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Subjective Interactions of Wood-Derived Olfactory and Visual Stimuli During Work and Rest

Author

Listed:
  • Takashi Shima

    (Kajima Technical Research Institute, Kajima Corporation, 2-19-1, Tobitakyu, Chofu-shi 182-0036, Japan
    Department of Biomaterial Sciences, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, 1-1-1, Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku 113-8657, Japan)

  • Katsuhiko Sakata

    (Kajima Technical Research Institute, Kajima Corporation, 2-19-1, Tobitakyu, Chofu-shi 182-0036, Japan)

  • Yuko Tsunetsugu

    (Department of Biomaterial Sciences, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, 1-1-1, Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku 113-8657, Japan)

Abstract

This study investigated the effects of wood-derived visual and olfactory stimuli on subjective evaluations during work and rest. Twelve participants experienced seven conditions involving walnut panel interiors, Hinoki cypress scents, or their combination, introduced during either work or rest phases. A within-subjects design was used to assess spatial impressions, mood states, and fatigue. Visual stimuli significantly improved visual impressions across items such as “settling–unsettling” and “luxurious–simple” ( p < 0.05). The Hinoki scent enhanced olfactory impressions and, when introduced during rest, reduced negative mood states including “Anger–Hostility” and “Confusion–Bewilderment” ( p < 0.05). Combined stimuli further improved scent impressions ( p < 0.1), suggesting cross-modal effects. However, their introduction during work increased “Anger–Hostility” ( p < 0.05), highlighting the importance of context. Although the within-subjects design supports internal validity, the small sample size ( n = 12) limits generalizability. These findings provide insight into the context-sensitive use of wood-derived sensory elements in workplace design.

Suggested Citation

  • Takashi Shima & Katsuhiko Sakata & Yuko Tsunetsugu, 2025. "Subjective Interactions of Wood-Derived Olfactory and Visual Stimuli During Work and Rest," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 22(5), pages 1-14, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:22:y:2025:i:5:p:724-:d:1648173
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Eri Matsubara & Yuko Tsunetsugu & Tatsuro Ohira & Masaki Sugiyama, 2017. "Essential Oil of Japanese Cedar ( Cryptomeria japonica ) Wood Increases Salivary Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate Levels after Monotonous Work," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 14(1), pages 1-13, January.
    2. Graham Coulby & Adrian K. Clear & Oliver Jones & Alan Godfrey, 2023. "Personalised and Sustainable IEQ Monitoring: Use of Multi-Modal and Pervasive Technologies," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 20(6), pages 1-21, March.
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