Material properties of wooden surfaces used in interiors and sensory stimulation

By covering interiors, such as walls, ceilings and floors, with wooden surfaces, one can change the quality of indoor environments and thereby affect both psychological and physiological responses. Psychological responses refer to individuals’ emotional reactions toward interiors, while physiological responses include changes in the activity of the brain, the autonomic nervous system, the endocrine system, and the immune system. The above-mentioned responses considered in this study are those caused by visual, auditory, olfactory and tactile stimulation from interior wooden surfaces. Although earlier studies have presented valuable information on this subject, questions remain about the material properties of wood which are associated with the stimulation. Specifying the material properties can support architects, designers and engineers who intend to use wood in interiors for improving psychological and physiological responses. A literature study therefore has been conducted to determine (i) the material properties of wood which are associated with sensory stimulation, and (ii) to specify relevant recommendations or requirements which should be fulfilled when covering interiors with wooden surfaces. The results show a lack of knowledge regarding the material properties of wood and the degree in which it affects sensory stimulation.