ORGA architect has published the Wood & Wellbeing report in collaboration with Built By Nature, bringing together decades of scientific research on the relationship between wood and human health and wellbeing. The report was developed with support and review from international experts and organisations, including InnoRenew CoE, UP IAM.

The publication summarises findings from peer-reviewed studies on topics such as human comfort, indoor environmental quality, cognitive performance, stress reduction, and the hygienic properties of wood. It also includes practical design recommendations, technical background information, and examples of timber buildings that demonstrate the application of research findings in practice.

Dr. Mike Burnard, Deputy Department Chair at InnoRenew CoE, UP IAM, was one of the expert advisors who supported ORGA Architect in validating their findings by reviewing its scientific content for accuracy and relevance.

The report also features the InnoRenew CoE building in Izola, Slovenia, a best-practice example of healthy timber construction. Designed by architects Eva Prelovšek Niemelä and Arne Niemelä, researchers actively monitor and measure the performance of the timber building, including the effects of wooden environments on occupants’ health and wellbeing.

Researcher Gijs Bruggink wrote the report with support from architects Ralf van Tongeren and Daan Bruggink. Gijs Bruggink, who leads the research behind the Wood & Wellbeing report, will also be the keynote speaker at the International Conference InnoRenew CoE 2026 (IRIC2026).

The full Wood & Wellbeing report can be downloaded from the ORGA architect website.

Image: Miran Kambič