Image: UBC C.K. Choi Building | Photo credit: Don Erhardt
What is naturally:wood and how can it support interior designers?
naturally:wood is an information resource profiling British Columbia as a global leader in wood design and a supplier of quality, environmentally responsible wood products from sustainably managed forests.
Resources explore topics such as biophilic design, material selection, embodied carbon, healthy interiors and emerging wood technologies, while showcasing real-world projects that demonstrate how wood can enhance occupant wellbeing and elevate interior environments.
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Why use wood?
Wood brings warmth, texture and authenticity to interior spaces, but its benefits go beyond aesthetics. As interest grows in biophilic design, many designers are exploring how natural materials can help create healthier, more engaging environments.
Biophilia describes our innate connection to nature. In interior design, that connection can be strengthened through natural elements such as daylight, plants, views to nature and wood.
Wood is one of the most effective ways to introduce biophilia into design. Its natural grain, colour and texture create spaces that feel welcoming and comfortable while adding visual richness and character.
For more about biophilic design using wood, read our publication, Biophilic design with wood in British Columbia (produced by Terrapin) and learn about the eight patterns of biophilia best expressed through wood.
What’s the proof?
The evidence for biophilic design using wood continues to grow. In a recent post-occupancy study, produced by Happy Cities, of mass timber offices at The Exchange in Kelowna employees report feeling content in their new exposed wood environment.
Key findings:
• 87% agree their mental wellbeing was higher in the new office
• 94% felt the space created a more positive impression on clients and visitors.
• 84% felt more energetic at work
Biophilic design using wood is not just about how a space looks, but how it performs for people and organisations.
Image: Alliance Française | Photo credit: Ed White Photographics
How does this translate into projects?
To help interior designers apply these principles in practice, in partnership with ZGF, naturally:wood has released the Inside Wood technical handbook.
The handbook presents key design strategies:
Prioritize visibility – Use wood where people will see and experience it most such as ceilings, entry points and gathering spaces.
Design holistically – Exposed wood should be treated as a system, integrated with lighting, acoustics and mechanical systems.
Balance aesthetics and performance – Consider acoustics and moisture movement, durability and maintenance, and code and fire requirements.
Designing with wood is not about adding a finish it’s about integrating a system that delivers multiple benefits at once.
