Biophilic design is an approach to architecture that seeks to connect building occupants more closely to nature. Biophilic designed buildings incorporate things like natural lighting, ventilation, natural landscape features and other elements. By consciously including nature in interior or architectural design, we are unconsciously reconnecting, bringing the great outdoors into our constructed world.
Today’s green-building efforts include occupant health and well-being alongside environmental sustainability. Wood’s association with positive environmental and human health impacts makes it an economical and advantageous building material selection.
Recent research found that the visual presence of wood indoors, such as exposed timbers and finishes can significantly reduce stress levels among the building occupants.
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the average American spends 90 percent of their time indoors That means the quality of the indoor environment—from the cleanliness of the air to the consistency of the temperature to the connections the occupants make to building materials very important.
Research from Canada and Austria found that humans automatically relax when they’re surrounded by elements from the natural world, like wood. In fact, these materials have a pronounced effect on the autonomic nervous system, lowering blood pressure and stress levels. Nature is easily incorporated into a building or remodeling project – through a wood feature wall, ceiling, wainscoting or floors.
How can Simply Oak™ enhance your designs and connect the occupants more closely to nature…..
