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Blog / Design / Wood in hospitals as a therapeutic element
Wood in hospitals as a therapeutic element

Wood in hospitals as a therapeutic element

JULY 2026
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2 minutes
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The traditional perception of hospitals is changing, as for decades we have associated these spaces with cold, sterile environments dominated by metal surfaces, which often heighten people’s anxiety.

Today, healthcare architecture is evolving, and new projects seek to humanise each area by incorporating natural elements that bring a sense of calm. This is where wood takes centre stage in clinical design, providing visual and tactile warmth that contrasts with the clinical rigidity of the surroundings, transforming the building into an environment much more akin to a home.

Vithas Hospital, Barcelona (Spain)
Vithas Hospital, Barcelona (Spain)

This paradigm shift goes far beyond a mere aesthetic consideration, as discussed in the article ‘Wood & Health: Wood in the Future of Hospital Design’, in which architect Marta Parra (2025) explains how the presence of these textures alters patients’ perceptions. Ultimately, a welcoming space helps the mind to relax, a factor that can significantly speed up the recovery process.

Biophilic design in clinical settings reduces stress levels, lowers blood pressure and improves mood
Qyos at the Hospital
Qyos at the Hospital

What are the benefits of wood in healthcare settings?

Incorporating wooden elements into the hospital environment also addresses complex technical challenges, providing functional benefits that are essential for day-to-day medical practice.

Thermal and environmental comfort

Thanks to its hygroscopic properties, wood acts as a natural regulator, absorbing and releasing moisture to ensure a stable indoor climate, thereby directly enhancing well-being and the quality of the space.

Arnau de Vilanova Hospital, Lleida (Spain)
Arnau de Vilanova Hospital, Lleida (Spain)

Acoustic treatment

Its sound-absorbing properties minimise reverberation and acoustic stress. This is a key feature for creating serene and welcoming environments that promote calm, concentration and recovery.

Vithas Hospital, Barcelona (Spain)
Vithas Hospital, Barcelona (Spain)

Commitment to sustainability

The use of certified timber with a low environmental impact ensures that the fittings and spaces meet the most stringent standards of green architecture, eco-design and wellbeing certifications.

Vithas Hospital, Barcelona (Spain)
Vithas Hospital, Barcelona (Spain)

Warmth and cutting-edge aesthetics

The richness of its textures, tones and finishes offers absolute creative freedom. Wood allows for the creation of highly functional spaces that connect with the user through a warm, contemporary and visually inspiring design.

Vithas Hospital, Barcelona (Spain)
Vithas Hospital, Barcelona (Spain)

These surfaces are now used in far more places than just floors and walls, so incorporating natural finishes into clinical furniture, reception areas and communal spaces transforms the waiting experience. Pieces from the Noom range, with their wooden legs, and the Longo range, with its wood finish, allow this warmth to be brought into operational areas.

Noom Chair
Noom Chair

Understanding the key principles behind the design of modern hospital spaces is essential to discovering how furniture acts as an active therapeutic tool in patient care.

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