General

When I first learned about teak, its history, and all its benefits, I was fascinated by it. Over the years at TerraMai, we work with many wood types and surface materials but teak holds a special place. In many ways it reminds me of the great redwoods in the U.S. Another really majestic and amazing tree that deserves some reverence. Many people know teak for its rich beauty, but there’s much more to teak than meets the eye. Beyond its great looks and extreme versatility (attributes architects and designers love), it has a history that draws us in and helps us value it all the more. Teak has been used for thousands of years and is still one of the most desired woods today. But what makes it so special? Here’s a look into the universal popularity and timelessness of reclaimed teak wood.

The Amazing Properties of Reclaimed Teak

From TerraMai: The Dockers flagship store in San Francisco uses reclaimed teak flooring

Teak is native to South and Southeast Asia. While the teak tree has been exported to other countries, the world’s best old-growth teak can only be found in Asia. Naturally, the native people used the wood that was readily available discovering that teak was a particularly durable wood and thus used it for many applications. Teak first saw major use around the Middle Ages, when shipbuilders would use the wood to construct sturdy vessels. As the British Empire expanded, and with it trade, teak found its way into Europe often utilized for bridge building, many of which are still in use today. It’s usage expanded further into luxury furniture for royalty to railway cars.

There are many factors that contribute to teak’s amazing quality. First, it’s an extremely strong and resilient wood. With exceptional dimensional stability, teak is able to withstand heavy use and last for centuries. (Teak can be found today in palaces and temples that are over 1,000 years old.) Because teak is native to areas where volatile weather is common, it’s adapted to survive even the most extreme environments. It stays strong and unchanged even in blistering hot or freezing cold temperatures, and its low shrinkage ratio helps it resist warping when changes in moisture or humidity occur.

From TerraMai: Reclaimed Teak Flooring and feature wall in a luxury bathroom.

Teak also contains two elements that are incredibly potent: silica and oils. The silica impregnates the wood and makes it virtually waterproof. Teak also possesses many natural oils that give the wood its trademark luster. In fact, that striking luster from these oils is why many architects and designers choose teak. With both beauty and brawn, teak is often an easy choice for commercial projects.

The high amounts of silica and oil give teak an astonishing resistance to rot, fungi, and mildew. The oils act as natural repellents, deterring termites and other pests. Best of all, teak finishes and installs well so there is no compromising equipment loss (drill bits and saw blades) for the benefit of durability.

From TerraMai: Unused structures in Asia often have old-growth teak that can be reclaimed

Teak is not only strong but also long-lasting. In addition to being resistant to rot, fungi, and mildew, it also resists stains, and overall corrosion. While many woods attract dirt and grime, teak repels them. As a result, even incredibly old teak often looks polished and attractive. In contemporary interior design, this means that teak will last for lifetimes without excessive care and maintenance. This is especially true for outdoor usage. Many other woods require more maintenance when used outdoors, but teak’s natural properties make it ideal for outdoor applications.

From TerraMai: Naturally Distressed Long Plank Teak Siding

Reclaimed Teak’s Timeless Beauty

From TerraMai: HOK’s office makes a statement with Reclaimed Teak Paneling

Wood has been proven to be extremely pleasing to the eye, and this is especially true of reclaimed teak. Much of wood’s natural appeal comes from biophilia, or the fact that humans innately desire to be connected with nature. In their landmark study “14 Patterns of Biophilic Design,” Terrapin Bright Green enumerated the various ways biophilia works. We as humans connect to nature through our senses but mostly visually, so aesthetics are crucial for creating a biophilic environment. Wood brings many natural aspects together. The look of wood is immediately evocative of the natural world; it’s uniquely textured; and it reminds us of the organic processes of life. Reclaimed woods displaying character and patina that has developed over the years of use and exposure like Naked Teak and Naturally Distressed Long Plank Teak enhances that connection even further.

Teak in particular is so attractive because of its natural shine, rich colors, and exquisite grain detail. Most teak ranges from tan to medium brown with many grain highlights. Its deep honey tones are reminiscent of the opulence of nature. Even better, teak only gets more beautiful over time. For interior applications, the wood develops a richer, deeper color while outside teak will weather to a grey-silver patina.

From TerraMai: Reclaimed Teak Bench at NYC High Line shown in 2017 versus 2011 installation

Why Old-Growth Reclaimed Teak Is So Special

You may have come across the term “old-growth wood” before. In 1994, old-growth forests were defined as “ecosystems distinguished by old trees and related structural attributes.” Old-growth characteristics, such as fortified strength, occur when the wood has matured. The exact age depends on the type of tree, but generally, old-growth features can take 120 to 500 years to show.

Old-growth wood is extremely sought after because it’s stronger and lasts longer than new wood. However, there isn’t a lot of old-growth forest left in the world due to deforestation and the increasing usage of wood. The United States Forest Service estimates that only about 3 percent of the country’s old-growth forest has survived to this day. Unfortunately, due to tree poaching, that problem persists, making old-growth wood even rarer. Despite these conditions, old-growth timber is still in demand.

From TerraMai: Old-growth teak is highly desired for its natural, rich appearance

Since harvesting the remaining supply of old-growth trees is not be a viable option, the best method is to find alternative sourcing for old-growth wood. The ethical environmental option is to purchase reclaimed old growth wood. Reclamation doesn’t require any living trees to be cut; instead, the wood is salvaged from aging vintage structures slated for demolition. This preserves the remaining old-growth forest and repurposes a valuable resource.

Conclusion

There’s no other wood that’s quite like reclaimed teak. It’s remains a popular design choice, and it’s easy to see why. Reclaimed teak is a gorgeous, durable, sustainable building material that’s a perfect fit for all kinds of commercial environments. Whether you want to bring a touch of nature to a space or foster a more calming atmosphere, reclaimed teak can do the job.

Wood is beautiful, but did you know it can actually improve cognitive health? That’s the conclusion that many recent studies have reached, and it’s inspiring architects and designers to make wood a central locus of the built environment. Wood is now being chosen not only for its looks but also its psychophysiological benefits. This research is changing the way A&D professionals approach their craft, and the resulting design is more human-centric than ever before. Here’s why wood is such a boon to our bodies and brains.

Wood and Psychophysiology

From Olson Kundig: Wood’s numerous health benefits make it a popular material choice for starchitects

Psychophysiology is the field of study that analyzes the relationship between mental and physical processes. It acknowledges that there is a strong connection between mind and body and researches how the two affect each other as well as how external conditions affect them. In the built environment, psychophysiology is a crucial factor that will determine occupant enjoyment. From the design all the way down to the specific building materials used, the built environment greatly affects the people who inhabit it. As such, it’s important to pay attention to the psychophysiological impact of a space.

Design psychophysiology is a large part of biophilic design, which aims to create environments that facilitate both mental and physical health in occupants. The field of biophilic design has been instrumental in helping architects and designers understand how buildings affect people and how they can be optimized to be the most beneficial.

From TerraMai: The Clif Bar HQ is a stunning example of biophilic design

As it turns out, wood is one material that has been connected to psychophysiological benefits. In their study “Wood as a Restorative Material in Healthcare Environments,” Sally Augustin and David Fell explored the connection between wood and psychophysiology. Their findings aligned with much of the research that has been conducted in biophilic design, but looking at these findings through the lens of psychophysiology gives us a new way of viewing the built environment.

How Wood Helps Reduce Stress

In short, Augustin and Fell concluded that wood is particularly excellent at stress reduction. However, it’s the specific details that have incredible applications to design. First, wood can help people manage existing stress. To illustrate this, Augustin and Fell cited a 2010 study that analyzed how offices (with and without wood) affected participants who completed a stressful mental task. The participants in offices that featured wood were much less stressed than those in non-wood offices.

From TerraMai: Wood noticeably reduces stress, a quality that’s ideal for office environments

Wood can also prevent stress from occurring. A 2011 study analyzed stress levels in students who were placed in wood and non-wood classrooms. The findings were similar to the aforementioned 2010 study: students in classrooms that had wood were less stressed than students in non-wood rooms. A similar conclusion was reached in a study that considered wood in residential environments. Fascinatingly, participants’ blood pressure and heart rate dropped when they entered rooms with wood but increased when they entered rooms without wood.

Even the amount of wood has an effect on wood’s stress reduction properties. A 2007 study assessed participants’ responses to rooms that were covered in 0%, 45%, and 90% wood. While heart rate and blood pressure were lowest in the room with 90% wood, participants said they felt most comfortable in the 45% wood room. This is where psychophysiology comes into play. Although the 90% wood room satisfied participants physiologically, the 45% room was the best psychophysiological option, combining lowered heart rate and blood pressure with enjoyment and calmness.

From Microsoft: Spaces with about 45% wood provide a good psychophysiological balance

Wood as a Multifaceted Psychophysiological Asset

Wood’s health benefits aren’t limited to stress reduction. A report by Planet Ark demonstrated that wood has been shown to boost social interaction and foster feelings of comfort. On a very simple level, these benefits immediately contribute to short-term occupant health. However, the implications of wood’s many healing properties are astonishing. The Planet Ark study speculated that wood’s social component may help to mitigate dementia in the elderly. The authors also put forth that wood’s stress relieving abilities may help people avoid health complications––including obesity and type 2 diabetes––that arise as a result of stress.

From Mason Design + Development: 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge uses biophilic design and lots of wood to create a human-first environment

There are many other enthralling studies that analyze the relationship between wood and psychophysiology. Dr. Yuki Kawamura, a researcher at Sumitomo Forestry Research, measured various kinds of health responses to wood. One experiment studied the effects of wood on the brain and found that wood produces higher alpha wave activity, thus indicating higher levels of relaxation. During mentally demanding tasks, participants exposed to wood had more beta wave activity, which pointed to higher levels of focus. These fascinating studies proved that wood can help people rest or focus more effectively depending on the context. For designers, this means wood is just as useful in a hotel room as it is in a corporate office.

From its stress alleviation properties to its social benefits, wood proves time and time again to be one of the healthiest building materials in existence. Equipped with this new knowledge, architects and designers can work to ensure that the built environment is psychophysiologically optimized for humans. This approach is already ushering in a new era of design that brings biophilia to the forefront and focuses on making the healthiest possible spaces.

Using Wood in Design For Cognitive Health Benefits

From TerraMai: Reclaimed wood paneling in group areas can facilitate social interaction

There are many ways to use wood in the built environment for positive psychophysiological effects. That said, there are some key concepts to keep in mind. First, it’s crucial to consider the right amount of wood for any given space. As we saw from one of the studies, rooms with about 45% coverage of wood were considered to be the most comfortable. That figure doesn’t need to be an immovable metric for designers to adhere to, but the concept of using the appropriate amount of wood to accomplish the design intention is pivotal.

From Terrapin Bright Green: Maintaining a good balance of wood to non-wood elements is critical to achieve the intended outcome for a space

Next, keep the full range of wood’s benefits in mind. Thinking of wood as a healthy building material (and not just a stress reliever) will help you unlock all of its design advantages. For instance, due to wood’s ability to encourage social interaction, many designers elect to use wood in spaces where people gather together. Hotel lobbies, office break rooms, fitness centers, study areas, and event spaces are just a few environments that can utilize wood to foster a more social atmosphere.

Finally, think about the type of wood to employ. Many architects are choosing reclaimed wood as it arguably provides added benefits over new wood. Reclaimed wood can be character-rich with lots of texture and weathering which can elicit a stronger natural, organic connection for occupants to a space. Telling the story of reclaimed wood whether the reclaimed wood has a clean aesthetic or readily displays its prior history through a naturally distressed look, allows occupants to emotionally connect and feel more meaning to the built environment in addition to having a natural affinity for wood.

From TerraMai: Acacia Metro Paneling is a reclaimed wood that will instantly turn heads

Conclusion

The link between wood and cognitive health has far-reaching implications for architects and designers. Spaces with abundant wood have always been considered beautiful, but now we’re discovering that such spaces are beneficial to not only the eye but also the mind and body. The result: Built environments that help people rest, focus, and feel better, all thanks to wood.

Beautifully Weathered Lost Coast Redwood has a naturally distressed patina associated with the Northern California coast providing a color range of weathered browns and greys. The wood has developed a lovely character from decades of natural weathering. The rich textures, attractive color range, and surface checking is evidence of its prior life. You can imagine its story and journey. The best part of Lost Coast though is its ability to take on many looks to suit design needs. This material is incredibly versatile lending itself to many applications.

1. Happiest Hour in Dallas uses Lost Coast reclaimed wood for its unique seating options

From TerraMai: Happiest Hour’s fun, laid-back vibe is complemented by its memorable design

Happiest Hour is a restaurant focused on creating an experience that is energetic and enjoyable for its patrons. To make that happen, the designer used copious amounts of reclaimed wood. Lost Coast Redwood can be found as paneling throughout the restaurant and in the unforgettable circular enclosures that house dining booths. The weathered greys and browns and the wood’s texture creates visual interest for diners but the unique use of the wood to encircle the booths creates a cohesive gathering experience in the midst of a busy restaurant. Reclaimed wood has been proven to increase social interaction in hospitality spaces and it gets the job done at Happiest Hour.

2. Eye-catching patterns using Lost Coast Paneling

From TerraMai: Lost Coast reclaimed wood paneling serves as the focal point of this space

Lost Coast on its own can become the centerpiece of the space it’s in but when applied at an angle it literally can add a new dimension to a room. The Albuquerque-based meeting space Gravitate! uses Lost Coast paneling in a chevron pattern, resulting in a stunning focal point. The varying greys and browns of the paneling works well with reclaimed Mission Oak Flooring, plant life, and mid-century modern furniture to create a biophilic space that makes occupants happier and healthier. TerraMai now offers Lost Coast with several finishes pre-cut and ready to install in a Chevron pattern.

Yakima Products chose to install Lost Coast at an angle to give their space an added energy and sense of movement. The natural weathered aesthetic is a perfect fit for a company that’s dedicated to helping people live an adventurous outdoor lifestyle.

From TerraMai: Yakima’s interior is a reflection of the company’s dedication to discovering innovative solutions that are designed to last.

3. 1 Hotel South Beach uses Lost Coast Redwood inside and out

From TerraMai: Lost Coast paneling at 1 Hotel South Beach, Miami

1 Hotel South Beach is resplendent with biophilic design elements such as ample greenery and walls of windows that let lots of daylight through. The designer chose reclaimed wood for added biophilic properties. With its multiple textures and tones, Lost Coast on the ceiling really stands out and is a perfect complement to the overall elegance of the design. On the ceiling of the porte cochere, Lost Coast greets customers as they arrive to the hotel and then flows seamlessly right through the wall of windows into the hotel’s interior lobby. Lost Coast’s ability to function both in interior and exterior applications makes it ideal for execution of a continuous design element like the one at 1 Hotel.

4. Lost Coast has Curve Appeal

From TerraMai: Ram’s host station features a curved wall constructed from Lost Coast Filet

TerraMai offers Lost Coast in two thicknesses with the Filet option being ¼”. The thinner material lends itself to several applications and being that it’s quite thin it has some additional flexibility. A curved wall can soften interior design, add visual interest and help with wayfinding. Many elements in nature are curved so adding rounded design elements provides a natural, organic feel. Research indicates humans have an affinity for curved walls and furnishings with the data showing these elements affect us on an emotional level.

5. Nylon Brushing gives Lost Coast a more refined look

From TerraMai: Jet.com’s office facilitates work through its design

Reclaimed wood brings many added benefits to office design. Because of its biophilic connection, reclaimed wood works to optimize productivity and facilitate collaboration. A design may call for a slightly more refined look which can be achieved with a texturing technique called nylon brushing. This technique lightly reduces the weathered patina on the face of the wood resulting in a more homogenous color distribution. Jet.com’s well-lit, open space is complemented by the nylon brushed paneling, fostering a positive energy that empowers workers where individuals and groups alike can perform at their best.

6. Adding a stain brings a different vibe to Lost Coast

From Sunlife Organics: Lost Coast Fog provides a beachy aesthetic for Sunlife Organics in Malibu, CA

Lost Coast Paneling and Siding can transform once again with the addition of a stain. Our Fog finish is reminiscent of the misty California coast and provides a beachy feel to a space. Other standard stains are Storm and Ember, but custom finishes can also be created. Lost Coast is also part of our recent Faux Sugi Ban® product collection. The wood is finished to resemble traditional Shou Sugi Ban but no actual burning takes place thus the mess is eliminated.

7. Lost Coast Weathered & Tinted gives this office a bold look

From TerraMai: Wallaby Financial’s office uses striking Lost Coast Weathered & Tinted Paneling

Sometimes you need a little color. Lost Coast is a great vehicle to obtain a painted patina look. The weathered planks are painted with a zero-VOC paint then lightly skip sanded to remove some of the paint revealing the wood underneath once again. The planks are then oiled resulting in colorful weathered paneling that can really brighten a space.

Above, you can see the electric blue that Wallaby Financial chose for their commissary area. The grain pattern and weathered nature of the wood still standout. While Lost Coast is beautiful all on its own, adding a splash of color creates a stunning appearance and can work as a branding tool as well.

8. Use surfaced redwood for a timeless appearance

From TerraMai: Surfaced Lost Coast Redwood paneling provides a look that won’t go out of style

Redwood is a beautiful wood with its auburn and burgundy tones intermixed with a bit of sapwood. Although the weathered face on Lost Coast is spectacular, at times a cleaner aesthetic is needed. Surfaced Lost Coast is one way to obtain that cleaner look with reclaimed wood. Surfaced Lost Coast offers the timeless look of redwood while also satisfying customer goals of choosing a sustainable material. All of the Lost Coast offerings are FSC certified Recycled 100%.

9. Lost Coast Siding

From TerraMai: A neighborhood communal building sports Lost Coast Siding

Lost Coast reclaimed wood siding gives the Cadence Park neighborhood communal center an authentic, natural and inviting aura. Exterior Wood Siding has been found to be more inviting and provide a homier sensibility which is exactly what a neighborhood center building should do.

10. Boost your brand message by printing on Lost Coast Paneling

From TerraMai: Eureka! emblazoned their branding on Lost Coast paneling

Today, creating an experience for building occupants and visitors is more important than ever. Experience design has become a bona fide design philosophy, and brands are looking for more ways to immerse people. One simple way to do that is by printing your brand directly onto wood. Lost Coast reclaimed wood can be laser etched or painted with a logo or slogan. This is the perfect opportunity to reinforce your brand and create a more cohesive experience for your guests.

From TerraMai: Toms’ One For One slogan is laser etched on Lost Coast Siding for their Glendale, CA location

Conclusion

Lost Coast is a fascinating material. With beautiful weathering, unique texture, incredible versatility and a sustainability story, it’s a textbook example of a great reclaimed wood. It can take on many different looks through stain, paint and texturing techniques or it’s pretty fantastic just how mother nature weathers it. Couple that with different milling options around thickness, width and profile, the installation possibilities become quite numerous. In 2015, Lost Coast was winner of Interior Design’s Best of Year Awards, Best of NeoCon – Gold for Wall Treatments, and HiP award for Workplace Wall Coverings but we have not stopped discovering new uses and applications for Lost Coast. Our latest product introduction is Shiplap 2.0.

We’d love to discuss all the Lost Coast possibilities with you and provide you with samples for your next project.

Ipe decking is a popular trend in Architecture & Design. However, ipe carries with it several issues that make it a less than ideal choice for building projects. Namely, harvesting ipe contributes to deforestation, and due to the likelihood of illegal logging and forged documents, it is a risky purchase. You can read more about the problems with ipe here.

That raises the question: What should architects and designers do when they need durable, attractive decking? There are several sustainable alternatives that are highly resilient. Here are a few woods to consider using instead of ipe.

Where do the best Commercial Decking Woods Originate

Tropical hardwoods make for the best decking materials. These are hard, dense woods that are water and insect resistant, and able to withstand extreme temperature fluctuations. In commercial decking applications, tropical hardwood can last 20 to 50 years depending on installation, care and level of use. But there is a downside, according to INTERPOL, Illegal logging accounts for 50-90% of all forestry activities in key producer tropical forests, such as those of the Amazon Basin, Central Africa and Southeast Asia, and 15-30% of all wood traded globally. Meaning, purchasing tropical hardwoods presents real ethical concerns and should only be done with careful consideration.

Reclaimed Teak Decking: A Strong and Beautiful Option

From TerraMai: Reclaimed Teak is a hardy wood that’s great for decking, flooring, or other applications that require resiliency

In particular, old-growth teak from Southeast Asia is globally renowned as the best teak in the world. It’s extremely robust and looks fantastic. Due to the decline in wild teak forests, teak is often classified as endangered or illegal to purchase. Purchasing reclaimed teak is one ethical method of obtaining old growth teak and its one of the best alternatives to ipe decking. At TerraMai, we reclaim teak from vintage buildings in Southeast Asia, and we work to ensure that the wood is milled locally when possible. Our reclaimed teak decking is also FSC Certified Recycled.

Using reclaimed teak helps preserve standing teak forests and gives these amazing woods another lifetime of use and appreciation. It’s an ideal option for architects and designers seeking a sustainable, durable wood. Another teak source is new, fast growing plantation teak but it does not compare in either looks or durability. Above all, reclaimed teak stands head and shoulders above ipe with regard to sustainability.

From TerraMai: Reclaimed Teak Decking at Imagination Playground in New York City

As far as functionality goes, teak can withstand a wide range of environments; it’s been used everywhere from the summery tropics to the arctic tundra. According to the Wood Database, teak is the gold standard for decay resistance. Teak also weathers extremely well and develops a grey patina as it ages. In terms of appearance, it often bears gold, copper, or tan hues with brown or silver grain highlights. The right teak can even visually resemble ipe if that’s something you desire.

From inVOYAGE: The wellness center at COMO Metropolitan Bangkok features teak decking that contributes to the biophilic atmosphere

Cumaru Decking: A Sustainable Ipe Lookalike

From TerraMai: Water Reclaimed Cumaru Decking

If going for a similar look to ipe, consider cumaru. The two woods are so similar that they’re often confused for one another. Like ipe, cumaru is a rich, vibrant wood with reddish brown tones. Cumaru is also durable and weathers well; it’s colloquially called Brazilian teak. Its high density and longevity make it one of the best woods to choose for decking or other intensive structural purposes. It ages almost identically to teak, gaining a grey patina over time if left unfinished.

Cumaru, like ipe, grows in the same Central and South American regions but cumaru can be sustainably sourced. TerraMai’s cumaru is water reclaimed from Lake Bayano in Panama, which has a unique history. It was one of the many lakes throughout Central America that was flooded decades ago for power generation, submerging vast amounts of tropical wood under water. TerraMai salvages the submerged wood, preventing the unnecessary harvesting of living trees and making use of otherwise forgotten timber.

A Final Note on Illegal Logging

Illegal logging destroys forests but it also causes other economic and social problems. Illegal logging pushes down the market price for timber, lowering prices by 7% to 16% according the  American Forest & Paper Association. Those following legal forest practices cannot compete and are incentivized to join in with other illegal loggers creating a vicious cycle.

There are social implications as well. Many small communities near the illegal logging locations are taken advantage of with human right violations being recorded. It may be tempting to purchase tropical hardwoods at a low price but one must be diligent when checking the chain of custody certification. Ipe and illegal logging are so intertwined, it’s possible that logging companies are transmitting inaccurate or outright false information to the FSC.

Conclusion

It’s clear that ipe decking is not an environmentally sound option. However, there are sustainably sourced woods that can be use in place of ipe. Reclaimed woods are especially beneficial and prevent unnecessary logging, preserving forests around the world. Reclaimed woods can also comply with many green building standards like LEED and WELL. When choosing a decking material that is optimized for both humans and nature, choose a sustainable option. TerraMai currently offers two reclaimed decking materials, teak and cumaru. Teaser Alert! We are working on sourcing a third reclaimed hardwood decking option. Look for more to come as we get closer to introducing this new option.

When choosing reclaimed wood for a space, there are a number of options and factors to consider. If sourcing locally is important, Western Red Cedar is a favorable option for an installation in the Pacific Northwest. If the design calls for a sense of elegance and sophistication, a tropical hardwood such as teak is a great choice. There’s a perfect wood and finish for every situation.

One tried and true choice is reclaimed oak. Oak is durable, takes a finish well and is a versatile design element that will complement just about any aesthetic. TerraMai offers several oak options. In this post, I’d like to shine the spotlight on Mission Oak Engineered Flooring and Paneling; our homage to America’s Mission and Craftsman eras. To illustrate the power and versatility of this wood, here are 14 examples of Mission Oak in action.

1. Mission Oak complements this office’s industrial-chic environment

From TerraMai: Mission Oak helps to create visual interest in this space

Reclaimed wood works very well with the industrial-chic aesthetic that’s prevalent in many contemporary office spaces. Mission Oak in particular is a great choice due to its character inclusive of occasional surface checking and filled nail holes. Oak’s natural tan and khaki hues with darker grain features help make the wood stand out and draw attention. When paired with industrial elements like exposed piping and brick walls, Mission Oak softens these harder elements making the space feel less stark. It also adds a touch of biophilia to an otherwise industrial atmosphere, which will increase productivity, boost morale, and enhance the overall experience.

2. Mission Oak adds visual contrast

From TerraMai: Mission Oak flooring provides contrast with the darker elements in this space

Mission Oak Engineered Flooring adds lighter tones to balance out the darker elements in this installation. The flooring provides neutral, warming elements and the result is a more beautiful, inviting space.

3. Social spaces open up with Mission Oak

From TerraMai: This lounge space features expansive Mission Oak flooring

This light and airy communal office space is grounded with Mission Oak’s warm and welcoming flooring. Mission Oak with a poly finish keeps the natural oak aesthetic and enhances this bright space. In addition, natural materials like reclaimed wood in general are great for lounges because it helps to reduce stress and lower blood pressure, contributing to a more relaxing experience. Multiple studies have shown that wood improves a person’s emotional state and level of self expression. All the more reason to incorporate reclaimed wood into social and collaborative work spaces.

4. Mission Oak supports occupant well-being

From TerraMai: This minimalist hallway is rounded out with reclaimed Mission Oak Paneling and Mission Oak clad beams

The WELL Building Standard emphasizes designing the entire facility for occupant well-being. This includes hallways and stairwells that are often overlooked and the employee-only back-end environment of hotels, airports, hospitals and retail establishments where customers never frequent. One way to offset the often stark lack of nature inherent in these spaces is to use reclaimed wood. This will create a natural connection that better satisfies the innate human need to participate in nature.

From TerraMai: Mission Oak’s unique character adds interest to this hallway

5. Mission Oak provides brand and customer experience in this retail space

From TerraMai: This Sam Edelman store uses Mission Oak Flooring to add an extra touch of class that mirrors the brand message

Designers of retail establishments select materials that convey and reflect the retail store’s brand and values. Materials also need to enhance the customer’s experience in the store. The beautiful aesthetic of reclaimed wood is ideal for these spaces and has been shown to increase perceived product value.

Sam Edelman is one company known for using reclaimed wood in its stores. Sam Edelman’s story is quintessentially American. From simple beginnings and hard work, he used his entrepreneurial spirit to pursue a design passion for shoes, always persevering and following his intuition to re-invent himself. Mission Oak has a similar vibe, from humble beginnings as a workhorse material utilized for industrial shipping, it has been reclaimed and turned into beautiful flooring and paneling. Pictured above is a retail location that uses Mission Oak Flooring to provide warm tones and texture.

6. This bank uses Mission Oak Flooring for a professional look

From TerraMai: Reclaimed Mission Oak Flooring with Cowboy Coffee at US AmeriBank in Florida

Reclaimed wood works well in any space that calls for a professional, refined aesthetic including hotels, institutions, banks, government buildings, and restaurants. US AmeriBank uses Mission Oak Engineered Flooring with a Cowboy Coffee finish to deliver a soothing banking experience. The dark flooring makes a striking impression and conveys to customers that US AmeriBank takes their banking needs seriously.

7. 111 Washington uses a creative Mission Oak Paneling layout that draws the eye

From TerraMai: Mission Oak paneling cleverly fills the spaces in between elevators at 111 Washington

Designed by renowned architect Minoru Yamasaki, 111 Washington Square in Minneapolis is conscious of both its tenants and the environment. It aims to create a workspace that empowers workers to perform at their best, and it also promotes sustainability across the board. The design achieves these two goals simultaneously by using plenty of reclaimed wood, which is not only sustainable but also conducive to more productive work. One of my favorite installations of reclaimed wood is the Mission Oak Paneling in the elevator lobby. The planks were installed at an angle drawing the eye up to the laser cut metal ceiling panels. The lighting is well designed making the Mission Oak Paneling look even more luminous.

8. Mission Oak Paneling makes a visual impact

From TerraMai: At Station 101 in Westwood, MA,  Mission Oak White Engineered Paneling

The ultra-high ceilings, abundant natural light, spaciousness, seating variety, living walls, potted plants and Mission Oak Paneling all work together to inspire conversation and creativity in Station 101’s collaborative social gathering space.

9. Mission Oak Red offers rich variation

From TerraMai: Gravitate! uses a wonderful combination of Mission Oak Red Flooring and Lost Coast Redwood Weathered Paneling

While Mission Oak White is known for being more even toned, Mission Oak Red boasts a bit more variety. The copper tones instill a vibrancy, and the wood carries all the character and trademarks expected of Mission Oak. The communal space at Gravitate! combined reclaimed red oak along with Lost Coast Weathered Paneling to naturally energize people for the most productive meetings.

10. REI uses Mission Oak to create a strong customer experience

From TerraMai: Mission Oak Red Flooring at REI in Denver reflects the brand and makes for an immersive customer experience

REI is one of the world’s most famous outdoor gear retailers. Naturally, they want their retail stores to reflect their brand and give the customer an unforgettable experience. Since reclaimed wood creates a strong natural connection, it’s a great choice for REI. Their Denver flagship store uses Mission Oak Red Engineered Flooring to echo the brand’s outdoorsy aesthetic and bring shoppers closer to nature. Mission Oak Flooring will handle REI’s high customer traffic and convey REI’s brand values. In addition, social research shows that shoppers spend most of their time looking down. Thus, a retailers floor is its fifth wall. Wood makes an emotional connection and the warmth, texture and character of reclaimed wood can create a richer shopping experience.

11. Mission Oak Flooring draws you into this space

From TerraMai: This room in The Hotel at Oberlin uses Mission Oak Red Engineered Flooring

The Hotel at Oberlin is a wonderful example of sustainable design. It is one of only 5 hotels in the United States to have received LEED Platinum Certification. Fittingly, the Hotel has several environmental initiatives in place, and it uses many green building materials including Mission Oak Red Engineered Flooring. The flooring does more than just look nice. It also enhances the environment; reclaimed wood is a top material choice for hospitality spaces due to its calming effects.

12. This office bolsters contemporary design with reclaimed wood

From TerraMai: Enthought’s office space is clean, minimal, and inspired, and the Mission Oak flooring fits right in

As a forward-thinking software company, Enthought wanted an office space that would be just as innovative. The company brought on Lauckgroup (which has since become part of Perkins+Will) to design a beautiful, inspirational workplace that combined timeless design concepts with present day trends. To that end, Lauckgroup utilized reclaimed Mission Oak Red Engineered Flooring. The dark grain and warm tones of the wood complement the industrial setting and provide workers with a biophilic connection, which is especially important if a room has less than optimal daylight or limited window views of nature.

From TerraMai: Mission Oak flooring unifies the design of Enthought’s office

13. Capital One’s office pairs Mission Oak paneling with bold design

From TerraMai: Capital One in Chicago is clad in beautiful Mission Oak Engineered Paneling

Using human-centered design thinking, Capital One is reinventing banking with their Capital One Cafes. Banking and financial planning can cause anxiety with consumers. Capital One is determined to transform the customer experience. TerraMai’s reclaimed Mission Oak is a key element in these customer-centered spaces. Mission Oak with a tinted White Oil finish works well alongside the bold red and blue brand colors.

While Capital One is best known for its financial services, it’s also very environmentally minded. About 50% of their office portfolio has been certified through building standards like LEED, and the company has made LEED Silver Certification a requirement for all new projects.

14. The one-of-a-kind Space Crab Treehouse stays sturdy with Mission Oak Flooring

From Nelson Treehouse: This unique project made use of sustainable materials for a long lifespan

The Space Crab isn’t your typical architecture project. Built by Nelson Treehouse and Supply for Camp Southern Ground, the Space Crab is an expansive treehouse that blends futuristic design and biophilic design. Longevity was a prime concern for this project; the designers wanted it to last at least 100 years. As such, the Space Crab is built from resilient, natural materials such as steel and reclaimed wood. The project used Mission Oak Flooring with a Driftwood finish for the main treehouse interior, and the result is really fun and inviting.

Conclusion

Mission Oak is a remarkable wood that can perform in high traffic flooring areas, and delivers biophilic components as well as a variety of aesthetics. While it’s inspired by early American history, it’s a versatile and timeless wood. In addition, reclaimed oak––both white and red–– is a sturdy wood that will stand the test of time. I hope these 14 examples give you inspiration for your own projects and encourage you to take a closer look at reclaimed Mission Oak.

Teak is one of the most beautiful woods in the world. Its warm, luscious honey-brown color and tight, dense grain are highly sought after by many of the best architects and designers in the industry. It is a versatile wood and can be found as paneling, flooring, siding, furniture and decking. For any application, interior or exterior, teak brings many amazing benefits.

But what is it about reclaimed teak that gives it such a universal appeal? In this article, I’ll break down exactly why teak is a popular choice and show you some of my favorite spaces that feature reclaimed teak.

Teak and The Industry-Wide Need for Reclaimed Wood

From TerraMai: Onward in Seattle uses Surfaced Long Plank Teak for its facade

Teak trees can take 80 to 120 years to grow and mature. Due to the decline in wild teak forests, teak is often classified as endangered or illegal to purchase. New, fast growing plantation teak cannot compare in either looks or durability. Using reclaimed teak helps preserve standing teak forests and gives these amazing woods another lifetime of use and appreciation. It’s an ideal option for architects and designers seeking a sustainable, durable wood. While all reclaimed wood has its own uniqueness, there’s a richness to teak that sets it apart. Teak also has a fascinating history. For over  2000 years, it was traditionally used for building boats because of its water resistance, flexibility, rot resistance and longevity. You can see why designers choose reclaimed teak for not only its sustainability and looks, but also for its strength and versatility.

In general, reclaimed wood has become a high demand building material. As an industry, architecture and design is conscious of climate change and environmental issues such as deforestation, waste and pollution. As companies around the world aim to be more sustainable, greener options are critical. Reclaimed wood is an easy and cost-effective method of enhancing sustainability, making it particularly attractive to builders. Using reclaimed wood doesn’t require any living trees to be cut, processing reclaimed wood uses fewer resources than processing new wood and an abundance of material is repurposed and kept out of the landfill. Teak is one material in which choosing to use reclaimed has a larger environmental moral impact. TerraMai’s reclaimed teak is salvaged from vintage buildings and other structures in Southeast Asia. Reclaimed wood is one ethical method to obtain old growth teak.

From TerraMai: Kohler Country Spa in Wisconsin showcases reclaimed teak as flooring, cladding, and countertops; a perfect spa fit from sauna to soaking tub rooms.

The Beauty of Reclaimed Teak

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. Reclaimed teak can retain its weathered or naturally distressed face or be surfaced.  If the wood has been surfaced, over time the teak will homogenize such that any color variation from one board to another diminishes and the overall color will become an even rich, honey-brown.

From TerraMai: Reclaimed Teak Paneling at Amazon’s Seattle HQ

Retaining the naturally distressed or weathered face helps tell the wood’s story and adds character that only time and nature can create. No matter which aesthetic is pursued, teak is water-resistant, rot-resistant, skid-resistant, and stain-resistant.

From TerraMai: Naked Teak Flooring at Boston’s Ames Hotel

Reclaimed Teak’s Unparalleled Benefits

It may be impossible to say that any one variety of wood is the best for flooring and exterior applications, but if a wood were to earn that claim, it very well might be reclaimed teak. While the properties of teak are present across other woods, few woods carry all the benefits that teak does. There are several factors about teak that make it such an excellent choice.

From TerraMai: Reclaimed Teak Kukui Engineered Flooring at CBRE’s office

First, teak is extremely strong and durable. Much of the secret behind teak’s strength is in its oils. Its natural oils make the wood virtually waterproof and resistant to rot, fungi, and mildew. As mentioned earlier, teak is also resistant to skidding and staining. In general, teak resists most wear and corrosion, which is an ideal feature for flooring and exterior use as siding, benches and decking. If that’s not enough, teak is also great for environments that experience changes in moisture or humidity because of the low shrinkage ratio that helps it resist gapping and warping.

From TerraMai: Reclaimed Teak Decking at Imagination Playground in NYC

For exterior applications, teak will retain it’s honey-brown color if maintained. If the wood is not UV protected, over time it will become a soft, pale grey. Reclaimed teak is ideal for decking as it can withstand many different types of weather making it a good choice for a variety of climates, from blistering sun to cold, snowy and wet.

From TerraMai: Reclaimed Teak benches at NYC’s High Line at installation and 6 years later

Teak’s resiliency is due to its native environment. It’s characteristics are a response to the environment it must endure. The regions in which teak grows, South and Southeast Asia, experience a range of natural phenomena like monsoons, droughts, and high winds. Over time, teak trees have adapted to those conditions in interesting ways. For example, the fibers of the teak tree bend instead of break, making the tree more flexible and more likely to survive the vagaries of nature.

Teak also has a high silica content as a result of growing in high silica content soil. In addition to its oils, a high silica content contributes to teak’s many resistant properties. Interestingly, reclaimed old-growth teak has more silica than new plantation grown teak which grows in Africa and Central and South America where the soils are quite different.

From TerraMai: Reclaimed Teak Siding on the Kenmore Library in Kenmore, Washington

Conclusion

Teak bears an impressive list of benefits: beauty, strength, durability, and versatility. This versatility positions teak as a perfect bet for just about any application. Moreover, reclaimed teak’s many attributes allow designers a wood that will meet functional requirements and sustainability goals with an elevated aesthetic too. Whether you want a flooring that will last in high traffic commercial spaces, exterior benches that will withstand the elements, or a wood that will create a serene spa experience, reclaimed teak will deliver on all fronts. If you haven’t considered reclaimed teak for a project, please take a look at what it has to offer.

Reclaimed wood is becoming a more and more popular building material. It can be found everywhere from Google’s offices, to your local coffee shop and in your neighbor’s house. It’s especially in demand for commercial projects due to its numerous health benefits, sustainability contribution, story and stunning looks.

Naturally, we answer a lot of questions regarding reclaimed wood. My goal with this article is to create a resource that answers the most common questions we get asked. Without further ado, here are the top 20 questions about reclaimed wood answered all in one place.

1. What is reclaimed wood?

From TerraMai: AutoGravity’s headquarters obtains a crisp and clean aesthetic with reclaimed wood walnut flooring

The definition of reclaimed wood might seem obvious, but there’s actually a few layers to it. Generally, we can say that reclaimed wood is wood that has been salvaged or repurposed in one way or another. Reclaimed wood can be fairly old and come from vintage buildings and structures. Ethically, these old structures may be the only way to obtain much sought after old-growth wood. There is much wood diverted from the landfill that also constitutes reclaimed wood. Taking wood waste and repurposing it into beautiful materials is also reclaiming wood. In other words, wood that has been previously used or discarded wood are both under the umbrella of reclaimed wood. As such, reclaimed wood does not require any new trees to be felled.

From Hospitality Design: Reclaimed wood boasts longevity and universal appeal

2. Where does reclaimed wood come from?

Reclaimed wood is sourced using a range of methods. These methods can be split into several categories. People often picture old barns and structures when thinking of reclaimed wood. Wood sourced in this manner is called post-consumer reclaimed wood. Another source is post-industrial reclaimed wood which is wood waste generated during the manufacturing of wood products like furniture.

From New York Times: Reclaiming wood from older buildings is one of the most common methods of salvage

Wood may also be reclaimed from dead or dying trees from orchards and forest floors. Water reclaimed wood includes sinker logs and wood from forests that have been submerged for decades in reservoirs created for power generation. These methods provide an opportunity to use a great resource that would normally be chipped, burned or landfilled. Water reclaimed is a safe option to obtain tropical hardwoods without fear of illegal logging.

3. What are some common problems with reclaimed wood?

If you purchase from a reputable reclaimed wood company that is focused on quality, customer service, and has wood expertise, your reclaimed wood material will perform. Seek out a company that knows what to look for when sourcing material, has milling expertise and a solid quality check program. Reclaimed wood can be character-rich. This can be seen as an issue but we feel the character should be embraced. The character is a testament of the wood’s prior life. Make sure to see photos and get a representative set of samples so you have a good idea of what you are purchasing.

4. Will it run out?

Often we’re asked, “When will you run out of reclaimed wood”? Despite having done this for more than 20 years (or perhaps because we HAVE done this for more than 20 years!), we just keep finding more and more and more.

5. Is reclaimed wood safe?

Wood is a natural organic material and reclaimed wood is…wood. LEED considers solid wood as an inherently non-emitting source for VOCs. What needs to be considered is anything added to the wood, like a finish, fire retardant, substrate or glue. When VOCs are kept to a minimum, the final wood product emits little to no toxins into the air, making the environment safer and healthier. Most reclaimed wood companies are concerned with the environment and sustainability. Thus, they are likely using zero or low VOC materials but it is always wise to check.

6. Does reclaimed wood install like new wood?

Everyone wants trouble-free installation. The best way to ensure that is to work with a company that has a solid quality program, a good reputation and knows their stuff. A quality milled reclaimed wood material will install as well as a quality milled new wood material. Some assessment can be done by examining a few samples. How is the tongue and groove fit? When fitted together, do the pieces have good axial alignment? Ask about QC checks and the company’s quality program. Many installation issues can be mitigated with proper acclimation. This is true for new wood as well as reclaimed.

7. Is reclaimed wood expensive?

The cost of reclaimed wood varies depending on many factors, such as the species of the wood, it’s age, availability, sourcing method, and more. The price will also vary from company to company. However, you may find you’ll spend a little more than you would on new wood. Salvaging wood takes some extra work. Finding and securing sources, and the process of extricating, de-nailing, quality checks and remilling take a bit of extra care to ensure you end up with a quality material that looks great and installs well.

8. How do I purchase reclaimed wood?

There are companies that sell reclaimed wood and there are those that sell wood that looks like reclaimed wood. Ask questions about sourcing and get to know the company you are purchasing from. Reclaimed wood should have a reclaim story of where it originated and how it came to be a repurposed material. Post-consumer reclaimed wood can be FSC certified recycled for further verification. At TerraMai, we want to make buying reclaimed wood easy and have a dedicated national sales team to partner with you. We also have an eStore where many of our materials can be purchased.

9. Why is reclaimed wood so popular?

There are a variety of factors that have contributed to reclaimed woods’ growing popularity. One reason is the increased demand for using sustainable materials and using authentic materials with story. Sustainable design is a top priority for architects today, and that means choosing building materials that aren’t harmful to the planet. Reclaimed wood is inherently sustainable and requires far fewer resources to process it, making it a go-to choice for designers all over the world.

More and more people are looking for an experience and are choosing materials that align with their personal and brand values. Reclaimed wood can provide a connection through the power of story.

From TerraMai: Mission Oak Engineered Flooring aligns with Sam Edelman’s Americana brand image and his ability to reinvent himself.

Many different looks from naturally distressed to clean and crisp can be achieved with reclaimed wood, but rustic design in commercial environments is best achieved with reclaimed wood. Similarly, biophilic design is more popular than ever, and reclaimed wood is arguably one of the best building material for creating biophilic spaces.

From TerraMai: Dark Horse Oak reclaimed from horse fencing creates an authentic rustic storefront for Lululemon

10. Why are so many top designers using reclaimed wood?

Starchitect firms like Perkins+Will have been using more and more reclaimed wood in their work. While designers use reclaimed wood for all of the reasons mentioned above (see Question 9), the intersection of aesthetics and sustainability is what draws many top designers to the material. Other designers, like Michael Green, are attracted to reclaimed wood for its character. Each piece of reclaimed wood carries a unique history with it, and this instantly adds verve and personality to any built environment.

From Dezeen: The facade of Michael Green’s T3 building features beautiful reclaimed wood

11. How old is most reclaimed wood?

Age will vary dependent upon the source of the wood. Old growth wood salvaged from vintage buildings could be over 100 years old while post industrial wood waste may be much younger. No matter what its age is, salvaging wood and repurposing it helps minimize resources going to the landfill and negates the need to cut new trees.

12. How is reclaimed wood milled?

Milling reclaimed wood is surprisingly straightforward. The wood is inspected for damage and other quality issues and then stripped of nails and any other metal. Dimensions of the sourced wood will direct final dimensions of the milled material. Some planks may be removed if they are too thin or narrow. Additional steps are similar to milling new wood as far as equipment is concerned. How the material is defected and quality checked along the way will be company directed.

13. Does reclaimed wood require a lot of care and maintenance?

Like any wood, reclaimed wood will perform and look its best with appropriate maintenance. How the wood is finished, if it is an interior or exterior application, and level of usage will direct a care and maintenance program. With the right care, reclaimed wood can last decades. For more information, consult our Care & Maintenance guidelines.

14. Does reclaimed wood weather or change colors?

Depending on the species, milling, finish and the wood’s installation location, the wood may change a little or a lot. If the reclaim material’s weathered face is surfaced to reveal fresh wood underneath, there may be some color variation from plank to plank. This color variation may mellow over time as is true for teak. The initial color variation seen across the boards will homogenize over time such that all the planks become a more similar teak brown. Placement also matters; reclaimed wood used outdoors as siding or decking will weather more and faster than lumber used for indoor environments. A nice soft grey patina will develop if the wood finish is not maintained.

From TerraMai: Reclaimed lost Coast Redwood Weathered Siding at Cadence Park, Irvine, CA.

15. What wood species are available for reclaimed wood?

Almost all wood species can be reclaimed. The most popular are teak, oak, redwood, fir, pine, and cedar (especially Western Red Cedar). However, there are many exotic options, including peroba, cumaru, and acacia.

16. Is reclaimed wood environmentally friendly?

Reclaimed wood is one of the most environmentally friendly building materials in existence. Sourcing reclaimed wood is more energy efficient than harvesting new wood, and it also doesn’t require any living trees to be cut down. It leaves a minimal energy footprint while yielding maximum eco-friendly results. On top of that, some reclaimed wood can be FSC Certified Recycled and can earn points toward green building certifications like LEED.

17. Is reclaimed wood FSC certified?

While a lot of reclaimed wood is FSC Certified Recycled, not all of it can be. At first, that might seem bad, but that’s not necessarily the case. FSC certification applies only to post-consumer reclaimed wood. Post-consumer meaning wood that has been utilized by consumers in some manner like old buildings, bridges, fencing and other structures. There are many other methods to source reclaimed wood that prevent materials from becoming landfill waste but they do not fall under FSC jurisdiction.

From TerraMai: Reclaimed Lost Coast Weathered Paneling and solid oak tables are FSC 100% Recycled.

18. Does reclaimed wood prevent deforestation?

Using reclaimed wood helps reduce the demand for newly cut trees. Unfortunately, many new trees are still cut down and this demand can lead to deforestation. It is important that people are aware that some 18 million acres of forest are lost each year and to also know the impact that deforestation is having on the environment, wildlife and quality of life. Understanding this impact can help customers make informed purchasing decisions.

19. Will there be more if I need to add on to my project?

A project expansion or renovation can require material match the original installation, or a customer may wish to build many facilities with the same look. Large quantities of reclaimed wood can be sourced and continue to be sourced over time so that there is consistent and lasting inventory. Some sources of reclaimed wood will be quite unique and one-of-a-kind but many post-consumer and post-industrial sourcing streams will continue for the foreseeable future.

20. Is reclaimed wood just a trend?

Despite worries that reclaimed wood is just another fashionable trend, it’s not going away anytime soon. Architects and designers have realized the immense benefits that come with reclaimed wood, and the aesthetic is universal and timeless. Its high sustainability factor is another reason why it will be one of the most desired building materials for the indefinite future. As starchitects continue to use and find more ways to implement reclaimed wood into their designs, the outlook for continued growth is positive.

From Inhabitat: Advertising firm BBDO is one of many companies to use reclaimed wood in its offices

Conclusion

I hope this article has answered your questions on reclaimed wood. All in all, it’s a fantastic material that will remain popular for a long time. There’s nothing quite like reclaimed wood; the beauty and character found in reclaimed lumber are unmatched. Reclaimed wood not only enhances the look of a space but also helps to save the earth. What more could you want from a building material?

Stairs are an architectural feature that not only provide an opportunity to create a focal point but well-designed, beautiful stairs encourage physical activity and create opportunities for spontaneous interactions and can even be places for collaboration. With the biophilic movement and building standards like WELL, Fitwel and Living Building Challenge, stairs present interesting opportunities to contribute to occupant wellness. Here are some exceptional examples of stair treads to inspire your own projects.

Captivate people’s attention with multipurpose stair treads

From Dezeen: Evernote’s office features padded treads, encouraging employees to sit and collaborate

Multipurpose design is at an all-time high. In an effort to maximize the usability of a space, architects are experimenting with modular design. When applied to stairs, this results in some unique concepts that are practical but also eye-catching and fun. At Evernote, the designers turned the idea of stair treads on its head by padding some of the treads, creating seating spaces on one side of a staircase. In an office setting, this concept encourages social interaction and on-the-spot collaboration, which results in higher productivity. The design is rounded out by selecting wood for the stairs, which warms the space and provides numerous biophilic benefits.

There are many other situations in which stair treads become more useful when doubled as seating. Retail spaces, universities, libraries, and event spaces can all make use of staircase seating. This also opens the door for designers to imagine new ways to integrate stairs into the built environment. By considering stairs as dual-purpose steps and seats, designers can easily and efficiently optimize a space. This is especially useful in smaller spaces, where multipurpose design is a necessity. At AutoGravity, the stairs incorporate a slide to serve as another way to convey the company’s innovative and creative brand values.

From Lawrence Anderson: AutoGravity’s stairs and stadium seating provide a creative and fun place to connect and collaborate

Outdoor spaces can also utilize multipurpose seating. Bleachers are common outdoor seating options, but they’re not ideal as stairs. Instead, wide outdoor staircases can double as seating for large events. One example is the Plassen Cultural Center in Norway designed by 3XN Architects. Renowned for its jazz concerts, the Center features an expansive staircase that’s used for seating during events. “By using steps instead of traditional seats, the atmosphere becomes more informal,” said 3XN creative director Kim Herforth Nielsen. “By turning the building into an integrated part of the public square it becomes more than a building. It turns into a piece of land art, which adds an extra dimension to the place and generates life.”

From Dezeen: The Plassen Cultural Center’s outdoor steps transform into casual seating during events

Lighted stair treads create visual interest

From TerraMai: Lincoln Square backlit Mission Oak Driftwood Stair Treads.

Architects and designers are placing more importance on stairs. Meeting compliance standards is a must but designers are adept at finding ways to design in function that are also eye-catching features. There are very practical reasons behind stair tread design. In a presentation for the 2014 International Conference on Universal Design, architects Karen Kim and Edward Steinfeld explored the effect of stairway interaction on users. They concluded that higher tread visibility can improve stair safety if used correctly. This means that drawing more attention to the actual treads can keep user distraction to a minimum, thereby reducing the amount of accidents.

While stair treads can be simple, more designers are using them as canvasses to unify a space’s design and create a stronger experience. The possibilities are endless. Treads can extend an underlying theme present in a built environment, or they can introduce a new design element that complements the existing architecture.

Aesthetically Pleasing Stairs Encourage Short Periods of Physical Activity

From TerraMai: The reclaimed teak stairs at UC Berkeley Energy Biosciences Building are a central feature that keep students and faculty on the go.

Stairwells hidden from view are becoming a thing of the past. To encourage intermittent bouts of physical activity, it is important for stairs to be readily visible to building occupants. People are more likely to take the stairs if stairs are in sight and aesthetically pleasing. WELL’s Fitness Concept includes the Feature, Interior Fitness Circulation, which specifies the integration of interior pathways and stairs within the built environment in an effort to reduce sedentary tendencies. Part 3 of the Feature focuses on incorporating aesthetic elements throughout the stair; artwork, music, daylighting, window views, light levels and biophilic elements.

Biophilic stair treads can improve occupant health and wellness

From the Miller Hull: The Center’s stairwells offer ample light and shadows providing biophilic benefits to occupants

Biophilic design is extremely popular for its proven ability to enhance wellness in the built environment. As a holistic design philosophy, biophilic design ought to be integrated into every part of a building, and that includes stair treads. Using wood for treads is a simple and cost-effective way to incorporate biophilia. Reclaimed wood is particularly ideal because it fosters a strong visual and material connection to nature, and its nearly universal aesthetic appeal looks fantastic in any space.

The staircase at the Living Building Challenge certified Bullitt Center in Seattle, WA (pictured above) is an exemplary example of biophilic designed stairs. The irresistible staircase features fresh air, crafted wood and steel clad treads, ample daylight and stunning views of the Seattle skyline.

From Contemporist: This one-of-a-kind staircase in a Tel Aviv office building uses poplar wood to create a staircase that winds into a tornado-shaped balcony

While less common, using greenery on staircases is another biophilic option. This creates what is dubbed as a “living staircase.” The most famous example is located in Ampersand, a London office building. The verdant staircase was designed by Paul Cocksedge Studio and features a garden that winds down the length of the handrail. The treads weren’t overlooked either; FSC certified American white oak was used for its bright, minimal appearance. The Ampersand staircase is so noteworthy because it demonstrates how the different elements of a staircase can come together perfectly.

From Paul Cocksedge Studio: The Living Staircase is a breathtaking example of biophilic design

Experiential staircases with unique treads provide memorable focal points

From Dezeen: A steel and wood staircase is the star of this hallway at Piercy & Company

Experiential design is another idea that’s changing how Architecture & Design professionals are viewing the built environment. Experiential design is all about occupant-building interaction, so built elements that encourage such interaction are crucial. There’s also a branding aspect involved. Experiential designers believe that occupants ought to be engaged in a multi-sensorial narrative that increases the enjoyment of spending time in a space, and branding is critical to creating that narrative. When occupants feel connected to both the purpose and design of a built environment, an immersive experience is created.

So what would an experiential staircase look like? In short, it would include interesting design, attractive treads, and brand integration. The staircase at Piercy & Company (pictured above) is an excellent example. Its suspended steps and gently sloping handrails contribute to the building’s airy, minimalist feel. Moreover, the beautiful wood chosen for the treads and handrails contrasts well with the white steel. All in all, it’s a stunning staircase that never fails to draw the eye. It is so attractive that occupants are sure to use it often leading to chance meetings and greater worker interaction.

From TerraMai: Text on the risers of the reclaimed Douglas Fir treads reinforce Living Computers Museum + Lab branding.

Staircases are ideal candidates for experiential design since most occupants in a building with stairs often use them every day. It’s a great opportunity to take something common and fully integrate it into your brand and vision. Even a little change like installing new stair treads can boost worker morale and increase satisfaction.

Conclusion

Stair treads are more than just a functional element. In the same way that door frames accentuate doors, treads accentuate staircases. These inspiring examples show that it’s possible for stairs to transcend their obvious function; they can also become workstations, collaboration spots, event spaces and fitness components.

Best of all, it’s easy for your stair treads to be a stand out design feature. All you need is the right materials and a bit of inspiration.

Building certifications have existed for decades. WELL is taking the idea to a new level. In just four years, this young building standard has become one of the most influential and impactful in the Architecture & Design industry. In short, the WELL Building Standard aims to ensure that the built environment is optimized for human wellness. That concept has resonated with designers across the globe, and at the time of this article there are 928 WELL Certified projects.

There are many reasons to aim for WELL Certification. Here are some of the top reasons why the world’s best designers are proponents of creating innovative WELL Certified buildings.

WELL Is Fundamentally About People

From Architectural Record: WELL Certification is all about making healthier spaces for people

One of the reasons the WELL Building Standard is so groundbreaking is its emphasis on human health. It was created by Delos to “improve human health and well-being through the built environment.” While standards like LEED and Passive House promote sustainability, the WELL Standard is the first certification program to focus primarily on occupant health. Delos founder and CEO Paul Scialla stated in an interview that “with the categorical elements of air, water, light, nourishment, fitness, comfort and mind, about 85% of WELL involves entirely new protocols in and around human health.”

At its core, WELL is a biophilic standard: that is, a standard that champions the optimization of conditions for human beings. It recognizes that all humans need balanced environments that connect them to nature. This was, as Scialla said, purposive: “The nice thing about WELL and the WELL standard itself is that the human condition is universal.  It doesn’t matter if you live in Denver, Colorado or Guangzhou, China, what is optimal for the human condition is the same – our biology is the same.” Thus WELL appeals to underlying biological needs and works to ensure those needs are met in the built environment.

From Arup: Arup’s office received WELL Gold Certification

While certification programs like LEED have led to healthier environments, it’s traditionally been a secondary effect rather than a primary objective. For example, LEED’s goal is to achieve complete sustainability as a “globally recognized symbol of sustainability achievement.” Therefore, LEED places the environment at the forefront. WELL is different in that it encourages buildings that inherently enhance the health of their occupants.

WELL also maintains specific objectives for human health. Randy Fiser, CEO of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID), points out that “WELL fosters a holistic formula for better health and wellness outcomes, leading to improvements in things like employee productivity, engagement and retention.” A look at WELL’s documentation reveals that the standard scores projects based on a variety of preconditions and optimizations that define the constituents of a healthy building. From the ground up, WELL is committed to raising the bar for human well-being in the built environment.

WELL Partners With Existing Green Building Standards

From Perkins+Will: The ASID HQ was the first building to earn certifications from both WELL and LEED

Even though WELL Certification is a thorough and beneficial program, it doesn’t have to stand on its own. Rather, it can work harmoniously with many other building standards. Since there is much overlap between biophilia and sustainability, WELL’s tenets interwave seamlessly with the principles of sustainable building standards.

LEED in particular is a standard that has found a counterpart in WELL. Scialla notes that using both can lead to the creation of completely sustainable and healthy buildings: “LEED and WELL are very complementary and not competitive at all. We feel like green and WELL buildings, together, encompass the holistic picture of sustainability as opposed to only looking at one side of the coin.” As such, Delos and WELL have taken many steps to strengthen the connection between LEED and WELL. First, the International Well Building Institute (IWBI), which administers the WELL Standard, is third party certified by Green Building Certification Inc. (GBCI), the same organization that administers LEED Certification. In addition, in 2017 the IWBI announced further alignments between WELL and LEED that help projects more easily achieve dual certification.

From Building Design & Construction: ASID’s dual certified office has raised the bar for commercial architecture

WELL Certified offices are outstandingly beautiful and forward-thinking, and the ASID headquarters is no exception. As one of the few buildings with dual WELL and LEED Certifications, the ASID HQ provides a glimpse into the future of the built environment. The project was awarded Platinum Certification (the highest level possible) for both standards. An efficient, human-centric space, the ASID HQ represents the crossroads of biophilia and sustainability and serves as a source of inspiration and innovation. Pre- and post-occupancy research has proven that the ASID office is a healthier working environment with key performance indicators well above the benchmark data. It’s clear that the ecologically minded LEED and the humanistic WELL are even more powerful when joined together.

WELL Is Moving the Architecture & Design Industry Forward

From the IWBI: The WELL Platinum Certified Delos Headquarters represent the future of commercial A&D

From its inception, WELL has been truly ahead of its time. Architects are beginning to realize that occupant health is critical and as such are giving it the attention it deserves. Scialla is a fervent proponent of human-first design and its connection to sustainability: “I do think the next chapter of sustainability and the built environment is a focus on biological components and the human condition.” It’s fitting that his company’s headquarters has received WELL Platinum Certification and is pursuing LEED Platinum and Living Building Challenge Petal Certification. Pictured above, the Delos offices are filled with natural light, plants, and organic building materials like reclaimed wood.

From WELL Online: Stryker’s biophilic Texas office received WELL Silver Certification

With support from starchitect firms like Perkins+Will, WELL is helping to move Architecture & Design into a new era. WELL isn’t just about creating better buildings; it’s about improving the core principles of A&D as a whole. That’s why WELL is working with other IWBI initiatives, namely the WELL Community Standard that “focuses on ten concepts to support the development of health-focused, integrated and supported communities.” This scope underscores the fact that WELL is a holistic design philosophy that is meant to be applied across all built environments and even the communities to which they belong.

Today, WELL represents progress and innovation, but Scialla believes that biophilic and sustainable design will soon be the universal norm. “In a decade, I don’t think we will be talking about “green buildings” anymore,” he said. “It will just be the right way to build.” Dekker/Perich/Sabatini Principal Max Parrill is another architect who thinks WELL ought to be universal: “There are things within the WELL Building Standard that should be applied to every project, even if you aren’t seeking certification.” Commercial architecture has already embraced the use of green building materials and adherence to sustainable practices, so it’s only a matter of time before WELL becomes a virtual necessity for all projects.

Conclusion

WELL is much more than just a building standard. It’s a philosophy of building greener, healthier buildings that is rapidly becoming mainstream. Designers across the world are encouraging WELL Certification to join the movement and change architecture for the better. It’s exciting to consider what the future has in store for WELL, especially as more projects pursue multiple certifications. No matter the path ahead, one thing is for certain––the WELL Building Standard is changing the world, one built environment at a time.