Designers and architects are embracing the warmth and uniqueness of timber in interiors, bringing a sense of nature and wellbeing into commercial and public buildings.
According to Australian timber company Big River Group, there has been a steady increase in the use of decorative timber in commercial spaces, such as offices, libraries, hospitality venues and retail stores, as architects turn to biophilic design principles as standard.
“Commercial developers are not only looking for sustainable design, but an all-encompassing holistic approach to style and functionality, as well as health and wellness,” said John Lorente, general manager at Big River Group.
“According to a recent study, those in environments featuring natural wooden surfaces, reported higher personal mood, clarity, confidence and optimism on average. In response to this, we are seeing a rise in the use of decorative timbers on walls and ceilings being specified as part of the design element to enhance the commercial and retail space.”
Brisbane Airport by Arkhefield.
Image: Toby Scott
Big River Group offers a variety of timber options, from the natural blonde of hoop pine to the deep rustic tones of spotted gum and walnut colourings of blackbutt.
The company’s native hoop pine plywood for interior walls, ceilings and cabinetry, provides a clean, natural look, and can help to merge interiors throughout a public space. Predominantly used in the commercial sector, the decorative plywood marries warm, blonde varied tones with a clean grain and smooth texture.
One recent project to use Big River Group timber was Brisbane Airport by Arkhefield, where Big River’s spotted gum engineered timber is the centrepiece of the design, lending a warm aesthetic and almost domestic feeling to what is a very commercial and transient space.
For further information on Big River Group’s timber products, head here.
