Post-and-beam house construction in Douglas fir, in Himachal Pradesh (L). In another project (R), a kitchen platform made of Western hemlock and stairs from Western red cedar.

Incorporating wood elements into interior spaces is not merely an aesthetic choice; it’s a decision that can significantly impact human health and overall well-being.

Considered to be one of the oldest building materials, architects, interior designers and real estate developers are seeking out wood not just for the aesthetics it has to offer, but also for its inherent biophilic attributes that help inhabitants connect with nature.

Biophilic design seeks to incorporate elements of the natural world into their designs in homes, offices and public spaces. Incorporating wood into architectural designs can add warmth, character, and sustainability to a project.

In fact, they prefer sustainably managed and responsibly sourced wood like Canadian wood, sourced from the province of British Columbia (B.C.), as it offers a plethora of indoor applications and advantages that contribute to a healthier and more harmonious indoor environment.

Stress reduction

One of the foremost benefits of incorporating wood into architectural designs, such as wooden beams, furniture, interior wall panelling, wooden staircases and wooden ceilings in indoor spaces reduces the stress levels among occupants.

The natural warmth and earthy tones of wood create a calming atmosphere that can help alleviate anxiety and promote relaxation.

Stimulating creativity

Responsibly sourced wood has biophilic properties that play a pivotal role in improving cognitive function. Research has shown that exposure to wood elements in indoor environments enhances concentration, creativity, and problem-solving skills.

It can stimulate the mind, boost productivity, and foster a sense of well-being.

Conserving energy

A natural insulator, buildings constructed primarily from wood require less energy for heating and cooling. This inherent energy efficiency contributes to reduced energy consumption and lower green-house gas emissions over a building’s lifespan.

It also improves indoor air quality by regulating humidity levels by absorbing and releasing moisture, creating a healthier and more comfortable atmosphere.

Carbon footprint

Wood is perhaps the only natural and renewable building material, and when sourced responsibly, its use has a minimal impact on ecosystems. Sustainable forestry practices, such as replanting and reduced carbon emissions during manufacturing, ensure wood’s eco-friendliness.

Wooden buildings typically have a smaller carbon footprint, making them a key player in reducing the construction industry’s environmental impact. Thus, embracing wood-centric design and construction is, in fact, an investment in the enduring health and comfort of your living environment.

Forestry Innovation Consulting India Pvt. Ltd. (better known as Canadian Wood) promotes wood products from B.C. in offshore markets, positioning it as a global supplier of quality, environmentally responsible wood products from sustainably managed forests.

It spreads education through information and technical support on the wide variety of timber products available from B.C. Canada. For more information, visit www.canadianwood.in.

Comments