Wood & Wellbeing: Exploring the health effects of timber buildings
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Wood & Wellbeing is a comprehensive evidence review developed by ORGA architect and funded by Built by Nature, examining how timber buildings influence human health and wellbeing. Drawing on more than 100 peer-reviewed studies, industry reports, and research papers, the report explores both the physical performance of wood as a building material and the psychological responses people experience in timber-rich environments.
What’s Inside this Study
- It introduces a health and wellbeing framework that examines both the material properties of wood and the psycho-physiological responses people experience in timber environments.
- It examines how timber can contribute to stable temperatures, healthy relative humidity levels and antimicrobial indoor environments while reducing reliance on mechanical systems.
- It translates the research into practical implications for designers, developers, employers and policymakers, demonstrating how timber can support healthy buildings, workplace performance, ESG objectives and public health outcomes.
- It reviews the growing body of research on mental health and wellbeing, including perception, stress reduction, sleep quality, cognitive performance and nature connection.
How It Can Help You
This report helps architects, engineers, developers, asset owners, policymakers and sustainability professionals understand the evidence linking timber construction to healthier indoor environments and improved occupant wellbeing. It supports decision-making around material selection, workplace design, education and healthcare facilities, certification strategies and ESG reporting. Wood & Wellbeing also offers practical guidance on timber specification, exposed wood design, moisture management and healthy material choices, helping project teams create buildings that deliver environmental, social and human-centred value.
