The Connection Between Office Design and Mental Health
In recent times, many of us have transitioned from traditional office spaces to makeshift home workstations, turning bedrooms, kitchens, and even bathrooms into work areas. As we slowly return to our offices, it’s crucial to consider how these environments impact our mental health and overall well-being.
In developed countries, we spend over 90% of our time indoors, either at home or at work. Factors such as temperature can affect our comfort, but increasingly, we recognize that our environment influences not just comfort but physical and mental health. One significant development in this area is our understanding of indoor VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds), which are prevalent in many indoor spaces due to building materials and industrial products. New buildings, in particular, tend to have higher VOC levels due to the off-gassing of various materials. This issue is more pronounced in winter months when air exchange rates are lower, leading to increased VOC concentrations.
Research has shown that some materials can reduce VOC levels in indoor spaces. Generally, man-made materials like plastics, adhesives, and composites release more VOCs. Prolonged exposure to these compounds can cause short-term symptoms such as headaches and dizziness, and may have long-term effects on organs and the nervous system.
However, natural materials like real wood offer a healthier alternative. A recent report from the Technical University of Munich, titled ‘10 Reasons Why Wood is Good for You and the Scientific Research to Back It Up,’ highlights how wood can enhance mental health, a particularly relevant topic as we focus on mental health awareness this May.
Here are some key benefits of incorporating wood into your environment:
1. Reduced Stress:
Research indicates that natural environments, particularly those featuring wood, help reduce stress. Studies have shown that patients in hospital waiting rooms with wooden elements experience lower stress levels compared to those in rooms without wood. Similarly, a study in Bratislava found that visitors in wooden waiting areas reported lower stress levels and had decreased cortisol levels.
2. Improved Mood:
Wood often evokes feelings of warmth and comfort. A 2017 study found that both building experts and the general public have positive associations with wood. In Finland, natural, smooth wooden surfaces were preferred over coated ones for their pleasantness.
3. Enhanced Focus:
Exposure to natural environments, even briefly, can boost focus and cognitive function. A 2014 study demonstrated that looking at natural environments improved impulse control and reaction times. Another study found that spaces featuring cross-laminated timber (CLT) and clay performed better in terms of attention and reaction times compared to those with steel or synthetic materials.
4. Boosted Creativity:
Research consistently shows that wood and natural materials positively influence creativity. A 2019 Slovakian study revealed that environments with natural materials and warm colors fostered better problem-solving and creativity compared to those with artificial materials.
Mental Health and Sustainable Materials
As we transition back to office environments, considering the materials used in our spaces is essential for both physical and mental well-being. Natural wood, such as Accoya, a leading sustainable wood brand, offers numerous benefits. Accoya wood is used in various applications, including windows, doors, decking, and cladding, and contributes to a healthier and more pleasant indoor environment.
For more information on Accoya wood and its benefits, explore how this material can enhance your home or office.
