Despite its ancient origins and historical use even before the Stone Age, wood is currently experiencing a resurgence. One of the most significant reasons for this is the discovery of its impact on health and happiness, resembling the effects of nature.
Wood is one of the oldest and fundamental materials used by humanity. Wooden furniture and funeral supplies were found in the Egyptian pyramids. Structures built centuries ago like the Horyuji Temple in Japan (AD 700), the Greensted Church in England (AD 1053), and Westminster Hall in London (AD 1399) still stand today.
Early studies focusing on the effects of nature on humans reveal that even a view of nature through a window can have a positive impact. Indoor plants and flowers provide similar benefits. Research indicates that cognitive activities increase in offices with rich greenery, and pain tolerance rises in hospitals if there are indoor plants.
Given that findings demonstrate the benefits of nature in both indoor and outdoor spaces, it’s logical to question whether wood, as a natural material, has a similar effect. Neurologically speaking, from the moment we enter a space, conscious and subconscious processes occur in our brains—cognitive and psychological—impacting our emotions, health, and even memory development. In essence, the influence of indoor environments on us is significant. From this perspective, the increasing research on the potential health benefits of using wood in indoor spaces is not surprising. Initial studies in this field focus on the effects of wood in healthy indoor environments, providing a general overview of the influence of wood in indoor atmospheres.
In the past, wood was seen as merely an aesthetic and utilitarian material for construction and objects. However, wood is much more than that. Research conducted in environments furnished with wood suggests that these settings offer psychological and physical benefits to individuals, resembling the advantages experienced during time spent in nature.
In addition, the incorporation of wooden office products into our work environments can be a valuable addition to enhancing the quality of life. Just as natural elements have a positive impact, wooden elements within office spaces can contribute to a more pleasant and productive atmosphere. The warmth and organic feel of wood office sets can help reduce stress and foster a sense of tranquility, ultimately improving overall well-being. As research continues to explore the multifaceted advantages of wood, it becomes increasingly evident that this material holds the potential to transform not only the aesthetics but also the experiential aspects of our indoor spaces.
Stay tuned for the continuation of our article!