The 2020s are all about sustainability in commercial architectural design. As businesses prioritize environmental conscientiousness in their business plans, the real estate industry is following suit by providing building solutions to reduce energy consumption, waste, and harmful environmental impacts caused by new construction. One way commercial buildings are choosing to stand out in the market is by following the new WELL Building Standard.
The WELL Building Standard is an evidence-based measurement for building health and human impact that goes beyond physical structure or energy-efficiency. It runs in tandem with certifications such as the LEED Green Building Rating System and Living Building Challenge, offering another way for commercial buildings to separate themselves for their commitment to sustainability.
The WELL Building Certification is provided by Green Building Certification, Inc. and incorporates
seven standards for measurement:
- Air: Optimize and achieve indoor air quality. Strategies include removal of airborne contaminants, prevention and purification.
- Water: Optimize water quality while promoting accessibility. Strategies include removal of contaminants through filtration and treatment, and strategic placement.
- Nourishment: Encourage healthy eating habits by providing occupants with healthier food choices, behavioral cues, and knowledge about nutrient quality.
- Light: Minimize disruption to the body’s circadian rhythm. Requirements for window performance and design, light output and lighting controls, and task-appropriate illumination levels are included to improve energy, mood and productivity.
- Fitness: Utilize building design technologies and knowledge-based strategies to encourage physical activity. Requirements are designed to provide numerous opportunities for activity and exertion, enabling occupants to accommodate fitness regimens within their daily schedule.
- Comfort: Create an indoor environment that is distraction-free, productive, and soothing. Solutions include design standards and recommendations, thermal and acoustic controllability, and policy implementation covering acoustic and thermal parameters that are known sources of discomfort.
- Mind: Support mental and emotional health, providing the occupant with regular feedback and knowledge about their environment through design elements, relaxation spaces, and state-of-the-art technology.
These standards go well beyond environmental conscientiousness and delve into the core of building environments that nourish the human quality of life and productivity. By following these standards you can not only reduce environmental waste but care for employees and guests in ways that impact the overall quality of life and long-term health. These standards are becoming common practice and really make a difference in tenant satisfaction.
Sustainability is not just a question of natural resources – it’s one of human resources and wellbeing as well. If you want to move into the future and create a WELL commercial space, contact MaintenX to learn about maintenance upgrades available to your facility today.
