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.

This study mapped a wide range of naturally derived odors, including those derived from wood, on the two-dimensional axes of tense arousal (TA) and energetic arousal (EA), and examined whether quadrant differences influenced recovery following stress. In the context of Attention Restoration Theory and biophilic design, the study provided preliminary evidence that olfactory stimuli can be treated as a designable element in a functional and reproducible manner. In Experiment 1, wood flours, wood essential oils, and non-wood oils were mapped based on subjective ratings conducted under identical conditions, and differences in their TA–EA positions were revealed. Ratings of “naturalness” were associated with lower EA, suggesting that quadrant mapping can capture meaningful dimensions of odor perception. In Experiment 2, Hinoki and camphor were selected as contrasting stimuli. Hinoki facilitated initial recovery of autonomic nervous system activity, as shown by lower heart rate compared with no odor, whereas camphor showed no effect. These findings demonstrate that TA–EA quadrant mapping provides a practical framework for olfactory design in indoor environments.