Finding the Perfect Spa Consultant: Expert Guidance for Your Business

residential wellness room design concept by Biofilico

The role of a spa consultant is evolved fast. The modern spa is no longer just about jacuzzis, steam rooms, and Finnish saunas—nowadays, spa advisors like us are at the forefront of designing wellness rooms equipped with cutting-edge technology like biohacking areas, infrared saunas, ice baths, and flotation tanks.

For example, our sister company Biofit has designed recovery rooms for the Aleenta Resort Spa in Thailand and Fusion Group in the UK along these exact lines.

These innovations are redefining the traditional spa concept, turning it into a sanctuary for mental and physical rejuvenation.

Let’s dive into what makes a spa or wellness consultant indispensable for businesses navigating the complexities of today’s wellness industry.

What is a Spa Consultancy?

A spa fitness consultant is an expert who offers specialized guidance, in-depth knowledge and professional support to businesses in the spa and wellness sector. In our case this can relate specifically to recovery room and small-scale spa design as the key deliverable.

Whether it's designing spaces for advanced wellness practices, like biohacking or developing spa treatments that meet the needs of today’s health-conscious clients, a consultant's unique ability is to help businesses maintain a competitive edge in an ever-evolving market not just before the grand opening but on an ongoing basis, post launch during the management phase.

Benefits of Hiring a Spa consultancy firm

Hiring a spa wellness consultant for your spa project can provide a wealth of benefits for a business, or personal growth for an entrepreneur. By offering objective advice, they enable business owners to prevent costly mistakes and make informed decisions about design, services, and operations. Here are some specific benefits:

- Objective Guidance: Spa consultants provide an unbiased perspective. Their recommendations are based on industry knowledge and trends, ensuring that businesses adopt the best practices.

- Time and Cost Efficiency: With their expertise, spa consultants can help businesses avoid pitfalls during the development or renovation process, saving valuable time and money. Their familiarity with suppliers, equipment, and trends ensures the business invests wisely.

- Goal Achievement: By clearly defining a business’s goals and aligning them with practical strategies, consultants help improve overall performance—ensuring that the spa not only meets but exceeds client expectations.

Qualifications and Licensing

One of the unique aspects of becoming a spa consultant is the lack of official licensing or strict legal requirements. This means that anyone can technically claim to be a spa consultant.

However, the best consultants are those who have in-depth industry knowledge, experience, and a track record of successful projects. It’s essential to vet potential consultants by looking into their experience, their portfolio of past projects, and their client testimonials.

residential wellness room design concept by Biofilico

Spa Development

Spa Architecture

Designing the architecture of a spa is much more than deciding on the layout of treatment rooms. A well-designed spa architecture creates a luxurious and relaxing atmosphere, setting the stage for an immersive wellness experience.

Today’s spa consultants are increasingly involved in the creation of wellness rooms that go beyond the classic sauna and steam room.

For example, modern wellness rooms may include biohacking areas that feature state-of-the-art technologies like cryotherapy chambers, infrared saunas that offer detoxification benefits, and flotation tanks for sensory deprivation therapy.

Luxury Spa Operations

Creating a luxury spa that provides an exceptional experience requires more than just premium amenities. The operations need to be designed meticulously, from the quality of services offered to the ambiance of the entire space.

Spa consultants assist in the development of luxury spa concepts that elevate the client experience. This includes selecting services, designing exclusive amenities, training staff, and creating marketing strategies to attract high-end clientele.

The modern wellness consumer is looking for a deeply personalized and holistic experience. Spa consultants help create spaces where everything—from the type of treatments offered to the energy-efficient lighting and aromatherapy-infused ambiance—works together to provide an unforgettable experience for clients.

How to Choose the Right Spa Advisory Business

Selecting the right spa and wellness consultant is a crucial step in the development or enhancement of a wellness space. The following are essential considerations:

- Relevant Experience: Find a consultant with significant experience in the wellness industry. Ideally, they should have worked on projects similar to yours—whether that means a luxury spa, a wellness retreat, or a biohacking center.

- Strong Reputation: A consultant's reputation is key. Look for case studies, success stories, or testimonials from previous clients. A consultant who has successfully delivered results will be happy to share examples of their work.

- Work Style and Personality Fit: The best partnerships are those where both parties understand each other well. Make sure the consultant's approach aligns with your business values and that they can seamlessly integrate with your team.

Marketing and Promotion

An often-overlooked benefit of hiring a spa and wellness consultant is their knowledge of marketing and promotion within the spa industry. A consultant can assist in creating a distinctive brand identity and developing a targeted marketing strategy to attract clients. This includes everything from branding and advertising to crafting an effective social media presence.

In today’s digital landscape, promoting the unique selling proposition (USP) of a spa is crucial. With wellness trends like biohacking and infrared therapies gaining popularity, consultants can help businesses highlight these distinctive features to set themselves apart from competitors.

Case Studies and Luxury Spas Success Stories

Reputable spa consultants will often provide case studies and success stories from previous clients. These case studies can provide valuable insights into their approach, how they solve challenges, and their ability to deliver measurable results.

By examining past projects, business owners can gain confidence in the consultant's expertise, particularly when it comes to incorporating innovative wellness solutions like floatation tanks or biohacking treatments.

Working with a Spa Wellness Consultant

When working with a wellness advisor, expect ongoing support throughout the development process. They’ll help with everything from creating a business plan to choosing the right wellness amenities, training staff, and improving operational efficiency.

Incorporating new wellness trends, such as biohacking therapies, requires expertise that only a specialized consultant can bring.

This could mean providing guidance on the safe installation of cryotherapy units, managing water quality for floatation tanks, or ensuring that an infrared sauna area is optimized for maximum health benefits.

Spa Consultants - Conclusion

Finding the perfect spa wellness consultant can be a game-changer for any wellness business. The right consultant will not only help you design a space that meets current wellness standards but also ensure that you’re incorporating the most up-to-date trends, such as biohacking areas, infrared saunas, and floatation tanks, into your offerings.

Top Tips for Sustainable Interiors: A Designer's Guide to Eco-Friendly Spaces

organic office interior design (a.i. generated image by biofilico)

In the realm of sustainable interior design, a planet-focused approach has transcended from a mere trend to a foundational strategy with broad appeal across market segments; it integrates environmental stewardship, health, and community well-being.

For multi-family residential developments, hotels, and commercial real estate like office spaces, adopting sustainable design practices, including eco friendly interior design, is not only a nod to eco-consciousness but a strategic move towards future-proofing spaces for an evolving market.

At Biofilico, we believe in harnessing the power of nature-centric design, also known as biophilic design, to create interiors that are as sustainable as they are beautiful. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the path to sustainable interior design. Clients are increasingly seeking to incorporate sustainability principles into their interior design projects.

Introduction to Sustainable Interior Design

Sustainable interior design is a holistic approach that seeks to minimize the negative environmental impacts of spaces through thoughtful design choices. It emphasizes the use of eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient systems, and strategies to reduce waste and promote long-term use. Here’s why it’s crucial:

Environmental Impact: Buildings significantly contribute to the world's greenhouse gas emissions and resource consumption. By adopting sustainable practices, we can reduce the footprint of our interiors, conserving resources and decreasing waste.

Health Benefits: Sustainable design strategies often improve indoor air quality and create healthier environments for occupants. The US Environmental Protection Agency identifies indoor air pollution as a top five threat to human health. Non-toxic materials, better ventilation, and natural light all contribute to the well-being of residents, guests, and employees.

Community and Economic Benefits: Beyond the direct environmental and health benefits, sustainable design supports local economies through the use of local materials and fosters a sense of responsibility towards the community.

Sustainable Design Principles

Designing for Energy Efficiency and Low Environmental Impact

Improving a building's energy efficiency is pivotal in reducing a building’s carbon footprint. Key strategies include:

Optimizing Natural Light: Incorporating large windows and skylights can significantly reduce the need for artificial lighting, lowering energy consumption. Utilizing advanced window treatments can help regulate interior temperatures, enhancing comfort and energy efficiency.

Efficient HVAC Systems: High-performance heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems are essential. In multi-family and commercial buildings, zoned systems can ensure energy is used efficiently across different areas.

Renewable Energy Integration: Where feasible, integrating solar panels or other renewable energy sources can offset traditional energy use, making a substantial environmental impact.

Designing for Waste Reduction and Longevity

The goal is to minimize waste and maximize the lifespan of materials and furnishings.

Reuse and Repurpose: Instead of discarding old items, find innovative ways to give them a new life. This could include repurposing old furniture or using reclaimed materials for new construction elements.

Quality Over Quantity: Invest in high-quality, durable products that will last longer and perform better over time. This approach reduces the frequency of replacements and the associated environmental costs. Creating durable and timeless spaces that can adapt to changing needs over time is essential for sustainable design.

Sustainable Materials and Products

Choosing Low-Impact Materials for Interior Design

Sustainable materials are characterized by their renewability, low toxicity, and minimal environmental impact.

Natural and Renewable: Opt for natural materials like bamboo, cork, and responsibly sourced wood. These materials are renewable and often have lower environmental impacts compared to traditional options.

Recycled and Upcycled: Use products made from recycled content, such as recycled metals or glass. This reduces the demand for virgin materials and helps divert waste from landfills.

Non-Toxic Finishes: Choose paints, finishes, and adhesives that are low in volatile organic compounds (VOCs) to ensure better indoor air quality. Choosing low-VOC products helps address indoor air pollution, which is identified as one of the top five threats to human health by the US Environmental Protection Agency.

Sourcing Sustainable Materials and Products

Where materials come from and how they are produced is as important as the materials themselves.

1. Local Sourcing: Prioritize locally sourced materials to reduce transportation emissions and support the local economy. Local products often come with the added benefit of unique craftsmanship and cultural relevance.

Fair Trade Products: Supporting fair trade means ensuring that products are made under fair labor conditions, which promotes equity and transparency in the global supply chain.

Certified Sustainable: Look for certifications like FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) for wood products, or Cradle to Cradle for overall sustainability, which provide assurance of eco-friendly practices.

organic office interior design (a.i. generated image by biofilico)

Working with Interior Designers

Hiring an Interior Designer for Sustainable Interior Design Projects

A professional interior designer specializing in sustainability can guide you through the complex process of creating eco-friendly spaces.

Expert Knowledge: They stay updated on the latest eco-friendly practices and technologies, ensuring your project leverages the best solutions for sustainability. A professional interior designer can also help address issues identified by the Environmental Protection Agency, such as indoor air pollution.

Holistic Approach: Designers consider the entire lifecycle of materials and products, from production to disposal, ensuring each choice supports your sustainability goals.

What to Look for in an Interior Designer Specializing in Sustainable Design

Selecting the right designer is critical to achieving your sustainability objectives.

Portfolio Review: Examine their past projects to see how they have incorporated sustainability into their designs. Look for examples that align with your vision for energy efficiency, air quality, and waste reduction.

Certifications and Training: Ensure they have the relevant credentials, such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification, which demonstrate their commitment to sustainable practices.

Material Knowledge: A good sustainable designer should be knowledgeable about the latest eco-friendly materials and be able to source and recommend the best options for your project.

Eco-Friendly Design Strategies

Incorporating Energy-Efficient Design and Architecture

Sustainable design starts at the building level, incorporating eco friendly interior design practices to minimize environmental impact.

Passive Design: Utilize architectural techniques that naturally regulate the building’s temperature, such as proper insulation, thermal mass, and strategic placement of windows for natural ventilation and light.

Renewable Energy Systems: Install systems like solar panels or geothermal heating and cooling to reduce dependence on non-renewable energy sources. Integrating these systems can help reduce the impact of buildings on the world's greenhouse gas emissions.

Energy-Efficient Appliances: Choose appliances with high energy ratings to minimize electricity consumption and operational costs.

Retrofitting for Sustainability

Modernizing existing structures can significantly reduce the need for new construction and the associated environmental impact.

Energy Upgrades: Update lighting systems to LEDs, improve insulation, and install energy-efficient windows to enhance the building’s energy performance.

Structural Improvements: Reinforce or replace outdated systems and materials with sustainable alternatives to extend the building’s lifespan.

Installing Energy-Wise Lighting and Water-Saving Fixtures

These installations can dramatically cut down on resource use.

Lighting: Maximize the use of natural light during the day and use energy-efficient LED fixtures for artificial lighting. Incorporate smart lighting controls to minimize waste.

Water Efficiency: Install low-flow showerheads, faucets, and dual-flush toilets to reduce water consumption. Consider systems that recycle greywater for non-potable uses.

Reducing Waste and Embracing Reuse

Reclaiming or Recycling Furnishings and Materials

Before buying new, consider what you can reclaim or recycle, especially focusing on natural materials.

Second-Hand Treasures: Vintage and reclaimed furniture not only reduce waste but add character and uniqueness to interiors.

Recycled Materials: Look for furnishings and fixtures made from recycled content, such as rugs made from recycled plastic or tiles from reclaimed glass.

Thinking Differently About Decor and Waste Reduction

1. Adopt a mindful approach to decorating that focuses on longevity and minimalism.

Seasonless Style: Choose decor that transcends trends and seasons, focusing on timeless pieces that won’t need frequent replacement.

Living Decor: Incorporate plants into your designs. They not only enhance aesthetics but also improve air quality and provide a natural, ever-evolving element to the space.

Creating a Sustainable Interior Design Plan

Setting Goals and Priorities for Your Sustainable Interior Design Project

Clearly defining your objectives is crucial for a successful project.

Identify Key Areas: Focus on areas where sustainability will have the most impact, such as energy use, material sourcing, or waste reduction.

Set Measurable Goals: Define specific, measurable targets for sustainability, such as achieving a certain level of energy efficiency or sourcing a percentage of materials locally. It is also important to set goals that incorporate sustainability principles into the design plan, ensuring the use of eco-friendly materials and efficient energy solutions.

Creating a Plan for Sustainable Interior Design Implementation

A structured plan ensures smooth execution.

Timeline and Budget: Develop a realistic timeline and budget that reflects your sustainability goals. Factor in the potential long-term savings from energy-efficient and durable choices.

Stakeholder Involvement: Engage all relevant stakeholders, from designers to facility managers, ensuring everyone understands and supports the sustainability objectives.

Conclusion

Incorporating sustainability into interior design is not just an ethical choice but a strategic decision that enhances the quality, efficiency, and marketability of spaces.

Whether you’re developing multi-family residences, renovating hotel interiors, or upgrading commercial office spaces, these top tips will guide you towards creating interiors that are both beautiful and sustainable.

For more insights and guidance on sustainable design, visit our website Biofilico or contact our team of expert sustainable 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’

Key concepts in wellness real estate & healthy buildings

Heidis Garden Shop with biophilic design - check the moss wall installation!

What is a healthy building concept?

Healthy buildings refer to a structure that is designed, constructed, and maintained with the well-being of its occupants in mind. It is a space that promotes the physical, mental, and emotional health of the people who live or work in it.

Such examples of wellness real estate are designed to provide clean and fresh air, access to natural light, and comfortable temperature and humidity levels.

They also prioritize the use of non-toxic materials and incorporate features that enhance indoor air quality, such as proper ventilation systems and air filtration.

Additionally, well buildings often incorporate elements that support physical activity and wellbeing, such as designated spaces for exercise or access to outdoor areas.

Overall, a health-oriented building is one that supports the health and well-being of its occupants through thoughtful design and maintenance practices.

International well building institute ("WELL")

The concept of a well building has gained significant attention in recent years as people have become more aware of the impact of their built environment on their health.

The International WELL Building Institute has developed the WELL Building Standard, which provides guidelines and certifications for buildings that prioritize occupant health and well-being.

This standard focuses on several key aspects, including air, water, nourishment, light, fitness, comfort, and mind. By following these guidelines, building owners and developers can create spaces that not only meet the needs of their occupants but also contribute to their overall health and well-being.

Typeform offices - an example of biophilic offices

What is 'salutogenesis'?

Salutogenesis is a concept that focuses on promoting health and well-being rather than solely focusing on the prevention and treatment of diseases. It emphasizes the factors that contribute to a person's overall health and their ability to adapt and cope with stressors.

In the context of the built environment, salutogenesis is closely related to the concept of healthy buildings or well buildings.

These elements of green buildings are believed to have a significant impact on the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of individuals.

By creating a conducive environment that supports health and wellness, healthy buildings aim to promote productivity, reduce absenteeism, and improve overall satisfaction among occupants.

The concept of salutogenesis aligns with the principles of healthy buildings by recognizing the importance of creating spaces that contribute to the well-being of individuals.

It acknowledges that the built environment plays a crucial role in shaping our health outcomes and believes that by providing healthy and supportive environments, we can enhance people's ability to live a healthy lifestyle.

Salutogenesis emphasizes the proactive approach of promoting health rather than simply addressing disease, and this aligns with the goals of healthy buildings.

By incorporating salutogenic principles in the design and operation of buildings, we can create spaces that prioritize the health and well-being of its occupants.

What is Sick Building Syndrome ('SBS')?

Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) refers to a condition in which occupants of a building experience a range of health issues that are believed to be caused by the building itself. This can include symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, eye irritation, and respiratory problems.

The term "sick building syndrome" was coined in the 1980s when an increasing number of people were reporting these symptoms in relation to their workplace or other indoor environments.

In recent years, there has been a growing focus on creating healthy buildings that prioritize the well-being of occupants.

These healthy buildings are designed with features such as good ventilation, natural lighting, and low levels of pollutants to minimize the risk of sick building syndrome and promote a healthier indoor environment.

The concept of a "well building" has gained traction, emphasizing the importance of designing and maintaining buildings that support the physical and mental well-being of its occupants.

What is the Harvard Healthy Buildings Program led by Joseph Allen at the Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health?

The Harvard Healthy Buildings Program, led by Joseph Allen at the Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, is a groundbreaking initiative that aims to improve the quality of indoor environments in buildings.

This program recognizes the significant impact that buildings have on our health and well-being, and seeks to create healthier spaces for occupants. By conducting research and providing evidence-based guidance, the program aims to transform the way buildings are designed, operated, and maintained.

Through the implementation of strategies such as improved ventilation, filtration, and lighting, the program aims to create healthier buildings that promote productivity, comfort, and overall well-being.

The Harvard Healthy Buildings Program is at the forefront of promoting healthy building practices and is making significant contributions to the field of public health.

What are the Foundations of a Healthy Building?

Inspired by the Joseph Allen model from the Harvard Healthy Buildings Program, here are a selection of foundations that contribute to creating a healthy building environment targeting enhancements to human health markers for the occupants.

These foundations include air quality, water quality, thermal comfort, lighting, acoustics, materials, ergonomics, biophilia, and health amenities.

Indoor air quality

Firstly, ensuring good air quality is essential for a healthy building. This involves proper ventilation and air purification systems to remove pollutants and improve indoor air quality.

Water quality

Secondly, maintaining clean and safe water is crucial for the health of the occupants. Regular testing and treatment of water sources are necessary to prevent the spread of waterborne diseases.

Thermal comfort

Thirdly, providing thermal comfort is vital in a healthy building. Proper insulation, temperature control, and access to natural light contribute to creating a comfortable environment for occupants.

Lighting

Fourthly, adequate lighting plays a significant role in promoting productivity and well-being. Natural light and proper artificial lighting should be incorporated into the design of the office building.

Acoustic performance

Moreover, addressing acoustic issues is important for a healthy building. Noise control measures should be implemented to reduce noise pollution and create a peaceful environment.

Healthy materials

Using sustainable and non-toxic materials in construction helps create a healthy indoor environment by minimizing exposure to harmful chemicals.

Ergonomic design & active design

Furthermore, ergonomic design principles should be applied to promote comfort and reduce physical strain. This includes adjustable furniture, proper desk heights, and ergonomic tools.

Biophilia design & nature

Incorporating biophilic design elements such as plants and natural materials can have positive effects on mental health and well-being.

Health facilities and wellness amenities

Lastly, providing health amenities such as fitness areas or wellness programs encourages occupants to prioritize their health and well-being.

wework coworking spaces go big on air purifying indoor plants

The role of Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ)

Indoor environmental quality (IEQ) refers to the overall conditions inside a building that can affect the health, comfort, and productivity of its occupants. It encompasses various factors including indoor air quality (IAQ), thermal comfort, lighting, noise levels, and ergonomics.

IEQ is a broader concept than IAQ as it takes into account all aspects of the indoor environment that can impact the well-being of individuals.

While IAQ specifically focuses on the quality of the air inside a building, IEQ considers a wider range of factors that contribute to a healthy building.

IAQ primarily looks at factors such as the presence of pollutants, ventilation rates, and humidity levels. On the other hand, IEQ includes not just air quality but also factors like temperature control, natural lighting, noise reduction measures, and ergonomic building design.

The distinction between IEQ and IAQ is important because it highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to creating healthy buildings. Simply addressing IAQ alone may not be sufficient to ensure a high-quality indoor environment.

A holistic approach to IEQ considers multiple factors and their interaction to create a comfortable and healthy space for occupants.

While indoor air quality is an important component of IEQ, it is not the only factor to consider. A holistic approach that addresses all aspects of indoor environment is necessary to create truly healthy buildings.

What are 'VOCs' and 'PM' in indoor air quality data?

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are organic chemicals that easily evaporate at room temperature and can be found in indoor air. They are emitted from a variety of sources, including building materials, furniture, cleaning products, and personal care products.

VOCs can have both short-term and long-term health effects. Short-term exposure to high levels of VOCs can cause eye, nose, and throat irritation, headaches, dizziness, and nausea. Long-term exposure to low levels of VOCs has been linked to respiratory problems, allergic reactions, and even cancer.

Particulate Matter (PM) refers to tiny particles suspended in the air that can be inhaled into the lungs. These particles can come from various sources, such as combustion processes, smoking, and outdoor pollution that seeps indoors.

PM can be categorized into different size fractions, with smaller particles being more harmful as they can penetrate deep into the respiratory and nervous system more. Exposure to PM can cause respiratory symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Long-term exposure to high levels of PM has been associated with increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, lung cancer, and premature death.

To maintain a healthy building environment, it is important to minimize the sources of VOCs and PM. This can be achieved by using low-emission building materials, choosing non-toxic cleaning and personal care products, and ensuring proper ventilation to reduce the concentration of indoor pollutants.

Regular maintenance and cleaning practices can also help in reducing the accumulation of dust and particulate matter. Implementing these measures can help create a healthier indoor environment for occupants and reduce the potential health risks associated with VOCs and PM.

What is the COGfx study into the benefits of healthy buildings on cognitive performance?

The COGfx research study is a groundbreaking initiative that investigates the impact of healthy buildings on occupants' cognitive function and productivity. Led by a team of researchers at Harvard University's T.H. Chan School of Public Health, this study aims to provide valuable insights into the relationship between indoor environmental quality and human performance.

By examining various aspects of the built environment, such as ventilation, lighting, and thermal conditions, the researchers seek to identify the factors that contribute to a healthy building. The ultimate goal of medical research is to develop evidence-based guidelines that can be used to design and maintain buildings that promote occupant health and well-being.

The COGfx research study takes a comprehensive approach to understanding the effects of healthy buildings on cognitive function. It involves conducting controlled experiments in office spaces where participants are exposed to different environmental conditions.

These conditions are carefully manipulated to simulate various scenarios commonly encountered in real-world buildings. By measuring cognitive performance using standardized tests, the researchers can assess the impact of different environmental factors on participants' abilities to concentrate, make decisions, and solve problems.

The findings of the COGfx research study have significant implications for the design and operation of buildings worldwide. By demonstrating the positive effects of healthy buildings on cognitive function, this study highlights the importance of investing in indoor environmental quality.

It provides valuable evidence that can be used to advocate for better building standards and policies that prioritize occupant health and well-being. Ultimately, the COGfx research study aims to promote a shift towards healthier buildings that enhance productivity, satisfaction, and overall quality of life for occupants.

The big picture view - what role does the anthropocene play in the healthy buildings movement?

The Anthropocene is a term used to describe the current geological age, in which human activities have had a significant and lasting impact on the Earth's ecosystems. It is characterized by the rapid evolution of technology and the widespread industrialization that has occurred over the past few centuries.

This has led to significant changes in the natural environment, including increased pollution, deforestation, and climate change. These changes have had profound effects on the health and wellbeing of both humans and other species.

The rapid evolution of technology and industrialization has brought about numerous advancements and improvements in our daily lives. However, it has also come at a cost to our health and wellbeing.

The increase in pollution from industrial activities has led to a decline in air and water quality, resulting in respiratory and other health issues for humans. Additionally, deforestation and habitat destruction have led to the loss of biodiversity, disrupting ecosystems and potentially leading to the spread of diseases.

Climate change, another consequence of human activities during the Anthropocene, has also had significant effects on our health and wellbeing. Rising temperatures, extreme weather events, and changing patterns of precipitation can lead to increased risk of heat stroke, vector-borne diseases, and food insecurity.

These changes disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, such as those in low-income communities or developing countries.

PRADO restaurant lisbon with biophilic design

the chemical revolution

The chemical revolution refers to the significant changes that occurred in the field of chemistry during the 18th and 19th centuries. It marked a period of intense scientific development and discovery, leading to advancements in various industries and the understanding of chemical processes.

This revolution brought about major changes in manufacturing methods, agriculture, medicine, and everyday life. The use of chemicals became widespread, leading to both positive and negative impacts on society.

One negative impact of the chemical revolution is the role that harmful chemicals play in sick building syndrome. Sick building syndrome refers to a condition where occupants of a building experience acute health effects or discomfort due to the time spent in the building.

Poor indoor air quality, often caused by the presence of harmful chemicals, is a common factor contributing to this syndrome.

Chemicals such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted from building materials, furnishings, cleaning products, and even personal care products can accumulate indoors and negatively affect the health and wellbeing of occupants.

These chemicals can cause respiratory problems, headaches, fatigue, dizziness, and other symptoms. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure proper ventilation and minimize the use of harmful chemicals in buildings to prevent sick building syndrome and promote a healthy indoor environment.

This context helps to explain how it came to pass that the buildings we inhabit for 90% of our lives (!) may in fact be having a negative impact on our wellbeing.

Only through some combination of new and existing buildings improving their building operations to impact human health in a positive sense, combined with efforts by the likes of US Green Building Council LEED and WELL certification for new buildings do we stand a chance of not just reducing the environmental impact of the real estate sector but converting it into a wellbeing contributor.

Green Healthy Places - healthy building consultants

Whether your concern be workplace wellbeing or health interior design, by integrating wellness features such as those described above, from monitoring features and a performance based system rating systems, to sustainable design, improve air quality, WELL building standard certification and efforts to improve air quality, followed up by post occupancy surveys, contact us at Green Healthy Places (part of Biofilico) to discuss how we can assist.

The Rise of a new breed of Wellness Bar and functional drinks - a case study with Upraising organic coffee

A conversation with Guy Morley, Co-Founder of UPRAISING

View on Zencastr

Healthy Habits for mental health and performance

The health and wellness industry has been witnessing a paradigm shift in recent years.

As more people become conscious of their overall wellbeing, inside and out, mental and physical, mind-body and spirit, the demand for hospitality concepts tailored to this shift to a quasi biohacking approach is slowly becoming more mainstream. Wellness bars support an active lifestyle by providing protein, fiber, healthy fats, and low sugar content, making them a convenient and delicious snack option. Additionally, they promote a healthy gut by nourishing friendly bacteria with prebiotic fiber, which is essential for maintaining wellness and physical performance.

The Performance health bar

One such innovation is the emergence of a new breed of performance health bar, packed with plant protein, a wellness bar concept that focuses on offering a diverse range of health-promoting products and services. These bars also feature gluten free oats, which are light, tasty, and packed with plant protein to help you feel fuller, while being free from allergens and added sugar.

The objective here is very specific:

1/ to help clients prep themselves for performance

2/ assist them in maintaining performance whilst in action

3/ promote recovery post activity, helping them get back out there, ready to go one more time.

The future of the wellness bar

wellness bar concept image A.I. generated by Biofilico

The future of wellness bars and health bars lies in incorporating cutting-edge ingredients and technologies, combined with biophilic design, to create a holistic wellness experience maximized for its positive impact on overall health. Future wellness bars will include hand baked options. These bars will be packed full of crunchy toasted super seeds, juicy fruit, and gut-friendly whole foods.

Firstly then, this includes the use of adaptogenic mushrooms, nootropics, supplements, and nutritious beverages to support various aspects of health.

Additionally, the adoption of sustainable and eco-friendly interior design practices, such as biophilic design and a strict sustainable, non-toxic materials policy in the fit-out, ensures the store and aesthetic context is aligned with the concept, ensuring the wellness bar has been maximized for its wellbeing properties..

Functional coffee for wellbeing

Today, I am joined by a man on the forefront of creating the type of delicious functional beverage products that will, I believe, come to populate this new generation of wellness bar concepts that I'm betting represent the future of F&B offerings at premium boutique fitness studios, health clubs and wellness-oriented members clubs.

Guy is the Co-Founder of Upraising - an organic coffee brand powered by nootropics and adaptogens (we'll get to what these terms mean shortly). 

He previously built the iced tea brand Kailani and before that worked as a music and entertainment lawyer in London, UK. 

---

mattmorley

What was the opportunity here when launching Upraising? I've tried to set the scene but what attracted you to the functional coffee market in particular?

04:13.55

Guy

So as you said in your introduction, nootropics, adaptogens and functional mushrooms are having their moment in the wellness sector, it's a huge growth area. I think the idea of mixing them with coffee comes originally from the US.

There's been a Finnish company doing it there for about 10 years while in Europe there was nothing similar.

So the idea behind Upraising was to have a look at what they were doing in the US and do version adapted to the European consumer market with organic coffee, fair trade coffee and functional mushrooms, adaptogens and... it's the right timing, we launched in November 2022.

05:04.95

mattmorley

What do you think is behind this trend, I'm almost reluctant to use that word but clearly it is having a moment as you say.

wellness bar concept image A.I. generated by Biofilico

We're seeing the products coming onto the market from my perspective I'm seeing F&B concepts adapted to this type of product coming onto the market, is this the start of a new wellness wave?

05:35.30

Guy

Snack bars as functional medicine

It’s definitely part of a much larger wellness movement I suppose of ‘food as medicine’ so people realizing that what they’re eating and what they’re doing is really impacting their health, so it’s all a form of preventative medicine. Wellness bars actively feed the body with essential nutrients, promoting wellness from the inside out. These bars often contain zero added sugar, making them guilt-free snacks that help avoid sugar crashes and empty calories.

A growing awareness that medicine, just taking pills or undergoing surgery is more of a band-aid rather than a solution in the long-term.

So people are now becoming more aware. Trying to avoid illnesses completely and using food therefore as a source of their medicine.

This is a way of enhancing something that people drink I mean the vast majority of the population globally drink coffee and has its own health benefits already in its pure form, then we’re making it even more beneficial for both mental and physical health.

06:26.80

mattmorley

Healthy mind healthy body

I’m reading a book at the moment by Dr. Peter Atta called ‘Outlive’. That’s all about what he terms to be medicine ‘3.0’ this is about looking into the future and trying to do everything possible now to help live a long and healthy life. Wellness bars can be the ultimate daily snack for maintaining a healthy mind and body, providing a guilt-free, nourishing, and satisfying option for daily consumption.

I think there is a shift in perception coming. So perhaps we need to dig a little deeper into some of this terminology and some of the ingredients. We’ve used those words ‘adaptogens’ and ‘nootropics’. So let’s start with them. What are their health benefits?

Nootropics and adaptogens for wellbeing

07:16.47

Guy

Yeah, so nootropics are basically ingredients that help boost and improve cognitive function and they can be natural. They don't have to be natural.

So for example, Adderall which people say is for ADHD is a nootropic, caffeine is one of the the most commonly used nootropics in nature because that boosts concentration.

Functional mushrooms for mental wellness

So then we use only natural nootropics, things like Lion's Mane mushroom - a functional mushroom.

Everyone knows the psychedelic mushrooms with psilocybin, these are probably the level below that with no psilocybin present at all but they do have very strong properties that are beneficial to humans either physically or mentally.

Lion's Mane is good for mental focus and concentration. Ideal for a wellness bar concept in a coworking space or other workplace context in other words.

Adaptogens meanwhile are natural ingredients that are helpful for the body to relieve stress, so that could be mental or physical stress.

Reishi is a functional mushroom that helps balance cortisol levels which is also one of the reasons we mix it with coffee because coffee in some people when they get the jitters is because their cortisol levels are rising so reishi mixing ratio with the coffee will balance that out.

08:46.39

mattmorley

Benefits of biophilic design for a functional health bar setting

So there you get into some combination of both physical and also mental health benefits.. the parallel is interesting with wellness interiors and biophilic design.

Often we're looking at sense of vitality or a connection with nature, so a mood enhancing feeling less stressed, less anxious and just a little bit sharper, your concentration comes back, you feel restored, mental fatigue is alleviated.

Functional drinks for a wellness bar menu concept

How did you start to slice up those distinct benefit concepts into a product range so that 1 is but perhaps offering something for cognitive while another is more about physical performance?

10:09.13

Guy

wellness bar concept image A.I. generated by Biofilico

So we started originally mixing it with coffee and that has various health benefits, I mean we use organic fair trade coffee with limited pesticides. But coffee is a good example of something that has multiple benefits - for concentration, as a mood booster, an increase in metabolism and even can help with weight loss and physical performance. It’s also high in antioxidants. Wellness bars can also be included as snack bars in the menu, promoting wellness and a balanced diet. These wellness bars hit the sweet spot naturally with real fruit and 100% good stuff, avoiding sugar crashes and emphasizing their satisfying and nourishing qualities.

Improved gut health as a potential wellness bar benefit

We’ve just been speaking to a gut health expert in Norway who’s a real advocate of coffee and says you have to drink 4.50 to 1 litres of coffee a day to get the proper amount of polyphenols to boost your gut health. Wellness bars also tick all the right boxes for gut health by being low in calories, free from allergens, and providing natural prebiotics.

So it started with that and then we wanted to improve it even further and we’re thinking well when do people drink coffee? Typically it’s in the morning, starting their day so they want to focus better.

They want to be more productive so we’ve got one coffee for that called Flow State. There’s another one for those who want a mood boost - coffee is often a very social phenomenon, we go out to cafes or we have people around at our houses for coffee.

11:39.99

Guy

Improved sleep and recovery potential from wellness bar drinks

We've got one product that seems to be helping with sleep called Bright Mood and another product we're re-jigging at the moment called Live Well for immune boosting energy.

It will now evolve into more of a stamina and resilience offering, much more for people who were taking a coffee before a long cycle ride, run or surf session.

12:22.26

mattmorley

Possible locations for wellness bar concepts

So I think there’s clearly one case for this type of functional health bar being present in really any kind of physical performance center, be that a tennis club, gym, or fitness studio, but particularly around competitive or team sports. Wellness bars can also be enjoyed during an afternoon tea break, making them a versatile option for various settings.

A class of yoga might require less in terms of the mental game although there’s a lot of focus and concentration involved there around concentration.

In the process of doing a bit of research into these ‘brain cafes’ in the US, they’re becoming increasingly common in co-working spaces as well. Where clearly it’s more about mental focus and cognitive performance.

Upraising target markets in the wellness industry

How have you developed your sales strategy? Is it health food stores or boutique gyms?

14:01.51

Guy

It’s been a very wide audience actually in terms of our business customers. I mean we’ve sold a lot into cafes and restaurants offering brunch for example, which is obviously a social setting so the Bright Mood version sells best there.

In a yoga studio it’s Live Well and in a food deli where you would go and buy your nice cheeses and chocolates, all three versions sell pretty well. Wellness bars can even be delivered on the same day for first-time customers, enhancing convenience and appeal.

So it’s I wouldn’t say we’ve been limited in where we can sell them. It’s more which one sells better and which type of place it is.

Something we do need to work on that it’s currently only ground coffee we use whereas most cafes use a whole bean and grind on site.

We think we figured out a way to add in our functional ingredients now and that will open up more business opportunities, gyms and so on.

15:02.46

wellness bar concept image A.I. generated by Biofilico

mattmorley

So if we think about the functional benefits that you could imagine Upraising doing and future product lines I wonder if that could perhaps give us clues about where else we might see the functional health bar concept emerging in future?

15:42.70

Guy

Stratification of the wellness bar ingredient market

I think that’s probably where the future for functional health bars and wellness bars in a fitness context is going - more and more tailored, including gluten free options. At the moment it’s still in its infancy. So anything is considered good but slowly it will become more and more focused on exactly the benefits you’re after.

17:02.70

mattmorley

What about adjacent sectors that you might have your eye on, whether for the Upraising brand to go into or that you consider near neighbors in terms of functional health benefits. You mentioned gut health for example, there’s obviously protein..

17:55.50

Guy

Yeah I mean all of those things you mentioned are possibles. There are some limiting factors for us for example, probiotics we have to to use probiotics that are resistant to heat if we’re going to put them in a hot drink.

This is in an industry with a lot of less credible products, if we can say it diplomatically, we want to focus on the best quality ingredients so we’re speaking to the gut health specialist and looking at the cordyceps mushroom for the cardio respiratory system.

L-theanine wellness benefits

But unlike other brands we are not tied to mushrooms so we can use other nootropics and adaptogens for example L-theanine is a good one that helps cognition that we take from green tea.

So for the first year we'd stick with hot drinks then I think things like protein powders, chocolates and so on could come into play later.

19:56.60

mattmorley

It's almost as if one can see the next wave coming on the horizon right? I think that could be around concepts that perhaps for now feel quite 'out there' on the verge of acceptability in terms of both societal perception and Legality but you know micro-dosing is an obvious one. You're seeing brands like Earth Resonance now seemingly selling 30-day packs of Microdose Psilocybin mushrooms online in the Netherlands.

Sourcing high quality ingredients for health bar coffee, tea and juice blends

Guy

We’ve always used the best quality products, avoiding empty calories by sourcing high-quality ingredients. We’re very open about where we get our coffee from, where we get our mushrooms from (Scandinavia rather than China where they can have issues with contamination and heavy metals).

And also things like labor laws in Scandinavia are much higher standard so you might be buying an organic mushroom in China but if it’s been produced in a farm where people are working 18 hours a day in harsh conditions you’re not particularly helping the world improve.

So we’ve been very careful about the products we’ve used in terms of communicating what they are and what they do, it’s the responsibility of being a first mover in a space like this basically.

I think as we go on we will provide ever more information about the research studies that are done for example on L-theanine mixed with coffee. There’s a study that that shows that it prolongs kind of concentration and avoids dips.

The functional performance drinks niche

mattmorley

When you look down the pipeline say 5 years into the future around this niche of functional performance drinks and the type of hospitality concept that they're best suited to, how do you see this sector evolving?

Guy

It can go very far but I think there will be more obvious differentiation between more mainstream companies while others will become more specialist, focusing on the origin of heir ingredients and so on. synthetic versions of these ingredients just isn't the same, it's an inferior product.

upraising.co

https://www.instagram.com/upraising.co/

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.

What are Healthy Workplace Spaces and Their Benefits — Wellness Design Consultants

Introduction to Healthy Coworking Spaces

Healthy coworking spaces are essential for promoting workplace health and wellbeing. These environments are designed to be supportive, fostering collaboration, creativity, and productivity among their members. By prioritizing health, these spaces can help prevent ill health and encourage healthy behaviors, such as regular physical activity, healthy eating, and good mental wellbeing.

One of the key benefits of a healthy coworking space is its ability to address common health issues that can affect workers. Poor mental health, substance misuse, and musculoskeletal conditions are prevalent in many workplaces, but a well-designed coworking space can help mitigate these problems. For instance, ergonomic furniture can reduce the risk of musculoskeletal conditions, while access to fitness facilities and healthy food options can promote physical activity and healthy eating.

Human resources teams play a crucial role in creating and maintaining a healthy coworking space. By providing resources and support for employees, HR can help foster a culture of health and wellbeing. This might include offering workshops on stress management, providing access to mental health resources, or organizing regular physical activity sessions. By prioritizing workplace health, HR teams can help create a healthy workforce that is more productive, engaged, and satisfied.

In summary, healthy coworking spaces are not just about providing a place to work; they are about creating an environment that supports the overall health and wellbeing of their members. By addressing common health issues and promoting healthy behaviors, these spaces can help create a more productive and positive work environment.

arsenal business club, montenegro - interiors by biofilico

what are the benefits of healthy workplaces and coworking space designs?

Co-working spaces are essentially shared office environments for businesses that provide freelancers, small business owners and independent operators with a professional place to work, collaborate, and network.

Typically the. benefits of coworking space compared to conventional office space are the efforts of the community managers, access to coffee shops for remote workers, private office (in the same space but away from the main hotdesk area) for an additional cost.

One of the advantages of coworking spaces compared to a traditional office is that they typically provide at the very least a combination of communal spaces, private office space means, flexible office spaces, hot desks flexible workspace, meeting rooms, event spaces, kitchens, reception and so on.

As an office interior design firm specialized in sustainability and wellbeing however, an optimized coworking spaces offer can be so much more than that - shower facilities, social space, fitness studio, natural light, acoustic phone booths, standing desk space and other wellness oriented facilities.

What is the meaning of co-working space design?

Co-working spaces are essentially shared office environments for businesses that provide freelancers, small business owners and independent operators with a professional place to work, collaborate, and network.

Typically the. benefits of coworking space compared to conventional office space are the efforts of the community managers, access to coffee shops for remote workers, private office (in the same space but away from the main hotdesk area) for an additional cost.

One of the advantages of coworking spaces compared to a traditional office is that they typically provide at the very least a combination of communal spaces, private office space means, flexible office spaces, hot desks flexible workspace, meeting rooms, event spaces, kitchens, reception and so on.

As an office interior design firm specialized in sustainability and wellbeing however, an optimized coworking spaces offer can be so much more than that - shower facilities, social space, fitness studio, natural light, acoustic phone booths, standing desk space and other wellness oriented facilities.

What explains the trend in flexible work spaces?

Co-working spaces are designed to give digital nomads, entrepreneurs, freelancers and simply those who do not have an office to go to the opportunity to access the same resources as larger companies without having to pay for and commit to expensive office space. They also provide a sense of community as workers come together to share ideas and resources.

This type of working environment can be beneficial for those who need flexibility in their work schedule or who want an alternative to working from home.

Additionally, co-working and coworking spaces can be great for networking purposes as it allows people from different industries to come together and form relationships. Imagine a co-share office with gym on-site where co-workers with a shared interest in fitness can connect, for example. This explains why coworking spaces are such a hot sector right now!

ozana business club interior design by biofilico

What is the difference between a business Centre or shared office space and a coworking space?

The main difference between a business centre or shared office space and a coworking space is the level of flexibility they offer but then there is a less tangible difference in terms of the atmosphere and vibe they each represent.

Business centres are typically more structured, with fixed leases and terms of agreement, they also have a more formal atmosphere.

Shared office spaces are also usually very structured too but with shorter term agreements than business centres, again though this is essentially a classic office vibe, a long way from the fresh approach of a coworking space.

This is often not the place to go looking for office interior design plans with great office interior design, proper lighting and creative layouts by sustainable office interior design companies.

Flexible contracts

Generally coworking spaces are more flexible in terms of membership length and cost. They also provide a far wider range of amenities than business centres or shared office spaces, from the obligatory communal kitchens, break out areas, conference rooms, coffee stations, rooftop lounges, games rooms, and even gyms.

Community aspect

Additionally, coworking spaces deliberately encourage interaction and collaboration between members via an events program, wellness activities, run clubs and social events, which can all be beneficial for those looking to develop new relationships or simply feel part of a community every day when they go to work. Team leaders play a crucial role in fostering a healthy and collaborative community within these spaces, ensuring that members feel supported and engaged.

A well designed office for co-working can literally be the key to a new city, as it was for company founder Matt Morley when he moved to Lisbon, Portugal in 2017 with nothing but a couple of suitcases and an AirBnB reservation… everything that came afterwards was in some way thanks to the crew at Second Home Lisboa coworking. Is one space proves the importance of office interior design on worker wellbeing, it is this biophilic gem!

innovation centre coworking interiors by biofilico

What is workspace design in the context of the current coworking trend?

Workspace design is the process of creating a creative indoor environment that meets the functional and aesthetic needs of its occupants, whilst aligning with the distinct set of values and personality of the coworking brand in question.

design for your target audience

As experts in designing coworking spaces for a range of different target audiences, from high-net worths to low budget start-ups, we take into account a range of factors such as ergonomics, lighting, acoustics, and interior aesthetics. Identifying priority areas in the design process is crucial to cater to the needs of different target audiences effectively.

Our aim is to maximize productivity and comfort whilst delivering the interior design and fit-out on time and on budget.

The goal is to create an environment for professionals that encourages collaboration, creativity, and productivity while still providing a pleasant atmosphere for workers. Factors such as zoning, acoustics, workflow management, and team dynamics should all be taken into account when designing a workspace.

ozana business club interior design by biofilico

What are the principles for designing a healthy coworking office space?

The principles for designing a healthy coworking office space include creating an ergonomic workspace that encourages movement, with abundant natural light and suitable ventilation rates for indoor air quality that all contribute to occupant wellbeing.

Acoustics

We also look for ways to reduce noise pollution between different zones, and create distinct quiet zones using acoustic panels, privacy booths and other sound absorbing materials to facilitate deep work and focus.

This is especially important for those n the creative industries and business owners looking to get $$$$ done!

Biophilic design

Natural elements such as plants and outdoor spaces both help to create a calm atmosphere and reduce anxiety levels, when done correctly. This is a fundamental concept behind the use of biophilic design in our coworking spaces and offices, see more on this subject below.

Other design considerations

Additionally, it is important to ensure that the space is designed with safety in mind, with adequate ventilation, fire safety measures in place, and clear emergency exit routes. Finally, workspaces should be designed with flexibility in mind to accommodate changing needs of occupants throughout the working day.

ozana business club interiors by biofilico

How do you plan a coworking space design?

When planning a co-working space design, it is important to consider the needs of the occupants, the goals of the organization, and the available budget.

The layout should be designed to maximize space utilization and encourage collaboration between members.

ergonomics

Additionally, it is important to consider ergonomics and comfort when selecting furniture and equipment. It is also important to factor in natural elements such as light and air quality as well as soundproofing elements where necessary.

Finally, it is important to ensure that safety measures are in place such as adequate ventilation and fire safety measures.

What is an example of healthy co-work space design by Biofilico?

Our previous project the Ozana Business Club in Porto Montenegro is a business members club that caters to the needs of local professionals and entrepreneurs with an interest in the dynamic community around Porto Montenegro (where Biofilico's founder Matt Morley was a Director from 2010-2019).

ozana business club interior design by biofilico

Ozana Business Club, Porto Montenegro

The club offers a range of amenities and services that are designed to help members succeed in their respective fields, it was all designed by our in house design team with local assistance in the fit-out and project delivery, as well as signage production.

The club provides access to the latest technology, such as high-speed internet, office space, and meeting rooms.

Members can also benefit from networking opportunities with other business professionals in the area.

Additionally, the club offers exclusive access to networking events, and seminars that provide valuable advice on topics such as finance, marketing, and management.

With its many facilities and impressive list of amenities, the Ozana Business Club provides an ideal environment for business owners to grow their businesses.

innovation centre porto montenegro by biofilico

Innovation Centre, Porto Montenegro

Another past project of ours, the Innovation Centre Porto Montenegro coworking space is a unique, collaborative environment that provides entrepreneurs, freelancers, and small business owners with the opportunity to work in an inspiring and creative atmosphere.

By being part of the coworking community, individuals have access to a network of like-minded people who can help them grow their businesses and reach their goals.

The space also offers amenities such as high-speed internet, meeting rooms, office supplies, and comfortable seating areas.

On top of that, members can attend workshops and events that will help them further develop their skills or learn more about the industry they are in.

The Innovation Centre is more than just some meeting rooms and a shared workspace though; it is a hub for creativity and innovative ideas.

Our biophilic recharge room for EcoWorld Ballymore in London

examples of co-working offices with workplace wellness design and healthy interiors

One clear example here is WeWork, which has a ‘Wellness Spaces’ program, essentially a coshare office with gym or yoga space concept. Not every coworking space has its own private gym facilities as space is often at a premium but a few of the best do have an onsite gym, or perhaps a ground floor cafe serving cognitive enhancing nootropic drinks.

These wellness spaces are designed to promote physical and mental health through various features like ergonomic furniture, natural lighting, and abundant greenery. Additionally, the company offers healthy snacks and beverages at its locations as well as access to fitness classes. In the East Midlands, workplace wellness initiatives have been implemented, resulting in an average of 5.6 sick days taken by employees in this area in 2021.

Other co-working office brands that prioritize workplace wellness design include the Knotel workclubsSoho Works that both leverage elements of hospitality and slick interior design to help them stand out from the crowd.

These brands create a healthy work environment with features such as standing desks, air purification systems, and natural materials like wood or stone in their interior design. They also provide access to yoga classes, meditation rooms, and healthy snacks in their lobbies or common areas.

By providing these amenities and creating a healthier workspace for employees, these co-working office brands are helping to reduce stress levels and create more productive work environments.

benefits of healthy indoor environment and wellbeing interior design in coworking spaces?

A healthy indoor environment and wellbeing interior design in a coworking space can have numerous benefits for both employers and employees. For employers, it can lead to improved productivity and creativity, as well as reduced absenteeism due to better air quality.

For employees, it can mean improved mental health, physical comfort, and increased motivation. It can also lead to increased collaboration among staff members as the space is designed to foster better communication.

Additionally, a healthy indoor environment in a coworking space can help reduce stress levels by providing natural light, calming colors and materials, ergonomic furniture, noise-reduction features, and a comfortable temperature.

Finally, such an environment can create an atmosphere of trust between coworkers which helps build strong working relationships.

research studies

Our biophilic recharge room for EcoWorld Ballymore in London

While some of these benefits can appear intangible, a coworking space does provide a unique testing ground for such experiments in workplace wellness research studies as the members are often young, open-minded and tech-savvy.

The number of research studies undertaken thus far though remains conspicuously low.

One of our own previous attempts to pin down some of these benefits was a biophilic space we created for real estate developer EcoWorld Ballymore in London's Canary Wharf district.

Over 100 respondents were invited into our waterfront recharge room one cold January and asked to spend 30-60 minutes surrounded by air-purifying plants, birdsong, candles and natural aromatherapy, we aked them to respond to a questionnaire before and after.

The results show that such spaces can have an immediate, positive impact on mood, stress levels, anxiety and feelings of nature-connectedness, as well as productivity and concentration.

See more on our recharge rooms here.

what studies exist proving the benefits for productivity and concentration from working in a biophilic office environment?

Studies conducted by the Harvard Business Review have shown that biophilic office environments increase employee productivity and focus.

The study showed that when employees were exposed to natural elements such as plants, natural light, and other natural elements, their productivity increased by 6%.

Furthermore, employees reported feeling more relaxed and concentrated during their workday when working in an office with biophilic elements.

Another study from the Journal of Environmental Psychology found that employees who worked in a biophilic office environment reported lower stress levels than those who did not.

These findings suggest that incorporating biophilic elements into an office environment can have a positive impact on employee productivity and concentration levels.

See our dedicated webpage covering a wide range of such research studies here.

what other case studies exist for integrating biophilic design principles in a coworking office space?

One such example of biophilic design being integrated in a coworking office space is the design of the WeWork office in London. The designers embraced numerous biophilic design principles, such as natural light, natural materials, and plants. The lobby area was filled with greenery to create a connection between the indoors and outdoors.

There were also plenty of plants placed around the workspace to help improve air quality and provide a sense of calmness. The designers also made use of natural materials like wood and stone to bring an organic feel to the office space. These materials were used throughout the entire workspace, from walls to furniture.

Large windows allowed plenty of natural light into the shared workspace, which helped reduce lighting costs while providing occupants with views of the city and nature outside. Overall, this coworking office space serves as an inspiring example for how biophilic design principles can be successfully implemented in an office setting.

how do Second Home coworking offices use biophilic design?

Second Home coworking offices are designed with biophilic design principles in mind. This means that natural elements are incorporated into the workspace to create a calming atmosphere. Natural light is used as much as possible and plants are strategically placed throughout the office.

Natural materials such as wood, stone, and other organic elements are used in the decor to bring a sense of the outdoors inside. The idea is to create a workspace that feels like an extension of nature, rather than a cold and sterile environment.

Second Home also utilizes green walls and terrariums filled with lush, vibrant foliage to add an extra layer of comfort for its members. These elements work together to create a space that invokes feelings of tranquility and productivity, allowing members to reach their full potential. They may not have private gym facilities but they do include fitness classes and other group activities instead.

What are the main services provided by flexible workplace providers for improved mental wellbeing of its members?

A creative workspace with concern for worker wellbeing can offer workshops on topics such as stress management and mindfulness that can help workers reduce stress levels. Coworking offices can also provide mental health resources such as free counseling sessions or discounted therapy fees for workers who need extra support.

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Further Reading

• A Guide To Biophilic Design In Offices & Coworking Spaces

• Coworking Space Design - A Secret To Productive Coworking Space

• Benefits Of Biophilic Design In Offices & Coworking Spaces

• Sustainable Office Space - Make Your Office More Eco-Friendly

• Healthy Interior Design At The Innovation Centre Co-Working

• Coworking Space Design - A Secret To Productive Coworking Space

• Benefits Of Biophilic Design In Offices & Coworking Spaces

• A Guide To Biophilic Design In Offices & Coworking Spaces

• Healthy Interior Design At The Innovation Centre Co-Working

• Office Interiors & Outdoor Workspace, Porto Montenegro

• Posts in Active Design

• Benefits Of Biophilic Design - Why Is It Good For You?

• Architecture For Health - Buildings Designed For Wellbeing

• How To Use Lighting In A Healthy Building Plan

• Wabi Sabi Philosophy And Its Use In Interior Design

• Kids Club Design - The Importance Of Clubs For Kids

• Free E-Book: Benefits Of Biophilic Design In Offices & Coworking Spaces

• Mental Wellbeing In Healthy Buildings

• What Is Wellness Design In A Healthy Buildings And Wellbeing Interior Strategy

• Introducing The World Green Building Council Health & Wellbeing Framework

• Healthy Building Design Strategies For Nutrition & Hydration

• Well Building Standard: Mind M09 Enhanced Access To Nature

• 5 Best Examples Of Biophilic Design

• What Are Biophilia And Biophilic Design?

• Well Building Standard Movement V07 Active Furnishings

• Homepage

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.

health benefits of forest bathing aromatherapy terpenes

What is forest bathing?

Forest Bathing or shinrin-yoku is a term that has been gaining almost cult-like recognition amongst nature-centric readers since it emerged from Japan in the 1980s. This technique involves taking meditative walks in forest settings and emerging oneself in nature with the purpose of reconnecting with Mother Nature for its mental and physical wellness benefits.

The act of “forest-bathing” can be as simple as walking in the forest or as complex as meditation or other aspects of connection to the surrounding environment. As. a concept, forest bathing has been inspirational in pushing biophilic design to the top of the agenda for real estate developers with an eye on sustainability and wellbeing in buildings and interiors.

What are the health benefits of immersion in nature?

Forest Bathing can produce many positive effects for humans but some of the most important have been seen within the immune system. The main benefit has to do with the quality of air people are exposed to in comparison with industrialized smog that accompanies most city air.

All plants produce phytoncides which are organic compounds that have antimicrobial, antibacterial and antifungal qualities that create a protective microclimate surrounding plants that fend off insects, animals, diseases and other decomposition.

what research studies have been done into benefits of shinrin yoku?

In relation to the human immune system, these properties significantly increased the cytolytic activity of NK-92MI cells. These natural killer cells (NKs) have been shown to kill tumors/viruses and are thought to be derived from the phytoncides emitted by plants (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17903349/ ).

In contrast, the city tourist visit did not increase human NK activity, numbers of NK cells, or the expression of the selected intracellular perforin, GRN, and GrA/B (all important in immune responses). (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2793341/#CR37 )

Along with the boost in immune responses, forest-bathing has also been shown to reduce stress level in humans by significantly decreasing urine adrenaline and noradrenaline concentrations in both male and females. Noradrenaline is the predominant neurotransmitter released by the sympathetic system; the level of noradrenaline increases during increased physical activity while adrenaline levels increase under circumstances of novelty, anticipation, unpredictability, and general emotional arousal (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16749410/ ).

Other studies have reported that forest bathing trips reduce saliva cortisol levels, prefrontal cerebral activity, and blood pressure in humans, as well as stabilize autonomic nervous activity (Park BJ, Tsunetsugu Y, Ishii H, Furuhashi S, Hirano H, Kagawa T, et al. Physiological effects of Shinrin-yoku (taking in the atmosphere of the forest) in a mixed forest in Shinano Town, Japan. Scand J For Res. 2008;23:278–83. )

What are the benefits of aromatherapy in retail products like monq?

MONQ currently offers seven different blends of “therapeutic air” - aromatherapy-inspired wellness diffusers with zero tobacco, nicotine, or artificial flavors based on 100% pure essential oil blends. Made in the USA and launched by former Orthopedic Surgeon, Dr. Eric Fishman, the concept is basically that of inhaling the bio-hacked air via the mouth or nose.

The best way to use this product is by breathing in through your mouth and out directly through the nose, not having to inhale in the lungs. By exhaling out the nose, olfactory receptors are stimulated to allow for faster action. There are also other ways the diffuser can be used (outlined on their website) but this is the fastest acting way.

With them being an ethical and sustainable company, they are in compliance with Environmental safety requirements required by Environmental Protection Agency and are FCC Electromagnetic Compatibility which means, diffusers do not cause electromagnetic interference nor vice versa.

what are the health claims of forest aromatherapy?

Aromatherapy has been an enduring wellness method increasing in popularity during the last few decades but how legitimate are these claims to wellness benefits really?

Aromatherapy is a type of holistic medicine that focuses on treating the person as a whole and not just the symptoms by utilizing natural plant extracts for health and wellbeing. Also called essential oil therapy this practice makes use of various terpenes and terpenoids found in plants.

What are terpenes in forest bathing wellness?

Terpenes (pinene, myrcene, limonene, terpinene, p-cymene) are characterized as compounds with simple hydrocarbons structures that promote antimicrobial activities and cell rupture/ inhibition of DNA and protein synthesis.

This is beneficial because without protein synthesize, the cells in our body can’t function properly so if the bad cells (such as bacterial and fungal) are prevented from functioning, they cannot do the damage they usually would. Terpenoids (oxygen-containing hydrocarbons) are defined as modified class of terpenes with different functional groups and oxidized methyl groups moved or removed at various positions.

Some of the most common terpenes are as follows: 1. Pinene (mainly comes from pine tree resin and produces an earthy aroma that is anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory) , 2. Humulene (also with a woodsy aroma that is mainly used as an appetite suppressant),3. Limonene (bright and citruses in scent that is seen as uplifting with qualities that help reduce anxiety and depression), and 4. Myrcene (earthy and clove-like scent that produces overall feelings of euphoria and relaxation).

Research on health benefits of Terpenes in cannabis and CBD

A lot of the research being conducted on terpenes has to do with cannabis and what can be found among different strains, but the benefits can be seen similarly in aromatherapy.

(https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2590157522000153#b0065 )

Terpenes are just a sub-category of the concentration of plant extracts that go into essential oils. Essential oils that are used in aromatherapy are comprised of terpenes and other aspects of plants once their leaves, roots, flowers, etc are extracted. Therefore, you can have a terpene without it being an essential oil but can’t have an essential oil without terpenes.

From all of the different types of terpenes there are different aroma families that essential oils fall into: citrus, floral, herbaceous, camphoraceous, minty, spicy, musky and woody/earthy.

(https://www.newdirectionsaromatics.com/blog/products/categories-of-essential-oils-their- benefits.html#8-Essential-Oil-Aroma-Families )

All of these families have slightly different benefits, but some overlap as well. The citrusy (lemon, orange, etc) and woody/earthy (cypress, pine, etc) are the classes most associated with feeling energized, refreshing and emotionally balancing.

Minty (spearmint, peppermint, etc) and spicy (basil, cinnamon, etc) are most associated with feelings of motivation and mental clarity.

Musky (frankincense, myrrh, etc) and camphoraceous (eucalyptus, etc) and herbaceous (tea tree, fennel, etc) fragrances are most linked to a sense of inner calm, relaxation and grounding properties. Floral smells (chamomile, rose, lavender, etc) have the most variety in terms of effects from sleep-inducing to mood balancing.

All of these effects have been studied and shown to produce desirable results however, it is still important to note all that we don’t know on the subject. First of all, essential oils and other types of aromatherapy are for external use only and typically are taken up by olfactory nerves (receptors in the nose) and then sent to the brain.

Or, when applied topically, are absorbed by the skin and go into the bloodstream. But with the new-ness of this all, there are not a lot of concrete reasons as to why these chemical compounds have all of the effects, they have on our specific microbiomes in our bodies.

So while aromatherapy has been shown to help reduce anxiety/stress and promote sleep, it is important to note that this alone with not alleviate all symptoms and should NOT be used as a primary care agent.

FURTHER READING ON BENEFITS OF NATURE EXPOSURE AND AROMATHERAPY

- Biological Activities of Essential Oils from Selected Aromatic Plants

(actahort.org/books/390/390_28.htm )

- Aromatherapy for Pain Management in Labor

(https://www.cochranelibrary.com/cdsr/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD009215/full )

- The Effects of Aromatherapy on Sleep Improvement: A Systematic Literature Review

and Meta-Analysis (https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/abs/10.1089/acm.2014.0113 )

- Essential Oils Used in Aromatherapy: A Systematic Review

(https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2221169115001033 )

- The Physical Effects of Aromatherapy in Alleviating Work-Related Stress on Elementary

School Teachers in Taiwan

(https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24228065/#:~:text=The%20results%20show%

20that%20only,who%20had%20a%20heavy%20workload. )

Best Examples of Biophilic Design in Healthcare: Dental Clinic and Wellness Center — Biofilico Wellness Interiors

Biophilic design integrates both wellness design interiors and sustainable interior concepts, making use of biophilic design elements such as natural building and furniture materials, shared green spaces, and natural patterns to create an ideal fit for healthcare clinics, wellness centres, and dental clinics. These elements enhance the functional and physical value of healthcare environments by promoting stress reduction and improved cognitive function. Collaboration with healthcare professionals is crucial for the successful implementation and future development of biophilic design.

Key concepts on evidence in the examples below include air purifying plants, natural colour palettes, circular materials that can be recycled at their end of life, abundant natural light aswell as patterns, textures and finishes that evoke the natural world in healthcare settings. The advancement of scientific and medical knowledge plays a significant role in supporting the benefits of biophilic design in healthcare.

Dentista Amsterdam - dental clinic biophilic design interiors with natural elements

https://www.dentista.nl/

Interiors by i29 interior architects

Dentista is a design-conscious dental clinic located in Amsterdam designed by i29 Architects that offers a dental experience designed for mental wellbeing and calm relaxation, despite the potential stressor of dental surgery. Biophilic design within the hospital environment can significantly enhance the health and well-being of patients by creating a more comfortable and welcoming space.

Abundant natural lighting ensures that plant life can be meaningfully sustained in the long-term, promoting natural circadian rhythms and enhancing mood. The use of natural patterns, such as the presence of natural light, water, and vegetation, helps reduce stress levels and improve patients' physical and psychological well-being.

Walking into the clinic, patients are met with a plant filled window atop a green strip of flooring. Down the line of sight they are met with the white of a medical building accompanied by a complement of wood furnishings. A green reception desk is color blocked by a green floor ceiling and wall.

The rest of the clinic’s interior hallways are pure white, ensuring the attention is drawn to an inner courtyard garden full of plants, providing an unexpected centre piece to the clinic experience. Trees, shrubbery and grasses make up the garden atop a pebble floor of white stone.

Within each ‘box’ (treatment room), a soothing green accent wall and ceiling skylight continue the biophilic design interior theme.

This is an example of how an image of medical professionalism and health can be enhanced with the integration of biophilic design principles

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The Well, NYC - biophilic design wellness centre with natural materials

https://www.the-well.com/new-york

Interiors by Rose Ink Workshop and Spector Group

Located within the heart of New York City, The Well is an integrated health experience that combines medical doctors and personal trainers, meditation spaces, saunas, and ancient healing techniques in one single practice, making it an ideal venue for biophilic design interiors that promote a connection with nature and create healing healthcare environments. The design also incorporates outdoor spaces such as patios and rooftop gardens to encourage outdoor activities and social interactions.

East-meets-West mental and physical wellbeing services include acupuncture, personalized wellness consultations, mindful movement, functional fitness, massages, facials, blood work, hormone panels, microbiome testing and genetic testing, to name but a few. The design considers not only their physical needs but also their social and psychological needs, enhancing the overall wellness experience.

Some key amenities of interest within the building include a meditation dome, the rest and recovery room, and the relaxation lounge.

A circular meditation dome is a design focus thanks to its textured floor rug, cushions and earthy colours - creating a balanced, calming space for psychological healing, meditative peace and a rest from the distractions of the outside world. There are surely traces of tribal rituals in this concept.

A ‘rest and recovery room’ gives clients an additional space in which to find their own inner peace for a moment during their visit. Positioned on lounge chairs between a wall of shelved potted plants and a wall of windows, occupants can benefits from the full mental health benefits of biophilic design.

Plants have been proven to reduce stress and boost one’s mood, thereby acting as an essential element of wellbeing interior design. 

A ‘relaxation lounge’ incorporates an organic color scheme along with textured walls, lounge seating surrounding the room, and a mangrove tree table centerpiece. Large selenite crystals surround the room to ensure a healing and calming environment.

St. Elizabeth Healthcare Cancer Center, Kentucky, USA - biophilic design healthcare facilities

https://www.stelizabeth.com/

HGA Architects

The St. Elizabeth Cancer Center in Kentucky pulls together a range of cancer services into a single building while deploying elements of biophilic design in the HGA Architects designed interiors, setting a new standard for healthcare spaces. Collaboration with healthcare professionals is crucial in the design process to ensure that the unique needs of each facility are met.

The center is not only focused on caring for the physical impacts of cancer but on the mental wellness aspects as well, meaning access to the healing power of nature exposure is a key concept.

Located on the first floor for example are centers for yoga, meditation, art and music therapy. This comprehensive wellness program is part of the emotional complement to the physical cancer journey.

A neutral palette of natural colors, abundant natural light, grass-like carpet tiles and plenty of textured finishes make up the interiors.

To reduce the possible stresses of navigating such a large building were color coordinated with uplifting color tones so patients and their family’s intuitively find their way around between departments.

The St. Elizabeth Cancer center creates a comprehensive healing experience for cancer patients, incorporating biophilic design and concern for physical and mental wellbeing during the cancer care journey.

Top 5 Sound Therapy App for Mental Wellbeing — Biofilico Wellness Interiors

What is sound wellness?

Sound wellness is leveraging the physiological process behind the act of listening, which produces specific chemical signals sent to the brain that in turn promote certain mental states such as enhanced mood and reduced anxiety.

Merely focusing in a mindful way on the sensation and experience of hearing can be an important way to tap into various biological processes that control human mental and physical wellbeing. Sound therapy apps can be particularly beneficial for individuals with hearing loss and can be used in conjunction with hearing aids to provide tinnitus relief. These apps are available on the App Store for iOS devices, ensuring compatibility and ease of access for users.

For instance, certain brainwaves can influence our circadian rhythm, promoting even a greater mental alertness or indeed relaxation. Similarly, they can also influence blood pressure and reduce anxiety, based on certain the inputs.

What are brainwaves and how do they relate to mental wellbeing?

There are 5 different types of brainwaves that all vary in intensity. From descending order of frequency: Gamma, Beta, Alpha, Theta and Delta.

The most important ones to think about when controlling mood are Alpha and Theta that both involve relaxation and reflection.

The self regulation of brainwaves (neurofeedback) has become increasingly popular among wellness professionals because of its observable benefits. Sound therapy apps often include options like pink noise and brown noise, which can help in relaxation and managing tinnitus symptoms.

These benefits have been seen to tap into the frequencies of certain brainwaves and propagate signals to connect our external body to our internal body by focusing on manipulating brain patterns to affect everything from stress reduction, to sleep promotion, to muscle relaxation and everything in between.

Sound wellness and biophilia (natural sounds)

In the example of sound wellness, biophilic soundscapes are now being utilized in offices and personal spaces with the goal of providing mental clarity, enhancing relaxation, boosting attention span and reducing anxiety levels.

As humans continue to evolve, arguably enlarging the distance between us and nature in the process, the amount of unnatural noise we produce grows with it and yet, our natural body processes don’t seem to be keeping up.

Sound therapy, specifically the new concept (but actually nothing new at all!) of biophilic sounds of nature, have been trying to hack our indoor environments to promote all of these biological processes described above. Natural sounds, such as water running or crickets chirping, are often used in sound therapy apps to provide relief for tinnitus patients. Nature sounds play a crucial role in relaxation and coping, particularly for tinnitus relief and better sleep, with many apps offering high-quality and customizable nature soundscapes.

A range of new apps and software are available providing individuals and brands access to this new frontier in sound therapy, below we outline the top five to watch.

Moodsonic - biophilic soundscapes

Moodsonic uses sonic engineering and the science of psychoacoustics in order to construct biophilic soundscapes to promote healthier work places, school settings, and overall productivity environments.

This algorithm uses sound technology to create soundscapes that react and adapt to targeted users to promote better productivity and overall mental wellbeing.

These soundscapes are designed around the body’s circadian rhythms in order to help people feel more awake during the daytime, and better fall asleep during night. Additionally, soothing sounds can help users relax and improve their mental wellbeing by providing relief from tinnitus and aiding in sleep.

The brand announced its launch in early 2020 and is owned by The Sound Company.

https://www.moodsonic.com/

OpenEar's SWELL - sound therapy for tinnitus relief

Open Ear is a company run by international DJ Brian D’Souza and a team of music professionals. Their main business is to curate personalized playlists for businesses such as hotels, restaurants, retail stores and spas.

Swell is a sub-division of OpenEar that focuses specifically on spas, gyms and other wellness venues, with the aim of promoting overall levels of health and wellbeing by positively impacting mood.

Swell combines bespoke playlists and compositions with sounds of nature and other calming music as a form of sound therapy. The SWELL app includes options like white noise, which can be beneficial for providing tinnitus relief. The app also offers various tinnitus sounds such as pink noise, natural water sounds, crickets chirping, and specific tinnitus relief sounds, which can be adjusted and personalized for effective tinnitus sound therapy.

Based in London, the Swell app was made in order to be more accessible and affordable for people on either an individual basis or as a playlist solution for coffee shops, gyms, even co-working spaces.

https://openearmusic.com/soundwellness/

Mindbreaks - mindfulness sounds

Mindbreaks is a mindfulness app aimed at improving mental wellbeing and mood to increase energy, focus, and reduce user stress.

Delos, the company responsible for this app, focuses on the innate need for humans to be exposed to nature to better feel connected to the natural world. They are also the connected to / behind the WELL Healthy Building Standard and the International Well Building Institute (IWBI), making them a major player in the healthy building and wellness real estate space.

Mindbreaks, like other tinnitus apps, offers features such as sound masking and guided meditation to help manage tinnitus symptoms. Additionally, Mindbreaks offers a web app with unique features and comprehensive sound therapy options. Delos creates a “wellness sanctuary” with Mindbreaks, evidence based products, immersive experiences and other audio content to promote mental wellbeing– for a variety of environments from personal to commercial and everything in between.

https://delos.com/products/mindbreaks/

Endel - wellness soundscapes

Founded by a collection of artists and creatives in 2018, Endel uses AI to create personalized soundscapes to use the body’s circadian rhythm to reduce stress, increase productivity, and improve sleep quality.

Endel uses pentatonic scale and sound masking to make soundscapes that get in touch with various aspects of user’s motion tracking, heart rate, light exposure, blood pressure, and other nervous system responses. Endel also employs techniques like threshold sound conditioning to strengthen hearing and improve overall auditory health.

The main goal of this app is to take internal and external cues from the participants and use AI to create optimal environments without any conscious effort from the user.

https://endel.io/

Myndstream - wellness music

Myndstream is a wellness music company that partners with other music companies to circumvent licensing issues, reducing cost of audio privileges in the process.

A main issue that this company tries to avoid is that organizations, such as spas, pay big prices for a whole catalog of music while they only really use a small percentage of the music.

Thus, Myndstream provides spas specifically with a catalog of wellness music that takes away the need to pay for unnecessary playlists not geared towards mindfulness and mental wellbeing in particular. Myndstream also offers specific tinnitus treatment options, including various tinnitus sounds to help manage and alleviate symptoms.

https://myndstreamspa.com/

design for mental wellbeing - university of chicago student wellness centre

university of chicago student wellness centre - exterior

Summary of topics covered:

Sustainable furniture: LifeCycle Analysis / Healthy Materials / low-VOCs

Lighting : Natural light / Window walls and corridors / Soft warm light - relaxation / Blue-white light productivity

Biophilic Design: Stone from a gothic hospital / Birch tree windows / Biophilia - boost mental health

Mental health: wellness design / wellbeing interiors

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Sustainable interiors and biophilic design for mental health

With an aim to boost student’s campus life, the University of Chicago recently built their first all encompassing Student Wellness Center. In the past, each department of the center was housed within different locations on campus.

The new building, finished in 2020, brought together their Student Health Service, Student Counseling Service, and Health Promotion and Wellness group into a single building.

Not only does the Student Wellness Center act as a building for health services, it is also a tranquil, restorative space for students to relax and work on their studies. The interior design choices made as part of that process reveal a lot about wellness design today, so read on to find out more.

Biophilic design and sustainable interiors for student wellness

The Student Wellness Center was adorned with sustainable interior furniture to provide nookes of solidarity to encourage collaboration. The quality of healthy furniture was a high priority of the biophilic interior design project. All pieces were ensured to be clean air certified, minimizing the risk of Volatile Organic Compounds or VOCs being emitted from furniture that would end up polluting the indoor air.

These harmful chemicals (don’t be fooled by the friendly ‘organic’ in their name!) have been proven to decrease cognitive functioning, among a slew of other health effects - see here for more on the health risks of VOCs.

By procuring such healthy and sustainable furniture, the interior designers contributed to the cognitive performance and indeed physical health of students and faculty, while minimizing their environmental impact. It’s a win-win!

sustainable furniture for wellbeing

Furniture was procured from a range of green, sustainable designers that track the lifecycle impact of their products from manufacturing and procurement, to distribution and sale, even into end of life to recycling.

A number of furniture products by Muuto are made with eighty percent recycled material and Allermuir has their very own 15,000 square foot recycling center. This sustainable interior design not only helps people, but helps the planet too, it combines the concepts of wellbeing interiors with sustainability - increasingly, these go hand in hand.

wellness lighting strategies

The natural and artificial light strategies of the Student Wellness Center are a key element of its wellness design. Many of the internal corridors of the building are softly-lit providing tranquil spaces of relaxation with warm, yellow light.

Areas designed for productivity are illuminated in full by blu-white spectrum light giving students and faculty greater wakefulness during the day. This boosts focus and productivity.

Long halls of natural light are incorporated within many of the outskirts of the structure, these halls surround you with nature giving the building's occupants consistent exposure to full natural light during the daytime.  

wellness architecture

The base structure of the Student Wellness Center is a historic, gothic hospital. The new structure engages with the old building’s architecture bringing the natural elements of stone walls and arches within the walls of the center. The incorporation of the history of the building also brings nature's elements inside contributing to its biophilic design.

The arches create large organic shapes giving the building biophilic design in structure. The glass interior and exterior walls are common-place around the Student Wellness Center allowing for a greater visual perception of space and natural light.

Some of these walls are accented with birch tree forest graphics to create visual privacy while still pulling light further through the building. This design grounds the space back to its natural elements. Additionally, plants are placed throughout the building to provide green spaces and boost mental health via biophilia. 

Biophilic design for student wellbeing

With a focus on biophilic design, the University of Chicago sought to give students a calm and relaxing space to boost student wellness and productivity. From the placement of windows to the furnishings inside, the building was founded with the importance of student health and wellness in mind. Through biophilic design, students at the University of Chicago are given healthy, restorative spaces where they can flourish.

Health risks of toxic chemicals and materials in building interiors

a short history of building materials

In the past, human shelter and the earliest buildings were simply made from naturally occurring materials such as clay, wood, or stone, organically sourced and all safe enough to go back into the ground at their end of life.

It was only the industrial revolution starting in the second half of the 18th century and the concomitant explosion in synthetic compounds - that in turn began to find their way into building materials - that the buildings designed to protect us from the elements around us first become a health risk in themselves (who knew!).

Slowly and almost imperceptibly, the toxicity levels in buildings and interiors continued to rise as the decades passed and the ‘chemical revolution’ proposed ever greater numbers of solutions for the construction industry… until we finally began to take defensive action in the 1970s - starting with lead!  

Today, building and interior materials have the potential to negatively impact human health and wellbeing if they are not properly chosen, installed, and maintained.

These risks can vary according to the life phase of a chosen building material but we recommend taking into consideration all phases of the material’s life for good measure.

To do so, we apply the concept of a Life Cycle Assessment to better track, moderate, and eliminate harmful toxicity from a construction and fit-out project wherever possible.

It is also worth noting that if the whole cycle of a material is taken into consideration, the groups at risk of exposure to such toxic materials expand beyond just the building occupants. 

The negative health effects of toxic materials have the potential to extend to those living near the factories where the materials are made, the workers using the materials during construction of a building or interior fit-out, and even those charged with disposing or recycling the material at the end of its life.

For this reason we believe it is fundamental to understand what impact building and interior materials can have on human health.

Here we will look at common sources of toxic substances in building materials; common toxic substances we want to avoid in building materials; the health risks of human exposure to such toxicity; authoritative ‘red lists’ of these harmful chemicals in building materials and what can be taken from the materials-related content of various leading healthy building standards. Let’s get it into!

Common sources of Toxins in building materials

Toxic substances can be found in an alarming number of building materials and products from flooring to insolation, carpeting, cabinetry, paints and coatings, furniture and fabrics, all manner of adhesives and finishes.

Careful analysis of all such source materials should therefore be instilled in a project’s design phase as early on as possible to implement a green procurement policy as part of the project’s DNA.

Asbestos, VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds), SVOCs (Semi-Volatile Organic Compounds), Lead, HFRs (Halogenated Flame Retardants), Chromate Copper Arsenate (CCA), and Phthalates are some of the most commonly occurring and detrimental building chemicals for our health.

Below we cross-reference the source with the type of toxic substance:

• Insulation Materials <> Asbestos, VOCs

• Paints <> Lead, VOCs

• Coatings <> VOCs, Phthalates

• Adhesives <> VOCs

• Furniture & Fabrics (e.g. upholstery foam) <> HFRs, VOCs

• Composite Wood Products <> Chromate Copper Arsenate, VOCs

• Flooring Materials <> VOCs

• Combustion Sources <> Lead, Particulates

• Cleaning Products <> Phthalates

Common toxins to avoid in building materials and products

Humans can be introduced to these chemicals through a variety of manners such as ingestion, inhalation, hand-to-mouth ingestion, skin absorption, breastfeeding, and even placental transfer before a baby is born. 

These potential avenues of human-chemical transfer from building materials are compounded when interior ventilation is poor, highlighting the increased importance of indoor air quality in the post-Covid home, workplace, gym, learning environment, etc.

‘Off-gassing’ is a common characteristic of such materials, describing the release of toxic particles into the indoor air over time, which if improperly ventilated can accumulate to unhealthy levels in building interiors.

That new car / carpet / furniture smell? That’s the first wave of off-gassing. If you can smell it, and it’s not a natural material, you’re witness to off-gassing. Best open a window!

It is essential to not only choose healthy materials and products, but to also monitor and maintain healthy indoor air quality to avoid health hazards. See our section on indoor air here.

Health Hazards of toxic building products and materials in interiors

Negative health implications arise from many building materials and products, including from legacy materials, so-called “high performing” materials, and even from operations-based sources such as chemical-based cleaning products used by facilities management in an honest attempt to make interior spaces cleaner and healthier. The irony surely cannot be lost on any of us! 

Although several legacy chemicals that were widely used in the past without proper understanding are now widely banned, many are still present in buildings and therefore remain a threat.

These chemicals include asbestos, lead, Chromate Copper Arsenate, and countless others yet legislation moves at such a slow pace compared to the release of new chemical compounds that we as healthy building consultants have to adopt our own strategies to help rather than relying on industry-wide legislation from above. 

Asbestos is responsible for over 200,000 deaths each year, the leading cause of mesothelioma, and is a known toxin and carcinogen.

Lead is an endocrine disruptor (or ‘hormone disruptor’) and can therefore affect reproductive systems, puberty, and child development during pregnancy. Lead can be ingested, absorbed, or inhaled and upon accumulation in the body causes highly detrimental health effects.

Chromate Copper Arsenate contains arsenic, which is associated with lung, bladder, skin, and liver cancer. In addition, it can be leached from wood structures into soil and expose children to contaminants, further increasing its danger. 

Halogenated Flame Retardants are commonly inhaled, ingested or absorbed through skin contact and have been found to disrupt endocrine function, cause neurological damage and even cancer. They have the potential to cause long-term health effects as they accumulate in our bodies.

VOCs and SVOCs are compounds that are emitted from materials and accumulate in interiors. VOCs can cause sick building syndrome, nausea, and central nervous system damage. Gaseous at room temperature, their negative health impacts increase considerably with poor ventilation and generally low indoor air quality. These compounds are commonly inhaled, and some VOCs are even considered carcinogens.

Phthalates are known endocrine disrupters, negatively affect reproduction and development, and are carcinogenic. Their health impacts also bioaccumulate, meaning they slowly build up over time and cause detrimental health effects.  

Red List Resources of toxic chemicals in building materials

There are several resources that can provide guidance on so-called ‘red list’ materials, or materials that have scientifically proven negative health impacts and should ideally be avoided in all building projects with a view to human wellbeing in interiors. 

The International Living Future Institute (ILFI) has a definitive and highly demanding material red list for example while health-oriented design practice Perkins & Will has its own precautionary list that provides information on unhealthy chemicals and materials they believe should be avoided.

Cradle 2 Cradle (C2C) sustainability certifications for a product or material can provide a resource for healthy materials. 

In addition, ingredient disclosures such as Declare, and Health Product Declarations (HPDs) can help guide and inform builders and designers on making health-focused choices by encouraging transparency from manufacturers.

In sum, there is no longer any need for this to be an endless laborious task, project teams can and should leverage the work done already by standing on the shoulders of giants and implementing procurement policies that prioritize products and materials with high recycled content, HPDs, Declare labels and so on. This then places at least some of the responsibility on the general contractor to contribute to such sustainability efforts.

healthy Building Standards on materials and avoiding toxic substances

The WELL, LEED, and BREEAM certification systems as well as the Living Building Challenge provide resources and guides for healthy material implementations. 

WELL, focuses on the human health implications of all building-related decisions, provides in depth research, guidelines, and strategies to avoid unhealthy products and materials within the built environment. As such it is a definitive research tool and guide for us as healthy building material consultants.

The US Green Building Council’s LEED and the UK’s BREEAM both encourage material transparency too of course, as well as encouraging healthy indoor air quality through low VOC emissions and proper ventilation. 

As with so much in the world of healthy buildings and healthy interiors, the two concepts are in fact inextricably linked - enhanced indoor air quality and a healthy materials procurement policy go hand in hand.

As mentioned previously, the Living Building Challenge, part of the ILFI standard, focuses on choosing responsible materials and provides an impressively researched Red List of materials to avoid. 

Contact us to discuss your healthy building materials enquiry.

sound wellness biophilic soundscapes with brian d’souza

soundscapes / sound wellness / acoustic comfort / biophilic sounds

Welcome to episode 49 of the Green & Healthy Places podcast in which we discuss the themes of wellbeing, sustainability and social impact in real estate today.

In this episode I’m in London talking to Brian D’Souza, a.k.a DJ Auntie Flo, founder of Open Ear Music and Swell sound wellness.

We discuss sound therapy’s mental health benefits, how music can be a window into our soul, urban noise levels and the role of nature sounds or ‘biophilic sounds’ in restoring a sense of calm amidst the chaos, how he creates sonic identities for hotels, restaurants and gyms, deep or active listening vs passive, and how to re-create the sonic experience of forest bathing.

Brian is erudite, dynamic and just the kind of guy you want on your team for a musical adventure one Saturday night I suspect.

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Sound wellness conversation highlights

Sound therapy was for me an exercise in trying to discover the inner workings of a soul.

Sound therapy is triggering different emotions, brainwaves and elements of the nervous system, to put people in a place of relaxation, where they can experience more mental clarity, calm and an objective perspective on life, away from the stresses of their day.

One thing that's going to come to bear post industrial revolution is the amount of noise that we as human beings have created, which takes us away from that natural environment and into this noisy urban environment. We lose touch with the sounds, the beauty and the essence of nature in cities and that's potentially problematic for our mental health. his latest initiative crafting biophilic sounds for interior spaces

If you're able to find time and space to consciously listen, then you will receive added health benefits in the same way that you might from meditation practice for example.

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https://openearmusic.com/soundwellness/

https://www.swellstudio.io/

https://www.ambientflo.com/

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Full transcription courtesy of Otter AI (excuse typos)

Brian, thanks for joining us on the podcast today. sound therapy is a hot topic, but it's also something that has an element of mystique around it. So I just wanted to get your thoughts on how music can affect us via our senses?

Brian D'Souza

Yeah, well, thanks for having me to join you in the podcast. I think you've touched on two distinct concepts there: music and you mentioned sound therapy.

music for wellbeing

Since as early as I can remember, I've been a fan of music, I think most of us know that music can affect us in many different ways, we've probably all had music as a soundtrack to our lives to some extent. We are all in essence expert listeners, we are listening to music, our worlds are filled with music, we're always receiving as our ears are always open.

music curation with technology

We're all DJs now in a sense, we can select music for our dinner party, or for our gym session or whatever with the new technologies we have greater access to all forms of music than we've ever had before. So music is at our fingertips, we innately know how to curate that music for different activities.

Health benefits of sound therapy

As far as sound therapy and its effects. For me, it was just trying to unpick what music is, the building blocks towards the soul, and how that song, or those frequencies, in essence would affect your brain and body in different ways.

So sound therapy was for me an exercise in trying to discover the inner workings of a soul.

Sound therapy works by using particular instruments, typically known as healing instruments, it doesn't always have to be made with those instruments, but those seem to be the most effective in terms of triggering a particular state of mind in the listener who, in effect receives those sounds normally lying down and going through some kind of a ritual, helping them to get to a place where they're open to receiving those sounds for full health benefit.

Sound and the nervous system

In fact, what it's doing is it's triggering different emotions and brainwaves, different elements of the nervous system, to put people hopefully in a place of relaxation, where they can experience more mental clarity, calm and an objective perspective on life, away from the stresses of their day. So, we've been able to bring people out of the present moment and put them into a safe space where they can delve deeper into different realms of consciousness, which I find really fascinating.

The distinction between sound and music

Matt Morley

You've made a an important distinction there between sound as a concept and music, which introduces the idea of sounds of nature that are, in some ways, the baseline from an evolutionary perspective, we were surrounded by that, as we evolved over hundreds of 1000s of years. So how do you see that relationship between, a connection to nature and our mood state? Perhaps even how our brain functions, cognitive performance or memory?

An evolutionary perspective on sound wellness

Brian D'Souza

Yeah, absolutely. I think the evolutionary perspective is important here. You know, from the earliest forms of man, music perhaps predates language, we're listening to music before we're even born in the womb, the rhythm of our mother's heartbeat, we're hearing the musicality of our mother's speech.

So inherently, we're open as human beings to receiving music and to understand the musicality within speech. When we're born, we immediately are immersed in a world of sound.

sounds of the natural environment and human health

From an evolutionary perspective, in terms of the natural environment, birds singing is a signal of safety - all is well, if they stopped singing, you know, perhaps as a predator lurking around the corner. Alternatively, they might change, you know, their types of calls to warn other birds of their species about a predator, or danger or whatever.

It starts to activate the sympathetic nervous system - fight or flight - that's something that has been with us since the earliest days of the universe, it's intrinsic to who we are as people.

the biophilia hypothesis

I think the natural environment is something that innately we feel an attachment to, you know, and I think that one thing that's going to come to bear, I guess, post industrial revolution is the amount of noise that we as human beings have created, which takes us away from that natural state and into this noisy urban environment. We lose touch with the sounds, the beauty and the essence of nature in cities and that's potentially problematic for our mental health.

Matt Morley

So we've introduced the third concept around noise, which I think has an inherently negative connotation. And if we bring it back to neutral, at least within the perspective of our evolutionary past, then you get to something close to what you're trying to do with the Ambient Flo project, so talk to us a little bit about that and how it connects with mental health and wellbeing.

soundscapes for mental health and wellbeing

Brian D'Souza

Ambient Flo began life as a live stream DJ set-up in my garden, it was the first days of lockdown, the sun was shining, we were entering into territory unknown. I think there's a lot of people, myself included, that were quite stressed at what the outcomes might be. Obviously, there was this real risk and danger to our health in terms of COVID-19. And a lot of people in my community of DJs and musicians were started to do live streams, trying to bring the club or the live experience into the home that way.

To me, that felt really alien, as a DJ I need to perform to a crowd and be there in the room with people. It's the interaction between myself, picking the tunes and the people dancing and responding to that really makes some sort of sense.

So what I decided to do instead was set up a live stream of ambient music where people could, in essence, receive the music early on a Saturday morning. So people were in essence just waking up. And with my very rudimentary technical setup on Instagram Live my phone would pick up the sounds of birdsong from my garden. And all of a sudden, the combination of music and birds in fact became the sonic experience that people were listening to.

I got so many comments from listeners saying this is brilliant, love the music, but actually really drawn to the birdsong and the natural environment. It made me think I'm very privileged to have a garden in London. And to be able to listen to birdsong. as frequently as I can do.

Studies showed the pandemic affected the noise levels in cities dropped because of less traffic. So the Birdsong, although it didn't actually get louder, the birds were perceived as singing louder due to a reduction in the ambient traffic noise.

Nature sounds and music combined for wellness

Anyway, the main takeaway was that the birdsong and the natural sounds were a precious feature for all the listenership. So when I eventually turned it into a radio station, I said, well, we need to try and recreate this.

So on the radio you have two channels, you have the music channel, and you have the birdsong recording channel, and it's your choice, you can just listen to music, or to Birdsong, or you can blend the two, which I think is a nice touch. We've now been running the station for a year and a half, and continually gets great feedback from people.

Anxiety-reducing sounds for calm mood states

Going back to your point around, you know, the health aspects of this. I wanted to put together a selection of songs, that really helped me lower my stress levels, and feel calm, and give myself this sort of safe space in amongst this terrible situation that the planet was enduring at that time.

At the same time, I was studying psychotherapy, learning about how sound can trigger different mood states, you know, bring yourself to that sense of relaxation. I thought, well, this music is, in my opinion, perfect for that. And it seems like the listenership agreed.

Matt Morley

I had it on for an hour yesterday, and definitely once I figured out that I could have both tracks playing at the same time, so that the ambient stuff and the birdsong that took it to the next level. So ambientflo.com

You mentioned ambient music, which I think may or may not appeal to everyone, but it does seem to have a very calming effect. There's that immediate sense of it bringing things down in tempo and encouraging a sense of rest and relaxation. But it is clearly distinct from muzak, which is just the poor quality background noise that we often end up hearing in commercial spaces.

Your Open Ear Music business is is all about counterbalancing that and taking a more conscious approach to the music that is associated with brands, particularly in physical spaces. So when you're thinking about creating an acoustic identity, or filling a space with sounds, and presumably music primarily, that connects with that brand, how do you go about that process?

Acoustic identities for brands

Brian D'Souza

It's trying to tell their story through a selection of songs. In essence, every song is a piece of communication, a piece of music is a fantastic thing it's packed with so much information. And that means that in actual fact, it can be quite complicated to think about, you know, what a song could lead to, you know, a listenership. And then when you take that song and put it in a context, that could be gyms or wherever, then you have that additional layer, where there's a certain expectation for the customer in terms of functionally what that space is set up to do if it's a gym space, if it's a restaurant or a bar. And then also their perception of of that brand, you know, what type of brand personality?

Pretty much every business plays music, the quality has gotten a lot better over the last 15 years, I think because people are slowly understanding the music they play is having an impact and can be a brand positive impact on the customer experience. And that's going to be a win win for everyone involved. It wasn't the case 15 years ago.

Music for productivity benefits

Muzak was interesting, because conceptually, it was designed around increasing productivity in factory spaces. And this was around the war time. And they would dictate quite a scientific approach with the music, it was a thing called stimulus progression.

So they didn't play music all throughout the day, they only played it in short bursts, at different times throughout the day. And that was really just as a motivational thing for the workforce, to be able to like, bring a bit of more energy, when they're kind of concentration levels kind of dwindled, or whatever.

There was this kind of inherent understanding that music had a functional purpose and benefit, unfortunately, what then it became was this kind of like, elevates, and literally kind of like wishy washy pastiche of what you know, music can be. And I think when open ears started, and certainly our mission today is to say, well, music is beautiful, we're filling our spaces, with music, it's having an impact. And again, it goes back to this paradigm of you know, is one man's music is another man's noise. Let's get it right, let's, if you get it right, it's going to be a positive is gonna be positive for the business, it's also gonna be a positive for customers, and they're gonna appreciate that.

In terms of the accessibility of music. Well, that's actually meant for the general kind of public. And the way that they listen is they're much more open minded to all forms of music, so a lot more a rich and diverse array of music. So actually, that gives brands and branded spaces a much more bigger chance to become creative with the music selections, you know, 15 years ago, it was the charts, and the classics, and not much else outside of that. No, you can really get into like the long tail of like all the independent, quite left field experiments or releases and really start to kind of tell this this story through the selection of songs functional, yes, but also like beautiful and inspiring at the same time.

Matt Morley

Let me dig into that, because I think you're absolutely right, what's happened is there's been a sense of democratization of, of music via these platforms, such as Spotify, and suddenly we're all able to dive in and out of country rock and an Afro Latino beats wherever else we want to go in the space of of an hour, right? So it's, in one sense, it's all too easy for a brand just to say, Well, okay, we're gonna follow these playlists, and that's more or less our mood, and Spotify will just keep spinning off that concept more or less. And then you know, we're good. We've got our we've got our soundscape. And I think all too often, we see that still where it's an improvement, for sure. But it's still not, there's not quite enough effort being made, and therefore, you know, this, it can still go wrong. So I think that leads you into the idea of more conscious listening, right? Because there are spaces where it's clearly background music, if it's so for example, a co working space, you don't want it to dominate, if it's a retail space, you don't want it to dominate.

When you're in a in a fitness environment, like a gym. It's a really central part and then to the Think of spinning studios, for example. I mean, it's like one of the main levers that they have to do it. But then, in a sense, like the ultimate peak of that then is this space where you're able to engage people in a conscious listening experience, right? And so how do you with the latest project with swell and the idea of a biophilic multi sensory experience, how have you integrated what we discussed previously about He sounds and that idea of really engaging with the music and what does that become in terms of this new brand that you've spun off from, from open air?

Brian D'Souza

Yeah, so Swell is a sister brand to Open Ear Music. And as we've just launched it, as you mentioned, I think open here, just back to the point around functional sound, I mean, yes, we fully understand the, you know, music for most people, in the spaces that we work with gyms, restaurants, bars, shops, etc, its periphery to, you know, the main activity. So yes, it has to be right, but you're not necessarily listening to it consciously. It might be, and this is, we do have lots of examples of this where one track, you know grab your attention, and you really want to know what that is. And that's a great thing for music discovery.

But, you know, most of the time, you're going to be just passively receiving the music, and you'll know when it's not, right. I mean, that is the thing, you know, if it doesn't feel right, you will take action by leaving that space, and tons of examples of that.

Active listening / deep listening / conscious listening

But in essence, if it fits the surroundings, and it makes some sort of sense, then you know, that's going to make you feel comfortable in that kind of space. On the other side, you have a different kind of listening, I guess, and there's different ways to describe it, you mentioned conscious listening, it can also be referred to active listening can also be referred to deep listening.

This is really based around an intention by the listener to be more conscious, or to be more active, if you were present, in terms of listening to the sounds, you know, we were very good at processing Sonic information. As well as performing an activity, whatever that might be, it's cooking, or driving or whatever, we're very good at that.

Before recorded music, we only did conscious listening, because you would go to a concert, or folk music, so recorded music really transformed music into this largely passive thing, I guess what we're seeing with Swell sound wellness is, we're trying to put forward that notion that consciousness thing is important, it's important for health.

If you're able to find time and space to consciously listen, then you will receive added health benefits in the same way that you might from meditation practice for example.

So, consciousness thing is, you know, is a way for us to just say, Look, if you were able to pay more attention to the sounds, and give yourself space to do that, then there's potential health benefits to be gained.

Biophilia and nature sounds

So the way that we deliver that, through the Swell wellness sounds project is this combination between Biophilia, nature sounds, with music through different frequencies and intervals, to be able to trigger different emotions, mental states, even feelings from the listener. Then the sound therapy part can potentially trigger an altered state of consciousness but at the least promotes a sense of deep relaxation.

Biofilico quiet room concept design for workplace wellbeing

Sound in workplace wellness and office recharge rooms

Matt Morley

So in workplace wellness we have a concept called a recharge room or a restorative space it's often an unused meeting room, we might get 30 - 50 square meters where you're given permission to rest and step away from the work that you're doing. Your Swell wellness sounds could certainly play a role in that.

What about the Soniferous Forest project you delivered recently in London’s high-end boutique Brown’s? Also a biophilic environment, can you try and paint that picture for people so they can get a sense of what what that looks like?

Brian D'Souza

Sure, absolutely, is a really good manifestation. And as one of the first projects we've done as Swell, it's a good example of, of what we're looking to do. And the potential of this type of work. The Soniferous Forest is firstly an installation. It's based in Brown’s, which is a fashion retail store in central London and Mayfair.

They have what they call the immersive room, where they have a small space that they do a range of different pop up and partnerships throughout the year. We've currently got the installation live, and it will run to the end of of April. So if anyone's in London, and want to go and check out it's absolutely free. It's a 15 minute experience. In essence, it's inspired by by two things.

Forest Bathing sounds

One was my experience going forest bathing. So getting out into nature. Shinrin Yoku is Japanese practice of forest bathing, and really just trying to like a kind of mindful approach to being in nature, paying attention to all senses. There's plenty of studies now that have been done around how forest bathing will reduce stress levels, anxiety, reducing cortisol balance and promoting your NK / natural killer cells, etc. So that was all very interesting.

Then I guess taking what we're talking about with the Ambient Flo idea where a lot of people don't have access to nature in a dense urban environment. This was like trying to bring nature to them, but in essence creating a forest experience within this retail store with bark on the walls and grass on the floor etc.

Soundscapes and noise

The other part of the inspiration is derived from a concept of soundscapes by R. Murray Schafer a Canadian ecologist who in fact passed away last year. He wrote a book called ‘Soundscape and the tuning of the world’. looking at the rising noise levels in cities, the potentially detrimental health impacts that that's having. And he really advocated for this cultivation of significance gardens in our urban environments, or, you know, across our different spaces that we create this recovery of what he calls positive silence. Give us back space for mental, spiritual, life's energies, etc.

So the forest garden is a safe space where people can go in and listen to field recordings from local forests around London via a headphone experience. It’s a spatial audio 15 minute composition, which in essence resembles a sort of sound therapy, sound bath or Gong bath that uses acoustic instruments, instead of the traditional instruments, the gong and the singing bowl.

The reason for that was we experimented using Gong recordings, etc. and the feedback that we got was very mixed at best because we felt like we needed the gong player in the room, you needed the instrument, the physical object to kind of have authentic association. Without it, it can be a very dark and ominous and almost scary kind of sound.

Nature sounds for sound masking benefits

Matt Morley

You’re involved in the forage sounds for a restaurant called Native in London too, also at Brown’s correct?

Brian D'Souza

Yes, two separate brands. And this is a coincidence, almost the two projects came about around about the same time. But yeah, Native, the challenge was they have this outside space, which is beautiful. But unfortunately, next door to them, they have a I think it's Claridges Hotel, they're doing lots of building works. So in the daytime is lots of noise. And it's really, really intrusive.

We were tasked with creating a soundscape that will try to mask some of the noise. And actually, you mentioned office spaces. This is another project we've done with, you know, some cool workspaces. We worked with The Office Group - very similar challenge, where the noise levels would be very distracting for people trying to work or in fact many people were very self conscious in quiet areas to have work conversations, meetings, etc.

By introducing music into a cool workspace in that case, and with Native restaurant introducing a nature sound biophilic soundscape, helped to mask these unwanted sounds and make the spaces a lot more pleasant and functional.

Matt Morley

Awesome, because I feel like we can carry on for quite a while, but I'm gonna cap it there. Be respectful of your time. Thank you so much.

Brian D'Souza

Great, well if anyone's interested, they can get in touch with me and I'd be delighted to chat.

https://openearmusic.com/soundwellness/

https://www.ambientflo.com/

9 Foundations of a Healthy Building: Thermal Comfort Strategy — Biofilico Wellness Interiors

Introduction

The concept of a healthy building has gained significant attention in recent years, as research has shown that the built environment can have a profound impact on human health and well-being. A healthy building is designed to promote the physical and mental health of its occupants, while also minimizing its impact on the environment. In this article, we will explore the foundations of a healthy building and provide guidance on how to create a healthy indoor environment.

What is a Healthy Building?

A healthy building is a structure that is designed and constructed to promote the health and well-being of its occupants. This includes not only the physical health of the occupants but also their mental health and productivity. A healthy building is one that provides a safe, comfortable, and healthy indoor environment, while also minimizing its impact on the environment.

Foundations of a Healthy Building

The foundations of a healthy building are based on scientific research and public health principles. They are designed to be simple and easy to understand, making them accessible to building owners, managers, and occupants. The nine foundations of a healthy building are:

Air Quality and Ventilation

Air quality and ventilation are critical components of a healthy building. Good air quality is essential for a healthy building, as most people spend up to 90% of their time indoors. To achieve good air quality, building owners and managers should opt for building materials, supplies, and furnishings with low chemical emissions. They should also check for legacy pollutants like lead, PCBs, and asbestos during building renovations. Additionally, they should limit vapor intrusion by using a vapor barrier and maintaining humidity levels between 30-60%. Conducting annual air quality tests and responding to occupant concerns can also help ensure good air quality.

Ventilation is also essential for a healthy building. Building owners and managers should meet or exceed local outdoor air ventilation rate guidelines to control indoor sources of odors, chemicals, and carbon dioxide. They should also filter outdoor and recirculated air with a minimum removal efficiency of 75% for all particle size fractions. Avoiding outdoor air intakes at street level or near other outdoor sources of pollutants can also help improve air quality.

Thermal Health and Comfort

Thermal health and comfort are critical components of a healthy building. Building owners and managers should ensure that buildings meet minimum thermal comfort standards for temperature and humidity. They should also provide individual level thermal control, where possible, to allow occupants to adjust temperature and humidity to their liking. Regularly surveying the space and occupants to identify zones that underperform can also help improve thermal comfort. Responding to and evaluating occupant concerns about thermal comfort can also help ensure that the building is comfortable and healthy.

Moisture and Water Quality

Moisture and water quality are critical components of a healthy building. Building owners and managers should conduct regular inspections of roofing, plumbing, ceilings, and HVAC equipment to identify sources of moisture and potential condensation spots. When moisture or mold is found, they should immediately address the moisture source and dry or replace contaminated materials. Identifying and remediating underlying sources of moisture issues can also help prevent mold growth and water damage. Regular moisture inspections can help prevent moisture-related issues.

In addition to moisture control, building owners and managers should also ensure that the building meets the U.S. National Drinking Water Standards at point-of-use. They should test water quality regularly and install water purification systems if necessary. Ensuring residual disinfectant levels are sufficient to control microbes, but not in excess, can also help improve water quality. Preventing water stagnation in pipes can also help prevent bacterial growth.

By following these foundations of a healthy building, building owners and managers can create a healthy indoor environment that promotes the physical and mental health of its occupants, while also minimizing its impact on the environment.

Healthy buildings / thermal comfort / wellness real estate / well building standard

What is thermal comfort in a healthy building?

Heating and cooling tend to account for around half of a building’s energy consumption, making thermal comfort a key consideration for a green building‘s overall energy use. In addition, thermal comfort is considered one of the leading factors in occupant satisfaction within the built environment, making it a vital component of a healthy building strategy too.

Spaces that are perceived as being too humid or warm have been shown to lead to decreased productivity, increased sick building symptoms (such as cognitive impairment and sleepiness) as well as negative mood states (ref: WELL Building Standard). To enhance these environments, it is also crucial to design spaces that minimize background noise, achieving sound levels of 35db and controlling reverberation time. Additionally, controlling outdoor noises such as traffic and construction is important to maintain a conducive indoor environment.

As a result, a comprehensive thermal performance plan which includes strategies such as thermal zoning, individual thermal control, and monitoring thermal characteristics within the building is now firmly part of the green & healthy building consultant’s toolkit.

Thermal Performance in Real Estate

To achieve acceptable thermal comfort within an interior space, healthy building standards such as WELL designate that 80% of occupants must consider a space to be comfortable - a qualitative (subjective) response. As thermal comfort is determined by the level of perceived comfort from building occupants, it is impossible in this case to lay out a plan based specifically on pre-agreed numbers.

Adhering to fire safety and carbon monoxide monitoring standards is also crucial as part of comprehensive safety and security measures in buildings.

The healthy building standards therefore predict what will cause comfort in spaces through a range of environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, outdoor temperature, occupant density and activity, air movement and more. However, even with all these data points in front of us, getting it right for everyone can be challenge, especially in a workplace environment with both men and women sharing the area.

This is due to varying occupant perceptions of comfort, so even more specific zoning strategies by space type / activity for example as well as providing individual thermal comfort control provide opportunities for further refining a thermal comfort plan. When building occupants are comfortable with their thermal environment, productivity increases and levels of fatigue are reduced (WELL).

Thermal Zoning and Minimum Thermal Comfort Standards in a Healthy Building

When considering the thermal characteristics of a space, the type of activity taking place in that interior area matters greatly. For example, a hotel gym where guests are exercising and emitting body heat will need not just higher ventilation rates to remove the CO2 but also a lower temperature.

A study space such as a school library will be very different in that sense, although again there are considerations around optimal temperatures for cognitive performance and concentration. Breaking a building down into a number of such activity zones can help ensure suitable thermal conditions, leading to enhanced occupant satisfaction.

Using high efficiency filter vacuums can also help maintain clean surfaces and reduce dust, which is crucial for enhancing indoor air quality and preventing pest problems.

Temperature can therefore be influenced by a variety of factors such as human activity, building location and orientation, as well as the type of ventilation strategy - be that natural, mechanical or a combination of the two (WELL). When designating different zones, it is important to consider these various factors in order to regulate the thermal properties of each area in advance of building occupants using the space.

Generally, HVAC ventilation systems are responsible for maintaining thermal conditions, and therefore can be used to create different thermal zones within a building, with the level of zoning precision depending on the HVAC set-up. When natural ventilation options are in use, it is operable windows that are used to regulate temperature and thermal comfort.

Towards Individual Level Thermal Control in a Healthy Building

Individual thermal controls can be used to further delineate zones and create smaller, more personalized areas even within rooms. Strategies such as individually accessible thermostats, fans, flexible dress codes, or easily accessible operable windows can all help contribute to giving individuals a sense of control over their thermal experience indoors.

Clean surfaces regularly as part of a broader strategy to limit dust and pest accumulation in buildings. Using high-efficiency filter vacuums and integrating preventative measures can maintain a healthy environment, thereby reducing the potential for exposure to allergens and chemicals.

No one space will please everyone, especially if there is a mix of ages, genders, and so on. It is clear that women tend to be a few degrees colder than men, and tend to be more sensitive to changes in temperatures (Allen), they also are less likely to be in a full trouser suit every day in formal work environments, as men are (in certain industries) no matter what the season.

In addition to individually manageable thermal controls, the provision of outdoor space such as courtyards or rooftops can provide places of respite to allow building occupants to adjust their comfort levels. Access to the outdoors not only provides space to increase thermal comfort, but also can provide other benefits such as biophilia, which improves mental health and can restore focus.

Monitoring & Displaying Thermal Characteristics in a Healthy Building

Sensors that monitor and regulate indoor air temperatures should be placed intentionally to gauge if any unexpected deviations occur. As with other smart building systems, thermal comfort should also be monitored to provide feedback to building managers and inform potential changes. 

Generally, the same sensors can be used to regulate various thermal factors such as temperature and humidity, as well as other interior environmental characteristics such as air quality, for example. Regular commissioning and maintenance of building systems is also imperative to promptly respond to any thermal problems that occur (Allen).  

When coupled with occupant preferences and surveys, the combination of thermal data and occupant satisfaction can be applied to provide optimal thermal comfort. Building occupants should be surveyed regularly to maintain desired thermal levels and to gauge comfort. 

As thermal preferences vary greatly from person to person and are harder to measure numerically, information from post-occupancy surveys is especially important, giving us perceived comfort feedback as well as hard thermal data to work with.

Allen, Joseph. “The 9 Foundations of a Healthy Building.” For Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, https://forhealth.org/9_Foundations_of_a_Healthy_Building.February_2017.pdf

WELL Standard v2

How to use lighting in a healthy building plan

The Role of Light in a Healthy Building / Wellness Interior

Humans evolved over millions of years in outdoor environments, intimately in tune with nature and the regular cycle of sunlight and darkness. 

Today, many of us in urban environments seemingly spend the majority of our lives indoors, bringing with it the risk of a near total disconnection from this fundamental piece of evolutionary history. 

A healthy building strategy is designed to counter-balance this tendency, integrating concerns over energy-efficiency and occupant wellbeing as well as this biophilic (nature-inspired) lighting strategy. 

How does light in a health building impact wellbeing? Primarily the key data points are around productivity and concentration, energy levels, mood, and sleep quality. 

What lighting strategies does a healthy building consultant have at their disposal to positively impact the situation? 

In terms of space planning and interior architecture, we start with ensuring enhanced access to daylight not just around the perimeter of a floor plate but right through to its core. 

This is then combined with consideration for glare reduction to minimize the risk of daylight bouncing off screens and other surfaces, a visual distraction and source of low level anxiety. 

Thirdly, the implementation of circadian lighting and smart lighting systems in tune with the daily 24hr cycle help fill an interior with suitable tones of light according to the time of day, season and location. 

Finally, healthy building and wellness real estate certification systems such as WELL, LEED and BREEAM provide guidance via global benchmarks for wellbeing designers to use.

Healthy Lighting in Wellness Interiors

A carefully considered lighting plan is a fundamental concept for a healthy indoor environment nowadays - whether its purpose is for learning, working, healing, or sleeping.

Circadian lighting strategies and the incorporation of daylight both seek to align occupants to their natural rhythms, while considerations such as glare reduction are essential when designing more specific lighting needs. Lastly, and arguably most importantly, the formation of a lighting plan is key to consider all design possibilities and optimize positive health impacts. 

Connecting building occupants to their innate rhythms and environments, a trend within the world of biophilic design and its near cousin, healthy design has been shown to provide numerous health benefits, and can be achieved through the incorporation of healthy lighting design. 

As with many healthy building strategies, a holistic design approach that finds ways to incorporate nature-inspired principles to connect us with the natural world tend to bring the greatest rewards in wellbeing terms. 

How does a wellbeing designer leverage Daylight in a healthy building?

Natural daylight is one of the most important elements in green building interiors, an essential building block of health and wellness interior design”. 

In addition to synchronizing us with our circadian rhythms, natural light has been found to promote an improvement in mood, alertness, concentration, and faster cognitive processing (Determan).

For academic learning or professional work environments, natural light has been proven in numerous studies to reduce absenteeism, increase job satisfaction and productivity, and even increase student test scores (Kellert). 

Daylight has also been shown to increase patient recovery times, which from a healthcare perspective can provide a multitude of other indirect benefits (Taddonio). 

In addition, one study showed that indoor spaces with daylighting contained fewer bacteria than those without (WELL Building  Standard).

Daylight can be incorporated into a healthy building through strategies such as adequate windows, sidelights, and skylights, integrating illuminance and natural daily rhythms into a space. 

In addition to solely the volume and intensity of light being brought into a space, when incorporating windows, considerations such as the quality of external views also matter, and indeed whether the windows are operable. 

Natural landscapes or views onto internal gardens provide additional biophilic benefits, while operable windows can provide natural ventilation advantages.

How does wellness architecture reduce Glare Reduction in a healthy building?

Other light-based considerations in a healthy interior include the control of surface glare, which can increase the visual experience of occupants in a space.

Glare is essentially the excessive brightness of light, which can occur from the source directly, through reflection off other surfaces, or from extreme lighting contrasts in a space (WELL). 

In general, glare can cause visual discomfort such as headaches and eye fatigue, even leading to migraines if not properly monitored (WELL). 

The source of light, lighting control (such as dimming capabilities), surface reflectivity, and general lighting layout should be considered to reduce the negative impacts of glare. In addition, shading and overhangs can be used to offset some lighting contrasts. 

When natural light is incorporated into spaces, extreme illuminance contrasts can occur, so it is important for wellness architects to regulate the amount and location of light that enters a space to ensure the most harmonious lighting strategies.

What is Circadian Lighting in a healthy building?

The potential benefits of circadian lighting are considerable, making this type of lighting an increasingly common feature in wellness real estate and wellbeing interior design projects around the world. Circadian rhythm lighting systems are strategically designed to positively affect our health, alertness and productivity through the regulation of light tone and intensity during each 24hr cycle.

When our circadian rhythms are disrupted, most commonly from exposure to bright light after dark or insufficient illumination during the day, mental wellbeing issues such as sleep disruption and low levels of anxiety can easily arise (WELL).

Circadian lighting is an innovative new trend within the world of healthy design that follows the circadian rhythm - something like a 24-hour internal clock.

These lighting systems are designed to reflect nature’s daily light cycle, prompting periods of mental alertness in the morning and afternoon with light from the blue-white end of the spectrum, before slowly fading into amber hues in the evenings and again in the early mornings.

The idea is to reduce the disruptive effects from artificial light on our body’s natural rhythms through smart, multi-sensory lighting design. Factors such as the duration, timing, and hue of light exposure are important to achieve natural, circadian light quality and improve occupant wellbeing.

How to use a Lighting Plan in a healthy indoor environment project?

As alluded to previously, the various strategies of healthy lighting are inevitably intertwined, and therefore must be considered in one cohesive lighting strategy for wellbeing interiors and healthy buildings. 

For example, daylighting incorporation is essentially a “free” way to integrate circadian lighting in a space, yet without proper glare control it can cause visual discomfort for occupants. Because of scenarios such as these, it is important to incorporate a complete lighting plan to ensure harmony between the various strategies. This plan should incorporate occupant use of the space according to each zone, as well as the type of task in question.

The creation of a thoughtful operations schedule and lighting layout in the design stage is a necessary approach to consider all stakeholders and increase occupant health and comfort. 

When daylight, electric light, color, space use, and the characteristics of building users are considered together, we can maximize healthy building occupant wellbeing. As with any design strategy, an integrated cross-departmental approach is essential for success.

Healthy Building Certification benchmarks on lighting

Certification systems such as LEED and WELL provide detailed guidance on wellness lighting strategies. LEED has several credits on the topic, while WELL contains an entire “Light” concept that investigates more specific strategies. 

LEED contains an Interior Lighting credit, which focuses on glare and lighting control, and mentions factors such as color rendering and surface reflectivity (LEED). In addition, there is a credit focused on Daylight which mentions the importance of circadian rhythms, connection to the outdoors, and the energy reducing environmental benefits of daylight, as with most all LEED credits.

WELL contains a plethora of information on the subject of light, going in depth on all aspects of healthy lighting strategies. All categories mentioned above (circadian lighting, daylight, glare reduction, and lighting plan) are included in WELL credits, as well as several other more specific distinguishing factors.

See the WELL “Light” concept here for more information.

When considering how to incorporate healthy lighting into a space, LEED and WELL both provide research-based solutions that can act as a guide for lighting design. 

Sources

Determan, Jim, et al. “THE IMPACT OF BIOPHILIC LEARNING SPACES ON STUDENT SUCCESS.” Oct. 2019. 

Taddonio. “Energy-Efficient Hospital Lighting Strategies Pay Off Quickly.” 2011.
LEED Credit Library: Indoor Environmental Quality

https://www.usgbc.org/credits?Category=%22Indoor+environmental+quality%22

WELL: Lighting Concept

https://v2.wellcertified.com/en/v2.1/light

Ventilation and healthy building design

indoor air quality / healthy building certification / ventilation rates / healthy indoor environment / consultants

kaiterra indoor air quality monitor

What is ventilation in a healthy building plan?

There has never been a more urgent time to consider an enhanced ventilation strategy as part of a healthy indoor environment. Why does this ventilation matter and what can landlords, developers and workplaces do about it?

‘Ventilation’ describes the cyclical process of supplying outdoor air and removing the existing indoor air through either natural or mechanical methods. 

Natural ventilation in a healthy building strategy aims to introduce outdoor air into a space thanks to operable windows, doorways and ceiling vents for example, without relying on electricity. This approach typically benefits from an accompanying CO2 monitor plan to ensure healthy indoor air at all times.

Mechanical ventilation for a healthy indoor environment meanwhile does the same albeit in a far more calculated and energy intensive manner via a powered system of vents, piping, filters and fans.

Mechanical systems should ideally be designed with the anticipated occupant numbers and type of activity in mind; for example a busy gym full of cardio machines will require a different ventilation rate than a boardroom used for occasional meetings.

A mixed or hybrid ventilation model would deploy a combination of both healthy building strategies but in all three cases the ultimate purpose remains the same - to increase occupant comfort and create a healthy indoor environment by removing dust and particulates, unpleasant odors, CO2 and Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) that off-gas from toxic materials in furniture, fittings and adhesives.

Ventilation and indoor air quality for workplace wellness

From a workplace wellness perspective, adequate ventilation rates are fundamental to ensuring healthy indoor air that in turn plays a role in promoting cognitive function and reducing the transmission of viruses, amongst other things.  

Ventilation in healthy building certifications

It is also worth noting that ventilation rates are often designated by regional codes, as well as healthy building certifications such as the USGBC’s LEED, BREEAM and WELL. This means a healthy building consultant and/or MEP engineer can be a helpful resource when creating and implementing a comprehensive wellbeing interiors or workplace wellness strategy. 

Finally, for home upgrade to indoor air, there is also the option of a standalone air purifier such as those made by Dyson for smaller spaces (25m2-50m2 let’s say). These are limited in impact compared to a mechanical system but still represent a viable option in certain circumstances, for example in a bedroom for a sleeper with asthma or allergies.

Healthy indoor environments and air filtration

Filtration is a key aspect of ventilation, this is the process of removing potentially harmful particulates from the outside air intake before that air is sent into the building interiors. 

Air filtration is done via increasingly advanced filters in the ventilation system, meaning this is an area where we as healthy building consultants can make a tangible difference simply by encouraging an MEP Manager or consultant engineer to upgrade the filter, for example.

A High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filter removes dust, mold, pollen and particulates. The Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) is a 1-20 scale that measures the effectiveness of these filters and is commonly mentioned in building certification systems as an indication of enhanced indoor air quality. 

A MERV 13 or above filter is now seen as the gold standard - with local equivalents applicable - the higher the number the greater the removal of small particles from the air. Note that all filters require regular maintenance and upkeep as part of an ongoing healthy building strategy delivered by facilities management.

In contemporary buildings, standard practice is to use mechanical ventilation with a filtration system but natural ventilation and other more advanced strategies can be used to reduce energy use in certain specific locations and with adequate planning by the engineers and architecture team. Simply opening a lot of windows and hoping for the best is not a healthy indoor air strategy!

UV light for enhanced indoor air quality

Anti-bacterial ultraviolet (UV) light systems can be incorporated into an indoor air management plan to reduce the risk of harmful organisms lingering in the indoor air. This system can be used in tandem with other ventilation systems or on its own, and uses UV light to kill airborne pathogens. 

Using UV light systems to enhance the indoor air quality is especially relevant in spaces with high occupant densities such as restaurants, in places where occupants are especially vulnerable such as hospitals, or in health clubs and gyms where optimizing the health of members is a priority.

RESET Air certification process

Healthy Building Certification System Benchmarks and Guidelines

There are several guidelines to help determine the ventilation rates for appropriate indoor air quality levels. ASHRAE Standard 62.1 designates “Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality” and is used as an industry benchmark as a minimum value, rather than a target to aim for. 

As is often the case when it comes to consulting for healthy buildings and healthy indoor environments, we are in fact looking to go beyond the bare minimums to achieve excellence, wherever possible.

In addition to the ASHRAE standard, certification systems such as LEED and WELL include numerous credits denoting indoor air quality and ventilation guidelines. 

In the LEED standard, for example, a MERV value of 13 or higher contributes to the “Enhanced Indoor Air Quality Strategies” credit. In the WELL standard ‘Air Filtration credit’, different MERV values are recommended based on the average outdoor air quality levels.

In addition, both the LEED and WELL standards denote the importance of maintaining proper air quality throughout the construction, pre-occupancy and occupancy phases. 

Strategies such as a full flush-out (the elimination of indoor air pollutants that were accumulated during the construction phase through the introduction of outdoor air), replacement of air filters pre-occupancy and ongoing indoor air quality testing are all recommended strategies to ensure enduring air quality levels.

The guidelines and recommendations for the LEED standard are present within the Indoor Environmental Quality credit category, while WELL’s reside within the Air concept.

The LEED and WELL standards focus on different things—LEED places emphasis on the environmental impacts of the built environment, while WELL focuses on the human health and wellbeing side of the built environment. 

Both standards overlap closely in the arena of indoor air quality, ventilation, and filtration however, reflecting the importance of this aspect for a healthy indoor environment and minimizing a building’s environmental impact.

Indoor Air Quality Monitors as part of a healthy building plan

In many green building certification systems, constant monitoring of indoor air quality is a key strategy. Indoor air quality can range greatly throughout the day depending on factors such as outdoor air quality and interior pollution sources, which can all affect what the optimal ventilation rates should be to maintain healthy conditions.

RESET Air advocates for commercial grade air quality monitors connected to the cloud as a way to monitor and assess indoor air quality factors such as airborne particles, temperature, humidity and CO2. Constant monitoring provides a level of transparency and insight that can in turn help to reduce wasted energy costs, not just make for a healthy indoor environment.

See Kaiterra here https://www.kaiterra.com/en/index/

Indoor Air Quality and Ventilation

Proper ventilation and HVAC filtration systems are important components of a healthy indoor air quality plan however due consideration should also be given to additional factors, such as healthy materials, outdoor air quality, green cleaning policies, entryway systems (walk-off mats) and pest management protocols.

If consistently delivered, suitable ventilation rates and healthy indoor air quality supports occupant wellbeing, promotes concentration and productivity, helps improve attention and memory, and can in reduce the possible spreading of viruses indoors. 

A cohesive, joined-up indoor environmental quality plan is required that may well involve some combination of healthy building consultants, architects, interior designers, mechanical engineers and facilities management. 

Sources:

Allen, Joseph. “The 9 Foundations of a Healthy Building.” For Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, https://forhealth.org/9_Foundations_of_a_Healthy_Building.February_2017.pdf. 

“Upper-Room Ultraviolet Germicidal Irradiation (UVGI).” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 9 Apr. 2021, https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/ventilation/uvgi.html. 

Healthy Materials Advocate - Parsons School of Design

We recently completed the Parsons School of Design certificate in Healthier Materials & Sustainable Building. So how is the Parsons Healthy Materials Lab ‘making buildings better’?

What is a healthy building material?

The basic premise behind the Healthy Materials Lab is that building materials can negatively impact occupant health by a number of routes, primarily:

• ‘volatilization’ of chemicals in those building materials (a.k.a off-gassing of Volatile Organic Compounds) most commonly in wet-applied materials and composite wood products

• chemical degradation of materials due to exposure to water or sunlight, thereby releasing chemicals from the material into the indoor air'

• abrasion can do much the same thing as materials are scuffed or rubbed while in use, releasing chemicals into the air

• oxidation of materials such as burning or rusting, a process that can release harmful substances into the indoor environment

• leaching, as materials dissolve into liquid such as water, for example as occurs in lead pipes

• climate change has a negative impact on outdoor air quality, that in turn finds its way into our buildings, especially when inadequate ventilation system filters are in use

These chemicals can then get into the body via a number of routes, such as:

• inhalation

• ingestion

• hand-to-mouth ingestion (having touched a dirty surface)

• absorption through the skin or hair follicles

• breastfeeding

• placental transfer meaning babies can be exposed to chemicals even before they are born

In terms of the impacts on our health, there are are number of main risks to be aware of, including:

• asthmagens - asthma

• carcinogens - cancer

• endocrine disruptors - infertility

• preterm birth via exposure to VOCs, formaldehyde, benzene and particulate matter (PM)

• autism via exposure to environmental factors such as air pollutants and mercury

• obesity via exposure to PFC (perfluorinated chemicals), flame retardants and phtalates

To counter balance what can seem a disturbingly long list of health risks, as wellness interior designers and healthy building consultants we can and indeed should demand ever greater transparency from material manufacturers.

If we don’t know what’s inside a product, or even worse, if a manufacturer doesn’t know everything that’s in their own product, based on the Precautionary Principle it has to be classified as a risk for the health of the interiors or entire building in question.

In practical terms, this means giving health a seat at the design table, right up there alongside form and function.

We are, in short, talking about a fundamental shift towards healthy design strategies, whilst maintaining the aesthetics, quality and durability of traditional design.

It is not one or the other, but rather an expanded interpretation of what good design means. Human and planetary health need to be part of that process.

What work is the Healthy Materials Lab doing?

Fundamentally the lab is there is ‘make buildings better’ as their tagline states succinctly. Their aim is to raise awareness about toxic chemicals in building products while providing a range of resources for designers and architects, like us, to educate themselves on how to create healthier indoor environments, be they offices, homes, gyms, education or healthcare facilities.

These include both online and in-person classes at Parsons on healthy materials for buildings and interiors, educational events, content creation and dissemination of digital information via their media communications channels, such as the Tools & Guides to ‘help designers architects, homeowners and developers make more informed choices about building materials and health’.

https://healthymaterialslab.org/tool-guides

The Lab also has a particular angle on affordable housing as many of the worst examples of sick buildings are found in poorer neighborhoods, the team therefore looks to empower communities living in poverty to remove toxic substances from their built environments.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED FOR ANYONE WITH A PROFESSIONAL INTEREST IN THIS URGENT TOPIC

Healthy Materials Course / Program Description:

Developed by education experts at Parsons’ Healthy Materials Lab, this online certificate program has been created to provide designers, architects, developers, contractors, management companies and facilities personnel with material health information, consolidated in one educational offering that will build their capacity to positively transform their practices with human health at the forefront of their decisions.

It is composed of four self-paced online courses, which lead to a certificate in Healthier Materials and Sustainable Building.

The first and second courses provide an introduction to key topics in the field of materials and health for those with general or more specialized interests.

The third and fourth courses are geared towards professionals in the built environment, and those concerned with making a positive impact in product specification, installation, and maintenance.

The goal of the program is to empower practitioners to make change with the knowledge that healthier buildings lead to healthier lives.

The program is intended to both complement existing Parsons degree programs and serve as continuing education for professionals.