Designing Healthy Buildings

It’s no secret that architecture significantly influences the health of individuals and has a profound impact on the environment. The effects can be positive or negative. That is why, as designers, we have a responsibility to prioritize the health and wellness of the buildings we create and the people who inhabit our spaces. 

A healthy building is, in part, determined by its material makeup. But going beyond the structural considerations, a holistic building embodies an ecosystem that nurtures the overall well-being of its occupants. Healthy buildings contribute positively to the surrounding environment. 

According to the World Health Organization, health is defined as "a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being." They emphasize that it extends beyond the absence of disease or infirmity. The realms of physical, mental, and social wellness are all significantly influenced by the principles of responsive architecture. As architects and planners, we have the unique opportunity to broaden the definition of excellent design to encompass holistic wellness. 

Physically Healthy Design

We spend about 90% of our time indoors. This means that the built environment may have a much larger effect on our long-term health than we realize. Like our commitment to environmental well-being, ensuring that the built environment is clean and sustainable is essential. The buildings we design have the power to positively impact the individuals who inhabit these spaces. 

Salutogenic Architecture – Salutogenesis is the study of internal stressors that impact the physical health of human beings. Salutogenic Architecture is the idea that thoughtful design can alleviate these stressors and restore a body to homeostasis.  

Meaningfulness in a situation is crucial for physical health, emphasizing the importance of spaces that facilitate social interaction. In healthcare settings, designing colorful, accessible, and socially engaging environments supports patients' resiliency and aids in faster physical recovery. 

Space for Movement – Architecture houses movement. Not only that, but healthy architecture actively encourages it. Movement within a space should allow individuals to navigate at their own pace and direction. Designing hallways as social intersections rather than a transportation vessel fosters control over movement and encourages positive social interactions. 

Building Materials – In a post-pandemic world, hygiene is more important than ever. Prioritizing materials with non-porous surfaces will decrease dirt accumulation. This results in buildings that are lower maintenance and easy to clean.  

For a building to be healthy, it needs the proper amount of fresh air. Buildings with low air supply can hold large amounts of pollutants. In the past, buildings have been air-tight to conserve energy and reduce costs. Rethinking the built environment to have a higher fresh air supply is a recent development in the world of architecture.  

LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is a green building rating system for all building types. This system monitors a building’s health and energy efficiency based on factors such as water use, building products and materials, indoor environmental quality, site development, etc. 

The goal of LEED certifications is to increase the positive and eliminate the negative effects of the built environment. They serve as guidelines for architects, engineers, contractors, and major decision-makers to create buildings that will follow the best practices for a healthier, more sustainable world. 

See More Examples of KSQ Design’s Experience with LEED Certified Projects:

• Hays Hall at Texas Christian University— LEED Gold

  Hays Hall is a prime example of employing sustainable design strategies to reduce the energy footprint on university campuses. Hays Hall’s sustainability initiatives resulted in 70% of the building’s energy coming from a renewable energy source, and over 20% of the products for the building being locally or regionally manufactured. Water usage was reduced by over 40% through product selections, and custom Ludowici roof tiles were reformulated to reduce heat gain on the building.

• University of Colorado Williams Village— LEED Platinum

  A unique feature of the Village Center is a 3,000-square-foot greenhouse connected to the facility’s salad concept. The greenhouse is home to 127 aeroponic growing towers, a vertical farming system that grows a variety of herbs and lettuces used within the dining center. Growing on-site significantly impacts “food miles" eliminating the need for the harvest, cleaning, packaging, and transportation from another farm.
  Additional environmentally smart technology at the Village Community Center includes a biodigester that breaks down food waste; bicycles used to blend smoothies; and a cooking demonstration area with video monitors to provide wellness education to students.

Architecture and Mental Health 

The built environment, encompassing living, working, and interaction spaces, significantly influences mental health. Architects can incorporate key details into designs to boost moods and support mental well-being. 

Daylighting – Light is a valuable natural architectural material. By reducing a building’s need for artificial light, daylighting is more cost-effective and environmentally friendly. Beyond that, illuminating buildings with natural light brings movement and life to a space.  Daylight is what the body naturally adapts to. It is familiar and comfortable to the human eye, and it nurtures our circadian rhythm. This will result in better mood and sleep patterns. 

Interior Design – Utilizing versatile and dynamic furniture can turn a space into a vibrant and adaptive environment. The ability to change chairs, tables, lighting, etc. fosters creative thinking and an active atmosphere.  

Biophilic Design – Drawing from elements of nature in the built environment enhances comfort and stability. The presence of plants, natural light, and outdoor views maintains a connection to nature and supports cognitive function. 

Designing Healthy Communities

Purposeful and thought-driven architecture creates opportunities for relationships to flourish. Architects have the power to influence placemaking. They can transform public spaces into destinations where people connect, socialize, and belong.  

Further supporting mental health, community-centered design combats isolation and feelings of loneliness. Designers ensure that a community is populated and thriving by increasing walkability, creating space for gathering, and including social hotspots.  

Considering the Whole Person 

Recognizing architecture's enduring impact, architects can shape a healthier future by considering the whole person. This starts by asking the important questions. 

Does the space feel natural and comfortable? Is the space accessible to everyone? Does it encourage movement and activity? Is it built with healthy materials? Does it contribute positively or negatively to its surrounding environment? Does it encourage community and social connection?  

As architects, we have a commitment to understanding the built environment and the needs of the body and the mind. This commitment ensures a future that is stronger and healthier than before.