Why timber works: The biophilic benefits of timber in built environments

While humans are inherently attracted to nature, the more time we spend indoors, the more we become disconnected with it at the risk of our mental and physical health. In order to make spaces more appealing, biophilic design is about including natural elements like natural light, airflow, water features, plants, and organic materials in the built environment. Architectural use of timber is special in this context as it not only serves a functional, structural, or aesthetic purpose, but it also establishes a material link to nature that improves the health and wellbeing of building occupants.

Why Timber Works: The Biophilic Benefits of Timber in Built Environments examines why people who inhabit buildings often have an innate preference for timber over other materials. We explain the basics of biophilic design and its importance to modern architecture against the backdrop of increasing urbanisation and declining mental health. We then take a closer look at the biophilic benefits of timber and discuss why it remains the premier solution for incorporating nature into built environments.

Porta is regarded as one of Australia’s leading suppliers of timber products to the home improvement, building, trade, and commercial sectors. Australian owned and operated, Porta has a rich history spanning over 70 years proudly manufacturing and distributing a broad range of interior and exterior timber products in certified timber species.

Download this whitepaper to learn about the biophilic benefits of timber and why it remains the premier solution for incorporating nature into built environments.