How Fräsch Keeps Things Fresh: Natural Finishes as Part of Biophilic Design
The term “biophilia” is defined as a human instinct to connect with nature. Biophilic design is therefore a way for natural elements to be incorporated into a space. Even if you’re unfamiliar with the term, you likely are already familiar with the concept.
Ask yourself:
- How often have you read a real estate listing touting light and airy rooms?
- Do you find yourself more comfortable or at ease in spaces filled with houseplants or fresh-cut flowers?
- Over the past several years, have you noticed a rise in the popularity of natural building materials like wood and stone?
These are but three examples of the powerful effect nature and natural materials can have on a space—and on the people inhabiting it.
The Rise of Biophilic Design
This video shared on CNN Health does a good job summing up the concept of biophilia and in doing so, highlights a study conducted by Slovakian researchers that touts the power of nature and natural materials.
[4:09] Timber has the ability to affect your physiological response to [a] space. A study in Slovakia compared a clinical waiting room made of wood with one made of laminate. Patients involved were calmer and less stressed in the wooden room, and the longer they stayed there, the more active their brains became. They were less afraid and nervous, and their memory and ability to think increased.
[Natural design is] a stepping stone to a wider environmental sense of responsibility and concern. And encourages us to become citizens of the planet.
Frankly, we couldn’t agree more—and we are delighted that biophilia is rising in popularity for the benefit of us all.
We are cognizant that sound affects our moods, well-being and even productivity, and acoustically speaking, we approach product design and development with this in mind. Aesthetically speaking, we strive to offer a well-balanced product line including offerings with natural appearances and finishes.
OPTION 1 – Wood-Grain Printed PET Felt
Adding to our color offerings and in response to the rise in demand for products that support biophilic design, we’re proud to announce two new colors: 03P Rich Soil and 04P Grey Wash. Both can easily be incorporated into a design, whether it be rustic or contemporary. These additions join 02P Pecan Medium Brown and 01P Birch Light Brown, two rich and natural PET color choices.
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03P Rich Soil (NEW) -
04P Grey Wash (NEW) -
02P Pecan Medium Brown -
01P Birch Light Brown
OPTION 2 – Stratawood
Wood-veneered Stratawood is one of our newest product offerings, and because of its versatility and recent accolades, is quickly becoming one of our most popular. With Stratawood, you’re able to create a linear design that can carry from ceiling to wall.
What is it? Panels comprised of wood-grain veneer with a black, PET backing. Stratawood comes in two varieties: Stratawood and Stratawood Lite, the difference being the weight of each panel and their NRC ratings.
- Stratawood: 24” x 96”x 0.87” | 35 lbs. | NRC .80–.55 depending on installation method
- Stratawood Lite: 24” x 96”x 0.37” | 4.8 lbs. | NRC .70–.40 depending on installation method
How is it applied? Installation is a snap – Stratawood can be glued or screwed directly to any existing ceiling or wall. A recent webinar presentation breaks down all the particulars for you.
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