The science behind biophilic design shows us that particular design features, materials and methods can evoke certain feelings in occupants, enhancing their experience of wellbeing in different spaces. But why does this happen and how can we apply this to our work in the built environment today?

To help answer this question, Wood for Good and the Construction Scotland Innovation Centre are holding a series of events focusing on the impact that design materials have on our health and wellbeing through biophilic design.

This three-part Transforming Timber event series will look at the science of healthy buildings as well as examples in practice of wellbeing built into projects. Featuring a range of speakers and experts from across the UK and further afield, the first webinar titled ‘The Science of Healthy Buildings’ will take place on Tuesday 3rd May 1pm-2pm.

This webinar will focus on the science and data behind biophilic design, how it can influence our health and wellbeing and why more designers and specifiers should be considering its impact.

Attendees will hear from Bill Browning, green building strategist, expert in sustainable design and founding partner of Terrapin Bright Green, as he discusses the science of biophilic responses to wood. Elina Grigoriou, interior designer, sustainability and wellbeing expert and co-founder of Grigoriou Interiors, will look at designing spaces that enhance wellbeing from a user perspective. They will be joined by Tabitha Binding, head of education and engagement at Timber Development UK (TDUK).

A Q&A session will follow the event.

Sarah Virgo, campaign manager at Wood for Good, said: “As part of our continued ambition to develop and encourage all the wonderful uses and benefits of wood in construction we’re hosting a series of webinars. These are a must-attend for all those already working within the timber and forestry sector, and for those construction professionals who wish to learn more about the science of biophilic design principles and may be looking to make the switch to using more environmentally friendly and sustainable building materials.

“Our hope is that this short learning series will start conversations and provide inspiration and new ideas from a variety of voices, plus practical solutions that individuals and businesses can take away with them. By coming together and sharing our learning and experiences, we can build momentum for positive change in the industry and make wood a first-choice material.”

The first health and wellbeing webinar supported by Wood for Good and the Construction Scotland Innovation Centre, ‘The Science of Healthy Buildings’, will take place on Tuesday 3rd May, 1pm-2pm. To find out more and to register, please visit here.