How Building with Wood Contributes to Healthier, Happier Lives

We all admire the natural beauty of wood, but did you know it offers a number of surprising health and environmental benefits? Recent studies reveal that incorporating wood into interior spaces—whether in offices, healthcare facilities or homes—can significantly enhance mood, productivity and wellbeing.

Bringing nature indoors

It’s no surprise that in our increasingly digital world, people are spending more time indoors, disconnected from nature. While you can’t beat a refreshing walk in the woods, architects can help bridge this gap by incorporating wood into their designs.

Wood taps into our deep-rooted connection with nature, making us feel more relaxed and grounded. One study suggests sustainably-sourced, natural looking wood in the workplace can boost concentration, reduce stress and enhance overall health.

Improving air quality and wellbeing

Wood doesn’t just look great—it contributes to better physical health. Wood naturally regulates humidity, improving air quality and reducing respiratory issues. It also emits fewer volatile organic compounds (VOCs) than other building materials, making indoor air healthier to breathe.

But the benefits don’t stop there. Wood’s natural insulating properties help keep indoor spaces warmer in winter and cooler in summer, reducing energy consumption and making wood the eco-friendly choice for new construction.

Healing powers in healthcare

Recent research underscores the powerful impact wood-filled environments can have on healing and recovery. In healthcare settings, patients surrounded by wood report lower stress levels, faster healing, and a reduced need for pain medication.

Environmental benefits

Wood is a renewable resource that plays a vital role in combating climate change. As trees grow, they absorb carbon from the atmosphere, helping to mitigate the effects of global warming. Moreover, wood is part of the natural cycle of growth and renewal, contributing to environmental sustainability.

At Bell Lumber & Pole, we’re committed to promoting sustainable forestry practices, ensuring the wood we harvest and source can be replenished with minimal environmental impact

Building for tomorrow

As we continue exploring the benefits of wood in architecture, one thing is clear: wood isn’t just for construction; it’s for creating spaces that nurture the body, mind and planet.