WISA® plywood products are well known for their structural applications but can be used in a variety of ways in interior architecture to boost health and general well-being. WISA-Birch products are typically used in interior and furniture design while WISA-Spruce is used in structural parts of the construction.
Psychological Benefits
Wooden interiors have been shown to reduce stress and promote relaxation. A study by the University of British Columbia and FPInnovations (1) found that the presence of wood in a room can lower sympathetic nervous system activation, which is responsible for the body’s stress response. This means that environments with wooden elements can help reduce stress levels and create a calming atmosphere.
Physiological Benefits
The physiological effects of wood are equally impressive. Research indicates that wood can help lower blood pressure and heart rates. For instance, a study conducted in Japan (2) demonstrated that participants in wooden rooms experienced lower blood pressure and heart rates compared to those in rooms with other materials. This suggests that wood can contribute to cardiovascular health by creating a more relaxing environment.
Improved Indoor Air Quality
Wood also plays a role in improving indoor air quality. It has natural moisture-regulating (moisture buffering) properties, which help maintain optimal humidity levels indoors. This can reduce the prevalence of respiratory issues and improve overall comfort (3). Additionally, wood has been found to have antibacterial properties, which can contribute to a healthier indoor environment (4).
Enhanced Cognitive Function
The presence of wood in interiors can also enhance cognitive function and productivity. A study by the University of Tampere in Finland (5) found that wooden surfaces in classrooms improved students’ concentration and performance. This is likely due to the biophilic effects of wood, which mimic the calming and restorative qualities of natural environments.
Applications in Healthcare Settings
Given these benefits, it’s no surprise that wood is increasingly being used in healthcare settings. Hospitals and healthcare centers are incorporating more wooden surfaces to create healing environments. For example, research (6) has shown that patients in rooms with wooden elements experience faster recovery times and require less pain medication. This underscores the potential of wood to enhance patient well-being and support the healing process.
Conclusion
The restorative health effects of wood in interior spaces are well-documented, researched and multifaceted. From reducing stress and improving cardiovascular health to enhancing cognitive function and indoor air quality, wood offers numerous benefits that contribute to overall well-being.
As more studies continue to explore these effects, the use of wood in interior design is likely to become even more prevalent, promoting healthier and more sustainable living environments.
In addition to the health benefits, product manufacturers naturally need to fulfil existing regulation, requirements and documenting e.g. for the sake of transparency. UPM plywood provides all the needed documents which are publicly available at Specifying WISA plywood | UPM PLYWOOD.
Sources:
1. The influence of wooden interior materials on indoor environment: a review | European Journal of Wood and Wood Products
2. Physiological effects of wood on humans: a review | Journal of Wood Science
3. What Materials Can Promote Health in Interior Architecture? | ArchDaily
4. Wood and human stress in the built indoor environment: a review
5. Wood and health | Building Performance (naturallywood.com)
6. Health Benefits of Wood in Interior Design - National Solutions