This course will explore the critical role well-executed outdoor spaces play in prioritizing commercial building occupant/user health, wellness and productivity. Course participants will examine the principles of biophilic design and how to maximize the usability of rooftop decks and gardens, outdoor workspaces, public greenspaces and more to improve the user’s physical and mental state.

The course will then identify which wood-alternative offerings make it possible to reap the benefits of biophilic design while bringing function, durability and a high-end design aesthetic to the outdoor spaces of commercial properties. By embracing wood-alternative solutions, design professionals can ensure a lasting outdoor amenity that attracts long-term building occupants while promoting safe social interactions, connectivity to nature and access to natural light and fresh air.  

Finally, course participants will learn how to specify wood-alternative outdoor building products for a variety of commercial applications, including multifamily dwellings, mixed-use developments, public facilities, retail/restaurant plazas and corporate campuses.

Photo courtesy of Fortress Building Products

Todd Smith, CSI, CDT, LEED Green Associate, with valuable professional experience and years of building material sales and representation, Todd Smith, Senior Specifications Manager at Fortress Building Products, relates with designers, contractors, and manufacturers. Smith understands their roles, needs, and goals in the construction process passionately and respectfully working hard to provide innovative and team-oriented solutions to better the outdoor built environment.