Although the term may seem recent, the concept of biophilia has been used for decades in architecture and design. The guiding principle is quite simple: connect people inside with nature to promote their well-being and quality of life. With all the ongoing design trends that have consolidated as a result, the demand has focused on organic materials that emulate outdoor environments. Among all the options, wood is one of the most popular materials to bring nature indoors, not only because of its functionality, but also due to its multiple physiological and psychological benefits.
In this context, wood and mass timber continue to gain attention in the architectural world. Apart from the relevant environmental benefits of sustainably sourced wood, its popularity is driven by users that find the material to be beautiful, natural, and stress relieving. In this way, building occupants tend to instinctively prefer wood over other materials because of their biophilic response to it, as explained by a Terrapin Bright Green report featuring several scientific studies.
Biophilic design principles
