The positive impact of wood on health and well-being

Why Wood Feels Good: The Science Behind Timber and Well-being 

The presence of wood in interior environments has been shown to support both mental and physical health. Studies have demonstrated that simply being surrounded by timber can: 

• Lower heart rate and blood pressure 

• Reduce cortisol, the body’s main stress hormone 

• Improve emotional comfort and cognitive performance 

In one study cited by Planet Ark in its Nature Inspired Design report, adults placed in wood-panelled rooms experienced significantly lower stress responses than those in plain white spaces. Participants described timber-rich interiors as more welcoming, relaxing, and warm. 

The Healing Power of Wood 

The benefits of wood extend far beyond residential interiors. Across the world, architects are specifying timber for healthcare centers, schools, libraries, and wellness facilities—and the outcomes are measurable: 

Wood is also a smart choice for occupants with respiratory sensitivities. Unlike carpets or porous synthetics, timber has smooth, hypoallergenic surfaces that don’t trap dust or allergens. And thanks to its hygroscopic properties, wood can help regulate indoor humidity, contributing to cleaner, more breathable air. 

Greenery in Urban Spaces 

Urban greenery—parks, rooftop gardens, green facades, and tree-lined streets—is more than just a visual amenity. It’s now widely recognized as an essential infrastructure for mental and physical well-being. 

Research underscores the broader health impact of green, natural spaces in cities: people living within 300 m of green public areas report 50% lower stress levels, and those in less vegetated neighborhoods have a 44% higher rate of anxiety disorders. While these studies don’t focus solely on wood, they reinforce the importance of integrating natural materials like timber into urban design for stress reduction, better mental health, and community cohesion.

These effects are even more pronounced in densely built cities, where natural encounters are rare and highly valued. Green spaces act as restorative environments for reducing mental fatigue, improving mood, and encouraging physical activity and social interaction. 

Green design features like rooftop gardens, timber walkways, and natural landscape elements also play a role in building more resilient and emotionally supportive urban environments. That’s why cities like Singapore, Copenhagen, and Vienna are integrating green corridors and timber structures throughout their master plans—not just for climate impact, but for public health. 

The Role of Biophilic Design 

All of this connects to a broader architectural movement: biophilic design. 

Biophilic design is an architectural approach rooted in a simple but profound idea: humans have an innate connection to nature, and when our built environments reflect that connection, we feel better—physically, emotionally, and cognitively. 

This design philosophy goes beyond simply adding plants or natural light. It involves integrating natural elements like wood, water, stone, and organic forms into the core structure and sensory experience of a space. In biophilic environments, people interact with nature through touch, texture, rhythm, and light. 

Architects and designers are increasingly turning to biophilic design because it aligns with evolving priorities in the built world: creating spaces that support wellness, reduce stress, encourage focus, and restore energy. As cities grow denser and digital lives more demanding, the desire for restorative environments has become a cultural shift, not just a design trend. 

Wood is a foundational material in biophilic architecture. Its natural warmth, tactile honesty, and timeless beauty bring a sense of calm, grounding, and authenticity to any space. Whether it’s a timber ceiling, wooden wall panel, or sauna bench, these elements invite the human body to slow down, breathe deeper, and feel more at ease. 

Real wood, without any chemicals 

Given the health potential of using wood as a construction material, it’s important to make the most of this by avoiding harmful chemicals and treatments. That’s why we use thermal modification at Thermory – it’s a natural process that uses just heat and steam to enhance the wood’s strength and durability. This means that you and your family can freely come into contact with our wooden floors, decks and cladding materials knowing that they’re completely safe. 

Chemical-free wood surfaces in the home

Bringing a piece of nature into every project 

Choosing wood is an investment in how people feel, live, and heal. Whether you’re a homeowner designing a peaceful retreat for yourself or an architect creating a public space with emotional resonance, real wood is one of the most powerful tools at your disposal. 

Explore our real wood products and design inspiration to start building with well-being in mind.