Mass Timber’s Role in Biophilic Design

Being involved in the engineered mass timber and offsite construction industry for a number of years now, it has been interesting to watch the growth and maturation in thinking and understanding by the construction industry of the benefits that using mass timber products in the built environment brings.

When timber from renewable plantations is used it is an incredibly sustainable construction material that can actively help in the fight against climate change. Exposed timber also gives an exceptional architectural aesthetic to buildings. We are all well aware of these benefits.

In recent times there has been a growing movement within the design community to incorporate a biophilic approach to their design methodology. Biophilic design is a method of designing the places in which we live and work in such a way that satisfies our deep and fundamental need to be connected with nature. Biophilic designed buildings incorporate things like natural lighting and ventilation, natural landscape features, use of exposed structural timber products such as PLT, Glulam and CLT and other elements for creating a more productive and healthy built environment for people.

Bringing aspects of nature into the built environment has been scientifically shown to reduce stress, improve cognitive function, and enhance mood and creativity. These and other outcomes can increase health and wellbeing, as well as productivity in the workplace. Studies have actually measured the cost savings you can achieve with great biophilic design!

For in-depth views on biophilic design, check out these helpful articles:

• The impact and benefits of biophilia in the workplace.
• The global impact of biophilic design in the workplace.
• Putting nature to work: Biophilic design a boon for corporate culture.

Not only is mass timber such as PLT, CLT and Glulam sustainable, structural and good looking – it also makes us feel better about ourselves and our work! Not many other construction materials can say that.