maintenance it will last for years and years. Unlike LVT, scratches in wood flooring can be repaired. When you consider that most LVT is engineered to look like wood, why not use the real thing? No living trees are destroyed with reclaimed wood, and reclaiming the wood helps the local environment in numerous ways. You also won’t find reclaimed wood on the Living Building Challenge Red List like you will PVC.

Reclaimed wood can achieve a wide variety of different aesthetics, and it looks great in all kinds of spaces from formal offices to laid-back restaurants. In addition to being an excellent green building material, it also enhances human health. Featuring low-VOC finishes, reclaimed wood adds a healthy biophilic touch to any space.

Conclusion

While LVT may be viewed as durable and withstand intense cleaning, it comes with too many environmental hazards to be a conscientious choice. Green material options that are nontoxic and sustainable, even if they require a bit more attention when it comes to care and maintenance but cause no harm, are an ethical choice. If you’re considering LVT, please first take a look at reclaimed wood flooring. If reclaimed wood doesn’t fit your needs I encourage you to investigate other sustainable options.