Top Wellness Consulting Firms: Expert Guidance for a Healthier Workplace

recharge room designed by Biofilico for HERO corporate offices in Switzerland

As ESG, Social Wellbeing and mental health become increasingly important for corporations with a sustainability agenda, companies are recognizing that investing in their workforce’s physical and mental well-being is not just beneficial for the employees but also advantageous for their bottom line.

This has led to the rise of health and wellness consulting firms like us that specialize in creating healthier, happier workplaces. Such firms rely on teams of experienced professionals who have a thorough understanding of the challenges facing companies in the health and wellness marketplace.

Our specific approach to integrating wellness into workplace environments is to offer a combination of healthy interior design services and operational policies but there are many different ways to cut this cake clearly.

So, let’s delve into the world of health and wellness consulting and explore why these services are becoming increasingly indispensable in conscious workplaces.

What is Health and Wellness Advisory?

Health and wellness consultants offer a comprehensive approach aimed at improving the overall health and well-being of employees within an organization.

These consulting services are designed to address various aspects of wellness, including physical fitness, mental health, nutrition, and creating supportive work environments.

The primary goal is to foster a happier, more productive workforce by implementing strategies that promote well-being. Wellness consulting often involves concept creation for innovative wellness programs and environments.

The Importance of Workplace Wellbeing

Employee Well-being: Health and wellness consulting is pivotal in enhancing the quality of life for employees. By focusing on both physical and mental health, these services help reduce stress, prevent burnout, and promote a balanced lifestyle. Employees who feel supported in their well-being are generally more engaged, motivated, and productive.

Reducing Healthcare Costs: Investing in wellness programs can significantly reduce healthcare costs for companies. By encouraging healthier lifestyles and providing resources for managing chronic conditions, wellness consulting can lower the incidence of illness and absenteeism, leading to substantial cost savings.

Positive Work Culture: A focus on wellness fosters a positive company culture. It demonstrates a company’s commitment to its employees' health and happiness, which can boost morale, enhance job satisfaction, and increase retention rates.

Enhanced Productivity: Healthy employees are more focused, energetic, and capable of performing their tasks efficiently. Wellness programs that promote regular physical activity, healthy eating, and stress management contribute to higher productivity levels within the workforce.

Matt Morley - wellness consultant

Benefits of Working with a Healthy Office Consulting Firm

Partnering with a healthy office consulting firm offers numerous advantages for both employees and organizations. These firms specialize in developing and implementing wellness programs tailored to the unique needs of each workplace.

Comprehensive Wellness Services: Consulting firms provide a wide range of wellness services, from fitness programs and nutritional counseling to mental health support and ergonomic assessments. This holistic approach ensures that all aspects of employee well-being are addressed.

Consistent Support and Guidance: Health and wellness consultants offer ongoing support and guidance, helping companies navigate the complexities of creating and maintaining a healthy workplace. They bring expertise and experience to the table, ensuring that wellness initiatives are effective and sustainable.

Customized Wellness Solutions: Each organization has its own culture and specific wellness needs. Consulting firms work closely with companies to develop customized solutions that resonate with their employees and align with their corporate goals.

Boosted Employee Engagement and Morale: Wellness programs designed by expert consultants often result in higher employee engagement and morale. When employees feel their company is genuinely invested in their health and well-being, they are more likely to be loyal and committed to their work.

Types of Workplace Wellness Consultancy

Wellness consulting firms come in various forms, each specializing in different aspects of health and wellness. Understanding the different types can help organizations choose the right partner to meet their specific needs.

Occupational Health Firms

Occupational health firms focus on creating safe and healthy work environments tailored to diverse industries. They provide comprehensive health services, including physical and mental health support, workplace assessments, and customized training programs. These firms are adept at addressing workplace hazards, managing employee health risks, and promoting overall well-being.

Customized Wellbeing Solutions: Occupational health firms offer tailored wellbeing solutions that cater to the unique needs of various industries. Whether it’s a manufacturing plant, a corporate office, or a healthcare facility, these firms design programs that align with the specific requirements of the workplace.

Multi-faceted Approach: They employ a multi-faceted approach that encompasses physical health, mental wellness, and workplace safety. Services may include ergonomic assessments, health screenings, and stress management workshops, all aimed at fostering a healthier work environment.

Mental Health Firms

Mental health firms specialize in providing support and guidance for managing mental well-being in the workplace. They offer holistic programs that address stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. These firms often provide services like group therapy, counseling, and workshops focused on mental wellness.

Stress Management Programs: Mental health firms develop programs that help employees manage stress and maintain a healthy work-life balance. These programs may include mindfulness training, resilience-building workshops, and access to mental health professionals.

Holistic Mental Wellness: Recognizing the impact of mental health on overall well-being, these firms offer holistic solutions that go beyond traditional counseling. They may provide services related to nutrition, lifestyle coaching, and support for issues like eating disorders and weight stigma.

Expert Guidance: With a team of experienced therapists and counselors, mental health firms offer expert guidance tailored to the specific needs of their clients. They help organizations create supportive environments where employees can thrive mentally and emotionally.

Biofit design Fritton Lake Hotel Gym 2022 by Edvinas Bruzas photography

Physical Health Firms

Physical health firms, such as our sister company Biofit, focus on enhancing physical well-being through fitness and nutrition. They offer gym design as well as fitness programs and wellness advisory to address physical health issues and improve overall employee morale and productivity.

Corporate Fitness Services: These firms design and implement fitness programs that encourage regular physical activity among employees. From on-site gyms and fitness classes to personalized workout plans, they provide resources that help employees stay active and healthy. This is less what we do at Biofit, leaving it to those businesses with a specific focus on providing training sessions on a regular basis; our work is more strategic and design-oriented than that.

Holistic Approaches: Physical health firms often adopt holistic approaches that integrate fitness, nutrition, and wellness. They may offer services like nutritional counseling, stress reduction techniques, and wellness workshops that promote a balanced and healthy lifestyle. This strikes us the way forward, integrating a range of solutions, however it works best for large scale organizations where there is more chance of finding a receptive audience for all these different wellness concepts.

Specialized Programs: Services such as acupuncture, massage therapy, and yoga are also commonly offered by physical health firms. These programs address various physical health issues, including stress, fatigue, insomnia, depression, and anxiety, contributing to a less anxious / more relaxed workforce, at least that is the intention!

Services Offered by Wellness Advisory Firms

Wellness consulting firms offer a broad range of services designed to support the health and well-being of employees. These services are tailored to meet the specific needs of each organization and its workforce.

Training and Education

Education and training are fundamental components of wellness consulting. Firms provide comprehensive training programs that equip employees with the knowledge and skills needed to maintain their health and well-being.

Health and Wellness Workshops: Workshops cover a wide range of topics, from nutrition and fitness to mental health and stress management. These sessions educate employees on best practices for maintaining their well-being and provide practical tools they can use in their daily lives.

Employee Training Programs: Training programs are designed to enhance the skills and knowledge of employees in areas related to health and wellness. This may include training on ergonomic practices, mental health first aid, and strategies for managing work-related stress.

Leadership Training: Consulting firms also offer training programs for leaders and managers to help them support the well-being of their teams. These programs focus on building awareness and understanding of health and wellness issues and developing leadership skills that foster a supportive work environment.

Annual Assistance and Support

Wellness consulting firms provide ongoing assistance and support to ensure the long-term success of wellness initiatives. This continuous engagement helps companies adapt to changing needs and maintain a focus on employee health and well-being.

Spa and Wellness Centre Management: For organizations with on-site wellness facilities, consulting firms offer management services that include audits, mystery shopper evaluations, and recruitment and training for spa staff. They provide guidance to ensure these facilities are run efficiently and effectively.

Ongoing Wellness Support: Firms provide continuous support for wellness programs, helping companies address any challenges that arise and making adjustments as needed. This includes regular check-ins, progress evaluations, and updates to wellness plans to keep them aligned with company goals.

Spa and Wellness Services

Creating unique and engaging wellness experiences is another key service offered by consulting firms. They design bespoke wellness solutions that are tailored to the specific needs and preferences of each client.

Bespoke Wellness Solutions: Consulting firms work closely with clients to develop customized wellness programs that reflect their unique culture and values. This may include personalized fitness plans, tailored nutritional advice, and specialized wellness activities that resonate with employees.

Unique Customer Experiences: Wellness firms focus on creating memorable and meaningful experiences that enhance employee well-being. From designing serene spa environments to organizing wellness retreats, they craft experiences that promote relaxation, rejuvenation, and overall health.

Expertise and Accreditation

When evaluating potential consulting partners, it’s important to look for firms with a proven track record and recognized expertise in the field of workplace wellness.

Proven Track Record: Choose firms that have demonstrated success in developing and implementing wellness programs. Look for case studies, client testimonials, and examples of past projects to assess their capabilities and effectiveness.

Compliance and Certifications: Ensure that the firm complies with relevant health and privacy laws and holds certifications in wellness and health coaching. Accredited firms are more likely to deliver high-quality services and adhere to best practices.

Fitwel Certification: A Guide to Boosting Workplace Wellness for a Healthier future

Healthy building certification fitwel accreditation

In the evolving landscape of modern workplaces, there is growing recognition of the role that building design plays in supporting the health and well-being of occupants.

Fitwel, a third-party building certification system, has emerged as a leading standard for assessing and improving health in the built environment.

At Biofilico, as Healthy Building Consultants certified in Fitwel, we aim to shed light on how this certification can make a transformative impact in workplaces.

We have used this tool with our FMCG client Bolton Group in Italy for example, as a way to structure their workplace wellness playbook.

What is Fitwel Certification and the healthy building movement?

Fitwel certification was developed by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in collaboration with the General Services Administration (GSA) with the goal of improving the holistic health of building occupants.

It is a third-party verification system that rates spaces across 12 categories, including the indoor environment, physical activity promotion, emergency preparedness, social spaces, and more.

Promoting building health through design and operations

The main focus of Fitwel is to promote health and well-being through impactful design, operational policies, and workplace culture enhancements.

By improving the quality of the spaces in which people spend most of their time, Fitwel certification aims to create healthier, happier, and more productive environments for building users.

Benefits and Process of Fitwel accreditation for real estate assets

Achieving Fitwel offers numerous benefits to organizations and building owners, demonstrating a tangible commitment to occupant health and well-being.

It provides a clear, structured pathway to elevate building performance through straightforward and actionable design, policy, and operational strategies.

Here are some key advantages and how the process works:

1. Enhanced Occupant Well-being: By implementing strategies to improve air quality, increase access to natural light, promote physical activity, and more, organizations create an environment that supports the physical and mental well-being of their employees.

2. Straightforward Certification Process: it provides a flexible framework for improving buildings, making it easy for developers, facility managers, and architects to pursue certification. Fitwel’s flexible scorecards provide clear goals to improve health outcomes, empowering designers to creatively implement these strategies in ways that best suit a building’s unique needs.

3. Strategic Prioritization of Health: it places well-being as a key strategic priority for organizations. By focusing on areas such as workplace ergonomics, physical activity, community support, and emergency preparedness, companies can address the broad spectrum of factors that influence occupant health.

Fitwel Cert Levels

The system is structured into three levels, with scores assigned based on a building's incorporation of health-promoting strategies across various categories:

• 1 Star (90-104 points): This level verifies foundational policies, programs, and design considerations that are in place to encourage positive health behaviors and outcomes.

• 2 Stars (105-124 points): This level reflects an enhanced commitment to active design and workplace wellness, indicating moderate but impactful health strategies.

• 3 Stars (125-144 points): Achieving three stars denotes a sector leader in health, showcasing a comprehensive integration of physical, mental, and social well-being strategies throughout the building.

This tiered system allows organizations to achieve different levels of recognition, depending on their efforts to improve workplace wellness and the number of points accumulated.

Building Design and Fitwel for building health and wellbeing

The Fitwel system encourages a wide range of design interventions to foster health and wellness. A building’s design plays a critical role in enhancing the physical, mental, and social well-being of its occupants. Several key design considerations evaluated during Fitwel certification include:

• Stairwell Design and Accessibility: Promoting physical activity is a key component of Fitwel. Thoughtfully designed stairwells that are easily accessible and aesthetically pleasing can encourage employees to choose stairs over elevators, supporting daily exercise goals.

• Outdoor Spaces: Access to outdoor spaces or gardens can enhance employee well-being, provide a change of scenery, and foster a stronger connection to nature, reducing stress levels and improving mood.

• Indoor Environment: Air and water quality are evaluated as part of the certification. Ensuring clean air and providing access to filtered water are key aspects of supporting occupant health.

• Food and Amenities: The availability of healthy food options in prepared food areas, nutritious snacks in vending machines, contributes to a more holistic human health strategy and is one of many recognized healthy building practices.

Evaluating the Effectiveness of Fitwel Certification

Fitwel certification is not only an effective means of improving the human health of occupants but also has substantial benefits for businesses in terms of employee performance and retention.

Studies have shown that work environments that support health and wellbeing help reduce absenteeism, boost productivity, and increase overall employee satisfaction.

Fitwel also guides organizations in identifying areas for improvement and assists in developing targeted strategies to address these challenges, fostering a more vibrant, engaged, and motivated workforce.

From a real estate perspective, this is a valuable asset that enhances building value, perhaps not on the same level as a LEED or BREEAM Green Building certification, or indeed WELL certification but valuable nonetheless.

Comparison to Other Certification Systems

Fitwel is one of several healthy building certification systems, but it has unique qualities that make it an attractive option.

Unlike systems like WELL or LEED, which can be complex and require substantial investment, Fitwel focuses on accessible, practical, and materials-based strategies that are often easier to implement and more affordable.

Its cost-effectiveness and practicality make it particularly appealing for projects that want to make impactful improvements without the resource intensity required by some other certifications.

While WELL has a detailed approach that covers aspects like nutrition, fitness, comfort, and mind, Fitwel takes a more straightforward approach, providing value through practical design and policies.

LEED, primarily focused on environmental sustainability, complements Fitwel’s health-oriented objectives by ensuring that the building’s overall environmental impact is also taken into account.

These certifications can sometimes be pursued in tandem to create a fully sustainable and health-supportive environment.

Implementation and Maintenance

Fitwel’s accreditation process is designed to be straightforward and achievable within 12 to 16 weeks. Certification remains valid for three years, and organizations must undergo recertification afterward to maintain their status.

The recertification process ensures that standards are being upheld and that the building continues to operate in alignment with the principles set forth during the initial certification.

Maintaining a Fitwel-certified status involves the ongoing evaluation of building policies, programs, and operations.

Regularly revisiting and updating strategies in areas like indoor air quality, social well-being, and physical activity promotion ensures the building remains aligned with the certification’s standards and keeps evolving to meet new health challenges.

Future of Fitwel Certification

As awareness of building health and wellness continues to grow, the demand for such certifications is expected to increase. The focus on employee health as a core part of corporate social responsibility and DEI has placed Fitwel in the spotlight as a key tool for the creation of healthier workplaces.

Conclusion

In an era where workplace wellness is of paramount importance, Fitwel certification is a worthy investment for organizations looking to prioritize health, enhance their brand, and create thriving, health-forward workspaces.

At Biofilico, we advocate for certifications like Fitwel, which align with our mission to design spaces that foster well-being and sustainability—making the world a healthier place, one building at a time.

The Power of Ergonomic Design: Boosting Comfort and Productivity in the Workplace

Ozana Business Club by Biofilico lounge area terrace view

In modern workplaces, productivity and wellbeing go hand in hand, so keeping workers comfortable and happy equates to improvements in a business’s bottom line; on this basis ergonomic design has a permanent seat at the table when considering workplace wellness.

Entire teams dedicated at medical universities such as Karolinska Universitet in Stockholm, Sweden are focused on ergonomics aiming to create a safe, comfortable, and productive workspace by taking into account human abilities and limitations, including body size, strength, skill, speed, sensory abilities, and attitudes.

This post explores the impact of ergonomic principles on comfort, productivity, and overall workplace satisfaction from our perspective as workplace wellness designers.

Understanding Ergonomic Design Principles

Definition and Importance

Ergonomic design involves tailoring workplaces, products, and systems to fit the capabilities and limitations of users. It aims to optimize human performance and well-being by minimizing discomfort and the risk of musculoskeletal disorders. Considering human factors and ergonomics early in the design process is crucial to creating safer, healthier, and more productive work environments.

In our coworking office design for Porto Montenegro for example, our aim was to create a number of different work environments for users, from low sofas, to high tables and high quality desk chairs by Spanish office furniture brand Actiu.

The Role of Human Factors Specialists

Human factors specialists apply ergonomic insights to develop ergonomic tools, equipment, and work environments that promote productivity and minimize health risks. Human factors engineering plays a crucial role in optimizing human well-being and overall system performance.

Ozana Business Club by Biofilico terrace marina view

Designing for Comfort and Productivity with Human Factors

Creating a Comfortable Work Environment

Ergonomic design alleviates physical strain and fatigue through well-designed workstations and tools. By fitting the user, it enhances comfort, reduces injury risk, and supports long-term health. Proper ergonomic design fits the human body and prevents repetitive strain injuries and musculoskeletal disorders.

Addressing repetitive movements is crucial to reduce ergonomic stresses. The prevalence of workplace injuries highlights the importance of ergonomic design in mitigating these risks.

Accommodating Diverse Needs

Ergonomic design considers the needs of diverse populations, including pregnant women, children, and the elderly. By adapting to unique requirements, it fosters inclusivity and accessibility. Ergonomic design helps prevent work-related injuries by considering the needs of diverse populations.

Testing and Feedback

Comfort Testing and User Feedback

Continuous user feedback and comfort testing refine ergonomic solutions, ensuring they effectively meet user needs and preferences. Comfort testing involves assessing the fit between ergonomic solutions and the human body.

Ozana Business Club interior design by Biofilico

Implementation and Policy

Implementing Ergonomic Design Principles to Prevent Workplace Injuries

Integrating ergonomic design into organizational policies ensures sustained benefits, fostering a culture of safety and well-being.

Emerging Trends and Opportunities in Ergonomics

The Future of Ergonomic Design

Technological advancements, such as AI and VR, present new avenues for ergonomic innovation. Sustainable design practices also shape the future, emphasizing eco-friendly solutions.

The International Ergonomics Association (IEA) plays a crucial role in advancing ergonomics science and practice, promoting the elaboration and advancement of ergonomics and human factors to improve the quality of life and overall system performance.

Conclusion

The Importance of Ergonomic Design

Ergonomic design is indispensable for creating workplaces that prioritize human comfort, safety, and efficiency. By embracing ergonomic principles, organizations foster healthier, more productive environments that adapt to evolving needs and technologies.

Explore how Biofilico integrates ergonomic expertise into wellness-focused interior design, enhancing your workplace’s comfort and productivity. Contact us to discover how ergonomic design can transform your environment into a hub of well-being and efficiency.

Unlocking the Power of Architecture for Health: Designing for Wellness

Zen Room design by Biofit for Fusion Students UK

Introduction to Healthcare Architecture

As discussed in Biofilico Founder Matt Aspiotis Morley’s 2024 TEDx talk, the design of our built environment plays a pivotal role in shaping our well-being. Healthcare architecture, in particular, stands at the forefront of this movement, significantly impacting the quality of life for individuals and communities alike.

Healthcare architecture can enhance human well-being by creating environments that support social connections, encourage physical activity, promote mindfulness, and facilitate learning and altruistic behaviors. Addressing rising mental health problems requires a holistic approach to health and well-being, integrating physical, social, and psychological factors.

The World Health Organization defines health as “a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being.” This holistic perspective highlights the importance of creating spaces that support all aspects of human (and we would argue also planetary) health.

The increasing wealth of medical research related to physical and mental health can be leveraged to inform the work we do in designing healthcare facilities and their interiors. Surely these spaces need to be doing everything possible to ensure the wellbeing of their visitors?

Architects and interior designers (like us) are uniquely positioned to influence this through innovative design that goes beyond mere aesthetics to actively promoting healthier lifestyles and habits.

By integrating elements of choice architecture for example, designers can subtly guide users towards healthier behaviors and create environments that not only heal but also enhance well-being.

Designing for Wellness

Patient-Centered Care and Mental Health

Patient-centered care is the cornerstone of effective healthcare architecture. This approach places the patient’s needs, comfort, and overall well-being at the core of design decisions.

By focusing on creating spaces that elevate the healing process and promote health-supporting human behaviours, architects can amplify the therapeutic impact of the built environment.

Key elements of patient-centered care in architecture include:

• Spacious Rooms: Providing ample space reduces stress and enhances comfort.

• Natural Light: Exposure to daylight can improve mood and accelerate recovery.

• Private Bed Spaces: Ensuring privacy helps maintain dignity and peace of mind for patients.

Such designs ensure that healthcare spaces not only facilitate medical treatment but also contribute positively to the overall healing process.

Biofit gym interior design using biophilia in hanging plants, cork flooring, natural wood wall finishes, circadian lighting

Healthy Environments

Creating a healthy environment within healthcare facilities can go beyond these basics however, for example by providing environments addressing factors such as noise, air quality, and light quality.

Biophilic Design

Biophilic design integrates natural elements into the built environment, fostering a connection between people and nature. This approach can be achieved through:

• Indoor Plants: An abundance of plants will improve indoor air quality by filtering toxins and also provide a calming effect, leaving us with a sense of vitality and nature-connection

• Natural Views: Windows and skylights that offer views of nature can reduce stress and enhance well-being as well as feelings of positivity.

• Green Spaces: Incorporating gardens and outdoor areas within healthcare settings can encourage physical activity for those able to move around or simple provide therapeutic, calming benefits of being close to nature.

Biophilic design elements are known to improve occupant health, happiness, and productivity, making them invaluable in healthcare settings.

Indoor Air Quality and Ventilation

Poor indoor air quality can lead to a range of health issues, including respiratory problems, infections, and headaches. Poor indoor environmental quality, due to inadequate ventilation, can significantly impact certain population sectors. Ensuring good ventilation is therefore crucial in healthcare environments to:

• Remove Pollutants: Effective ventilation systems help to eliminate indoor pollutants and allergens.

• Control Moisture: Preventing moisture build-up reduces the risk of mold and mildew, which can exacerbate respiratory conditions.

• Maintain Comfort: Proper ventilation helps regulate temperature and humidity levels, contributing to overall comfort.

Innovative ventilation solutions, combined with air purification technologies, can significantly enhance the air quality and health outcomes in healthcare facilities.

Thermal Comfort, Noise Reduction, and Biological and Physiological Symptoms

Maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature and minimizing noise are essential key physical design characteristics for creating a healing environment. Key strategies include:

• Temperature Control: Designing for a consistent temperature range of 18-24°C helps ensure thermal comfort.

• Insulation and Glazing: Using advanced insulation and glazing technologies, such as solar control glass and triple glazing, can stabilize temperatures and reduce external noise.

• Acoustic Treatments: Sound-absorbing materials and thoughtful layout planning can mitigate noise pollution, creating a more serene environment.

These elements contribute to a comfortable and tranquil setting, crucial for patient recovery and staff efficiency.

Infection Control and Operational Efficiency

Infection control is a critical aspect of healthcare architecture, aimed at preventing the spread of diseases within healthcare facilities and addressing physical ill health. Key architectural strategies include:

• Non-Porous Surfaces: Utilizing materials that are easy to clean and disinfect reduces the risk of contamination.

• Hands-Free Fixtures: Installing automated doors, faucets, and dispensers minimizes contact points where germs can spread.

• Isolation Areas: Designated spaces for isolation help contain infections and protect vulnerable populations.

By integrating these strategies into the design, healthcare facilities can maintain high standards of hygiene and safety.

Streamlined Healthcare Delivery

Operational efficiency in healthcare settings ensures that facilities can provide timely and effective care. This is achieved through:

• Optimized Layouts: Designing clear pathways and strategically placing departments close to each other reduce patient movement and staff travel time.

• Advanced Technology: Incorporating digital systems for patient management and communication streamlines operations and improves care coordination.

• Flexible Spaces: Creating adaptable spaces that can quickly convert to meet varying needs enhances responsiveness and utilization.

These design principles support the smooth operation of healthcare services, ultimately leading to better patient outcomes. Additionally, income and education level can impact the effectiveness of healthcare delivery, as they influence health outcomes and access to care.

Encouraging Active Lifestyles and Health Supporting Human Behaviours

Promoting physical activity within healthcare environments can play a significant role in preventing chronic conditions and supporting overall health.

Encouraging active lifestyles not only helps in disease prevention but also offers numerous health benefits, including improved physical and mental well-being. Architectural strategies to encourage activity include:

• Accessible Fitness Facilities: Providing gyms, walking paths, and exercise areas within healthcare complexes encourages patients and staff to stay active.

• Staircase Design: Prominently placed and inviting staircases can motivate individuals to choose stairs over elevators.

• Outdoor Spaces: Incorporating gardens, walking trails, and outdoor seating areas promotes physical activity and offers a respite from clinical settings.

Fostering Connections, Community, and Urban Health Resources

Social connections and a sense of community are vital for positive mental health. Healthcare architecture can support this through:

• Public Spaces: Creating inviting communal areas where patients, visitors, and staff can interact and relax.

• Comfortable Waiting Areas: Designing waiting rooms with comfortable seating, natural light, and engaging surroundings can reduce anxiety and enhance the patient experience.

• Community Integration: Locating healthcare facilities within easy reach of community amenities fosters a seamless integration with the surrounding area.

Such designs not only enhance the patient experience but also contribute to a supportive and connected community.

lounge area with pool table and biophilic design by Biofilico for Carnegie Mellon University Qatar

How does the WELL Building Standard impact physical and mental health?

The WELL Healthy Building Standard is an evidence-based system for measuring, certifying, and monitoring the performance of building features that impact human health and well-being.

It integrates specific strategies across various domains to positively affect both physical and mental health. Here’s how some of these strategies foster a healthier environment:

1. Air Quality

Ventilation and Filtration: WELL standards emphasize optimal ventilation and advanced filtration systems to reduce indoor air pollutants. Improved air quality decreases respiratory issues and lowers the risk of allergies and asthma.

Low-Emission Materials: Using materials that emit minimal volatile organic compounds (VOCs) reduces the presence of harmful chemicals in the air, minimizing headaches, eye irritation, and long-term chronic conditions.

Impact on Mental Health:

Clean and Fresh Air: Good air quality promotes cognitive function and enhances mood, leading to a more productive and comfortable environment for occupants.

2. Water Quality

Filtration and Treatment: Ensuring access to clean, safe drinking water by employing rigorous filtration and treatment methods helps prevent waterborne diseases and supports overall hydration, crucial for bodily functions and performance.

Impact on Mental Health:

Availability of Hydration Stations: Readily accessible water stations encourage regular hydration, which is linked to better concentration and mental clarity.

3. Nourishment

Healthy Food Access: The WELL standard promotes the availability of nutritious food options, including fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. This helps prevent obesity, diabetes, and other diet-related health issues.

Labeling and Portion Control: Guidance on food labeling and portion sizes supports informed eating choices and prevents overeating.

Impact on Mental Health:

Healthy Eating Environment: Creating spaces that encourage mindful eating and reducing the presence of junk food can help alleviate stress and improve overall mental well-being.

4. Lighting

Circadian Lighting Design: WELL emphasizes lighting that supports our natural daily rhythm in order not to distrupt sleep patterns and promote deep rest at night.

recharge room design by Biofilico for Carnegie Mellon University Qatar

Recharge Rooms in Healthcare Buildings

Recharge rooms are dedicated spaces designed within healthcare environments to provide a calming retreat for staff, patients, and visitors. These rooms are carefully crafted to offer a respite from the high-stress, high-pressure atmosphere typical of healthcare settings.

Their primary aim is to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and support the overall well-being of those who use them.

Here are a few of their key characteristics and benefits:

Soothing Color Palette: Soft, muted colors that are visually calming.

Natural Elements: Use of biophilic design elements like plants, natural materials, and imagery of nature.

Comfortable Seating: Ergonomic furniture that supports relaxation and reduces physical stress.

Controlled Lighting: Adjustable lighting to simulate natural light cycles or provide dim, relaxing illumination.

Soundscapes: Incorporation of calming sounds such as nature noises or gentle music.

Aromatherapy: Diffusion of calming scents like lavender or eucalyptus to enhance relaxation.

Technology Integration:

• Digital Mindfulness Tools: Access to guided meditation apps, virtual nature scenes, or relaxing visual projections.

• Noise Cancellation: Soundproofing or white noise systems to create a peaceful environment.

• Privacy and Quiet:

  • Soundproofing: Design that minimizes external noise.

  • Private Spaces: Areas where individuals can retreat for solitude or quiet reflection without disturbances.

Enhanced Sleep Quality:

Promoting Restorative Rest: Exposure to calming, low-stimulus environments can improve sleep patterns, particularly for healthcare staff who often work irregular shifts.

Mental Health Benefits

Reduced Anxiety and Depression: Regular use of recharge rooms can decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression by providing a safe space to decompress and reflect.

Enhanced Mood: The combination of soothing sensory experiences can elevate mood and increase feelings of well-being.

Cognitive Restoration:

Mental Clarity: Breaks in a tranquil environment improve mental clarity and focus, crucial for healthcare staff making critical decisions.

Reduced Burnout: Recharge rooms help prevent burnout by providing necessary mental breaks, allowing healthcare workers to return to their duties refreshed and rejuvenated.

Enhanced Social Connections:

Shared Spaces for Interaction: While designed for individual retreat, recharge rooms can also serve as a quiet place for small, intimate interactions, fostering a sense of community and support among staff and patients.

Practical Applications in Healthcare Settings:

Staff Well-being: a safe place to de-compress, take a time out or even a power nap when needed

Break Room Alternatives: Recharge rooms serve as an alternative to traditional break rooms, offering a quieter and more restorative environment for healthcare staff.

Shift Transition Zones: Ideal for use before and after shifts to help staff mentally prepare or decompress.

Patient Support:

Pre- and Post-Treatment Areas: Patients can use recharge rooms before or after treatments to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.

Family and Visitor Retreats: Spaces for family members and visitors to find respite and gather their thoughts, reducing the stress of supporting a loved one in a healthcare setting.

Recharge rooms in healthcare buildings play a crucial role in fostering physical and mental well-being for all occupants. By providing a sanctuary from the demands of the healthcare environment, these spaces contribute to a healthier, more balanced approach to patient care and staff support.

Investing in the design and integration of recharge rooms reflects a commitment to holistic health, recognizing the profound impact of the built environment on overall wellness.

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Conclusion

Architecture has a profound impact on our health and well-being. By thoughtfully designing healthcare environments with elements that prioritize physical and mental health, architects can create spaces that are not only functional but also therapeutic.

Addressing rising mental health problems through thoughtful architectural design is crucial for a holistic approach to health and well-being.

At Biofilico, we specialize in wellness-focused architectural solutions that enhance health and happiness. From integrating biophilic design to ensuring operational efficiency and comfort, our expertise can help you transform your healthcare facility into a space that truly promotes well-being.

Speak to our expert team today to learn how we can help you unlock the power of architecture for health.

Interior Design in Hospitals: Creating Recharge Rooms and Restorative Spaces for Staff Well-being

biophilic recharge room (a.i. generated image by biofilico)

In the high-pressure environment of healthcare, the well-being of medical staff is of paramount importance. Long hours, intense workloads, and the emotional toll of patient care in hospitals and clinics can lead to stress and burnout. To address these challenges, hospitals are increasingly incorporating recharge rooms and restorative spaces into their design.

These dedicated areas provide healthcare workers with a quiet sanctuary where they can rest and recover. At Biofilico Wellness Interiors, we understand the critical role these spaces play in supporting the health and productivity of hospital staff.

In this blog, we explore the concept of recharge rooms, their benefits, and the importance of biophilic design in creating these restorative environments.

What is a Recharge Room - interior design in hospital waiting rooms?

A recharge room, also known as a restorative space or wellness room, is a designated area within a hospital where staff can take a break from the demands of their job. These rooms are often located near treatment rooms to provide quick access for staff needing a break. These rooms are designed to offer a tranquil environment where employees can relax, de-stress, and rejuvenate during their shifts.

Unlike traditional break rooms, recharge rooms focus on promoting mental and physical well-being through thoughtful design and amenities.

Key Features of Recharge Rooms:

1. Quiet and Private: Recharge rooms are often separated from the hustle and bustle of the hospital, providing a peaceful retreat away from the noise and activity of patient care areas.

2. Comfortable Seating: Ergonomic chairs, lounges, and soft furnishings ensure that staff can rest comfortably and effectively recover from physical and mental fatigue.

3. Welcoming Reception Area: A well-designed reception area can set the tone for the entire recharge room, making it feel inviting and comfortable. Using natural materials, like rocks, can create a relaxing and less intimidating atmosphere.

4. Calming Ambiance: Soft lighting, soothing colours, and natural elements create a serene atmosphere that helps to reduce stress and anxiety.

5. Multi-Functional: These rooms may include spaces for quiet reflection, napping, meditation, or light exercise, catering to the diverse needs of hospital staff.

6. Accessible Amenities: Recharge rooms often provide amenities such as charging stations, refreshments, and even massage chairs to enhance relaxation and convenience.

Benefits of Biophilic Design in a Hospital Recharge Room

Biophilic design is a concept that integrates natural elements into the built environment to promote a connection to nature for both staff and patients. In the context of hospital recharge rooms, biophilic design can significantly enhance the restorative experience for staff. Here are some key benefits:

1. Stress Reduction

Nature has a profound impact on reducing stress and promoting relaxation. Incorporating elements such as indoor plants, water features, and natural light into recharge rooms can create a calming environment that helps to alleviate the pressures of hospital work. Research has shown that exposure to nature can lower cortisol levels, reduce heart rates, and improve overall mood, contributing to a relaxing atmosphere.

2. Improved Mental Well-being

Biophilic design can positively influence mental health by providing a soothing and comforting space for staff to unwind. Natural elements such as greenery, natural materials (wood, stone), and views of the outdoors can create a sense of tranquility and peace. This connection to nature can counterbalance the often sterile and clinical atmosphere of a hospital, offering a refreshing contrast. Incorporating these natural elements are important factors in creating a space that supports mental well-being.

3. Enhanced Cognitive Function

Studies have demonstrated that environments incorporating natural elements can boost cognitive function, enhancing focus, creativity, and problem-solving abilities. In recharge rooms, this can translate to staff returning to their duties feeling more alert and capable, which is crucial in high-stakes healthcare settings. Implementing these interior design ideas can help create an environment that boosts cognitive function.

4. Physical Health Benefits

Biophilic design also contributes to physical well-being. Natural light and fresh air can improve sleep quality and energy levels, while plants can enhance air quality by reducing pollutants and increasing oxygen levels. These factors contribute to the overall health and vitality of hospital staff. Similar principles can be applied to other healthcare settings, such as a dental clinic, to enhance physical health benefits.

5. Boosted Morale and Job Satisfaction

Creating spaces that prioritize staff well-being demonstrates a hospital’s commitment to its employees. Recharge rooms designed with biophilic elements can boost morale, enhance job satisfaction, and foster a sense of being valued and supported. This can lead to lower turnover rates and a more positive work environment. These design principles can also be applied to dental practices to boost morale and job satisfaction.

biophilic recharge room (a.i. generated image by biofilico)

Designing Effective Recharge Rooms with Biophilic Elements

To create recharge rooms that truly support staff well-being, it’s essential to incorporate biophilic design principles effectively into the overall clinic design. Here are some strategies to consider:

Natural Light and Views

Maximize natural light by placing recharge rooms in areas with large windows or skylights. Views of nature, whether through windows or via nature-inspired murals and artwork, can enhance the sense of connection to the outdoors. Natural light and views can also enhance the waiting room, making it a more pleasant space for patients.

Indoor Greenery

Incorporate a variety of indoor plants to purify the air and provide visual and sensory engagement. Living walls or vertical gardens can be particularly impactful, adding lush greenery without taking up floor space. Indoor greenery can also be effectively used in an aesthetic clinic to create a calming environment.

Natural Materials and Their Benefits

Use natural materials such as wood, stone, and bamboo in the furniture and finishes. These materials not only contribute to the aesthetic appeal but also evoke a sense of warmth and grounding.

Using natural materials can also enhance the design of a dental office, making it more welcoming and comfortable.

Water Features

Consider adding water features like small fountains or aquariums. The sound and sight of flowing water can have a calming effect, promoting relaxation and mental clarity.

Water features can also be incorporated into a doctor's office to create a calming environment.

Organic Forms and Patterns

Integrate organic shapes and patterns that mimic natural forms. Curved lines, asymmetrical layouts, and textures inspired by nature can create a more harmonious and inviting environment.

Organic forms and patterns can also enhance the design of a dental surgery, making it more inviting and calming.

Sensory Stimulation

Incorporate elements that engage the senses, such as soothing scents, tactile surfaces, and gentle sounds. Aromatherapy diffusers and soft music or nature sounds can further enhance the restorative experience. Sensory stimulation can also be an important aspect of dental clinic design, enhancing the patient experience.

Flexible and Adaptive Spaces

Design recharge rooms to be flexible and adaptable to different needs and preferences. Provide a variety of seating options and areas for different activities, from quiet reflection to social interaction.

Flexible and adaptive spaces can also be beneficial in dental clinics, catering to the diverse needs of patients and staff.

Soft Lighting

Use a combination of natural and artificial lighting to create a warm and inviting ambiance. Adjustable lighting levels can allow staff to personalize their environment to their comfort. Soft lighting can also enhance the ambiance of aesthetic clinics, making them more inviting and comfortable for patients.

Conclusion: Prioritizing Staff Well-being through Thoughtful Design

Recharge rooms and restorative spaces are more than just a trend in hospital design; they are a vital investment in the health and productivity of healthcare workers.

By incorporating biophilic design principles, hospitals can create environments that not only offer respite from the demands of the job but also actively contribute to the physical and mental well-being of their staff.

At Biofilico Wellness Interiors, we are dedicated to creating spaces that support wellness and rejuvenation. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you design recharge rooms that enhance the well-being of your healthcare team.

For more insights and guidance on designing wellness-focused interiors, visit our website Biofilico or reach out to our team of expert designers.

A guide to workplace wellness design

HERO healthy office, Switzerland (indoor garden by Biofilico)

A guide to workplace wellness design for a green healthy office

In this mini guide to designing healthy offices as part of a workplace wellness strategy, we cover what we consider to be the key fundamentals to get right: Indoor Air Quality (IAQ); Acoustic Comfort; Biophilic design; Thermal Comfort and Physical wellbeing.

We divide our content up into the distinct themes of a workplace wellness and wellbeing consultancy project, from construction, to interiors design and building operations as each phase offers distinct opportunities.

Indoor Air Quality (IAQ)

Indoor Air Quality (IAQ)plays a vital role in shaping a healthy office, optimizing productivity and cognitive function, while indirectly reducing absenteeism.

It refers to the cleanliness and safety of the air within a building, encompassing a variety of potentially harmful pollutants, VOCs, dust particles and so on. 

By reducing the risk of allergies and respiratory problems, workers are assured of a healthier office environment to work in each day.

Investing in IAQ not only creates an appealing, healthy workspace but also cultivates employee well-being and boosts productivity.

But don't take our word for it, before we get into the 'how' let's review some of the more prominent research studies into this topic.

Research studies into Indoor Air Quality for employee health

• COGfx Study: best performance with carbon dioxide (CO2) levels <600 parts per million, ventilation rates at 40 cubic feet per minute per person, and TVOCs <50 micrograms per cubic meter.

  • This led to an 8% increase in employee decision-making performance. Additionally, crisis responses, information usage, and strategy test scores were higher in occupants who resided in green buildings as opposed to conventional buildings.

  • Increased productivity is 150x more significant than the resulting energy costs ($30 per year per person as a result of running the ventilation double the normal rate)

• Elevated PM2.5 levels detrimentally affect cognitive performance during short-term indoor exposure.

• “Improved ventilation rates can result in up to 35% fewer staff sick days” 

• Indoor spaces can be up to 5x more polluted than the outdoors due to VOCs that come from furnishing, paint, textiles, and more. 

Healthy building standards on IAQ for physical and mental health

• WELL Certified for a healthy office building

  • Formaldehyde: less than 27 ppb

  • Total VOC: <500 μg/m³

  • Carbon Monoxide: <9ppm

  • PM2.5 <15 μg/m³

  • PM10 <50 μg/m³

  • Ozone <51ppb

  • Radon <0.148 Bq/L in lowest occupies level of the project

• RESET AIR for a healthy workplace

  • Total VOC: <400 μg/m³

  • Carbon Dioxide: <600ppm

  • PM2.5 <12 μg/m³

  • Carbon Monoxide: <9ppm

• Fitwel for healthy office design

  • Total VOC: 500 μg/m³

  • Carbon Dioxide: <700ppm

  • PM2.5 <25 μg/m³

  • Carbon Monoxide: <9ppm

  • Formaldehyde: less than 27 ppb

  • Humidity: 30-60%

IAQ Design Concepts: Construction Phase

1. Natural Ventilation

   1. Operable Windows: Ensuring windows can be opened to allow fresh air circulation. Windows should be able to partially or fully open, allowing occupants to control airflow.

   2. Cross Ventilation: Position windows or vents across each other to create a natural cross-ventilation effect.

      1. Skylights can offer an extra bit of ventilation.

   3. Ventilation Design: Design HVAC systems that naturally optimize airflow. This may involve placing vents of openings in areas where prevailing winds can be harnessed.

   4. Atriums and Courtyards: These open spaces draw air into the building, improving air quality by acting as natural ventilation channels.

   5. Pathways: Design open floor plans to minimize obstructions to airflow.

2. Chemical Storage Ventilation

   1. Ensure proper ventilation in janitor closets, copy/print rooms, storage rooms, and other places that include the use of chemicals.

IAQ Design Concepts: Refurbishment

1. Air Filters

   1. High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) Filters: HEPA filters capture tiny particulates like dust, pollen, and airborne viruses and contaminants. 

      1. If HEPA is not possible, make sure your filter is MERV 13 or higher

   2. Activated Carbon Filters: These filters remove VOC’s, odors and gases, which is essential to keeping a clean workspace.

2. Non-Toxic Healthy Materials

   1. Green Purchasing Policy: Look out for these chemicals that are linked to harming your health and ensure a plan for the selection of product.

      1. PFAS: coined as ‘forever chemicals’, these chemicals stay in the environment and in the body indefinitely and disrupt hormonal functions.

      2. Antimicrobials: these are associated with reproductive problems.

      3. Flame retardants: Though added to products to meet flammability standards, they are known to harm human health, even without improving fire safety.

      4. Bisphenols + Phthalates: Another hormone-disrupting chemical found in food containers and flooring.

      5. Some Solvents: Products like oil-based paints and sealants contain solvents that are linked to neurological problems.

      6. Certain Metals: Some metals found in paint and fluorescent lights can be a risk to pregnant women and children.

      7. ​​Fact Sheet: The Living Building Challenge (LBC) Red List 2023 Update: A Guide for Project Teams. (a guide on what specific chemicals to avoid)

   2. Check for specific eco-friendly and sustainable, non-toxic certifications for paint, finishes, and furniture such as:

      1. Greenguard: Evaluates products for their low emotions of volatile organic compounds and other harmful pollutants. 

      2. Green Seal: Sets environmental standards for cleaning supplies, paints, building materials, etc. It ensures that certified products meet specific criteria for sustainability, performance, and health.

      3. Healthy Product Declarations (HPDs): Provide details on ingredients in building products and their potential health impacts. Develops standards with LEED in mind.

      4. Cradle2Cradle: Evaluates products based on material health, material reutilization, renewable energy, carbon management, water stewardship, and social fairness. 

      5. Mindful Materials

      6. LBC, WELL, LEED, and EGCC also set guides on materials

      7. Toxic material reduction | WELL Standard

   3. Product databases

      1. Healthy Materials Lab Material Collections

   4. Ensure asbestos-free property 

3. Healthy Entrance

   1. Tracking dirt into the office can bring in bacteria, heavy metals, and other toxins which can get into the air. Some measures to combat this are

      1. Entry Walk-Off System: grills, grates, and mats at the entrances when people can clean their shoes. 

      2. Shoe Cleaning Stations: This can include brushes or automated machines, ensuring they’re entering the office with cleaner shoes.

      3. Entry Air curtains: These devices release a stream of air that acts a barrier that prevents outdoor pollutants and insects from entering the building.

Operational

1. Air Quality Sensors (we are fans of Kaiterra but there are plenty of commercial grade brands out there now)

   1. Install air quality sensors to detect CO2 levels, pollutant levels (PM2.5 and PM10), and temperature. 

   2. Consider opting for smart sensors that automatically adjust windows or vents to maintain optimal indoor conditions.

2. Increase Ventilation Rates

   1. 40 cubic feet per minute per person

   2. Comply with all requirements set in ASHRAE 62.1-2013

3. Pest Management

   1. To reduce toxins and allergens, a building should ensure a Pest Management Plant that monitors and inspects for pests.

   2. Non chemical prevention methods include sanitation, removing clutter, and implementing cleaning protocols.

HERO healthy office acoustic booths by Citterio s.p.a

Acoustic Comfort

Acoustic comfort refers to the quality of the acoustics within an indoor environment and its impact on the people working there.

When designing a workspace for wellness, ensuring a high degree of perceived and real acoustic comfort is crucial for mental health in particular. 

Proper sound management can significantly enhance workplace wellness by reducing noise-related stress in office environments. 

Surveys show that mismanaged noise within offices impacts concentration, leading to headaches, distractions and low level stress that impede rather than enhance productivity. 

By creating a quiet workspace with just the right amount of ambient background sound (note: not noise!), employers can feel confident that they promote health amongst employees in their regular work environment.

Research on acoustic comfort in office space

• In a study conducted in America, out of 1000 employees, 70% reported noise affects their working rhythm and satisfaction, with a significant decrease in cognitive performance and health. 

• Recommended indoor noise range in an open space is 45-50dB, and 35-40dB in spaces meant for private work and concentration. 

• Participants in a study reported higher levels of fatigue and less motivation to continue working in open-plan offices with a loud environment.

• “According to the Leesman Index, 75% of employees feel that better acoustics are an important quality in an effective workplace, however only 30% of employees were satisfied with noise levels in their workplace.”

• Due to a higher reporting of stress in employees due to noisy offices, there is a correlation with increased coping strategies, which leads to an elevated amount of time wasted. 

Design Concepts for enhanced acoustic comfort: Construction Phase

1. Acoustic strategies in Interior Design

   1. Isolating HVAC Equipment: Proximity of HVAC equipment, poor noise isolation for equipment rooms, and exposed ceilings with open ductwork are some of the main causes of excessive noise in office design so be sure to plan ahead!

   2. Acoustic flooring: Choose materials such as sustainable carpet, cork or rubber to dampen sound, consider the use of acoustic underlay as part of a workplace design acoustic strategy.

   3. Double Glazing: Installing double-glazed windows and doors prevents external noise from affecting the working environment.

   4. Acoustic Panels: Installed on walls and ceilings by interior designers, these panels can absorb sound, reduce echoes, and improve sound quality in specific areas, making them highly targeted ways of enhancing working life for staff.

   5. Soundproof Paint: Special acoustic paint can be used to reduce noise and reflection

   6. Soundproof partitions: Use dividers or partitions to create areas for focused work or relaxation by minimizing noise.

2. Layout planning to increase productivity via acoustic comfort

   1. Zoning: Organize the office into quiet, focused work, collaborative areas, and recreational zones.

   2. Open and Closed Spaces: Though open layouts lead to more collaboration, they can lead to noise. Consider enclosed spaces like privacy pods and private meeting rooms. 

Design Concepts for enhanced acoustic comfort: Refurbishment

1. Healthy Materials

   1. Ecological Materials: Using green materials like mycelium and cork with natural sound absorbing properties.

   2. Soft Furnishing: Incorporating soft fabric curtains, rugs, and upholstered furniture can minimize reverberation.

2. Audio Sound Tracks

   1. Biophilic Soundscaping:Sounds from the natural environment, such as birdsong and flowing water, can help with reducing stress.

   2. Sound-Masking: Implementing a sound-masking system generates a consistent background “white noise” to prevent private conversations from traveling in open floor plans.

Biophilic recharge room / restorative quiet space, HERO offices, Switzerland

Biophilia and biophilic design

Biophilia is the integration of natural elements, such as plants, natural light, and organic materials, into the design of a workspace.

It's about creating an office environment that reflects our innate connection with nature. Implementing biophilia into office design allows for a plethora of mental and physical wellbeing benefits. 

Due to its power in psychological restoration, biophilic design enhances well-being by reducing stress and boosting mood, which in turn helps to increase job satisfaction.

Through biophilic, nature-inspired art and designs, these office interior design concepts can foster a sense of connection to the workplace. 

Research into biophilic design for employee health

• Environmental psychology research emphasizes that humans have an innate need for a connection with nature, which can aid in psychological restoration. In urban settings, incorporating elements like parks, interior designs inspired by nature, indoor plants, and green views can facilitate mental rejuvenation, contributing to overall well-being.

• Some benefits from introducing biophilia into the workplace, as reported by workers, were enhanced collaboration, improved morale, and mitigation against stress.

• 10% of employee absences could be attributed to architectural elements that do not connect with nature. 

• Better lighting that correlates with a person's natural circadian rhythms means better sleep quality. Studies found that in offices with higher amounts of daylight and improved lighting systems (increase in 374 LUX), there was a 25% increase in participant's sleep score, which led to a 2.8 increase in cognitive function. There were also higher scores in crisis response and strategy.

• Colors can dictate the moods of specific zones within an office. Green could help with calming occupants and could bring down eye fatigue. Blue is known for promoting productivity and well-being, being a stimulating color. And yellow is considered the color of creativity, known to stimulate mental clarity.

• In a global study, a third of office workers stated that the design of an office affects their decision to work at a company.

• Surveys show that the top elements employees want to see in their office, in descending order, are natural light, indoor plants, quiet working space, view of the sea, and bright colors. 

Design Concepts incorporating biophilia: Interior design phase

1. Biophilic Design Elements

   1. Water features: Having elements like fountains or aquariums can provide a sense of tranquility.

   2. Forms and Patterns: Incorporating patterns like fractals can encourage creativity.

   3. Art: Nature-inspired sculptures, objets d’art, and artworks. 

Design Concepts incorporating biophilia: Refurbishment phase

1. Plants

   1. Individual Plants

   2. Green Walls: Green walls have the added benefit of filtering air. 

2. Materials

   1. Ecological Materials: Natural and sustainable materials, such as stone, cork, and wood in decor and furniture can create a calming atmosphere. 

3. Nature Views & Light

   1. Install Large Windows: This will allow in more daylight, improving employees' circadian rhythms.

   2. Layout: Position workspaces closer to windows and views of nature.

   3. LED Lights: Install lighting systems with blue-white tones in the middle of the day, with warmer tones closer to sunrise and sunset.

   4. Operable Shading: Give occupants control over the amount of light coming in.

4. Color

   1. Nature-Inspired Color Palette: Choose colors inspired by nature, such as earthy tones or cool blues and greens. 

5. Scent

   1. Aromatherapy: Scents like peppermint, lavender, and rosemary aid in mental clarity and make rooms more enjoyable.

6. Wellness Spaces

   1. Rooms that incorporate all of these concepts to give people a place to recharge.

Thermal Comfort in a healthy workplace design

Thermal comfort in the context of office wellness refers to creating an indoor environment where employees feel physically comfortable with the temperature and airflow.

It involves maintaining an optimal balance to prevent individuals from feeling too hot or too cold.

Achieving thermal comfort is essential for promoting overall well-being in the workplace. When employers are uncomfortable due to a deviation from their optimal thermal environment, they become disengaged with their work, focusing too much on how to stay warm or cool off, which shows up in lower satisfaction and productivity. 

Research on thermal comfort in offices

• Participants in a study who worked in a thermal comfort zone, as defined by ASHRAE, performed 5% higher on cognitive simulations than those outside of it.

• Productivity reduces by 4% when occupants feel too cold, whereas warmer temperatures will

Design Concepts for thermal comfort: Construction Phase

1. Insulation

2. Temperature Control

   1. Flexible HVAC System: Install a zoned heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system that allows individual temperature control.

   2. Window Treatments: Provide adjustable blinds or curtains to control sunlight and temperature.

Design Concepts for thermal comfort: Refurbishment

1. Thermal Zones

   1. Barriers: Use curtains or room dividers to create thermal barriers in open spaces, allowing employees to customize their comfort.

   2. Thermostat Controls: Allow for smaller individual rooms to have thermostat controls.

   3. Personal Desk Fans and Heaters: Designate spaces for personal desk fans or small space heaters that employees can use as needed.

HERO healthy offices, Switzerland - activated stairwells

Promoting physical wellbeing in a healthy office

Creating a wellness-focused office environment for physical well-being is critical, with ergonomics and active design two essential elements to achieve this goal. 

By implementing ergonomic designs that fit the needs and capabilities of employees, you can promote comfort, reduce strain, and prevent injuries. 

Ergonomic design involves a focus on creating products and environments that are comfortable and safe for people to use.

It aims to answer the question, "How do we design a workspace that fits the employee's needs rather than having employees mold into their space?" 

Incorporatingactive design into the workday encourages movement and physical activity, leading to healthier behaviors and a more engaged workforce.

With reduced physical discomfort and improved posture, absenteeism can decrease, and employers can take less time off work due to back pains and discomfort, leading to a reduction in healthcare costs. 

Giving workers options on how they want to work leads to higher productivity and a positive corporate image as a wellness-focused employer.

By implementing both ergonomic design and active design, you can create a company culture and an environment where employees can thrive and be more productive.

Research into active design and ergonomic furniture in the workplace

• Proper ergonomic solutions within an office can reduce the number of musculoskeletal problems by 61%, which is turn reduces the lost workdays by 88%.

• Some studies may point to the fact that nonsitting work positions can lead to better cognitive function, with employees reporting less tiredness and higher concentration.

• Implementing active design and proper ergonomics reduces frustrated and fatigued workers, with studies showing that with the right solutions in place, there is an average of 67% reduction in errors. 

Physical and mental health in the office: Design Concepts for the Construction Phase

1. Active Travel

   1. Bikes: provide bike racks/storage

   2. Changing Rooms: Provide facilities for employers who want to bike or walk to work with lockers and showers

   3. Walkable Pathways: Design walking paths inside and outside the building, which can be used for informal walking meetings or short breaks. 

2. Facilities

   1. Sleep Facilities: Nap Pods, couches, hammocks, roll-out mats, fully reclining chairs.

   2. Restorative Space: Have a space for employees to step away from their desks.

   3. Bathroom Cleaning Protocol: Regularly clean restrooms to reduce transmission of viral and bacterial infections. 

   4. Fitness: Allocate spaces for fitness, like installing a gym or using an empty studio for yoga.

   5. Activated stairwells: Provide easier access and higher visibility to stairs than escalators or elevators on each floor.

Physical and mental health in the office: Design Concepts for the Refurbishment phase

1. Active Design

   1. Personal Storage: Workstation cabinet or locker

   2. Incentivize Staircase Use: By beautifying staircases and making them feel safe, employees are more likely to use them over elevators. 

      1. Installing music system

      2. Installing creative lights

      3. Decorating with art, murals, and colorful paint

      4. Moderating temperature to match the rest of the building

      5. Adding rubber treading

      6. Allowing access to daylight

      7. Stair signage: motivational language incentivizing usage of stairs.

      8. Increased visibility

      9. Stair safety: handrails, visual cues, lighting

2. Ergonomic Furniture

   1. Visual: Monitor stands to adjust computer screens to reduce eye strain.

   2. Desks: Adjustable standing desks

   3. Seats: Stability ball chairs or ergonomic chairs with lumbar support

      1. Different levels of seating: floor, sitting, standing

   4. Other: Adjustable keyboard trays and footrests to reduce pressure on the feet

Operational

1. Commuter Survey: Submit an annual survey to gather information of the satisfaction of commuters with current amenities.

Nutrition in the healthy office

Proper nutrition is crucial for promoting wellness in the workplace. It not only affects health and weight management but also plays a significant role in chronic disease prevention. 

When employees have access to better food options, it can lead to physical health improvement, mental clarity, and overall productivity.

On the other hand, lack of proper nutritional resources can result in hunger and sluggishness, negatively impacting the well-being of workers. 

A well-balanced diet can enhance concentration and mood, reducing fatigue and enhancing cognitive performance, contributing to better long-term health outcomes. 

Research on nutrition in a healthy office space

• Nutrition at Work: Opportunities to Improve Employee Wellness

Design Concepts to promote nutrition in a healthy office: Refurbishment phase

1. Seating design

   1. Seating choice variety: Implement both high-top tables and booth seats.

   2. Provide a quiet dining zone with no television to encourage mindful eating.

2. Eating Spaces

   1. Provide a refrigerator, a device for reheating food, a sink, amenities for dishwashing, a storage unit, and eating utensils.

3. Water Supplies

   1. Provide accessible drinking fountains, sinks, and water supplies throughout the workplace.

   2. Water bottle refilling stations: can prompt to improve hydration.

Operational strategies to promote nutrition in a healthy office

1. Water testing

   1. Ensure that the water is free of pathogens and contaminants on a regular basis.

2. Healthy Food and Beverage Policy:

   1. Increase access to healthy foods and a variety of options that would make food accessible to those with dietary restrictions.

   2. Feature healthy food and beverages as the default, prioritizing healthy options through layout and pricing.

   3. Ensure vending machines and snack bars are stocked with healthy options.

   4. Farm stands: Incorporate farmers' markets at or near the workplace to give employees access to fruits and vegetables.

CONTACT US VIA EMAIL HERE TO DISCUSS YOUR WORKPLACE WELLNESS AND HEALTHY OFFICE PROJECT ENQUIRIES

Neuro-Aesthetics in Interior Design

Bloc 722 Lofos Villa Lounge interior design

Biofilico's Guide to Creating Interior Spaces that Positively Impact Mental and Physical Health by leveraging neuroaesthetics

In the realm of wellness interior design, a powerful and emerging concept has taken center stage: neuro-aesthetics.

In an era where well-being and holistic health are paramount, understanding how our environment affects our mental and physical health has become an essential consideration for healthy building consultants.

Neuro-aesthetics in wellness interior design

As someone deeply involved in wellness real estate and healthy interior design, this mini guide will delve into the key principles of this relatively new design concept and provide a solid foundation for incorporating this cutting-edge approach into design practices.

We'll also explore the scientific evidence supporting the profound impact this concept can have on holistic wellness of occupants in a building.

The Key Principles of Neuro-Aesthetics

We see aesthetics are not merely a matter of personal preference but are deeply connected to our biology and psychology. To harness this concept's true potential in interior design, we need to leverage each of its key principles:

1. Harmony and Balance

Harmony and balance in design are fundamental principles in neuro-aesthetics. Our brains are wired to seek order and symmetry.

Spaces that achieve this harmony can have a calming effect, reducing stress and promoting a sense of well-being.

As an expert in wellness design and interior design, we can use this principle to create environments that resonate with tranquility and balance.

2. Biophilic Design

Biophilic design recognizes and indeed embraces our innate connection with nature based on our evolutionary history.

Integrating natural elements into interior spaces, such as indoor plants, natural light, and water features, can improve cognitive function, creativity, and overall happiness.

This approach aligns perfectly with our focus on sustainability and indoor air quality here at Biofilico as well as our commitment to the wellness real estate industry.

3. Color Psychology

Colors evoke emotional responses, making them a potent tool in our world of wellness interior design. Different colors can elicit various emotions and behaviors.

For instance, cool colors like blues and greens promote relaxation, while warm colors like reds and oranges stimulate energy and creativity.

By carefully selecting colors, and factoring in the impact of indoor artificial light from a wellness architecture perspective, you can shape the atmosphere and mood of a space.

4. Texture and Material Selection

The textures and materials used in interior design play in this design strategy.

Soft, tactile materials can induce feelings of comfort and security, while hard, reflective surfaces can create a sense of dynamism.

However the latter come with a warning as glare can be an issue as we are typically maximizing natural light wherever we can!

As experts in the field of wellness real estate, our expertise in choosing building materials and interior fit-out materials that contribute to a sense of holistic wellness indoors is we think of increasing importance.

Chelsea Botanica London

The Scientific Evidence for Neuro-Aesthetics

While these principles of may seem intuitive, their effectiveness is firmly grounded in scientific research.

Here, we explore some of the compelling evidence that underscores the importance of neuro-aesthetics in interior design:

1. The Impact of Visual Complexity

Studies have shown that spaces with a moderate level of visual complexity, characterized by a balance between order and variety, are perceived as more aesthetically pleasing.

Such spaces engage the brain without overwhelming it, leading to increased comfort and positive emotional responses.

This principle can guide your design choices to create environments that resonate with your clients' well-being goals. Think of fractal patterns in interior and outdoor environments, inspired by the nature for example.

2. Stress Reduction through Nature

Research consistently demonstrates the stress-reducing effects of exposure to nature.

Incorporating biophilic elements into interior design, such as natural materials and views of greenery, has been linked to lower stress levels, improved cognitive function, and enhanced mood.

3. Color and Cognitive Performance

The influence of color on cognitive performance has been well-documented.

For example, the color green has been associated with improved focus and concentration, making it an excellent choice for office spaces. Similarly, warm colors like red and yellow can enhance creativity and energy levels.

These findings highlight the practical application of 'color psychology' in designing spaces that support the goals of our clients in the residential and office sectors.

4. Sensory Design and Well-Being

The concept of sensory design considers how our senses, such as touch, sight, and smell, interact with the environment.

By creating multi-sensory experiences in interior spaces, we can amplify the positive impact of occupants spending time in them, even just for 30 minutes during a work day for example.

For instance, incorporating pleasant scents and tactile textures can enhance the overall well-being of occupants, aligning perfectly with our wellness-oriented approach at Biofilico.

The Wardian residences, London

Biophilic Interior Design in the Art and Science of Neuro-Aesthetics

In the world of interior design, there exists a captivating synergy between art and science.

It's a delicate dance where aesthetics and functionality converge to create spaces that not only please the eye but also nurture the mind and body.

At the heart of this harmonious union lies the concept of biophilic design...

The Art of Connection

Biophilic design, at its core, is the art of connecting human spaces with the natural world.

It draws inspiration from the deep-seated human affinity for nature, recognizing that we are inherently linked to our environment.

This connection is not merely aesthetic; it's a profound, physiological response that has been ingrained in us over countless generations.

The artistry of biophilic design lies in its ability to seamlessly weave elements of nature into interior spaces. Think of lush greenery, natural colour palette, wabi-sabi imperfections, fractal patterns, or even the gentle warmth of sunlight streaming through large windows.

These elements aren't just decorative; they can be carefully curated to evoke feelings of tranquility, comfort, and vitality.

They transform sterile interiors into living, breathing environments that resonate with our biological and emotional needs.

The Science of Well-Being

While biophilic design is undoubtedly an art form, it is equally rooted in science.

Neuro-aesthetics, the scientific study of how aesthetics impact our brains, plays a crucial role in understanding the effectiveness of biophilic design.

Numerous studies have illuminated the cognitive and emotional benefits of integrating natural elements and lighting into interior spaces.

For instance, research has shown that exposure to nature, even in the form of indoor plants or nature-inspired artwork, can reduce stress, improve cognitive function, and boost creativity.

This scientific evidence underscores the profound impact of biophilic design on sustainability human health and our well-being.

The Symbiosis of Biophilic Design and Neuro-Aesthetics

The magic of biophilic design lies in its ability to bridge the gap between art and science seamlessly. It harnesses the beauty of the outside world to create interiors that not only please the eye but also soothe the soul and stimulate the mind.

It is the perfect embodiment of how aesthetics are not just a matter of personal preference but are deeply connected to our biology and psychology.

Sensory Design for mental and physical health of builing occupants

In the pursuit of creating interior spaces that profoundly impact mind-body wellness, sensory design emerges as a powerful tool.

This dynamic approach recognizes that our senses - sight, touch, sound, smell, and taste - play a pivotal role in shaping our experience within a space.

By harnessing the potential of sensory design, we as interior designers can enhance the neuro-aesthetic qualities of interiors and promote holistic well-being for occupants.

Sensory design goes beyond aesthetics; it strives to engage all the senses to create a multi-dimensional experience. F

or instance, the texture of materials can evoke feelings of comfort and security, while the gentle sound of flowing water can induce relaxation. Incorporating pleasant scents, such as the aroma of fresh flowers or calming essential oils, can further enhance the ambiance.

When integrated thoughtfully, sensory design can contribute to stress reduction, improved focus, and an overall sense of tranquility.

Incorporating sensory design into your interior projects, whether in residential real estate, hospitality, or office spaces, can elevate the well-being of occupants.

By attending to the sensory aspects of a space, you create environments that not only look beautiful but also promote health and wellbeing, fostering a sense of harmony and balance.

Conclusion: using neuro-aesthetics for wellness focused interior design

Neuro-aesthetics in interior design is not merely a trend; it is a powerful approach rooted in science and well-being principles.

As a professional in wellness real estate and interior design, we have the unique opportunity to leverage these principles to create spaces that go beyond aesthetics.

By embracing harmony, biophilic elements, color psychology, and sensory design, you can positively impact the mental and physical health of your clients, whether they are residential real estate developers, hoteliers, or office tenants.

In doing so, you not only enhance the value of your designs but also contribute to the well-being of those who inhabit them.

Further Reading:

Evidence based design & Salutogenesis

Key concepts in wellness real estate

The secrets of a healthy building

Biophilic design in sustainable buildings

Designing restorative spaces and ‘zen rooms’

Role of Salutogenic Design, Evidence Based Design & the Anthropocene in Healthy Building — Wellness Design Consultants

In this article we explore the concepts of evidence based design, salutogenesis and the anthropocene as they relate to the healthy building movement for new and existing buildings. Additionally, we will delve into salutogenic design principles, which are crucial for creating environments that promote health and well-being through thoughtful use of space, natural light, and social interaction.

Beulah, Australia

Setting the scene: the anthropocene era and the healthy built environment movement

The concept of the Anthropocene and the healthy green buildings movement are interconnected in several ways, as both address the profound impact of human activity on the environment and human well-being:

1. Environmental Context: The Anthropocene signifies a new geological epoch characterized by the significant influence of human activities on Earth’s systems. This includes changes in the climate, biodiversity loss, and alterations in ecosystems.

The healthy buildings movement recognizes that the built environment and the physical environment play a substantial role in contributing to or mitigating these environmental changes.

Sustainable building practices, reduced resource consumption, and energy-efficient design are key aspects of both movements. 2. Climate Change Mitigation: The Anthropocene is marked by rapid climate change driven by human activities, particularly the release of greenhouse gases.

Healthy buildings are designed to reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions, contributing to climate change mitigation.

Strategies such as green building materials, energy-efficient HVAC systems, and renewable energy integration align with efforts to address climate change in the Anthropocene. 3. Human Health and Well-Being: The Anthropocene has brought about environmental challenges that directly affect human health, including air pollution, extreme weather events, and the spread of infectious diseases.

Healthy buildings prioritize creating indoor environments that protect occupants from these external threats.

Improved indoor air quality, ventilation systems, and access to natural light and views are all design elements that can enhance physical and mental health in an era marked by environmental challenges. 4. Resource Efficiency: The Anthropocene has witnessed the unsustainable exploitation of natural resources.

The healthy buildings movement emphasizes resource efficiency and sustainable material choices, reducing the environmental footprint of construction and operation. This approach aligns with the imperative to minimize resource depletion in the Anthropocene. 5. Adaptation to Environmental Change: As the Anthropocene brings about more frequent and severe environmental disruptions, healthy buildings also consider resilience and adaptability.

They incorporate features like flood-resistant design, temperature control systems, and sustainable landscaping to help occupants cope with and adapt to changing environmental conditions.

In essence, the concept of the Anthropocene underscores the urgent need for sustainable, environmentally conscious practices, and the healthy buildings movement responds by promoting sustainable design and construction strategies that mitigate environmental impacts and safeguard human well-being in a rapidly changing world.

Both movements recognize the critical role of the built environment in addressing the challenges of the Anthropocene.

capita spring, singapore

What is evidence based design?

Evidence-based design (EBD) is a fundamental concept in the realm of architecture and interior design, particularly in the context of creating healthy buildings.

Healthcare architecture, which incorporates evidence-based design and salutogenic principles, is crucial in promoting human health and well-being through architectural interventions. Elements such as sense of comprehensibility, manageability, and meaningfulness in healthcare architecture can positively impact patient recovery and promote a natural healing process.

This approach is rooted in the idea that design decisions should be informed by rigorous research and empirical evidence to optimize the well-being of occupants and achieve desired outcomes.

For real estate professionals and interior designers, understanding the role of EBD in healthy buildings is crucial for creating spaces that enhance both physical and psychological health and wellbeing.

In healthy building plans, EBD plays a pivotal role by guiding the decision-making process. It relies on a systematic analysis of existing research, user feedback, and data-driven insights to inform design choices.

As wellness experts, we are frequently asked by clients to make a judgement call on a variety of options placed before us, be they materials, furniture, plants or wall decor. So we are regularly calling upon our knowledge of human health in the built environment, as well as medical research, product certifications and more.

For instance, studies have shown that access to natural light and views of nature can improve productivity, mood, and overall health. EBD takes such findings into consideration when planning window placement and incorporating biophilic elements in a design or office building.

Furthermore, EBD is instrumental in addressing issues such as indoor air quality, acoustics, and ergonomic design, all of which impact the health and comfort of building occupants.

For instance, selecting low-VOC materials, using acoustic performance, implementing sound-absorbing surfaces, and creating ergonomic workstations are evidence-based strategies to foster a healthier indoor environment.

For examples of our own research-based approach, see here.

St. John’s Terminal, NYC

How does the concept of salutogenesis influence salutogenic architecture in the healthy buildings industry?

The concept of salutogenesis has a profound influence on the healthy buildings industry by shifting the focus from merely mitigating health risks to actively promoting active health, well-being, and resilience among building occupants.

Salutogenesis, developed by medical sociologist Aaron Antonovsky, emphasizes the factors that contribute to health and the capacity for individuals to thrive, rather than solely addressing disease or illness. It also guides architectural and other interventions to create more human-centered spaces.

Here’s how this concept influences the healthy buildings and public health industry:

1. Holistic Well-Being: Salutogenesis encourages a holistic approach to design and construction. Instead of narrowly concentrating on physical health concerns, it considers the psychological, social, and emotional aspects of well-being.

Healthy buildings therefore aim to create environments that support mental health, reduce stress, and enhance overall quality of life, particularly in the healthcare sector where promoting health and well-being is crucial. 2. User-Centered Design: Salutogenesis places a strong emphasis on involving building occupants in the design process.

This user-centered approach ensures that spaces are tailored to meet the specific needs and preferences of those who will use them. It encourages active participation and engagement, which can positively impact mental and emotional health. 3. Biophilic Design: Salutogenic principles often align with biophilic design, which incorporates natural elements and connections with nature into built environments. The use of natural materials in architecture can create a restorative environment that promotes overall well-being.

This design approach has been shown to reduce stress, improve cognitive function, and enhance overall well-being by fostering a deeper connection with the natural world. 4. Empowerment and Control: Salutogenesis promotes a sense of empowerment and control over one’s environment. It helps maintain physical and mental well-being by creating environments that support these aspects.

Healthy buildings provide occupants with opportunities to make choices that influence their surroundings, such as adjustable lighting, temperature controls, and flexible workspaces, which can contribute to a sense of autonomy and well-being. 5. Long-Term Health Promotion: Rather than addressing health issues reactively, salutogenesis encourages a proactive approach to health promotion. Salutogenic architecture supports long-term well-being by creating environments that help occupants develop healthier habits and lifestyles.

Healthy buildings aim to create environments that support long-term well-being, helping occupants develop healthier habits and lifestyles. It is prevention rather than cure, for the latter you’ll want a health clinic or hospital designed along EBD principles!

The salutogenic model focuses on promoting human health and well-being through the built environment, emphasizing elements like social support, nature, and restorative spaces.

From a salutogenic perspective, the relationship between the built environment and its users is crucial for fostering overall well-being. This perspective integrates principles that create conditions for transformative and healing power.

A key element of salutogenic design is the sense of coherence, which includes manageability, comprehensibility, and meaningfulness. A robust sense of coherence can enhance a person's resistance to illness and enable a prompt and full recovery.

What role is there for 'evidence based design' in the WELL certification standard for new and existing healthcare facilities?

Evidence-based design (EBD) plays a significant and foundational role in the WELL Building Standard, a performance-based system for measuring, certifying, and monitoring features of the built environment that impact human health and well-being.

EBD aligns seamlessly with the principles and requirements of the WELL Standard in the following ways:

1. Informed Design Decisions: EBD emphasizes the importance of using empirical evidence and research to inform design decisions.

The WELL Standard incorporates a wide range of evidence-based strategies and criteria related to air quality, lighting, acoustics, materials, and more. This ensures that design choices are not arbitrary but are backed by scientific research and best practices. 2. Health and Well-Being Focus: EBD prioritizes the well-being of building occupants, and the WELL Standard is explicitly focused on creating healthy and supportive environments for people. In healthcare facilities, evidence-based design is crucial for creating environments that support patient recovery and natural healing processes.

By utilizing evidence-based strategies, designers and project confidently implement features that are known to have a positive impact on occupant health, such as proper ventilation, access to natural light, and ergonomic design. 3. Ongoing Monitoring and Evaluation: The WELL Standard encourages ongoing monitoring and evaluation of building performance, which aligns with the EBD principle of continuous improvement.

By measuring and assessing the health and well-being outcomes of building occupants, project teams can refine their design and operational strategies based on real-world data. 4. User-Centered Approach: Both EBD and the WELL Standard prioritize a user-centered approach to design.

EBD involves engaging with building occupants to understand their needs and preferences, while the WELL Standard places a strong emphasis on occupant engagement and education. This ensures that buildings are designed and operated in a way that supports the physical and mental health of their users. 5. Adaptation to New Research: EBD acknowledges that scientific knowledge evolves over time, and so does the WELL Standard.

The WELL Building Standard is periodically updated to reflect the latest research and industry best practices. This dynamic approach ensures that buildings certified under the standard continue to meet the highest standards of occupant health and well-being.

In summary, evidence-based design is integral tothe WELL Healthy Building Standard. It guides the selection and implementation of strategies wellness features that promote health and well-being in the built environment, ensuring that buildings certified under the standard are not only aesthetically pleasing but also conducive to the physical and psychological well-being of their occupants.

Is the concept of salutogenesis present in the International WELL Building Institute WELL Standard?

While the term “salutogenesis” may not be explicitly mentioned that often in WELL, many of the principles and features outlined in the WELL Standard align with the salutogenic approach, which focuses on promoting health and well-being rather than solely mitigating disease or risks.

Here are some ways in which salutogenic principles are reflected in the WELL Building Standard:

1. Holistic Well-Being: The WELL Standard emphasizes a holistic approach to health and well-being, taking into account physical, mental, and social aspects of well-being.

It addresses factors such as air quality, water quality, nourishment, fitness, mind, and comfort, all of which contribute to a comprehensive sense of health and wellness. 2. User-Centered Design: Much like salutogenesis, the WELL Standard prioritizes user-centered design.

It encourages building owners and designers to engage with occupants, understand their needs and preferences, and create spaces that support their well-being. Occupant engagement is a key component of the standard. 3. Positive Environmental Factors: The WELL Standard promotes positive environmental factors that can enhance well-being, including access to natural light, views of nature, indoor air quality, and thermal comfort.

These elements align with the salutogenic approach, which recognizes that a supportive environment is essential for health. In healthcare settings, these principles are crucial as they help create spaces that promote social interaction, use natural light and ventilation, and incorporate elements that enhance the sense of comprehensibility, manageability, and meaningfulness for both patients and staff. 4. Psychological Well-Being: The WELL Standard addresses psychological well-being through features that reduce stress and enhance mental health.

This includes strategies to reduce noise, provide spaces for relaxation and reflection, and support cognitive function—all of which are aligned with the salutogenic aim of promoting mental well-being. 5. Long-Term Health Promotion: The WELL Standard encourages long-term health promotion by fostering healthy habits and lifestyles among building occupants.

It includes requirements related to nutrition, physical activity, and access to clean water, which align with the salutogenic approach of empowering individuals to make healthier choices.

In summary, while the term “salutogenesis” may not be explicitly used in the WELL Building Standard, the principles and features of the standard clearly align with the salutogenic approach by prioritizing the creation of environments that actively promote and support the health and well-being of building occupants.

What are the physical and mental wellbeing principles of the WELL certification for indoor spaces?

The WELL Building Standard is a performance-based system for measuring, certifying, and promoting features of the built environment that impact human health and well-being.

It consists of seven key categories or concepts, known as "concepts," each of which focuses on specific aspects of well-being. Within these concepts, there are more than 100 features that can be addressed to achieve WELL certification.

The seven key concepts are:

1. Air: This concept focuses on indoor air quality and ventilation, aiming to provide occupants with clean and healthy air. It addresses factors such as air filtration, ventilation rates, and the control of indoor pollutants.

2. Water: The Water concept aims to ensure access to safe and clean drinking water and promote proper hydration. It includes features related to water quality, filtration, and the availability of drinking water.

3. Nourishment: This concept emphasizes healthy eating habits and nutritional choices. It includes features that encourage access to nutritious foods, portion control, and food labeling.

4. Light: The Light concept focuses on providing occupants with natural and artificial lighting that supports their circadian rhythms and visual comfort. It addresses aspects such as daylighting, lighting design, and glare control.

5. Fitness: Fitness promotes physical activity and active living within the built environment. It includes features related to opportunities for exercise, active transportation, and design elements that encourage movement.

6. Comfort: The Comfort concept aims to create environments that support occupant comfort and reduce stress. It includes features related to thermal comfort, acoustic comfort, ergonomic design, and relaxation spaces.

7. Mind: The Mind concept addresses psychological well-being and mental health. It includes features that support stress reduction, cognitive function, emotional well-being, and access to nature and biophilia.

Each of these seven concepts has specific features and criteria that can be pursued by building owners, designers, and occupants to achieve WELL certification.

The WELL Building Standard is designed to be flexible, allowing projects to select and implement features based on their specific goals and priorities, with the ultimate aim of creating spaces that enhance human health and well-being.

Contact us if you wish to discuss your WELL certification, WELL Building standard or employee wellbeing project design.

How to design a Restorative Space or Zen Room in line with WELL Building standard guidelines

restorative space concept room concept design by biofilico

FIRSTLY, WHAT IS A RESTORATIVE SPACE AS PART OF A WELLBEING STRATEGY?

A dedicated wellbeing room is a designated space where individuals can take a break from their day-to-day lives and focus on themselves. It is designed to provide a calming atmosphere to help people (be they office worker, or coliving resident, for example) relax, refocus, and recharge.

The wellness room should ideally be free of unnecessary distractions and contain items that proactively promote mental and physical relaxation such as comfortable furniture, aromatherapy items, calming music, and art. More on that below as we go further into the details...

Users can spend time in the wellbeing room to meditate, practice yoga or simply take some time away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life to be alone with their thoughts, or indeed together in a small group setting.

restorative space concept room concept design by biofilico

Mental health benefits of a dedicated restorative space in offices or coliving schemes

An office wellness room or zen room in a residential context can offer a variety of mental health benefits, such as allowing employees or residents to take a break from their work life and refocus their minds.

It can provide a quiet, private space to relax and relieve stress or anxiety, which can help improve their own productivity levels and morale.

Taking regular breaks from work to relax in an office wellbeing room for example can help employees stay focused and energized throughout the day.

Additionally, it can offer an opportunity for employees or residents to connect with one another, perhaps even to address any mental health issues in a private setting setting, fostering stronger relationships that may lead to better workplace collaboration.

WELL BUILDING FEATURE / RESTORATIVE SPACES

In MIND feature M07 of the WELL Building Standard the focus is on providing restorative spaces designed exclusively for calm contemplation and restoration to reduce occupant mental stress and fatigue.

Wellness design features in a restorative space, according to WELL, the consideration should cover lighting, sound, thermal comfort, seating, nature, colours & privacy.

This equates to some combination of dimmable lighting, nature sounds, shade from direct sunlight, evidence of biophilic design, comfortable seating that encourage relaxation, natural colours and materials, visual privacy, and finally audio-visual content to bring the whole space to life are.

The standard also specifies signage and/or educational materials to help communicate the room features - this could be via a QR code or printed material available in-room.

restorative space concept for Fusion Students by Biofilico

INTERIOR DESIGN FOR A ZEN ROOM OR WELLNESS ROOM

A safe, private, cocoon-like space in which students can take a quiet moment, either alone or in small groups, away from the pressures of the outside world and away from prying eyes, away from their desk.

Clusters of air-purifying plants combine with healthy, non-toxic fabrics and materials for enhanced indoor air quality.

Acoustic ceiling and door panels, partition wall insulation and curtains isolate the space from external noise.

Circadian lighting hidden among the plants below and ceiling panels above follows the body's natural 24-hr rhythm, adjusting automatically with the seasons.

Users have access to forest bathing sound therapies, breathwork sessions and mindfulness meditations via pre-loaded wellness apps on a wide-screen smart TV.

Meditation cushions, blankets and floor pillows combine with an inset thick-pile rug and a 'no shoes inside' policy. Ideal for small group workshops, holistic sessions and... simply being.

Natural light opens the door to living plants and establishes a connection with nature, or at the very least, with the natural ebb and flow of daylight outside.

How can biophilic design contribute to the wellbeing benefits of a recharge room?

Biophilic design can help create a calming atmosphere in a recharge room, allowing individuals to relax and feel at ease.

The use of natural materials, such as wood or stone, can help to ground the space and create a sense of connection to nature.

Plants can also be used to bring life into the room, providing a visual connection to the outdoors and helping to purify the air.

Additionally, natural light can help to lift moods, boost productivity and promote healing. By incorporating biophilic elements into a recharge room, individuals can benefit from increased relaxation and improved wellbeing.

recharge room for HERO Natural Foods, Switzerland by Biofilico

Multi-sensory design in wellness room interiors

Multi-sensory design is the perfect way to enhance the wellbeing benefits of an office recharge room.

By incorporating elements of sight, sound, smell, and touch, a wellness room with multi-sensory design can provide a calming atmosphere that helps employees or residents relax and reenergize.

For example, using calming colors for walls and furniture can create an inviting environment that promotes relaxation in a private space that is deemed to be safe and somehow separate from the rest of the building's facilities.

Adding scent diffusers with essential oils such as lavender can help to reduce stress levels and enhance mental health clarity. We are fans of forest aromatherapy via a wall-mounted diffuser that has a 50-day cartridge, for minimal operational impact on facilities management teams

Incorporating sound elements such as soothing music or nature sounds can also help to reduce stress and create a safe and calm space with an explicitly peaceful atmosphere - ideally with a 'no shoes inside' rule!

Our pals over at Open Ear Music and SWELL even take field recordings of nearby nature spots to quite literally bring the authentic sounds of nature indoors, an example all the difference of next level biophilia right there!

Finally, adding soft textures such as plush, thick pile eco-friendly rugs underfoot can provide tactile stimulation to further promote relaxation and when combined with biophilic design may promote feelings of nature connection.

With the right combination of multi-sensory elements, office and residential recharge rooms can be transformed into a haven of relaxation that helps employees and residents focus on their mental wellbeing.

Using air-purifying plants in a wellness room environment

Air-purifying indoor plants can help to reduce air pollution in a variety of ways. These plants can absorb harmful pollutants from the air, like formaldehyde and benzene. They also produce oxygen which helps to improve indoor air quality.

Additionally, these plants help to humidify the air and increase humidity levels, which can be beneficial for those who suffer from allergies or asthma.

Lastly, these plants can act as natural air filters that absorb dust particles and other allergens from the air, making it easier to breathe indoors.

All of these benefits make air-purifying indoor plants a great choice for improving indoor air quality and reducing pollution in any home or office environment.

Healthy Materials in wellness rooms in the workplace or residences

Healthy and non-toxic materials in interior design are becoming increasingly popular. Natural materials such as bamboo, cork, and wool are great choices for furniture and flooring.

Wood is another popular choice as a healthy material since it is renewable (when sustainably sourced) and has an inherent wabi-sabi beauty that adds warmth to any room.

For fabrics, look for organic cotton, linen, and hemp which are all made without the use of toxic chemicals.

If you’re looking for a more sustainable option, look into the emerging field of bio-based materials and of course recycled materials like plastics or glass. These can be used to create beautiful accent pieces or even countertops.

Lastly, paints and finishes should be low-VOC or no-VOC so that they don’t release harmful toxins into the air.

Alternative wall finishes might include clay plaster for example, that is naturally non-toxic, low in VOCs, as well as recyclable, repairable & compostable at its end of life.

Integrating pre-loaded wellness content for mental health in wellness spaces

It is useful to provide employees and residents (e.g. students in a student coliving) with the tools they need to stay healthy and productive, making it as easy as possible for them to access what they need, when they need it, removing as many obstacles in that process as possible in other words.

Recharge rooms can be designed to include different types of wellness content, such as meditation apps and mental wellbeing apps. Users can use these tools to relax, boost their mood, reduce stress and anxiety, and even increase their productivity.

A DIGITAL LIBRARY OF WELLNESS CONTENT

Additionally, employers or residential developers can create a digital and/or print library of wellness content that employees can access from their own devices within the recharge room, or indeed simply pick up to read.

This library could include books, podcasts, articles, videos or even a digital whiteboard with relaxation techniques or guided mindfulness exercises.

By providing these resources in a comfortable and quiet space for employees to access when they need it, employers are creating an environment where employees feel supported in their personal health and wellbeing journey.

Some of our favourite wellbeing room content apps that do not require significant budget would be OPO for guided meditations and sound baths; O-P-E-N for breathwork and meditation sessions; and finally SWELL for sound, wellness room and forest bathing.

Wellness spaces within a healthy building strategy

The key principles of a healthy building strategy should include the use of materials that are non-toxic and low-emitting, as well as a focus on energy efficiency and air quality.

Good ventilation is also essential for a healthy building environment, as it helps to provide fresh air to occupants and reduce indoor pollutants.

It is important to consider how the building interacts with its environment, such as through passive design strategies like natural lighting or shading, green roofs and walls, and other sustainable measures.

Additionally, it is important to consider the own personal health needs of occupants when designing a space by incorporating ergonomic furniture layouts, comfortable temperature control systems, noise reduction techniques, and other features that contribute to occupant wellbeing... such as gyms, yoga rooms and wellness rooms.

One Hundred Restrooms - sustainable interior design and healthy building concepts applied to the public restroom

one hundred restrooms atocha madrid

Green Healthy Places podcast

Welcome to episode 065 of the Green Healthy Places podcast in which we discuss the themes of wellbeing and sustainability in real estate and hospitality today.

This week I’m in the Netherlands talking to Marielle Romeijn, Co-Founder of One Hundred Restrooms, an innovative brand disrupting the public toilet market by focusing on the environmental impact, consciousness and wellness benefits.

Sustainable interior design for public restrooms

Their custom design modules can be found in shopping malls, railway stations and roadside service stations around Spain, Belgium and Sweden as well as their home country.

We discuss the birth of the brand, their business model, how modular design allows them to customize each experience according to the location, the integration of Internet Of Things technology, alignment with United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, how they use multi-sensory design to upgrade the toilet break experience and their relentless pursuit of ever higher hygiene standards.

A case study for interior designers and healthy building experts alike

Marielle’s company is an example of how concepts from green, building's energy efficiency and healthy building design are filtering down the value chain. Have a look at the design of their restrooms, it really is a breath of fresh air, so here she is Marielle Romeijn.

GUEST: MARIELLE ROMEIJN, CO-FOUNDER, ONE HUNDRED RESTROOMS

https://onehundredrestrooms.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/onehundredrestrooms/ 

View on Zencastr

one hundred restrooms on green healthy places

Matt Morley

Marielle, you know, we're often talking about buildings, or hotels on this podcast, or perhaps sustainable interior design in particular but you have taken a particular concept within a building or retail space, or a service station and for me at least, completely reinvented it for the better.

I was saying before we started recording, I went down to experience a One Hundred Restroom yesterday evening, myself, and was blown away by the level of detail and thought that's gone into it.

So I want to allow you some space to share that story. Why don't we start with how the business was born and where it came from? What were the trends in the market that led you and your co founders to say, I think there's a market for this?

Marielle - One Hundred Restrooms

So I have to be honest, we have a history in public restrooms. We used to work for a company called 2theloo. And this company was actually one of the first brands in public restrooms.

What they discovered is that if you look at if you look at it, it's a bit strange that all the core needs that we have like sleeping, eating, going to a toilet, most of them are we have a lot of choices, like like we can choose hotels, we can choose restaurants, but we don't have a good choice in public restrooms.

Most of the times, it's scary, it's unsafe, it's not clean. And it's far from relaxing. So they already discovered that niche in the market. And they said, Okay, this is an opportunity to change. And then they came with a concept which was comfortable and clean, and it was more into fun.

We used to work there with a couple of our co founders we discovered that, of course, there were trends, where we saw that people were more involved into their own wellbeing.

We saw some technology trends, where we saw that restrooms and bathrooms in general becoming more smart and can do also health health analysis.

So there were a couple of things that we thought were interesting to see how we could how we could integrate them in the restaurant concept.

one hundred restrooms

Moving into the wellbeing space

Then we decided to start it over to start it ourselves with a new concept based on the same needs - to have good public rest rooms but with a different vision about how to fulfill this need.

We really wanted to create a new standard. That's that's how we call it a new standard in public restrooms.

This standard we believe is something that goes from a moment of stress and anxiety even, to a moment of wellbeing and of course there's a lot in between because you can also offer just simply good and clean toilets but we thought 'let's move it ahead to the future and make it a moment of wellbeing and make it like a five minute boost'.

Wellness interiors and sustainable materials in a public restroom

Matt Morley

I think there's so much there. I saw biophilic design, I saw elements of wellness interiors and sustainable interior design where you're creating a multi sensory experience, I saw parallels with what's happening in the healthy building movement. So many ideas!

So could you perhaps paint that picture? What are they seeing? What are they hearing on the sound system? What are the services that you're offering?

Marielle - One Hundred Restrooms

So when you see the restrooms, it looks like a retail store, I could say even as a storefront. And from the outside, sometimes you don't even see the toilets yet, we have a zone that we call the reload zone. And that is where you enter.

And the reload zone is a zone where we offer additional services, like for instance, hydration station, nursery, disabled room, but also a health check, pre health check.

Inside, we have a turnstile, where you pay for the toilet entrance. And then we call it a transition zone, which is a black area, where you really make the transition from the outside, which is most of the times basically we're on public areas, you go through a black zone, and then you enter like a white Zen kind of area, which is the restroom area.

Natural light and eco friendly interior design

And there we work with light, indirect lighting, we work with sounds, we use certain sounds which are working on a certain frequency that calms you calms you down, we have a certain sense that we based on nature, nature kind of sense mixed together.

Biophilic design

So it all, I think I think the combination of sensory experiences, makes you feel calm quite soon. Then then we have our toilet cubicles, they are fully private, so we don't have like open how they call it open doors.

Natural materials and multi-sensory design

So you have your private moment, you have the sounds, is of course clean, it feels safe. So all the elements work towards a moment of well being. And, yeah, everything inside is I mean the materialization, we use HPL as our core material. HPL is a very clean material.

It's easy to clean, but also when something happens when people try to put gravity on it or or whatever it's we can take it away, that's also very important thing is that not only cleanliness, but also repair maintenance. And keeping it as new is a very important factor.

Matt Morley

You provide, obviously the sustainable interior design piece and the construction as in you're delivering the product or installing the product for whatever your client might be.

But it doesn't end there because you also have a role in terms of the operations and ongoing maintenance? Is it something that the owner of the client can decide to do themselves or it's you maintain control of the experience on an ongoing basis from the initial design through to whenever the contract ends?

Marielle - One Hundred Restrooms

Yeah, this is really our concept because it's our brand, and we want to keep the standards really high. So it's a full package. We build like you said, we do the interior design and we build the restroom. We aim to create durable and timeless spaces and we incorporate sustainability principles.

But we also operate and maintain the whole concept during 10 years. Meaning we have our own team, our own mechanics, we have field coaches who do audits every week to check if everything is still okay.

We have our own staff, we call it a comfort crew. They clean but they also welcome the guests and explain certain services. So the full concept, including IOT to monitor from a distance is what makes it a success.

Locations for these new healthy environments - restrooms

In general, we are focused on high traffic areas. And these could be shopping malls, train stations, like highway service stations, and sometimes food markets. And of course, it depends a little bit on the on the market.

If they have like big shopping malls with lots of visitors, or if it's small shopping malls, then it's not interesting enough for us from a business case perspective.

So depending on the market, and also depending on the market opportunities, because a lot of times we are part of tenders, so sometimes we we just, of course, there's always an opportunity for a restaurant is not every year, most of the most of the real estate companies rebuild the restaurants maybe once every 10 years or something.

We are always focusing on train stations, railway, highway and shopping malls, in every country in Europe,

Matt Morley

You mentioned the IoT, Internet of Things. So how do you use that technology to maintain visibility on the operations on all of your sites?

Creating spaces that integrated IOT

Marielle - One Hundred Restrooms

Yeah, so we currently have around 40 sites in four countries. And what we have invested in from the start is to really build on a dashboard that we use to monitor all the sites. And we do it by connecting all the hardware.

So starting with with, of course, the turnstile, where people enter to monitor the number of visitors etc. But also the dispensers are connected. So we can see whenever a dispenser is empty, we have the water flows connected with water flow systems, so we can see when something is flowing, or when something stops flowing, then there's also a problem.

So all the all the information together, we also have connected repair or maintenance system, the field coach visits are reported.

So all the data combined gives us a very clear vision on the state of our toilets. And of course, by by combining it by saying like, okay, we can see that on a Saturday morning, we have a lot of visitors, and we can see that the rating was going down a little bit. So maybe we should put more effort into cleaning at that hour. So it gives us a lot of data to work with.

Elements of sustainable interior design in One Hundred Restrooms

Matt Morley

So in terms of sustainable interior design and how that integrates into the brand itself, how are you? How are you playing to future proof the business by working also on environmental friendliness?

Marielle - One Hundred Restrooms

Yeah, we are we are focusing on sustainable interior design now because from the beginning, we choose our partners based on their sustainability goals and sustainable materials.

But what we are doing now, currently is we have we have created, we have measured our footprint ourselves for the whole concept, like a lifecycle analysis to see okay, what kind of material input do we have? How much is the usage?

Green practices

What kind of materials can we maybe change to make our footprint less? So that is something that we are currently really focusing on. And apart from that, I think the well being part is one of the it's one of the factors that we can create a lot of impact with and of course, it's not sustainability in the in the in the terms of climate that it's it is in a bigger perspective, it can create a lot of impact and that is something that we think we can make a difference because we are in the public area.

Matt Morley

As the name of the podcast suggests, I think green combined with healthy is the path for businesses when they're looking to the future, it's that combination of the two sides of one coin.

Mitigating health problems with advanced design concepts

And so on the health and wellbeing piece, you mentioned a couple of things. Hygiene clearly is a big factor. I'd like to understand a bit more beyond just particular materials, but also how you deliver that and using any kind of the UV cleaning systems, or is it just sort of traditional eco cleaning products.

Marielle - One Hundred Restrooms

Okay, so to start with the hygiene and the cleaning. Of course, that is that is the basics. And that is the foundation of our success.

We have cleaning procedures that we follow all the time, and the cleaning procedures, the ultimate cleaning is to clean after every use, because then people feel like, Yeah, welcome and like the restroom is clean for them.

This is not always feasible, but what we try to do is to clean all the time. And apart from from cleaning all the time, we also have specific deep cleaning schedules that we do every morning or every week or every day. So everything is worked out in processes.

And we work with eco friendly materials, like you said. But apart from that, we are also always in every area, we are trying out new things. And one of the things that we are currently testing is a nano formalistic coating, that you can spray on surfaces that are most vulnerable for for hygienic topics, like, for instance, the toilet seat. And it helps. Yeah, it helps to prevent viruses and bacteria from sticking to the surface.

We are also piloting a system now it's called ozone cleaning, it's actually water with some proposal, I don't even know exactly what the technology entails. But we are we are testing it, and it seems to work very well.

And of course, it's more sustainable, even then, then the Eco cleaning. So all kinds of innovative systems are coming to us, we get approached a lot. And we tend to also be very open to try out these these new things.

Matt Morley

The cleaning, I think was it's had a lot of success in the field of dentistry. And so like dentist clinics, I know, they've been using that for a little while, even before the COVID crisis. And then even more.

In gyms and fitness centres, hygiene is especially important there as well, because you've got a lot of people who are exercising, sweating, not necessarily thinking about how they leave a machine afterwards. And so, you know, there's so many other areas where I think the principles that you're applying, I think we can take lessons from what you're doing and what also what you're not doing, because I assume you've tested and discarded a lot of ideas too!

Marielle - One Hundred Restrooms

Yeah, sure. Yeah, absolutely. It's all a matter of routines and consistency as well just just make sure that you do it every day or every morning or every week. Because we also have more challenging situations where we see that when you check it because we check it every week. You see that some some corners are getting a little bit dirty or some something is not like we want it and then you need to find a new procedure if you if you let that go.

But you need to be focused on every single detail. And we find new things every day, as sometimes we see like, ah, there is a little chalk on the fourth step, what can we do? How can we solve that, we buy a new brush, and we try to solve it. So it's a lot about routines and details and discipline, I think as well, apart from the materials that that are new in the market.

Matt Morley

And then there are a number of, say, optional extras that seem to go a little bit beyond the basics. You know, I noticed the motivational mirror was giving me various tips beyond the weather and the time and a few other bits of information it was suggesting, how long to wash my hands for and a beauty bar for ladies to do their makeup and to hydrate?

Who's typically going for the optional extras? Do you see, perhaps service stations keeping it quite simple, just sticking to the core product, and then a luxury shopping mall might want a few extras that are less functional?

Marielle - One Hundred Restrooms

Yeah, that's, that's true. And it has a lot to do with the square meters that we have available on the one hand, and on the other hand, the visitor profile and how much time they have to spend, and what is also a need that they have during their shopping visit.

But in general, it starts with the square meters. The basic idea is that we always have relieve, Refresh and then reload, this is the third part and our goal is to always have the three pillars inside every room, whether it's 25 square meters, or 250 square meters.

But of course, when you when you have 250 square meters, you can add some additional services like for instance, a massage chair with breathing exercises that we offer in certain places.

The Health Check area, sometimes we have a vending wall, we are now testing fending walls with self sampling kits that you can do testing on yourself.

Matt Morley

Okay, so final question then is where does it go from here? You've got 40+ sites in four different territories. There's a market for this. How do you grow and scale a business from here?

Marielle - One Hundred Restrooms

Yeah, so we grow on different sides. But the first one is simply expansion. So what we do is, first of all, we want to grow in our current countries , then we want to grow more in Europe, we already pinpointed some countries that we would like to grow.

And we have a lot of contacts as well. Then from Europe, we might go to the US in five years. But this is a big step, because then you really have to create a new market and create your organization there as well. So we want to focus on Europe first.

What we are also exploring is new business models, to see if we can maybe in the future, separate certain modules and put them for instance, in a corporate business environment, or maybe even in a pharmacy, because the more we develop on health prevention, the more it becomes interesting to see how we can use it in other areas, it could be even a fitness center.

Depending on who pays the CAPEX - sometimes it is the owner, sometimes it's us - then we have a revenue share model based on who has paid for the CAPEX. So the one who paid for the capex gets a little bit more of the revenue.

Sometimes we pay a little bit of rent, sometimes we have a mixed business model. But in the end, when we leave, after 10 years, the assets stay. So in the end, it's the asset of the real estate owner, and we take away our brands, items or our branded items.

Top Wellness Residential Real Estate Developments in the USA

Selene NYC by Norman Foster

Top Wellness Residences: Residential Real Estate Developments in the USA — biofilico wellness interiors

Introduction to Residential Wellness Real Estate

Healthy buildings and residential wellness real estate have seen rising demand in recent years, as more people prioritize their health and wellbeing in their living spaces, so real estate investors and developers have caught on fast to the value-add of applying healthy building strategies to the home.

This type of real estate is in high demand as it focuses on creating environments that promote overall wellness, both physically and mentally.

It takes into consideration various factors such as air and water quality, access to natural light, and the integration of fitness facilities, active design and wellness spaces.

The concept of wellness real estate is not just limited to residential developments; to great extent it also extends to commercial spaces, hotels, and even entire communities however here we focus on increasing investor awareness around the residential real estate sector here in the USA.

What are the benefits of healthy building strategies in a residential context?

The idea is to create environments that foster a holistic approach to living, where people can achieve a balanced lifestyle that includes work, leisure, and wellness.

There was increased demand prior to COVID but in the aftermath we have seen a tangible shift as wellness study after wellness study reports on the desire to incorporate health into luxury homes.

The increasing demand for these types of spaces has led to a growing number of developments across the United States, as developers and architects strive to meet the needs of health-conscious consumers. These wellness residences also present a significant investment opportunity, offering financial benefits through potential rental programs and guaranteed value over time due to their prestigious brand, interior design, and prime locations.

There is clearly now a new investor consensus backing healthy building strategies in the asset value creation process. So let’s get into it!

the park santa monica residences rooftop

The Importance of Wellness Residences and Healthy Buildings

As people spend more time indoors, the quality of their living environments plays a significant role in their overall health and wellbeing. Interestingly, the connection between personal and societal health is becoming ever clearer. Communal spaces in wellness residences, such as outdoor courtyards, rooftop gardens, and communal thermal suites, are essential in fostering a sense of community and helping residents achieve their wellness goals.

Healthy buildings promote better physical and mental health by ensuring that residents have access to clean air, natural light, and a comfortable indoor temperature.

Going beyond healthy buildings into advanced human health

Wellness residences, on the other hand, go beyond the basic requirements of a healthy building by incorporating wellness features and amenities that cater to the residents’ fitness and relaxation needs. Circadian lighting systems are also integrated to optimize sleep quality and mimic the natural progression of daylight, promoting a harmonious lifestyle and overall well-being for residents.

These may include state-of-the-art fitness centers, spa facilities, meditation rooms, and outdoor spaces designed for relaxation and recreation.

53 West 53 residents pool

WELL Certification and its Role in Wellness Real Estate

WELL Certification is an important aspect to keep in mind during any discussion of wellness real estate, as it sets the standard for healthy buildings and wellness interiors.

Administered by the International WELL Building Institute (IWBI), the WELL Building Standard is a performance-based system that measures, certifies, and monitors the features of buildings that impact human health and well-being.

WELL Certification covers various aspects of building design, including air and water quality, lighting, fitness, and comfort.

It helps developers and architects design spaces that promote wellness and attract health-conscious buyers.

Why certify a residential development?

As consumers become more aware of the importance of wellness residences, WELL Certification is likely to become an increasingly relevant factor in their decision-making process.

The growth and broad adoption of this certification itself can demonstrate strong demand for healthy buildings such as the residences we cover below.

In future we expect to see a more concerted focus on energy efficiency, operational strategies, green walls, giving back to the local community and a more overt consideration for a healthy built environment geared for occupant health (e.g. healthy interiors).

Key Features of Wellness Interiors and Branded Residences

Wellness interiors and branded residences are designed to promote a healthy living environment and provide residents with next-level wellness experiences.

Some of the key features of wellness interiors include:

Indoor air quality:

Wellness residences prioritize indoor air quality by using advanced air filtration systems, humidity control, and low-VOC materials. This helps to create a healthier and more comfortable living environment.

Natural light and circadian lighting:

Access to natural light is crucial for maintaining a healthy circadian rhythm and promoting overall well-being.

Wellness residences often feature large windows and open floor plans to maximize natural light, and may also incorporate circadian lighting systems that adjust the color temperature of artificial light throughout the day to mimic natural daylight patterns.

Fitness facilities:

Wellness residences typically include state-of-the-art fitness facilities, such as gyms, yoga studios, and personal training rooms.

These amenities encourage residents to maintain an active lifestyle and prioritize their physical health.

Spa and relaxation areas:

To promote relaxation and stress reduction, wellness residences often feature spa facilities, meditation rooms, and outdoor spaces designed for leisure and relaxation.

Sustainable and eco-friendly materials:

Wellness residences are often built using sustainable materials and eco-friendly practices, emphasizing the connection between personal well-being and environmental health.

Less focus on active design?

For now, we see active design playing out more in office real estate, coworking and coliving contexts rather than residential.

Even if having an active stairwell and extensive active travel facilities on site can measurably improve physical activity levels amongst building occupants, it may be that investment decision making and capital allocation decisions zero in on other elements of occupant health.

53 West 53 residents gym

53 West 53 NYC: A Luxury Wellness Residence in Manhattan

53 West 53 NYC is a luxury wellness residence located in the heart of Manhattan. The interior design of this residence is distinct and beautiful, enhancing the overall appeal and investment value. Designed by renowned architect Jean Nouvel, this residential tower offers a unique blend of modern design and wellness amenities, making it an ideal choice for health-conscious buyers seeking luxury living in New York City.

The building features a state-of-the-art fitness center, complete with a 65-foot lap pool, a yoga and pilates studio, and a private training room.

Residents can also enjoy spa facilities, including a sauna, steam room, and private massage rooms.

Additionally, 53 West 53 NYC prioritizes indoor air quality with advanced air filtration systems and low-VOC materials, ensuring a healthy living environment for its residents.

https://www.53w53.com/

Selene NYC: Embracing Wellness in the Heart of the City

Selene NYC is another exceptional wellness residence located in the bustling city of New York. Co-founder John Doe envisioned this luxury development to embody the essence of wellness living, offering a wide range of amenities that cater to the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of its residents.

The building’s wellness amenity package includes a state-of-the-art fitness center, a spa with a sauna and steam room, and a rooftop terrace with an outdoor yoga studio.

Additionally, Selene NYC features a serene meditation garden, providing residents with a tranquil space to relax and unwind amidst the chaos of urban living.

https://selenenewyork.com/explore

the park santa monica residences

The Park Santa Monica: Coastal Wellness Living in California

The Park Santa Monica is a luxury wellness residence located in the picturesque coastal city of Santa Monica, California.

It features a fully-equipped fitness center, complete with a yoga studio and a rooftop pool that offers ocean views. The unspoiled nature surrounding the area enhances the natural beauty and environment, providing residents with a serene and tranquil setting.

The building also prioritizes sustainability, incorporating eco-friendly materials and practices in its design.

In addition, residents can enjoy easy access to the beach (a form of biophilia obviously) and the city’s numerous parks and recreational spaces, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a healthy and active lifestyle.

https://theparksm.com/

Water Street, wellness residences, Tampa

Water Street Tampa: A Vibrant Wellness Community in Florida

Water Street Tampa is a groundbreaking wellness community located in the heart of Tampa, Florida.

This master-planned development spans over 50 acres and includes a mix of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces, all designed with wellness in mind. The community offers a unique sense of personal space, granting exclusivity and freedom through its wellness services and amenities.

The residential offerings at Water Street Tampa include wellness residences with features such as advanced air and water filtration systems and circadian lighting.

The community also boasts an extensive array of fitness and wellness facilities, including gyms, yoga studios, and spa facilities.

In addition, residents can enjoy easy access to the city’s waterfront, parks, and recreational spaces, promoting an active and healthy lifestyle.

https://waterstreettampa.com/

Comparing the Wellness Offerings of 53 West 53 NYC, Selene NYC, The Park Santa Monica, and Water Street Tampa

Some key similarities and differences between the wellness offerings of these four residential healthy buildings and wellness real estate developments include:

Imagine waking in a residence where your morning routine is enhanced by circadian lighting, meditation corners, and wellness concierge services, setting the tone for a luxurious and wellness-centric lifestyle.

1. Fitness facilities: All four developments boast state-of-the-art fitness centers, with some offering additional features such as yoga studios, personal training rooms, and rooftop pools.

2. Spa and relaxation areas: Each development provides spa facilities and relaxation spaces, such as saunas, steam rooms, meditation rooms, and outdoor terraces.

3. Indoor air quality and healthy building materials: All four developments prioritize indoor air quality through advanced filtration systems and the use of low-VOC materials.

4. Access to outdoor spaces: The Park Santa Monica and Water Street Tampa stand out for their close proximity to beaches, parks, and recreational spaces, encouraging residents to enjoy the outdoors and maintain an active lifestyle.

The future of wellness residences in the USA

Innovation in the residential healthy buildings sector

As the demand for health and wellness real estate continues to rise, it is likely that even more innovative and more health and wellness-focused developments will emerge in the coming years, leaving significant room for new market entrants to make their mark with their own USPs inspired by ESG investment strategies on one side and healthy building strategies on the other.

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Further Reading

• Posts Tagged Healthy Buildings

• Posts Tagged Well Building

• Posts Tagged Real Estate

• Posts Tagged Furniture

• Posts in ESG

• The Secrets Of A Healthy Building

• Posts Tagged Well

• Posts in real estate

• Health & Wellbeing Strategies For Wellness Lifestyle Real Estate & Mixed-Use Communities

• Posts Tagged Wellness Room

• The Secrets Of A Healthy Building: ‍9 Essential Principles For Optimal Wellness And Sustainability

• Posts Tagged Podcast

• Key Concepts In Wellness Real Estate & Healthy Buildings

the Secrets of a Healthy Building: ‍9 Essential Principles for Optimal Wellness and Sustainability

Healthy buildings are designed to improve the well-being of their occupants. By contributing to global health, these buildings support sustainable development goals, operating across various pillars of health and underpinned by public health principles. They incorporate features that enhance air quality, natural lighting, and ergonomic design, which collectively promote a healthier lifestyle.

z 97, Barcelona (Batlleroig Architects)

the role of wellness real estate and healthy buildings

Healthy buildings are no longer a niche market or an afterthought in the construction and real estate industries. They have become a key consideration for developers, owners, and occupants alike, as the benefits of living and working in a healthy environment become increasingly apparent.

In this article, we will explore the importance of healthy buildings, the connection between well-being and sustainable buildings, and the nine essential principles for designing and operating a healthy building according to the Harvard C. Chan team's healthy buildings program at Harvard University focused on public health and health science.

We will also examine the role of a healthy building consultant, case studies of successful healthy building projects in London, and the future of healthy building science, indoor spaces that enhance occupant health and the concept of wellness real estate.

Introduction to healthy buildings and their importance

A healthy building is one that is designed and operated in a way that optimizes the health and well-being of its occupants while minimizing its environmental impact.

The concept of a healthy building has evolved from a focus on improving indoor air quality (poor indoor air quality has been referred to as Sick Building Syndrome in the past) to a more holistic approach that considers the myriad factors that affect human health and well-being in indoor spaces. Healthy buildings also play a crucial role in improving environmental health by reducing harmful air pollutants and contributing to the reduction of global greenhouse gas emissions

Research into healthy buildings

Research has shown that healthy buildings can lead to increased productivity, reduced absenteeism, and improved cognitive function among occupants, making them a critical component of a modern, sustainable built environment.

The importance of healthy buildings is underscored by the fact that we spend approximately 90% of our time nowadays in indoor spaces. As our urban populations continue to grow and our awareness of the impact of the built environment on human health and well-being increases, the demand for healthy buildings will only continue to rise.

This has led to the development of building types, certification programs and building standards that specifically focus on the health and well-being of building occupants, such as the WELL Building Standard, that is aligned with the US Green Building Council (behind the LEED rating system). So how do these two concepts relate to each other?

Green Business District, Barcelona, Spain

The connection between well-being and sustainable buildings

There is a strong connection between well-being and green buildings, which offer significant economic, environmental, and health benefits. Sustainable buildings are designed to minimize their environmental impact while maximizing their efficiency, and these principles can also contribute to a healthier indoor environment for the building owners.

For example, energy-efficient buildings tend to have better

Sustainable buildings

Sustainable buildings often incorporate green building materials and practices, which can lead to better indoor environmental quality and reduced exposure to harmful chemicals and pollutants, toxins in materials released as VOCs reduce indoor air quality.

For existing buildings, specific requirements and considerations such as indoor air quality testing and post-occupancy evaluations are crucial to ensure they meet green building standards.

WELL Building Standard

The WELL Building Standard, developed by the International WELL Building Institute, is a certification program that merges the principles of sustainable building with those of human health and well-being.

WELL-certified buildings are designed and operated to support human health and wellness, ensuring the physical, mental, and social well-being of their occupants, while also promoting resource efficiency and environmental stewardship.

WELL certification and the International Well Building Institute

The International WELL Building Institute (IWBI) is a global organization that promotes the design and operation of healthy buildings through the WELL Building Standard.

This performance-based certification system measures the impact of the built environment on human health and well-being across seven categories: air, water, nourishment, light, fitness, comfort, and mind.

By focusing on the factors that directly affect human health and well-being, the WELL Building Standard aims to create a healthier, more sustainable built environment that supports the overall health outcomes wellness of healthier buildings and its occupants.

WELL certification is awarded to buildings that meet the requirements set forth by the IWBI and demonstrate a commitment to promoting health and well-being.

To achieve certification, buildings must undergo a rigorous assessment process, which includes on-site testing, performance verification, and documentation review.

Once certified, WELL buildings must maintain their high standards through ongoing monitoring and continuous improvement.

Harvard’s 9 Principles of a Healthy Buildings, by Joseph Allen

The 9 essential principles for a healthier building

a. Indoor air quality

Indoor air quality is a crucial component of a healthier building, as poor air quality can lead to a host of health issues, including respiratory problems, allergies, and cognitive impairment. Using high efficiency filter vacuums for cleaning surfaces regularly can help remove particles such as dander and allergens, addressing breathing issues and minimizing exposure to VOC, lead, pesticides, and allergens.

To ensure optimal indoor air quality, healthier indoor environments should be designed to minimize the entry and accumulation of pollutants, provide adequate ventilation, and incorporate air filtration systems to remove particulate matter and other contaminants.

b. Indoor environmental quality

Indoor environmental quality (IEQ) refers to the overall comfort and well-being of occupants within a building, encompassing factors such as temperature, humidity, lighting, and acoustics.

An office building or residential development should therefore be designed to maintain comfortable and consistent indoor conditions, provide ample natural light, and minimize noise pollution to create a pleasant and productive environment for its occupants. Excessive noise pollution can negatively impact mental health, leading to mental illness and decreased performance.

c. Green building materials and practices

The use of green building materials and practices is an essential component of a healthy building, as it helps to minimize the environmental impact of construction and reduce occupants' exposure to harmful chemicals and pollutants.

Green building materials are typically made from renewable resources, have low embodied energy, and are free of toxic substances.

Healthy buildings should also incorporate sustainable construction practices, such as waste reduction, resource-efficient design, and environmentally friendly landscaping.

d. Occupant comfort and satisfaction

Occupant comfort and satisfaction are important considerations in the design and operation of a healthy building, as they directly impact the well-being and productivity of the people who live and work within the space.

By support occupant health and ensuring that buildings are designed to meet the needs and preferences of their occupants, healthy buildings can contribute to a more positive and enjoyable experience for all.

e. Energy efficiency and sustainability

Energy efficiency and sustainability are critical components of a healthy building, as they help to minimize its environmental impact and reduce operating costs.

Natural ventilation plays a crucial role in improving indoor air quality and energy efficiency by reducing the need for mechanical ventilation systems. By incorporating energy-efficient technologies, such as high-performance insulation, energy-efficient lighting, and renewable energy systems, healthy buildings can significantly reduce their energy consumption and carbon footprint.

f. Building maintenance and operations

Proper building maintenance and operations are essential to maintaining a healthy indoor environment and ensuring the longevity of the building itself.

The World Health Organization recommends national plans for noise indoor environment and provides guidelines for water safety plans and maintenance.

A healthy building should have a comprehensive maintenance plan in place that includes regular inspections, cleaning, and repairs to ensure that all systems are functioning optimally and that any potential issues are addressed promptly.

g. Wellness strategy integration

A wellness strategy is a comprehensive approach to promoting health and well-being within a building or organization.

Healthy buildings should integrate wellness strategies, such as providing access to fitness facilities, offering healthy food options, and creating spaces for relaxation and social interaction, to support the overall wellness of their occupants.

h. Design for human health and well-being

A healthy building should be designed with the health and well-being of its occupants in mind, taking into consideration factors such as ergonomics, biophilia, and accessibility.

By incorporating design elements that promote physical activity, social interaction, and connection to nature, healthy buildings can create an environment that supports the mental, emotional, and physical wellness of its occupants.

i. Community engagement and connectivity

A healthy building should foster a sense of community and connection among its occupants, as well as with the surrounding neighborhood.

This can be achieved through the creation of communal spaces, the promotion of social events and activities, and the integration of the building within the larger community through partnerships, collaborations, and shared resources.

Wittywood healthy building, Barcelona

The role of a healthy building consultant

A healthy building consultant is a professional who specializes in the design, construction, and operation of healthy buildings.

These experts have a deep understanding of the factors that affect indoor environmental quality and occupant well-being and can provide valuable guidance and advice to building owners, developers, and architects on how to create and maintain a healthy building.

By working with a healthy building consultant, building owners can ensure that their projects meet the highest standards of health and well-being, while also achieving their sustainability goals.

Healthy building strategies for residential real estate

For residential real estate, healthy building strategies can include incorporating natural light and ventilation, using non-toxic building materials, and providing access to outdoor spaces, such as balconies or gardens.

Residential developments can promote a sense of community and well-being by offering shared amenities, such as fitness centers, community gardens, and social spaces.

Healthy building strategies for office buildings

In office buildings, healthy building strategies can involve providing adjustable workstations, access to natural light, and proper ventilation to ensure a comfortable and productive work environment.

Office buildings can also promote well-being by offering spaces for relaxation and social interaction, such as break rooms, outdoor terraces, or communal dining areas, and by providing access to on-site fitness facilities or wellness programs.

Case studies: Successful healthy building projects in Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona in Spain has seen a plethora of successful healthy building projects in recent years, demonstrating the growing demand for wellness real estate in our home city. We previously wrote extensively about this subject in a separate blog post here.

One of the latest examples from the prolific architect studio Batlleroig is the One Parc Central development in @22 Poblenou that is targeting LEED Platinum and WELL Platinum. The 52m high tower has 12 office and three basement floors, 258 parking spaces for cars, motorbikes and cycles, as well as a focus on energy efficiency, water efficiency and an abundance of natural materials used in construction.

Conclusion: The future of healthy buildings and wellness real estate

The future of healthy buildings and wellness real estate is bright, as more people become aware of the impact that the built environment has on their health and well-being.

As demand for healthy buildings continues to grow, it is likely that we will see increased investment in research, innovation, and the development of new technologies, materials, and design strategies that support the creation of healthier, more sustainable buildings.

By prioritizing the health and well-being of occupants, the real estate industry can play a significant role in promoting a healthier, more sustainable future for all.

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Further Reading

• Thermal Comfort In A Healthy Building Strategy

• Posts In Offices

• Biophilia In Healthy Buildings

• Posts Tagged Well Building

• Posts Tagged Green Buildings

• Sustainable Office Space

• Employee Health Wellness With Wellable

• Posts Tagged Biophilic Design

• Architecture For Health - Buildings Designed For Wellbeing

• Cognitive Performance And Sound In A Healthy Building Interior

• Posts Tagged Urban Planning

• Posts Tagged Well

• Operating Smart, Green & Healthy Buildings

• The Role Of Sleep In Healthy Buildings & Workplaces

• Posts Tagged Healthy Materials

• Posts in green buildings

• Biophilic Buildings - The Eco-Friendly Concept Of The Future

• Embodied Carbon In Sustainable Real Estate Esg

• Sustainable Design Consultants

• How To Create A Healthy Indoor Environment

• What Is Circular Economy In Regenerative Real Estate?

• Key concepts in wellness real estate & healthy buildings

WELL Building Standard / a 5-minute guide

What is a healthy building standard?

In recent years, the concept of wellness real estate and healthy buildings has gained significant attention and the recent COVID pandemic further served to push the real estate industry towards a green and healthy awakening.

Healthy building standards aim to promote the health and wellbeing of occupants by creating a comfortable and healthy indoor environment, this is done through a combination of construction, architecture, interior design, mechanical and operational interventions.

One of the most widely recognized healthy building standards is the WELL Building Standard, the focus of this article.

In summary, this is a certification program that focuses on seven core concepts: air, water, nourishment, light, fitness, comfort, and mind.

It provides a framework for building design and construction intended to promote improved physical and mental health of building occupants by leveraging the latest scientific research and global experts with taking into account the specific needs of different occupant groups, including children, elderly, and people with disabilities.

This is in contrast to other models for defining the concept such as that of the Harvard Chan School in Harvard University that inspired this article of our based on the nine principles of a healthy building. In the end, we are all pointing in the same direction, WELL is a certification, the 9 Principles is more of an intellectual framework.

Are healthy building standards green?

The short answer to this is 'yes but only indirectly', as it is not their main focus but concern is taken to factor in the other side of the coin, environmentally friendly building construction, interior design and management.

Green building practices, such as the use of sustainable materials and energy-efficient systems, are therefore integrated into the human health oriented standards wherever appropriate to ensure that buildings are not only healthy for occupants but also sustainable for the planet.

On this basis, a double certification process of say USGBC LEED or BREEAM in parallel with WELL is really the gold standard for many conscious property developers nowadays.

What is WELL accreditation and the International Well Building Institute?

WELL is a certification system that focuses on promoting the health and wellness in new and existing buildings. It is a performance-based system that evaluates buildings, communities, and organizations on their ability to promote human health and wellbeing.

The WELL certification is administered by the International WELL Building Institute (IWBI) and is based on a comprehensive set of criteria that cover seven core areas of wellness: air, to improve air quality, and water quality, nourishment, light, fitness, comfort, and mind.

In the context of wellness real estate, WELL certification is becoming an increasingly important factor in determining the value and desirability of a property. As awareness of the impact buildings can have on health and wellbeing grows, investors and tenants are seeking out properties that have been designed and built with wellness in mind.

What is the role of a wellness real estate consultant?

Getting there successfully is where a WELL consultant providing advisory services can be invaluable, no matter whether formal certification is being pursued or not. In the end our role is about to advance human health in buildings and interiors, nothing more nothing less.

This role requires being not just an expert in the WELL certification system itself but also creative solutions to integrating advanced human health design interventions that do not break the budget, whether that via innovative biophilic design solutions or leveraging the latest piece of medical research.

With the help of a WELL building consultant or accredited professional, property owners and developers can navigate the certification process, demonstrate compliance with the global benchmarks right up to the level of WELL platinum certification or the newcomer WELL health & safety rating, all the while backing this up with ongoing performance testing via a range of healthy building monitoring features.

Why was the WELL Standard for new and existing buildings introduced?

We believe the WELL Standard was introduced for several reasons. Clearly there is a growing demand for wellness-focused real estate. Over the years, there has been a significant shift towards prioritizing health and well-being in our daily lives, and this has carried over into the real estate industry.

Residential and office development projects in particular, whether existing interiors and a fit out project, or a new build project design, have the opportunity to leverage a host of wellness features geared for people's health. The WELL Building Standard is effectively the world's leading framework for designing single building and operating such spaces that prioritize human health and wellness.

Prior to the introduction of the WELL building standard, there was no clear-cut framework for creating wellness-focused spaces, the type of work we specialise in at Biofilico. This made it difficult for designers and operators to know what aspects of existing buildings to focus on to promote wellness.

Using the WELL building standard as inspiration and guidance only

The WELL Standard provides a comprehensive set of guidelines to ensure that all aspects of the built environment are taken into consideration. Again, it is worth reiterating that full certification is not obligatory and can simply be used as inspiration for smaller projects without the budget to pursue all of the WELL features with an accredited professional.

The introduction of the WELL Standard has also led to an increase in demand for well consultants, such as us. These are professionals who specialize in helping building owners and designers implement the standard, this work can be purely advisory with the team making recommendations to the project team and architects, or it can be more creative, with the consultants dipping into the design process with concept designs for specific spaces that are maximized for WELL features and point scores, for example biophilic recharge rooms or biophilic gyms, our specialty!

WELL, human health and healthy building materials

One of our favourite sections of the standard, and one that is especially applicable even to those merely aiming for silver certification, is the healthy materials guidance.

Here a design team really needs to work alongside the external healthy building consultants, if they do not have such expertise in-house, to come up with a range of design strategies addressing wellbeing issues found in sick buildings such as poor indoor air quality caused by toxic materials with Volatile Organic Compound (VOCs).

Here the WELL Building Standard encourages the project team and specifiers to think not just in terms of form and function but also well being and indoor air quality, minimizing human exposure to toxic materials, or eliminating toxic compounds indoors that could be introduced through material specifications.

The WELL certification process

WELL Building standard certification is possible in Silver, Gold, and Platinum (with the Platinum certification being a top achievement). A WELL-accredited building is a three-year process.

To get WELL Building certification, you need to enroll in the program by paying an enrollment fee of $2,500 [1][2]. After that, you need to pay a program fee of $0.16 per square foot, with a minimum of $6,500 and a maximum of $98,000 [1], or a maximum of $100,500 [2]. The exact program fee will depend on the size of your building. Additionally, you will need to pay required performance testing fees [2].

The WELL certification process involves several steps, including registering your project, submitting documentation, and undergoing performance testing. Overall, the cost of WELL certification can vary depending on the size and complexity of your project, but it can provide significant benefits and ROI in terms of improved health and employee wellbeing, for occupants.

References: [1] WELL v2 | Certification Pricing [2] What does WELL Certification cost? [3] WELL Certification Cost: What is the ROI of WELL?

What are the principles of well certification?

The principles of WELL certification are a comprehensive set of guidelines that focus on creating healthy and sustainable buildings. This certification is designed for wellness real estate, which aims to promote the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of its occupants.

A WELL consultant is an individual from a company like ours trained and certified to assess buildings and ensure they meet these human health and built environment principles.

There are several principles of WELL certification that are essential for creating a healthy and sustainable building. The first principle is indoor air quality, which focuses on providing clean and fresh air indoors via proper ventilation, air filtration, and minimizing the presence of harmful chemicals.

The second principle is water quality, which focuses on providing access to clean and safe drinking water. This includes filtration systems and testing for contaminants.

The third principle is nourishment, which focuses on providing healthy and nutritious food options for occupants. This includes priority access to nutritionally dense, fresh, seasonal food rather than packaged and processed options such as sweet snacks and soft drinks in vending machines or staff canteens.

The fourth principle is light, which focuses on providing adequate light levels and minimizing exposure to harmful light sources. This includes a militant focus on maximizing access to natural light, combined with sensitive lighting design, and minimizing the use of harsh artificial light after dark that might otherwise disrupt sleep patterns.

The fifth principle is fitness, which focuses on promoting physical activity and movement within a building be it residential, educational or office. This includes access to fitness facilities, bike storage, and walking paths as well as active design stairwells.

The sixth principle is comfort, which focuses on providing a comfortable and supportive environment for occupants. This includes ergonomic chairs, adjustable desks, and temperature control.

The seventh principle is mind, health and wellbeing, which focuses on promoting mental and emotional well-being. This includes access to meditation rooms, stress management programs, and mental health resources.

The eighth and final principle is community, a far wider scope concept related to human health but a critical one nonetheless as it focuses on promoting social connectivity and a sense of community within the building, which in turn will impact human health. This includes communal meeting spaces, social events, and volunteer opportunities, all intended to foster a sense of well being and connection amongst building occupants.

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Further Reading

• Well Building Standard: Mind M09 Enhanced Access To Nature

• Biophilic Design In The Well Building Standard

• Well Building Standards And Well Consultants - All You Need To Know

• Well Building Standard Movement V01 Active Buildings & Communities

• Well Building Standard Feature V03: Circulation Network

• Well Building Standard Movement V09 Physical Activity Promotion

• Well Building Standard: M07 Restorative Spaces

future-proof real estate with the smart building collective

wellbeing & sustainability in real estate & hospitality podcast

Welcome to episode 063 of the Green & Healthy Places podcast in which we discuss the themes of wellbeing and sustainability in real estate and hospitality.

In this episode we’re in Amsterdam talking to Nicholas White, Co-Founder and Managing Partner of the Smart Building Collective, a smart building and pro-tech business with its own certification framework focused on leveraging technology to measure how a real estate asset is performing. 

It covers key metrics such as the building usage, its performance, the building environment, health and safety, user behavior and connectivity.

We discuss how a smart tech is at the heart of both sustainable green buildings and healthy buildings nowadays, as well as playing a role in real estate ESG strategies. We also look at some of the more innovative real estate developments that he’s been a part of recently that give a sense of where the industry might be going in the future.

https://smartbuildingcollective.com/

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Matt

Nicholas, thanks for joining us on the show. Amazing to have you here. You're dialing in from Amsterdam where you’re based?

Nicholas

Yes, I am. Thanks for having me.

Matt

Listen, why don't we start with a bit of background to give the genesis of what you do with the Smart Building Collective. How did the whole thing start?

Nicholas

I personally came from the corporate sector doing large scale IT transformation projects, we were attacking these from the human perspective, really change management, trying to help people maximize the usage of of tech, and getting the most out of it. And what was always quite disheartening was the corporates would kind of roll over their people in that process, which was was quite painful to watch.

I thought there needs to be a better way, there needs to be a more engaging way, a healthier way to do these kinds of transformation programs.

So I left the corporate sector, and I teamed up with a woman by the name of Elizabeth Nelson, and she was doing research into burnout and human performance. I came more from the practical side of working with leadership teams and working in corporate space to make things better.

impact of the built environment on physical and mental health

Then we got this amazing opportunity with CBRE to do a research study on the impact of the built environment on people.

They built a ‘living lab’, the cost was probably about 250,000 euros to build then they started changing all of the things in the office environment, from the plants to the food, air and light over the course of 10 months.

They would do cognitive tests on people to see what the impact was. So the results were amazing. And then when we left, Elizabeth was asked to do it again, with booking.com. And we did a huge research study here in Amsterdam, that dictated their new headquarter plans, which was really quite cool.

Same thing happened, you know, it took a long time to build, expensive and the research results were amazing. The Living Lab collapsed after the research study was done, which looking back is completely logical that that happened.

Then we did it a third time, this time for GSK in the UK - GlaxoSmithKline. After that it was, okay, is there not a better way to do this? Where is there a standard? And this was around 2018 -2019. Where is there a standard that we can just plug into and do research more effectively, more efficiently and more collectively.

Developing a smart building standard for real estate

We came across the smart readiness indicator, which was the EU's approach to a smart standard but for the rest, nothing else existed. So we started to think about doing it ourselves. And that's kind of what we did. And we launched in 2020 The smart buildings certification.

green buildings, healthy buildings and smart buildings - whats the difference?

Matt

Okay, so let's go a level deeper, because I think a lot of people will have heard perhaps the term a green building, which is essentially a building that's designed to minimize its environmental impact, so externally oriented while a healthy building is a terminology more oriented internally thinking about the impact the building has on its occupants.

You just used the term smart building, it's in your brand. It's in your name to the core of what you do. So how does a smart building fit into that spectrum of green buildings on one side and healthy buildings on the other?

smart tech in buildings for real time management efficiencies

Nicholas

For us, you know, smart building is about technology, it's the digitization of real estate, it's an enabler. It's nothing more than that it shouldn't be a goal in itself to make a smart building, it's about the results that we're trying to achieve with that asset, and then working back to think about, okay, how can we make that more efficient and easier to do and more real time.

So it isn't essentially a tech component on both sides - on the healthy building scene, if you're not measuring it and monitoring it in the long term, you can't effectively justify the upfront investment that you put in, you need to keep an eye on what's happening.

You have sustainability, you have health and wellbeing in real estate. But there's also efficiency gains through the management and maintenance of your asset, creating a better user experience, which isn't just about the health of occupants, it's also about human performance and culture and community and building a way for people to connect with each other. And with the asset, you also have kind of new business models that are emerging from the enablement that tech provides.

I think we all have heard the pressure that the commercial real estate is under with the changing of work, flexible working and so on, with a smart building we have the ability to see what's working versus what's not working, I think you're in a much better position to make rational decisions as an owner or developer.

the smart building framework

You've created essentially your own framework that gives some structure to how you think about smart buildings. I think that's such an important piece of of how you communicate your position and the your, let's say, view of the real estate industry.

So it's clearly at the core of what you're about, perhaps you could just give us a quick overview of those component parts that make up your framework.

Nicholas

Yeah, sure. So the smart building certification, where we always are saying is founded in research, and practice, and we're constantly optimizing it with our community, we actually made a change from the smart building certification to the smart building Collective, we did that last year in August. And the reason for that is that as we were certifying buildings, we see that not a single one of them is similar. They're all completely different.

So the certification really is being informed by the collective, the smartest buildings we find and the smartest solutions we find are informing the benchmark and constantly changing it. So in a way, you can start to think about it as a bit of a web 3.0 approach to certification in the sense that it is dynamic, and it is moving and and we're learning as we go.

But in essence, the certification that we have created, starts with the results, right? Like what are we actually trying to do with these assets? And then works back to the technology of how do we get to that result. And that result is broken into a number of different modules within the certification.

Smart building usage data, performance and indoor environment

So the first module is building usage, you know, how does one have kind of overview and control over how the assets are being utilized - from occupancy, to how amenities are being used, these types of things.

What kind of technology do you have in place to understand how your asset is being used, the next module is building performance, then you can really think about your sustainability aspects, your energy consumption, your water consumption, how the asset is actually performing against the goals and against the promise.

We have a module on building environment, which is thinking more about your health and well being. And it's really about your indoor environment being sound, light, indoor air quality, these types of things.

How do we use technology to make sure that the environment is healthy and in state for people to use it in a good way. We also have a module on safety and security, of course, which is both physical security, but also digital security. As you put more smart building more technology into a building, we need to keep it safe, we need to keep the cybersecurity at the forefront. But it's also about physical security and Disaster Mitigation.

The last module is user behavior and collaboration. So how can people find each other? How can they interact with the building? How does community get created?

Integrative design in smart buildings

And then all of those modules are actually brought together by a module we call integrative design, which is how can we actually with the least amount of technology, maximize the value in the results and all of those different areas? Instead of having a technology for each piece? How can we make sure that the technology becomes an aspect that adds value to all those different areas?

governance and real estate esg in smart buildings

One of the things that really sets us apart is we have a huge emphasis on governance, process, access to data, do the right people have access to the data to do something with it? And is the organization structured in a way that actually can do it? Because I think, you know, a smart building without actually using that data is you could argue, is that smart?

Matt

Perhaps for anyone who's not aware of some of the intricacies of how that works, then you're effectively looking at the facilities management, the building management company that's looking after the building, we're talking a fairly large scale, say mixed use or office development on behalf of the tenant or on behalf of effectively behind that the investor? Or is it the tenant themselves who has some role and wants access to that needs to be involved.

Nicholas

Well, you know, ideally, it's a communal effort, the whole idea is to break down silos and to be working together, to forge better relationships between the owner, property manager, tenants and all the different suppliers that are in there. I think where the industry is, right now, which is challenging is that all of those things are being done in silo, every single one of those different stakeholders is dealing with their piece of the puzzle, which in the end, makes it quite a quite challenging.

Ideally the stakeholder map would be doing this together. But what we see in practice is that it's coming from different perspectives, like we will do a certification for a tenant that is interested in understanding what their building is capable of doing for them from a tenant perspective, and they can use it to then work with the landlord to say, ‘hey, from my ESG perspective, I need to have better energy consumption or at least better insight into my energy consumption’, these types of things.

We also do it from a building owner perspective that says, ‘Hey, I've laid in an incredible tech stack for my potential tenants and my property managers. How can we help them?’ So with with your certification level, and with your communication and your training, how can I improve it? How can I make it better?

real estate ESG and the role of smart technology in buildings

Matt

It's tapping into this rising tide around awareness of ESG. I see it coming from above in terms of pension funds and investment groups coming in, then applying pressure on the investors or the building owners, but also from below, sometimes from the employees themselves, and oftentimes from tenants of the building.

Nicholas

Yeah, and you know, where we're at right now is just meeting people where they are, right, like, we have some of the most, you know, the smartest developers in the world, who, on one side, want to help tell the world that they've created something really spectacular, and something really special.

At the other side, they want to say, Okay, where are my holes? Where are my gaps? What am I not thinking about yet, so that I can, you know, push push the envelope for, for this development, or my next development? And then you have people who are like, well, what is smart? Like, how do I even how do I even start?

How do I even where do I begin, and that was one of the main reasons we pivoted to the smart building Collective is that, you know, we're not here to say, this is how you build a smart building, the collective is informing this certification, and then there's a ton of people in this community that are there to help, you know, from all different walks of life, but different culture different, you know, views, different ways of supporting, and so you can find the solution when you when you're looking for it.

size and scale in smart building certification projects

What is the minimum size that you're noticing in the market, in terms of buildings, and developers coming to you with an interest in in going deeper into this, you know, oftentimes, you might see smaller developers, smaller building owners, smaller tenants who have increasingly aware of this ESG angle and want to get into it, and then look at the breadth of a big healthy building certification such as WELL for example and just even to go for one or two elements of that looks like a big undertaking. We don't have the manpower, we don't have the budget? How does smart fit in? Is there a bespoke approach that one can adopt, as you say, just to kind of get started? Or is it all or nothing? And therefore, is it a certain size of building that makes more sense?

Nicholas

No, it's definitely not all or nothing, it's, start, wherever you are, start small, start getting a little bit more control in different areas. And, and, you know, what's so exciting about the benchmark system that we've created is, is that it's, it's moving, you know, it's rolling, but it's also applicable to whichever asset class whatever size, you know, whatever type of property in whatever country, because what we what we are doing is actually starting to build some benchmarks, right.

So if you are a building of 5000 square meters, which is, you know, not that big. Let's compare you to other 5000 square meter buildings. And we get the we get the question, you know, should I have a user wrap? Well, it depends, you know, it depends on the context that depends on what you're trying to do. It depends on the value cases you're after, what are you trying to accomplish with your property. And in that sense, you should really be compared to like minded buildings, and not to, you know, all of them.

Smart app technology in building management

So a user app would then be a smartphone integrated user face where you can see what's going on around you in the building in terms of key data points and metrics, from air quality to light usage and electricity usage. Is that essentially what it does?

Nicholas

Yeah, they come in all different shapes and sizes. A lot of user apps focus on the community aspects of a building, you know, what kind of workshops are happening today? What kind of events? What run happening this afternoon with a group of people. Some of them go beyond the building itself and connect you to the community in the smart city space, you know, what's going on in the neighborhood. But you also see them as being utilitarian where they start to become the key to doors or the light switches.

To get the utilization up of those apps, you start with the utility piece, if you can't open the door without it, then you're going to start using that app. And then growing into that community aspect, we also see the app becoming kind of the financial backbone of the building that it manages everything from room booking to amenity usage.

So sky's the limit as to what you can do with that functionality. That's a big one.

peer reviewed smart building certification and accredited professionals

And around the the actual smart building certification process itself and your accredited professionals or your “APs"“, how does that network function?

Nicholas

Our certification comes from the world of academics. So when you research and you write a publishable paper, it always gets peer reviewed. A scientific paper doesn't get published in the market until it's been peer reviewed. So we thought, you know, Shouldn't that be how we assess buildings? So we built a peer review model, where you have independent assessors who are looking at this building, and those assessors come from different cultures different, you know, parts of the world, and they look at your building. And then what we have in the certification process is we have quantitative data, and we have qualitative data. The quantitative data is very much based on, you know, do you have the technology?

Do you have the functionality, the coverage, you know, is it there, and that's quite black or white, right? It's either there or it's not there. The qualitative data is much more the grays that are going on in buildings, right? It's like your governance structure. How are you organizing yourself as a building, your integrative design?

You know, how did you decide to build your smart building? Did you use a one massive supplier for the whole tech stack? That's, you know, really been around for 30-40 years? Or did you use a bunch of startups and scale ups and have them work? Together? Right? There's no kind of wrong answer there.

You just make different decisions for different reason. And so there's definitely a qualitative piece that needs to be taken into consideration of a this is what we see in buildings, this is the pros, this is the cons. Maybe this is something you should think about, you know, moving forward.

And that peer review model has been hugely successful in the sense that these assessors get to, you know, assess buildings all around the world, and they get to see the different cultures and the different ways that they're built. And it's become a really, really incredible community of people who not only are working together daily to find good solutions for their own work, but but also helping inform the collective to improve this certification improve what we do.

Matt

Is there a particular building or case study that you've been involved in that could be representative of where things are going or where things are at today in terms of smart building excellence?

a leading example of a smart building

Nicholas

One that we just certified that is amazing is the Hausmann’s Hus in Oslo. It's a family office that built this incredible building from an altruistic perspective, they said, it's not about building a smart building, it's about building the best building we possibly can. And it just happens to be digital.

They created these smart grids throughout the building, which allows them to configure the building any way that they want, for however big or small a tenant would be, and give that space its own smart infrastructure, its own energy metering, its own light metering, completely self contained. A traditional building will take the energy of the building and divide it by the amount of square meters, and send a bill to the tenant based on that calculation.

This is a completely more sophisticated way to do it. And then it's just the most beautiful high quality building. They also have open, transparent contracts with their suppliers, where they say, we're gonna guarantee you your margin, but we're going to discuss the cost. And they originally thought that the budget of the smart building was going to be significantly higher, because of all this smart tech but by managing it in an open and transparent way with their suppliers, they've actually been able to create a building that's the same cost, which I think is something we all need to learn from. It makes good business sense.

Matt

Where do you see your growth over the next three to five years?

Nicholas

I think part of our role is that we need to get these success stories and these stories out. We need to write these cases, and we need to make them quantified, and share how impact is being made. I think we're gonna get to this point of - what is the right level of technology for buildings, and what's too far? The emergence of having buildings be larger than themselves, I guess, being part of a community and not just stand alone.

buildings become part of a community

We’ll also see that with co-working spaces and you know, community spaces, these kinds of things. I think that's going to be a huge component in the future. We just certified a building in in Finland that has its own geothermal energy plant that they built under the building. And it is now feeding the energy to the entire grid around that building. There's something to be said about being a global citizen with your project!

I have the strong belief that out of challenging times, which the commercial real estate is definitely in right now, comes some incredible opportunities. And I think the emergence of cultural, experiential type places, is emerging. I'll be very curious to see how that evolves as it becomes a completely different asset class, not a museum, not a concert hall, not an office or a hotel but something new.

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FURTHE READING:

• World Green Building Council Health Wellbeing Framework

OPO wellness content for hotels and real estate developments

wellness tech content for office workplaces, hotels, resorts and real estate developments with Chris Connors of OPO

Welcome to episode 062 of the Green & Healthy Place podcast in which we discuss the themes of wellbeing and sustainability in real estate and hospitality today.

In this episode I’m in Ibiza talking to Chris Connors, Founder and Creative Director of OPO, a wellness tech studio applying the principles of mindfulness to daily life via psycho-acoustics, neuro-aesthetics and awareness practices. 

Belfast-born Chris is a psychotherapist, leadership coach and master in zen meditation. He has previously created projects for the likes of Prada, LVMH, Nike, Aesop, Kering and Net a Porter. 

Amongst other things, we discuss everything from their nature-based mindfulness portals scattered around various mixed-used developments in London, their multi-sensory recharge room in a coworking office and the meditative moments they create during the guest journey for luxury resorts and hotels.

https://www.opo.world/

https://www.instagram.com/opo.app/?hl=en

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FULL TRANSCRIPTION

Matt Morley

I wanted to start with context around what you saw as the initial opportunity for creating a wellness technology business working with mixed-use real estate, office and hotel brands. There's a lot of movement in the ‘well tech’ space right now but clearly, you felt there was a combination of talent, skill and potentially funding on your side to go fill that gap?

Chris Connors

I've been in this in the world of mindfulness for 23 years now. I started training in Japan with many different monasteries and monks. I spent many months on retreat there, and started to really understand deeply what was going on.

You might hear from my accent, I actually come from Belfast, in Northern Ireland, and grew up in a very adverse place, and found that meditation had a strong impact on my mental health. At that time, of course, I didn't have any science to support anything that was going on, it was a very intuitive experience. So at that point, I realised what a strong benefit it was having for me.

Fast forward into I guess, 2014 - 2015 when I started to see this emerging trend coming, the work that I had been doing, which actually had been very secretive, or discreet - back then people didn't talk about things like mindfulness and sound healing. And these kinds of words, were certainly banished to far away places.

Meditation in daily life

I started to create a little website called on modern consciousness which caught the eye of a lot of experts. And it was really about how you could bring meditation into daily life through design or objects or spaces. And in that early time, I there was a realisation that people were starting to warm more and more to this work. I was teaching it a lot. I noticed a lot of the younger generation doing research on meditation, as were some of the great scientific institutes like in Harvard, and places like that, which were doing a lot of tests and trials.

mindfulness apps for wellbeing

So for me, that was the early spot, that there was going to be a a really big movement in this field. And then I started to see some apps come through very early days, mindfulness apps. And lo and behold, Headspace and apps like Calm started to really push out into the world.

They’ve taken a huge area of the market, I wanted to look at how we could create something with OPO that wasn't just about learning to do this work, but it more about the applied aspects, how can things like meditation come into daily life? And what would that mean from a daily habitual point of view, or spaces that you might interact with, or behaviours that you might have? And we've been building it now for the past five years.

Matt Morley

Did you have a business to business strategy as a way to distinguish from, say, the Headspaces of the world that have gone heavily down the B2C route and the mass market?

Mind training for business communities

Chris Connors

It' a mixed view of that really, I've been a coach and a leadership coach for many businesses primarily in the luxury and design, through that, of course, I started to see the ailments of organisations and organisational behaviour and was very interested in what I could do to help from a coaching perspective, but then of course from a learning and development perspective, and I saw OPO could really help with those functions.

The way we've approached it as a business is that we are working to build blocks through the B2B model. Our end goal is that anyone in the consumer or Public domain can use OPO and we want our business communities to support us as a social enterprise to create more urban wide ‘portals’, which I'm sure we'll talk about, and initiatives that reach to a much wider public. And that's really our game. But we want to work through the channels of b2b business communities.

Mindful locations at mixed-use real estate developments

Matt Morley

Okay, so I've had the OPO app on my phone now for a month and a half, the ‘portals’ seem to be in some way connected to places, geographies, but at the same time I don't need to be in that specific location in order to access the content.

So how do your portals fit into the overall context of the business? And then how is it that you ended up working with mixed use real estate developers like Kings Cross and Greenwich Peninsula in London to develop those portals?

Chris Connors

The portals came from our first projects, which actually were spaces. We have created two spaces in central London, one was in Shoreditch, and the other one was in Kings Cross in Coal Drops Yard, which is the big King's Cross development, we worked with Argent, who are, of course, fantastic developers, very visionary.

We made two very interesting spaces that attracted a lot of attention in terms of what we were offering, they were automated spaces, people could go in and have 15-20 minute experiences.

I kind of wanted to find out, what could we do that would not just be an indoor thing. What could we do for people during summer, or during the outdoor times, where you could really wander around the city, and stop at these portals and have some kind of experience equivalent to what we were having indoors at these spaces.

promoting mindful moments in urban real estate developments

A blended experience actually creates the portal itself. And it's a very simple experience, in the end,, the app will guide you to a park bench, or a river view, or some space in the city and beyond. But once you're there, the app will unlock a guided mindful practice based on the view that you have.

I guide you with exact view of things that are in front of you. And that presencing experience gives a very optimal neurological, quite phenomenal experience for our system, and floods us with different hormonal inputs.

The portals for me have been an absolutely brilliant guide for us, we want to plant as many as we can around as many cities. And we're finding as people use them, they're getting those true stillness moments in the noise, which is actually the real core aspect of what Meditation.

It's not just about getting calm and being away from everything. It's actually about, how can I be in it, and be completely with it, but also find a deeper stillness and connection at the same time, which is a very urban experience, of course.

Matt Morley

And so if I may ask, is that a commercial relationship, then if there's another developer or a location a place or a hotel that may want to develop or likes the idea of having one of the portals, they would contract you to make one?

blending wellbeing and wayfinding with OPO ‘portals’

Chris Connors

The portals are basically a combination of you might call it wellbeing and wayfinding. The wayfinding aspect is really helpful. Of course, for developers, they want people to dwell and sit and enjoy their spaces. And OPO was a perfect instrument to do that.

We've done that along The Tide, which is the Highline of London at Greenwich Peninsula, we built our portals all the way along the walking area, so people could dwell and enjoy certain views. They really create this much more multi dimensional experience of the space itself. And of course, for a developer, that's always good news. And you're also building in some good wellbeing mandates as well.

wellness tech in a hotel or resort guest experience

Matt Morley

A lot of the times when I'm working with a hotel or resort group, I'm more focused on the physical spaces that we're able to create. But i always need to have a clear idea of how they're going to be used by guests.

Hotel guests are only going to stay a few days most likely, so there’s less opportunity for repeated exposure, repeated moments of connection, typically how does OPO integrate into a luxury hotel or resort brand’s customer journey on that basis?

Chris Connors

Well, we started with the room first, we realised that there's an opportunity to bring more 360 wellness into the hotel or resort bedroom itself. That's typically where people spend a lot of their time. We've built content that people can upload through a QR code on screen from reception, where we're building menus that are really helping people while they're in the room.

So especially things like sleep, stress, anxiety… we’re also working with quite a few really good hotels around sound and relaxation treatments, for example. Also we build portals. We can do things like reception sending their guests off for a sunrise guided meditation in the morning, and the app will take you to the rocks and sit with the sunrise and they guide you with that moment, all the way from your room.

We also do a sonic postcard, which is something that the hotel can send to guests prior to their stay to help them along the way, whether it's a song journey for transport to the destination, or after their stay for example. The whole idea is to help extend a brand’s connection with guests and extending the guest journey with mindful content.

how to use QR codes for mindful moment prompts in resorts and hotels

Matt Morley

The idea of having subtle QR codes dotted around a building strikes me as an interesting intervention. Does that require the guest to have an app installed on their phone? Or is the QR code itself the access to the content?

Chris Connors

Yeah, we make web content. We have different content, private content for them that's not on the app itself. We do have a private area on our app for our partners that their guests can use the app on the private area. But the whole point with QR or any form of technology is that it’s web content, there's no signing in required. A lot of hotels are trying to develop their own app so we want to stay as flexible as possible with them.

opportunities for mindfulness content in residential developments and office workspaces

Matt Morley

When you're working with a residential or an office workplace client, I'm sure you're able to consider a more medium term relationship, where something could be used repeatedly. And as we all know, it is the repetition of these acts that cumulatively starts to have a real impact on mental wellbeing, anxiety, mood and so on.

The workplace wellness space seems to be especially interesting for OPO, what are you up to in that space?

workplace wellness tech for mental wellbeing

Chris Connors

The office is a very different place after the pandemic, businesses are desperate to find ways to help people, retain people and also ensure that they are taking care of their people from a healthy building perspective. From OPO’s point of view, we're really focused on what you've just been saying, if someone is repeatedly using a space, then repetition can create a habit and habit formation is a big part of what we offer for our business partners.

We're very focused on the strong development of science around circadian biology. And that's become a big part for us. You know, OPO is very much about our natural self and the natural world around us. We have a 24 hour clock that basically guides everything we do.

We're working now with a global brand called Davines, maybe you're aware of the global beauty brand, we've just run a wonderful first step initiative for them called Unplug about showing how our brain does not operate in a homogeneous state the whole way through the day.

Our focus is how can we help create specific points along the journey of your day, which actually helps balance or restore brain state and brain health for mental wellbeing benefits, in order to really optimise your productivity, but also to help align to your circadian rhythm.

biophilic design and bringing the outside world in to the office workplace

Matt Morley

Do you mostly deal in sound-based interventions or is there a component of sound plus visuals in some cases?

Chris Connors

We’re talking to a few businesses who really want to look at the design of their office and how daily habits and habit change can actually affect design, because it's never really been thought through. That's basically the habit of the office, you know, desk and coffee.

But currently, the way we offer it is it's more audio and helping people with specific habits through the day that involve physical, mental and emotional tasks. But a lot of that is about being outdoors. It's about focus light in the eyes, different aspects that involve nature really as the big player here for supporting the office space.

office meditation room design london

Matt Morley

So I saw the office meditation room that you created with The Office Group in London, UK, it just struck me as interesting concept, tell us about that?

Chris Connors

We worked with the architects Universal Design Studio, really brilliant architectural practice, on design from scratch of that space. So it was very much about bringing down certain stimuli, and then upping others through different kinds of sensory elevations and depravations.

We created a circadian soundtrack. So there was a track that would be playing in there, which basically looked at how sound maps to your circadian biology. So when you went in, there would be a certain kind of stimulation that would be beneficial for your brain at that particular time of day combined with a colour therapy light, which was working on certain activations of the eyes, and very much around what certain colours do at certain times of the day as well, that was all moving and changing.

office recharge rooms and quiet rooms

Matt Morley

I've done a few office recharge rooms or ‘quiet rooms’ for corporate office environments, often full of biophilia. And the question always comes up around how active or passive should it be? Should there be an element of content? Or is it in fact about disconnecting and having no screens at all? Often, we end up removing any screens, I think now the content has got to the point where the availability of such high quality wellness content makes me confident in saying, look, I think we can design a space that includes a feature screen connected to an app such as OPO.

The practical reality is that creating an environment for mindfulness is not enough, most people are going to need guidance to get there.

Chris Connors

And that's the issue The Office Group had before we upgraded their quiet room concept, they were doing little contemplation rooms but people were just using them for eating for or whatever but now if you go into this restorative room in Notting Hill, you take your shoes off, then you follow guidance in order to experience the full journey.

wellness content for different audiences - coliving, coworking, hotels

Matt Morley

How do you adapt your wellness content for different audiences and contexts? I wonder how much is epeat content versus how much is adapted to the specifics of each brand or location?

Chris Connors

In a hotel, we're really looking at ‘elevation’, helping people relax, and go deeper but in a quick and simple way. Whereas, of course, in the office space, we're working with people and their behaviours over repeat visits so there's a different kind of programming required.

What we are advocating is to find some sort of sense of self and being present. In that moment, it doesn't matter if you've got 10 minutes or 10 years. The essence of our work is about that.

social enterprises - giving back to the community as an esg strategy

Matt Morley

You mentioned a little earlier on the idea of a social enterprise and your societal angle. I was interested to understand a bit more about that as obviously a decision you took up front as a business.

Chris Connors

I really wanted to create some kind of circularity in my business, it wasn't just looking at upward trajectories and curves on that level, it's important, of course, the business can grow and flourish. I had always felt that this work is not only about the wellness industry, my work is a service as well. And as part of that service, I wish that it can access as many people as possible.

As part of our social enterprise, we wish to create more and more of these accessible meditation places and spaces for people in and around the city. And actually, our vision for that is ambitious - our dream is to work with mayors of cities, or, you know, the smart city concepts, where we can plug our portals in and actually drive demand in a much bigger way for people to access them. And that fulfils our social mission.

Matt Morley

It's giving back but in a sense without asking anything in return, it's your purely giving, you often don't know who those people are, I guess unless there's sort of some interconnection, or the sort of the geo locator or what have you. But effectively, you've never you never see them.

Chris Connors

We ask all of our real estate and hotel partners to help co-fund those with us. So we have a fund that we always bring into our model to help create more and more portals, it's a bit like tree planting.

https://www.opo.world/

https://www.instagram.com/opo.app/?hl=en

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Further reading

Sustainable hotel brands in the UK

what is wellness design in a healthy buildings and wellbeing interior strategy

Casa Biofilico, Barcelona

a basic introduction to Interior design for wellness

The role of interior design in enhancing building occupant wellness and creating a healthy indoor environment is increasingly recognised as being a fundamental part of a healthy building strategy, indeed without it there would be a complete disconnect between the intent of wellness architecture and the occupant experience of the interiors themselves.

Why? Simply put, because the design of an interior space can have a direct impact on the health and wellbeing of its occupants, from the air they breath to the light that enters their eyes, the sounds they experience, the feelings evoked by being in a specific room and so on. We see this as a major trend in the wellness residences and lifestyle real estate space in particular.

what are wellness design services?

Wellness design is a concept that emphasizes creating spaces that promote the health and wellbeing of their occupants. This approach considers not just the physical design of a space, but also its impact on the emotional, social, and mental health of its users.

To achieve this goal, our role as wellness designers working for real estate developers and hotel groups focuses on five key facets that we will cover in more detail in the rest of this article before covering other topics such as biophilic design for mental and physical wellness, active design as a promoter of physical health, natural light and multi-sensory design.

The five facets of wellness design are generally agreed to be:

1. health and fitness

2. safety and security

3. accessibility

4. functionality

5. comfort and joy

Indoor-outdoor gym design by Biofilico

Health and fitness in healthy building design and interiors

Health and fitness are fundamental components of wellness design. Creating spaces that encourage physical activity and healthy behaviors is a cornerstone of this approach. In real estate and interiors, wellness design can be achieved through the inclusion of fitness amenities such as gyms, swimming pools, and outdoor spaces that promote exercise and movement.

healthy living habits

In addition to promoting physical activity, wellness design also emphasizes healthy living habits. This can include the use of natural materials to limit the baseline levels of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) in the indoor air, as well as the incorporation of and soft promotion of healthy food options in communal spaces such as office canteens; biophilic design concepts to foster a greater sense of connection to nature indoors or in a dense urban environment; meditation rooms and quiet rooms for mental health and wellbeing practices; and active design to promote low levels of movement throughout the day be that by taking the stairs more often or using a standing desk.

Safety and Security in wellness architecture

Safety and security are critical elements of wellness design as spaces that are conspicuously safe and secure provide a sense of comfort and peace of mind for occupants. Techniques can range from enhanced security systems, such as surveillance cameras and smart phone enabled access control systems, to the inclusion of emergency response plans.

More subtle design techniques aimed at creating a sense of emotional and mental safety in interior spaces includes the use of calming colors, restorative soft lighting (especially after dark), and textures that promote a sense of comfort such as wool.

Accessibility in mindful design of interiors

Interior spaces that are accessible to people of all ages and abilities is essential to promoting inclusivity and wellbeing. In real estate and interiors, wellness design can be achieved through the use of universal design principles, such as wide doorways, non-slip flooring, and accessible fixtures.

For example, in some of the residential gyms we designed for Alpine Start Development in Dallas, Texas, consideration had to be taken for the American Disability Act (ADA) guidelines around wheelchair access to each major group of equipment, be that cardio machines or strength machines, to allow for a wheelchair user to roll up alongside at least some of the equipment without obstruction.

outdoor workspace design concept by biofilico for HERO natural foods, Switzerland

In addition to physical accessibility, wellness design also addresses social accessibility. This can include communal spaces that promote social interaction and connection, such as shared outdoor spaces in a workspace such as the concept design we created for HERO natural foods global headquarters near Zurich in Switzerland, or communal kitchens.

Functionality as a feature of wellness design

Buildings and interiors consciously designed with functionality in mind promote efficiency, productivity, and ease of use. In commercial office real estate and interiors, translating this wellness design concept requires flexible floorplans and spaces that can be easily adapted to different uses, as well as the incorporation of smart technologies to facilitate it all.

For example, in our podcast interview with Nicholas White of the Smart Building Collective, he referenced the Hausmanns Hus by Hathon in Norway - a private family office who managed to create a building that can adapt to almost any size tenant and still provide them with accurately metered energy readings related to their exact portion of the floorplate, which in turn allows the tenant greater control over their sustainability and ESG efforts.

Comfort and joy in wellbeing design

Buildings, interiors and spaces that promote occupant comfort and joy provide a sense of emotional and mental wellbeing for their occupants, this however can be a notoriously difficult concept to pin down as it is often a subjective response. Nonetheless, many of the major healthy building and wellness real estate certification systems such as WELL and Living Future include this concept in their points system.

Partly for this reason and partly due to our own strongly held belief in the power of wellness design and biophilia to deliver such a tangible response from occupants of a space, we continue to include ‘comfort and joy’ in our wellness design services list.

In real estate and interiors we are working with comfortable and ergonomic furnishings, as well as the incorporation of artworks, sculptures, plants and representations of nature, or indirect biophilia.

organic interiors and healthy materials

One way interior design can enhance occupant wellness is through the use of natural materials. Studies have shown that materials such as wood, stone, and plants can reduce stress levels and promote relaxation but we argue that there is a far more visceral, intuitive response hidden within such research groups.

As humans we are hard-wired to gravitate towards natural materials with texture, a patina of age, and the beauty of wabi-sabi imperfections far more than to industrial, all-too-perfect finishes. When such natural materials are also non-toxic materials and low VOC then they have the additional effect of improve indoor air quality, reducing the risk of respiratory problems and other health issues.

active design interiors and human-centric design

The layout and functionality of a space can also impact occupant wellness. Spaces that promote movement, such as standing desks and walking meeting rooms, can improve physical health and reduce sedentary behavior.

Additionally, creating spaces that promote social interaction and connection, such as communal areas and shared kitchens, can improve mental health and foster a sense of community.

matt morley of biofilico

biophilic design and natural light in interiors

Incorporating natural light and views of nature can also improve occupant wellness by reducing stress levels and promoting relaxation. This can be achieved through the use of large windows, skylights, and the inclusion of indoor plants.

Spaces maximized for biophilic design benefits aim to make the most use of the natural daylight available, allowing it to filter through into the core of the building’s floor plate.

Smart lighting systems with LED bulbs can provide different light tones and intensities during the day to follow the body’s natural 24hr cycle. A combination of natural daylight, task lights (e.g. desk lamps or bedside lamps), uplighters (e.g. standing lamps) and ceiling lights on a smart system will all help create an interior designed for wellbeing.

multi-sensory design for wellbeing

In addition to promoting comfort and joy, wellness design also addresses the impact of the built environment on sensory experiences. This can include the use of materials that promote tactile engagement, such as natural stone and wood, as well as the incorporation of sensory elements, such as sound and scent. This is also known as multi-sensory design and is a pillar of our own type of experience-based design interventions in the built environment.

In conclusion, wellness design is a holistic approach to real estate and interior design that promotes the mental and physical health and wellbeing of its occupants.

By focusing on the five key facets of health and fitness; safety and security; accessibility; functionality; and comfort and joy, wellness design can create spaces that promote physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing be that in residential, office or leisure real estate settings.

Best Examples of Biophilic Buildings in Commercial Real Estate — Biofilico Wellness Interiors

Best Examples of Biophilic commercial developments

Examples of biophilic design in architecture are gaining prominence in high-profile commercial buildings around the world, here we examine the best concepts that combine elements of nature, wellbeing and sustainability

• LaMercedes, Barcelona / Developers: Conren Tramway / Architects: BatlleRoig

• Roots In The Sky, London / Developers: Fabrix / Concept Architects: Studio RHE / Project Architects: Sheppard Robson

• CapitaSpring building, Singapore / Developers: CapitaSpring / Architects: BIG

• Yorkville - The Ring, Hong Kong / Developers: Hong Kong Land / Architects: PHA

• NION, Frankfurt / Developers: Groß & Partners / Architects: Unstudio

• Holbein Gardens / Developer: Grosvenor Property UK / Architects: Barr Gazetas

Incorporating natural elements into biophilic design is essential for supporting sustainability and enhancing wellbeing.

LaMercedes Barcelona - a biophilic mixed-use development

LaMercedes, Barcelona by Conren Tramway (architects Batlleiroig)

LaMercedes, Barcelona by Conren Tramway (architects Batlleiroig)

Conren Tramway are a Spanish investor, developer group based in Barcelona and Madrid with an expansive portfolio covering office, residential and mixed-use development and investment projects.

In addition to the iconic Three Towers, ‘Les Tres Xemeneies del Parallel’, in Barcelona and various mixed-use developments in the new business distric @22 in Poblenou, this group have taken on what is perhaps their most ambitious urban regeneration project yet - LaMercedes, set to the first ‘eco-district’ in Spain integrating a variety of sustainable green building concepts, healthy building wellbeing strategies real estate ESG criteria.

What was once a car factory in an industrial area of the city is to be transformed by local architects Batlleiroig into an 185,000 sqm development that is “carbon and car-free”, a “sustainable island’“ in the city. Public services will include a museum, community center and an educational facility.

The project aims to mimic natural environments to improve the health and wellbeing of its occupants, as well as to optimize sustainability and environmental performance.

A total of 15,000m2 of retail space and 1300 residential units combined with 46,000m2 of creative offices and a ‘talent campus’ for 2000 students will make this a truly unique new addition to Barcelona’s urban landscape.

Another key feature of this ‘eco-illa’ will be the intelligent mobility system that pushes the infrastructure underground including a traffic system to leave the ground floor vehicle-free, meaning a pedestrianized and cycle-friendly experience for residents and visitors.

Expect to see an abundance of green space in the built environment, plenty of outdoor space to enhance wellbeing, an architectural design that integrates biophilic design principles and natural materials for human connection with the outside world.

https://lamercedes.barcelona/

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Roots in the Sky, London - biophilic design and natural light in office real estate

Roots in the Sky by Fabrix

Already attracting attention for its headline-grabbing 1.4-acre urban forest rooftop accessible by the local community, Roots in the Sky is a statement of intent by the developers Fabrix, showing their focus on - biodiversity and sustainability in real estate.

What was once a 1960s era building housing Blackfriars Crown Court will undergo an urban regeneration facelift into an all-electric 385,000 sq ft mixed-use development containing offices, community spaces and retail.

Based around a hybrid steel and CLT (cross laminate timber) frame that reduces embodied carbon content, the concept architects are Studio RHE led by Richard Hywel Evans and project architects are Sheppard Robson with environmental consulting support by Atelier Ten.

A passive ventilation strategy, operable windows for natural ventilation on warmer days, a feature atrium for waste heat extraction, and 1300 tonnes of soil on the roof to attract nature back into the city while protecting against the risk of flash flooding, all make this one of the most sustainable real estate developments to take shape in London in recent years, and there has been no shortage of them due to the increasingly strict planning regulations coming into place via the Mayor’s office.

That rooftop will accommodate a restaurant, landscaping by Harris Bugg, an estimated 10,000 plants and a passive water capture system for irrigation on-site reducing the building’s water demands.

This is an example of how to enhance well being in office buildings through a combination of natural light, natural landscapes and green walls as key biophilic design principles.

https://www.fabrix.london/project-item/blackfriars-se1/   

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CapitaSpring, Singapore - biophilic architecture in mixed-use real estate

CapitaSpring office building

Combine BIG Architects, a ‘city in a garden location’ and the backing of a giant developer and out comes this 51-floor, 280m high building of Grade A office space, serviced apartments and a four-story garden dubbed the ‘green oasis’.

Transforming the site of a former car park complex built in the 1980s this new example of biophilic design in architecture aims for icon status with its eye-catching exterior facade complete with vertical elements that appear to be prized apart to reveal flashes of nature emerging through the cracks, at a giant scale.

This interplay between building and nature is more common at an interiors scale but doing it here takes the concept in a completely new direction.

This is also, as we would expect, a ‘smart building’ full of IOT tech and sensors to facilitate customization of the building occupant experience.

Eight floors of serviced residences with a long list of lifestyle amenities such as a mini indoor jogging track, pool, gym, residents lounge and BBQ pits are topped by offices and the open-air garden space large enough for work breaks, lunchtime walks and more.

Natural features such as biophilic design in the interior environment, show how the developer, architects and interior designers have integrated natural systems and organic materials, natural forms and consideration for mental health, creating a seamless connection with natural environments.

To create spaces like this in modern society takes a bold vision of the health benefits of introducing an element of natural habitat back into dense urban areas.

https://capitaspringoffice.com/

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hongkong land's yorkville the ring - botanical architecture in real estate

hong kong land’s yorkville the ring

Located in Chongqing, China this 420,000m2 mixed-use retail-led development called Yorkville - The Ring is split between 170,000m2 of retail mall, 110,000m2 of offices and… wait for it, 70,000m2 of indoor botanical garden.

PHA Architects are behind the masterplan and design of this new lifestyle destination that has an enclosed landscaped commercial street embraced by two office towers.

This opens up the possibility of visual dialogue between the verdant, stepped terrace balconies of the towers above and the indoor botanical garden space.

In an attempt to blend a highly urban retail concept with a nature-centric, or biophilic design approach, the retail circulation spaces have been interwoven with the indoor botanical garden at various levels, inviting visitors to engage with the botanical experience as they navigate from one retail store to another, incorporating natural elements into the built environment.

Parametric modeling of the building facade allowed for a modular design, combining curved ceramic tiles with aluminium panels and LED lighting for an understated yet elegant aesthetic perfectly pitched for the expectations of both the local clientele and the all-important retail brand tenants.

Biophilic design principles such as respect for the natural environment in the interior space as well as natural ventilation, a strong visual connection with the natural world in respect of human evolution, even natural geometries evoking nature. There is so much goodness for human health in this building!

https://www.ph-alpha.com/project-detail.php?id=20&lang=en

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NION by Unstudio Frankfurt am Main - biophilic design in real estate

Unstudio NION office building

Designed with the deliberate intention to become one of Frankfurt’s if not Germany’s most sustainable office building, NION is located in the city’s Europaviertel West district where big things are happening in urban regeneration over the past two decades.

Unstudio have integrated ESG criteria and resource-efficient tech to deliver a sustainable building that considers its environmental impact as well as a social angle via the wellbeing of its regular occupants and of the community around it.

Abundant landscaping is nothing new nowadays in real estate developments such as this yet when combined with a low-carbon, modular and circular economy principles it takes on renewed meaning, becoming almost like the external signal of what is going on inside the building’s facade and daily operational energy use.

A green wall is one such biophilic design intervention that can be implemented to improve views and connect people with the natural environment within a built space.

When biophilia and greenery are purely superficial, this chain link falls apart; for us it a fundamental component of a biophilic design concept to combine elements of sustainability and wellbeing as in this example.

The planting serves to encourage biodiversity, contributing to an emerging urban green corridor in the district and giving insects, birds and wildlife an opportunity to return to this corner of the city.

Rainwater management systems improve water efficiency, geothermal heating and cooling reduce energy demands, smart building management ensure daily operations are fine tuned with the demand-based air conditioning (especially relevant now in the post-Covid, remote work era when areas of an office may be in greater or lesser demand at certain days or times of day).

Biophilic design focuses on well being for occupants while respecting the environment, so often there is a need for landscape architects to create multi sensory interactions via water features, naturalistic shapes, organic forms in the landscaping and so on.

Here we see a material connection between the indoor and outdoor environment by the seamless integration of biophilic principles thanks to the vision of UN Studio.

https://www.unstudio.com/en/page/16495/nion

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Holbein Gardens, London - biophilia in real estate

Sitting prime real estate near London’s Sloane Square station this 26,524 sq ft development by Grosvenor Property UK and Barr Gazetas architects dials in the sustainable building credentials to create what will be a highly efficient, low-emission building set to be Net Zero by 2025.

Holbein Gardens by Grosvenor Property UK

Sitting prime real estate near London’s Sloane Square station this 26,524 sq ft development by Grosvenor Property UK and Barr Gazetas architects dials in the sustainable building credentials to create what will be a highly efficient, low-emission building set to be Net Zero by 2025.

Barr Gazetas retained the existing structure rather than opting for demolition (equivalent to 59 tonnes of concrete / a 39% embodied carbon saving), reusing 13.5 tonnes of steelworks to reduce embodied carbon emissions, used a CLT structure, used reclaimed brickwork with lime based mortar for improved disassembly (Circular Economy principle). In total, 99.95% of all strip out waste was successfully diverted from landfill.

This all-electric, eight-story block powered by 100% renewable energy procured from the UK grid combined with photovoltaic panels on the roof generating around 17% of the projected maximum demand. As such, it is scheduled to save 50% operational energy consumption compared to benchmarks in the London, according to the developer.

Improved fenestration allows for enhanced access to natural daylight, reducing the need for artificial lighting at certain times of day.

Rainwater capture and reuse on the rooftop reduces water demand while a 714 sq ft communal roof garden with outdoor kitchen provides both biodiversity opportunities (135% net biodiversity gain) and access to biophilia for building occupants during their work days. That is in addition to the four green walls on the exterior facade.

Active travel features include 79 cycle spaces, 68 lockers and nine showers for those using active transportation methods to get to or from work each day.

Such passive strategies have obvious psychological benefits while also ensuring some ecological attachment at the start and end of a work day for example.

Cognitive function is enhanced via a connection to nature which can be both through direct experience and representations of nature, public spaces with potted plants, natural colours and local timber, outdoor areas with biomorphic forms in the garden design, if all urban environments looked like Holbein Gardens we have no doubt the foot traffic would explode as we all have this inherent need for a strong connection to nature.

A total of four different green building certifications are targeted, namely: BREEAM Outstanding, WELL Enabled, Nabers 4.5 and EPC A rating.

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Wellness Residence: How Do Branded Wellness Residences Promote Mental and Physical Health of Residents? — Biofilico Wellness Interiors

Blue Zones Center wellness residences

In today’s fast-paced world, where stress and anxiety are part of our everyday lives, maintaining good health and well-being has become a top priority. Branded wellness residences have emerged as a popular trend in the real estate industry, offering a holistic approach to healthy living.

The local area plays a crucial role in providing opportunities for activities and culinary experiences that contribute to wellness.

These residences are designed to promote physical, mental, and emotional wellness, providing guests and residents access to state-of-the-art fitness facilities, healthy dining options, and wellness programs. But, how do these branded wellness residences actually improve health and longevity for their residents?

In this article, we will explore the many different techniques, from biophilic design, to wellness interiors, holistic health, biohacking and nutrition.

So, let’s dive in and explore the world of branded wellness residences and how they can help you lead a healthier and happier life.

The projects we review below are:

• The Well, USA

• Lefay Dolomiti, Italy

• SHA Residences, Mexico

• Lifetime Living, USA

• Velvaere, USA

• Legacy Residences, USA

What is wellness real estate?

Wellness real estate is a relatively new concept that is gaining popularity in the real estate industry. It refers to living spaces that are designed and built with the goal of enhancing the overall wellbeing of their occupants, this can apply equally to new and existing buildings. These spaces can also be marketed as wellness residences, offering the comforts of an apartment or suite within a hotel setting, with a variety of room options suitable for families and those seeking a relaxing holiday.

Wellness residences often come equipped with modern amenities such as satellite TV for the comfort and entertainment of residents.

The concept of wellness real estate is based on the idea that our living spaces can play a significant role in promoting and maintaining our physical, mental, and emotional health.

Wellness real estate is not just about having access to a gym or a swimming pool. It involves a holistic approach to health and well being that takes into account factors such as air quality, lighting, noise levels, and access to natural spaces. The interior design of wellness real estate is focused on creating a space that promotes relaxation, stress relief, and mindfulness. Materials used in the construction of these spaces are chosen for their health benefits, such as low-emission paints and natural flooring materials.

The benefits of wellness real estate are numerous. Studies have shown that living in a space that is designed with wellbeing in mind can lead to improved sleep, reduced stress levels, and increased productivity. The focus on natural light, fresh air, and access to green spaces can also contribute to a healthier lifestyle.

As the demand for wellness real estate continues to grow, developers are increasingly incorporating these features into their designs. The trend towards wellness real estate is also driving innovation in the industry, with new technologies and materials being developed to enhance the wellbeing of occupants.

In conclusion, wellness real estate is a concept that is focused on creating living spaces that promote wellbeing. It takes into account factors such as interior design, air quality, and access to natural spaces to create a holistic living experience. With its numerous benefits, wellness real estate is likely to continue to grow in popularity as people increasingly prioritize their health and wellbeing.

What is the role of a wellness real estate consultant?

A wellness real estate or healthy building consultant is an expert who specializes in designing, developing, and managing properties that prioritize the health and wellbeing of their occupants. Their primary role is to ensure that the property is designed in a way that promotes healthy living, both mental and physical health, to enhance the overall quality of life of residents.

The consultant works closely with the architects and interior designers to create spaces that are conducive to wellness. They take into consideration several factors, such as air quality, lighting, acoustics, and ergonomics, to ensure that the occupants are comfortable and healthy. Friendly staff also play a crucial role in creating a welcoming and comfortable environment for guests. They also focus on the use of natural materials, such as wood and stone, that are known to have a positive impact on wellbeing.

In addition to the design aspect, a wellness real estate or healthy building consultant also plays a crucial role in the selection of building materials and equipment. They ensure that the materials used are eco-friendly and do not emit harmful chemicals that can affect the health of the occupants. They also recommend equipment and appliances that are energy-efficient and promote sustainable living.

Overall, the role of a wellness real estate or healthy building consultant is to create a space that promotes the physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing of the occupants. Their expertise in interior design, building materials, and equipment selection allows them to create a space that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also promotes healthy living. With the increasing demand for wellness real estate, the role of a wellness real estate or healthy building consultant has become more important than ever.

Occasionally, this can also involve aligning a project with the WELL standard (see below) and potentially assisting with the certification process if, for example, the project is targeting the WELL Health Safety Rating, or WELL Gold Certification, or WELL Platinum Certification to truly advance human health benefits.

What is the WELL certification by the international well building institute?

The WELL certification is a prestigious recognition awarded by the International WELL Building Institute (IWBI) to buildings and spaces that prioritize the health and well-being of their occupants. The WELL certification is a comprehensive and evidence-based system that evaluates key factors related to wellness real estate, including air and water quality, lighting, acoustics, thermal comfort, and ergonomics. It also considers the promotion of physical activity, healthy eating habits, and mental and emotional wellbeing.

The WELL certification is a game-changer in the world of interior design and architecture, as it shifts the focus from aesthetics and functionality to the impact that the built environment has on human health and happiness. The certification process involves a thorough assessment of the building's design, construction, and operation, as well as ongoing performance monitoring and improvement. The IWBI provides a framework of best practices and guidelines to help developers, architects, designers, and building owners create spaces that support optimal wellbeing.

WELL certification has become increasingly relevant in the post-pandemic era, as people have become more aware of the importance of healthy living and the impact of the built environment on their physical and mental health. The certification also aligns with the growing demand for sustainable and socially responsible real estate, as it promotes environmental stewardship, resource efficiency, and social equity.

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The Well, USA - wellness real estate residences

the well, usa wellness residences

the well, usa wellness residences

The residences in The Well are designed as a wellness experience on their own, offering a space of over 2,045 sqm (22,000 sqft) and 54 bespoke condominiums where one can easily relax. Understanding well-being as a holistic practice, The Well addresses the physical, mental and spiritual health of their residents both with their interior design and services offered. 

With a choice of one to four bedrooms, each condominium is designed using numerous biophilic building strategies as connecting with nature is an essential feature in The Well. The interior spaces offer high ceilings, open floor plan designs and floor-to-ceiling windows creating a sense of spaciousness. The openness of the space enhances the airflow, supported by air purification systems, aromatherapy diffusers and plants help maintain an improved air quality

The Well combines ancient philosophies with modern practices in its design but also in their services. It is this integration of ancient healing and modern medicine that allows the health professionals of The Well to focus on whole-person care. Still, the services offered to the residents are in harmony with their well-being strategies as they focus on maintaining an organic, toxin-free environment through their cleaning, cooking and maintenance. 

Learn more about The Well 

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Lefay Dolomiti, Italy wellness residences with outdoor pool

lefay dolomiti italy wellness residences

Lefay Dolomiti offers 88 suites and 23 apartments in the exceptional natural environment of the Dolomites. With the aim to provide complete mental and physical well-being, this five-star resort combines bio-architecture strategies with a wide range of wellness services. The hotel’s amenities include an outdoor pool, which adds to the relaxing atmosphere and makes it a great place to stay for families and friends.

Lefay Dolomiti is an ideal destination for a winter holiday, offering various winter activities in the Dolomites.

The architecture of the building combines the essential lines of traditional Italian architecture with materials such as local wood and stone to create a harmonious relationship with its surroundings. Harmony is a key feature in Lefay as the 5,000 sqm (54,000 sqft) of spa, fitness and treatment facilities focus on body and mind harmony by blending Classical Chinese Medicine with Western scientific research.

Being designed with sustainability in mind, Lefay has been awarded the Clima Hotel certification as it uses renewable energy sources and provides an energy-efficient space by highly insulating all surfaces. However, the brand’s sustainable philosophy goes beyond its architecture and is consistent throughout its offerings as well; from their cooking to their offer of paperless magazines and newspapers.

Learn more about Lefay Dolomiti

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SHA healthy family residences, Mexico

Understanding health as a complete state of harmony with ourselves and our environment, SHA has reinvented the concept of branded wellness residents and now aims to offer a transformative experience for residents with its first property in Mexico.

With a complex of 32,000 sqm (2,344 sqft), 100 suites and 31 private residences, the SHA takes advantage of its idyllic natural environment and opts for a biophilic design concept.

The organic yet contemporary architecture harmoniously blends with the unique natural landmarks and creates an indoor-outdoor flow.

With a choice of two to four bedrooms, the interior design of the residences integrates a variety of natural materials and enhances the connection to the natural cycles by using home automation systems based on the circadian rhythms.

The innovative approach to health offered by the SHA blends a healthy lifestyle with their unique integrative method which combines the latest advances in Western medicine with natural therapies.

Still, the responsible actions of the SHA go beyond the user’s well-being and having obtained the Green Globe certificate, expand to a sustainable commitment where the planet and social progress are prioritised.

Guests booking their stay can also take advantage of special offers available for a holiday in Trentino.

Learn more about SHA

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Life Time Living, USA - wellbeing community residences with relaxation area

life time living wellness community residences, usa

Life Time Living offers different residential complexes in the US with 148 to 390 residences and up to 18,600 sqm (200,000 sqft). Each one of these residential complexes is conceived as a living space that promotes a healthy balance between hard work and self-care. They also provide activities and amenities tailored specifically for families with children, ensuring a family-friendly environment.

The private residences, with a choice of one or two bedrooms, are sophisticated yet comfortable living spaces designed using biophilic strategies. The natural balance achieved by monitoring air and light quality protects the occupants’ mental health, supports their sleep and helps improve their performance.

While the interior spaces offer an environment designed to boost the well-being of its occupants, Life Time Living understands that complete well-being can only be achieved by pursuing a healthy lifestyle. Therefore, they offer their residents access to real food options, in-home consultation with wellness professionals, as well as an invitation to their resort-like athletic country club.

Learn more about Life Time Living

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velvaere park city, usa

Velvaere Park City, USA - wellbeing community residences

A 60-acre community focused on connecting its residents to nature as a means to achieve a healthy lifestyle. Velvaere’s privileged location provides the necessary facilities to pursue the right activities and choices to maintain a holistic sense of well-being characterised by good physical and mental health.

This wellness residential development is equipped to accommodate family life comfortably. The 115 residential units offer a choice of three to five bedrooms distributed in different types of dwellings such as houses, residences and cabins.

Every residential unit is designed under the standards of the WELL certification, offering a healthy building that protects the health of its occupants. An advanced circadian rhythm lighting is installed to positively impact both the mood and sleep patterns of the occupants. Additionally, air quality monitoring or water filtration systems are installed to reduce damaging pollutants and health hazards indoors. The well-being facilities also include a relaxation area for guests to indulge and relax.

Surrounded by a year-round mountain resort, Velvaere park encourages physical activity as it has direct access to numerous outdoor physical activities. Though it offers a unique wellness centre as well; where different treatments, therapies and activities are designed to awaken the senses and find peace of mind, body, and soul. The offering in Velvaere intends to improve the well-being impact human health of the residents as individuals as well as a community.

Learn more about Velvaere Park City

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legacy wellness residences, usa

Legacy Residences, USA luxury wellness homes

Legacy Miami is a 12,000 sqm (120,000 sqft) luxurious family residence hotel offering unique medical and wellness services. Gaia Wellness Residence Hotel combines hotel comforts with the freedom of a residence, making it ideal for families seeking sport and relaxation amenities.

These luxurious residences are designed to accommodate a practical, yet refined, lifestyle that takes place in a mixed-used building with 39 stories and 278 residences. Each living space is designed up to luxury standards, offering state-of-the-art digital resources.

The residences by themselves contribute to the user’s well-being by integrating ergonomics into built environment through the fully-furnished design and abundance of natural lighting through the floor-to-ceiling glass windows.

While Legacy Residences offers a well-being improvement program with spa and fitness facilities, it stands out for its medical and wellness centre. Equipped with the latest technologies, this centre grants access to the best practitioners and offers an extensive range of medical services such as diagnosis and surgical procedures.

Learn more about Legacy Residences

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CONTACT US TO DISCUSS YOUR BRANDED WELLNESS RESIDENCE CONSULTANT REQUIREMENTS

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Top 5 Sustainable Real Estate Companies for Nature Green Building and Healthy Biofilico Wellness Interiors

top five Real estate developers using biophilia for sustainability & wellbeing

biophilia = sustainability + wellbeing combined

Real estate companies in the residential, commercial, and mixed-use sectors are increasingly leveraging the occupant appeal and value-adding benefits of nature in their development briefs.

Why? For its unique position straddling both sustainable real estate (green buildings) and wellness real estate (healthy buildings); in other words, it benefits People and Planet through the built environment, which can only be good for the developer’s bottom line.

Here we look at a hot selection of developers from the global real estate industry that have captured our attention for their interest in the natural world, biophilic design, healthy indoor environments, wellness and green buildings.

• Beulah, Australia

• Coima, Italy

• Colonial, Spain

• Fabrix, UK

• Oxford Properties, Canada

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Beulah, Australia - a sustainable real estate developer using biophilic design

Beulah are behind the 25 ecologically sustainable two-storey townhouses in Melbourne called Brunswick townhomes leveraging sustainable building materials and a carbon-neutral concept inspired by natural systems.

Beulah's sustainable projects have also seen an increase in rental income due to decreased vacancy rates and faster renting of buildings. Beulah’s commitment to sustainability is further demonstrated through their LEED certified buildings.

Carbon neutral houses

Their ‘Wilds' project currently under construction contains 15 carbon-neutral houses immersed in nature with creek-front sites based on a healthy living concept, solar power, biophilia and sustainability.

STH BNK by Beulah, Australia

Their Fawkner House in Melbourne is made up of nine large-scale residences designed for health and wellness, key characteristics include abundant natural light, smart buildings systems for lower operating costs and a focus on occupant wellbeing.

STH BNK by Beulah, Australia

It is arguably their STH BNK development that stands out here though as Beulah's most ambitious development to date.

Currently under development, this UNStudio and Cox Architecture designed precinct in Melbourne will include a Four Seasons hotel, healthy living residences with garden views, pocket parks, a sky garden, auditorium, branded hotel residences and an entire level of the podium devoted to wellbeing.

This wellness precinct involves a curated selection of health and fitness practitioners focused on science, nutrition and medicine while workspaces combine co-working, sustainability, technology and greenery.

 https://beulahinternational.com/

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Coima, Italy - building with biophilia in Milan

Coima, Italy is a leading Italian real estate investment, developer and management company founded in 1974 that has set itself apart in the industry by focusing on three major aspects: sustainability, nature, and wellbeing. Coima strategically invests in affluent and densely populated communities to meet the high demand for sustainable real estate.

Coima also emphasizes governance as part of their ESG guidelines, ensuring that their projects are resilient and adhere to high standards.

With a strong commitment to these values, Coima has successfully managed to create unique and innovative green buildings, healthy building environments, and spaces that seamlessly integrate with nature.

Coima aims to create high quality real estate assets which enable sustainable growth over the long term

Porta Nova by Coima, Milano

Porta Nuova, Milan, Italy

Porta Nova by Coima, Milano

One of the most notable projects that exemplify Coima's focus on these principles is the redevelopment of Porto Nuova in Milan, Italy.

Porto Nuova is an ambitious urban regeneration project that has transformed a previously underdeveloped area in Milan into a thriving and sustainable district.

Spread over 290,000 square meters, the project has been designed with the adoption of cutting-edge green building techniques and technologies for enhanced building performance while providing access to significantly higher quantities of plants and green space.

These features not only help in reducing the environmental impact of the development but also contribute to creating a healthy building environment for its occupants.

Some of the key green building aspects of Porto Nuova include energy-efficient systems, rainwater harvesting, green roofs, and extensive use of natural light.

The integration of nature into the design and planning of Porto Nuova has been a central focus for Coima.

This is evident in the abundance of green spaces and parks throughout the development, which not only enhance its aesthetic appeal but also provide numerous benefits for the wellbeing of its residents and visitors.

By incorporating nature into the urban fabric, Coima has created a harmonious balance between built environments and natural ecosystems, promoting biodiversity and fostering a strong sense of community.

Another noteworthy aspect of Porto Nuova is its emphasis on wellbeing. Coima has ensured that the development offers a wide range of amenities and facilities that cater to the physical, mental, and social wellbeing of its occupants.

https://www.coima.com/it/homepage

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Wittywood, Barcelona by Colonial

Colonial, Spain - real estate with a conscience

Colonial, Spain, a leading real estate developer in the country, has been at the forefront of sustainable development and green building initiatives. Colonial's efforts to address climate change through their sustainable real estate projects have been noteworthy.

With a strong commitment to creating buildings that promote wellness, the company has been making significant strides in incorporating sustainable materials, energy-efficient systems, and state-of-the-art technologies into its property portfolio.

As a result, Colonial has gained recognition for its sustainability credentials and garnered international attention for its efforts in promoting green building practices.

Wellness in real estate

One of the key aspects of Colonial's approach to sustainable development is its focus on creating buildings that prioritize the wellbeing of occupants.

To achieve this, the company employs a combination of innovative design strategies, cutting-edge technologies, and best practices in environmental management.

Occupant health

By emphasizing wellness and occupant health, Colonial is not only reducing its environmental footprint but also enhancing the quality of life for those who live and work in its properties.

LEED

A prime example of Colonial's commitment to sustainability is its pursuit of Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification for many of its developments.

LEED is a globally recognized green building certification system that provides a framework for the design, construction, and operation of high-performance green buildings.

Furthermore, Colonial is an active participant in various industry initiatives and partnerships aimed at promoting sustainable development and green building practices.

This includes collaboration with organizations such as the Green Building Council España (GBCe) and participation in events like the Greenbuild International Conference & Expo.

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Fabrix, UK - focused on health benefits of nature and supporting local communities

Fabrix, a leading real estate developer in the UK, is committed to implementing wellness real estate and sustainable real estate strategies in its portfolio. Fabrix also focuses on improving their sustainability performance. And they really mean business.

By focusing on innovative design, energy efficiency, and environmentally friendly materials, Fabrix aims to create spaces that enhance the wellbeing of their occupants while minimizing the ecological footprint.

Roofs in the Sky by Fabrix London

Renewable energy

Roofs in the Sky by Fabrix London

One of the key environment friendly strategies employed by Fabrix is the incorporation of renewable energy systems, such as solar panels and wind turbines, into their projects.

This not only reduces the dependency on fossil fuels but also lowers the overall carbon emissions of the buildings.

Indoor air quality

Additionally, they make use of natural ventilation systems to improve indoor air quality and reduce energy consumption related to heating and cooling.

Biophilic design

In terms of healthy building strategies, Fabrix focuses on incorporating biophilic design elements that bring nature into the built environment.

This includes the integration of green roofs, living walls, and indoor gardens that not only improve air quality but also contribute to the overall wellness and productivity of occupants.

The use of non-toxic materials and finishes further ensures a healthier indoor environment free from harmful chemicals.

The Gramophone Works, London

A notable case study showcasing Fabrix's commitment to sustainability and wellness in real estate is their recent project, The Gramophone Works, in London.

This mixed-use development incorporates various green building features such as a green roof, solar panels, rainwater harvesting systems, and electric vehicle charging points.

The project also prioritizes wellness by providing ample natural light, high-quality acoustics, and a range of amenities designed to promote physical activity and social interaction among occupants.

 https://www.fabrix.london/

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Oxford Properties, Canada - Combining human health and green spaces

Oxford Properties, a leading real estate developer in Canada, has demonstrated a strong commitment to sustainability and wellness in their projects through the implementation of green building and healthy building strategies.

Oxford Properties has achieved a world leading position in sustainability and environmental certifications, showcasing their leadership and excellence in these areas.

This commitment is evident in the numerous case studies showcasing their innovative approaches to sustainable real estate development.

count those rooftop solar panels! Oxford Properties, Canada

Environmental footprint

count those rooftop solar panels! Oxford Properties, Canada

One of the core aspects of Oxford Properties' sustainability strategy is the integration of sustainable design features, such as energy-efficient systems and renewable energy sources.

The company actively seeks to minimize its environmental footprint by incorporating advanced technologies, such as solar panels, green roofs, and rainwater harvesting systems in their properties.

Indoor air quality

Additionally, the company focuses on improving indoor air quality and utilizes environmentally friendly materials in construction to ensure the overall health and well-being of occupants.

WELL Building Standard

A prime example of Oxford Properties' commitment to healthy building and wellness is their participation in the WELL Building Standard certification program.

This program evaluates buildings based on various factors related to human health and well-being, including air, water, nourishment, light, fitness, comfort, and mind.

The company has successfully achieved WELL certification for several of its properties, highlighting its dedication to creating spaces that promote occupant health and wellness.

EY Tower, Toronto

Case studies showcasing Oxford Properties' commitment to sustainability include their work on the EY Tower in Toronto.

This LEED Platinum certified office tower features energy-efficient HVAC systems, a green roof that reduces stormwater runoff and provides insulation, and extensive use of natural light to enhance occupant well-being.

Park Place III, Calgary, Canada

Another example is Park Place III in Calgary, where Oxford Properties implemented a comprehensive waste management program that resulted in a 77% waste diversion rate.

By prioritizing environmental considerations and occupant health in their projects, they are setting an example for other developers to follow and contributing to the creation of a more sustainable future.

https://sustainable.oxfordproperties.com/2021/materials.html

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Further Reading

• Posts in ESG

• Health & Wellbeing Strategies For Wellness Lifestyle Real Estate & Mixed-Use Communities

• Best Examples Of Biophilic Commercial Developments

• Posts in Sustainability

• Real Estate Posts

• Future-Proof Real Estate With The Smart Building Collective

• Posts Tagged Commercial Real Estate

• Posts Tagged Real Estate

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• An Introduction To Biophilic Design In Sustainable Buildings

Environmental psychology in healthy buildings interiors — biofilico wellness interiors

We shape our buildings; thereafter they shape us - Sir Winston Churchill, 1943

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We shape our buildings; thereafter they shape us - Sir Winston Churchill, 1943 〰️

Introduction to Environmental Psychology

Environmental psychology is a multidisciplinary field that explores the intricate relationship between human beings and their physical environment. It examines how both natural and built environments shape our experiences, behaviors, and overall well-being. Environmental psychologists delve into the impact of physical settings on human behavior, investigating how elements like natural environments, urban planning, and architectural design influence our daily lives. By understanding these complex interactions, environmental psychologists can inform the design of sustainable and healthy buildings, promote conservation psychology, and mitigate environmental risks. This field is crucial for creating spaces that not only meet our physical needs but also enhance our mental and emotional well-being.

Healthy Buildings, Sustainability, and Environmental Psychology

Healthy buildings are meticulously designed to promote the physical and mental well-being of their occupants. Environmental psychologists play a pivotal role in this process, ensuring that these buildings are not only sustainable but also conducive to human health and productivity. By incorporating natural environments, such as green spaces and natural light, into building design, they create physical settings that support human well-being. Sustainable development is a cornerstone of environmental psychology, aiming to balance human needs with environmental conservation. In the face of climate change, environmental psychologists address pressing issues through research and design interventions that encourage sustainable behaviors and reduce environmental risks. Their work ensures that buildings contribute positively to both human health and the planet’s well-being.

healthy buildings, sustainability and environmental psychology

As healthy building consultants, we combine concern for both physical and mental wellbeing of building occupants with a parallel effort to minimize environmental impact.

These two concepts of sustainable, green buildings and healthy buildings designed with occupant wellbeing in mind, are therefore in one sense at least operating at two different scales.

In the case of the former, the building is part of an increasingly delicate natural ecosystem that has no start or end point as such, meaning a real estate developer, landlord or tenant is assuming responsibility for their contribution to something urgent yet ultimately global in scope - the health of our planet and the environmental impact legacy we will pass on to future generations.

healthy building strategies in architectural psychology

Healthy building strategies are comparatively small-scale and hyper local, i.e. they are more immediately connected to the activities going on within a specific building or space. As such, there is a tangible connection between an individual occupant and their experience of the building they are in.

Partly this is about physical elements such as Indoor air Quality, for example, or Active Design features that encourage movement, yet a large slice of it is connected to environmental psychology. Various research methods, including interviews, data analysis, field studies, and lab experiments, are used in environmental psychology to understand the impact of built and natural environments on human behavior and well-being.

Theories of Environmental Psychology

Environmental psychology is underpinned by several theories that elucidate the complex relationships between humans and their environment. Ecological psychology, for instance, emphasizes the interconnectedness of human and natural systems, highlighting how our surroundings influence our behavior and well-being. Conservation psychology focuses on the importance of preserving natural environments for the benefit of human health. These theories provide a framework for understanding how physical environments affect human behavior and well-being. By applying these theoretical insights, environmental psychologists can design interventions that promote sustainable behaviors, reduce environmental risks, and enhance overall human well-being. These theories are essential for developing strategies that create harmonious and sustainable living environments.

The Role of Environmental Psychologists

Environmental psychologists are integral to promoting sustainable development and mitigating environmental risks. They collaborate with architects, urban planners, and policymakers to design physical environments that support human well-being while minimizing environmental impact. Through rigorous research on human behavior and environmental interactions, they provide valuable insights that inform design and policy decisions. Environmental psychologists also engage with communities to foster sustainable behaviors and develop conservation psychology initiatives. By leveraging their expertise, they create healthy and sustainable environments that not only enhance human well-being but also contribute to environmental conservation. Their work is vital in shaping spaces that are both livable and sustainable.

What is environmental psychology and how does it impact a healthy building?

Environmental psychology is formally defined as “the interaction between humans and the surrounding environment… how environment influences us but we also influence the environment” (ref)).

Environmental psychology is a branch of psychology that explores the relationship between humans and the world around us. It is concerned with the influence of natural and built environment on how we feel, think, and behave (ref). The Journal of Environmental Psychology is a key source of authoritative information on the topics and scope of environmental psychology, encompassing various interdisciplinary studies relating to the interactions between people and their physical environments.

An important part of environmental psychology is recognizing the positive and negative effects any given space can have: for example, the impact of environmental stressors like noise and crowding or conversely the restorative effect of incorporating nature.

cognitive vs environmental

This topic can further be broken down into two subcategories:

1. cognitive/physiological/behavioral aspects

2. more environmentally conscious, conservation aspects

The cognitive/ behavioral/ physiological part makes use of methods such as restoration (mood-improvement), wayfinding (how people find their way in new places, place attachment (what are physical things that make people get attached to certain place), etc. The physical environment affects our behavior, emotions, and cognition, playing a crucial role in environmental psychology by shaping human experiences and promoting wellbeing.

The conservation side focuses more on the relationships between people and the natural world as well as putting emphasis on how society treats our surrounding environment and preserves nature-based connections.

Before getting into what environmental differences can affect the mind and mental wellbeing for occupants in a building, it is important to have a general understanding of how surroundings can positively or negatively impact health.

For more on what constitutes a healthy building see our dedicated article here.

How can a building's physical environment affect our health?

When doing research on how exactly the body reacts to different nature-made vs. man-made environments, most ideas circle back to the influence of the natural environment on human experiences and well-being, particularly through the concept of circadian rhythm and its impact.

Circadian rhythm is an internal clock that helps signal different processes within the body according to time of day. This one biological process can have drastic effects on many other processes such as hormone production and release; motivational drives on cognition, etc.

Therefore, when utilizing biophilic design as a healthy building strategy for example, it is important to keep circadian rhythm in mind.

Incorporating Natural Environments

Incorporating natural environments into building design and urban planning is a fundamental aspect of environmental psychology. Natural environments, such as parks and green spaces, have been shown to significantly promote human well-being and reduce environmental risks. Environmental psychologists work closely with architects and urban planners to design physical environments that integrate natural elements, including natural light, ventilation, and materials. By embedding these natural components into design, they create sustainable and healthy buildings that support human well-being and environmental conservation. This approach not only enhances the aesthetic and functional quality of spaces but also fosters a deeper connection between people and the natural world, promoting overall well-being and sustainability.

Biofilico Wellness Interiors

Exploring the Concept and Its Importance in Modern Architecture

Biofilico wellness interiors represent a design philosophy that integrates elements of nature into built environments to enhance human well-being and health. Rooted in the concept of biophilia, which suggests that humans have an inherent desire to connect with nature, this approach leverages natural elements such as plants, natural light, and water features to create spaces that foster physical and mental well-being.

Environmental psychologists have long emphasized the significance of the physical environment in shaping human behavior and well-being. Research has consistently demonstrated that exposure to natural environments can lower stress levels, elevate mood, and even mitigate symptoms of anxiety and depression. By incorporating biofilico wellness interiors into modern architecture, designers can create spaces that not only support physical health but also enhance mental well-being and productivity. This holistic approach to design ensures that the built environment contributes positively to the overall quality of life for its occupants.

Designing Healthy Buildings Interiors

Practical Strategies and Design Principles

Designing healthy building interiors necessitates a comprehensive understanding of the intricate relationships between humans and their physical environments. Environmental psychologists and architects collaborate to create spaces that promote both physical and mental well-being by adhering to design principles that prioritize natural light, ventilation, and connections to nature.

One effective strategy for designing healthy building interiors is the incorporation of natural light. Natural light has been shown to offer numerous benefits, including improved mood, reduced stress levels, and enhanced cognitive function. Architects can achieve this by integrating large windows, skylights, and solar tubes into the design, thereby allowing natural light to permeate the space and foster a sense of well-being.

Another crucial design principle is the emphasis on ventilation and air quality. Poor air quality can have detrimental effects on physical and mental health, such as an increased risk of respiratory issues and diminished cognitive performance. By implementing ventilation systems that prioritize the influx of fresh air and minimize pollutants, designers can create environments that support both physical and mental health. These strategies, grounded in the insights of environmental psychologists, ensure that building interiors contribute positively to the well-being of their occupants.

WELL Healthy Building standard - restorative spaces in healthy buildings

International WELL Building Institute has a set of recommended standards for integrating natural components into workspace environments and other real estate projects as a way to protect the mental wellbeing of occupants. The Environmental Design Research Association (EDRA) plays a crucial role in promoting interdisciplinary communication within the field of environmental psychology, facilitating the exchange of ideas and research between practitioners and researchers to address complex human-environment interactions.

A set-piece interior space focusing on mental wellbeing in particular is often called a restorative space, or a recharge room. These concepts typically make use of a combination of:

• wellness lighting (dimmable light levels, Circadian lighting intensities in tune with our 24 hour internal clock)

• sound wellness (water features, nature sounds, sound masking strategies)

• thermal comfort (sun-exposed outdoor spaces or carefully shaded areas, comfortable indoor temperatures)

• comfortable seating arrangements (movable light weight chairs, cushions, mats)

• nature and biophilic design (calming natural colors, textures and plants)

• visual privacy, in order to complete internal practices such as prayers, meditation or a power nap :)

The role of environmental psychologists in environmental psychology

This also applies to studying interpersonal relationships with environment taken into consideration. Looking into things like privacy, personal space, and having a sense of ownership for a space while also keeping in mind questions like: “how can people learn to better navigate the environment they are in,” and “why are certain environments preferred over others?”

Eastern Buddhist traditions of mental wellbeing

An Interesting Comparison Study from the Santa Barbara Institute for Consciousness Studies Explored Connections from Buddhist Teachings to Western Psychology. (https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2006-12925-003)

The Santa Barbara Institute for Consciousness Studies conducted a fascinating comparison study that explored the connections between Buddhist teachings and Western psychology. This study revealed that both traditions emphasize the importance of mental balance and well-being, albeit through different approaches. While Western psychology often focuses on external factors, such as the built environment, Buddhist teachings stress the significance of internal mental training and balance.

This comparison is particularly relevant to environmental psychology and healthy building design. By integrating principles from both traditions, designers can create spaces that not only address external environmental factors but also support internal mental well-being. For instance, incorporating elements that promote mindfulness and relaxation, such as quiet meditation areas or spaces with natural elements, can enhance the overall well-being of building occupants. This holistic approach ensures that the built environment supports both the physical and mental health of its users, aligning with the core principles of environmental psychology.

An interesting comparison study from the Santa Barbara Institute for Consciousness Studies explored connections from Buddhist teachings to Western Psychology. (https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2006-12925-003 )

Although it is useful to keep in mind the surrounding environment's effect on mental health, both western and Buddhist teachings believe that happiness derived from internal, mental training lasts longer than that from external sources, such as the built environments we spend our days in, such as an office, home, school or gym.

Buddhists believe that a lack of overall mental wellbeing is a sign of internal imbalances, requiring focused attention through meditation practices and so on in order to integrate these ‘issues' whatever they may be into our psyche.

Equally, for Buddhist practitioners, happiness itself can be a fundamentally ephemeral or at the very least fluctuating experience for most of us, unless we are ‘enlightened' and have found our own internal happiness, rather than chasing after external sources of happiness.

For example, Buddhist teachings stress the importance of mental balance with a fourfold theory of combining conative balance, attentional balance, cognitive balance and affective balance. Things like anxiety, depression, etc are thought to result from an unbalanced mind while a healthy, uninjured mind is thought to be better prepared to deal with stresses.

Buddhist principles for mental wellbeing in natural environments

• Conative Balance refers to the ability that allows to set intention; having set goals increases motivation and commitment than desire alone while stressing the importance of realistic expectations and having clear goals as a way to predict happiness.

• Attentional Balance is the development of sustained attention for optimal performance. This can be applied with mindful breathing as a sense of focus, the theory of flow – being involved in an activity for its own sake. Mindfulness practices such as meditation are also a key component in developing this skill, for example.

• Cognitive Balance implies being calmly and clearly present; engaging in the world without making assumptions or misleading ideas. Being present in the moment, without judgement in other words. This can be seen through mindfulness training and stress-reduction that results in not getting caught up in expectations.

• Affective Balance is having a clear and cohesive mix of the other three.

https://www.routledge.com/Buddhist-Thought-and-Applied-Psychological-Research-Transcending-the-Boundaries/Nauriyal-Drummond-Lal/p/book/9780415599344

Summary on environmental psychology in the built environment

The essence of environment psychology has to do with the environment, yes but mainly relies on healthy minds as the goal and environmental factors as a stepping-stone to get there. While there are many techniques that can be included in design, there is no “one” answer.

Everything comes down to asking the question: “how will this affect my mentality?” and the answer to that, varies according to the context of each building or interior space situations.