9 Foundations of a Healthy Building

A healthy building is designed and constructed to support its occupants’ health, well-being, and comfort. It goes beyond structural integrity and encompasses environmental quality, resource efficiency, and a harmonious relationship with its surroundings. The focus is on creating spaces that enhance air and water quality, ensure adequate lighting and ventilation, and use safe and sustainable materials. These buildings aim to positively impact individuals’ physical and mental health, fostering a sense of well-being and productivity.

Harvard has a tool that can help calculate if a building is considered “healthy” – check it out.

Healthy buildings result from a collaborative effort among architects, builders, environmental experts, and often, health professionals. These teams work together to ensure that every aspect of the building, from its design to the choice of materials, aligns with health and sustainability goals. Green architects and builders specializing in sustainable construction are typically at the forefront of creating these innovative spaces. They are supported by a network of suppliers and professionals who share a commitment to creating healthier living and working environments.

The concept of a healthy building is remarkably versatile and can be applied to virtually any structure. It transcends traditional boundaries, making it possible for buildings of all purposes and sizes to embrace the principles of health and well-being. Let’s explore the various types of buildings that can be transformed into healthy spaces.

• Residential Buildings: Homes are prime candidates for healthy building practices. Whether it’s a single-family home, an apartment complex, or a high-rise condominium, incorporating elements like enhanced air and water quality systems, natural lighting, and non-toxic building materials can significantly improve the living environment for residents. 
• Commercial and Office Spaces: Offices and commercial buildings benefit immensely from being healthy spaces. Elements like ergonomic design, improved air quality, and natural lighting have increased productivity, reduced sick days, and enhanced overall employee well-being.
• Educational Institutions: Schools and universities can also be healthy buildings. Implementing design elements that improve air quality, lighting, and thermal comfort can create a more conducive learning environment, supporting cognitive function and overall student and staff health.
• Healthcare Facilities: Hospitals and clinics are inherently focused on health, making them ideal for healthy building practices. Ensuring superior indoor air quality, serene environments for recovery and care, and using materials that reduce the risk of infection are crucial in these settings.
• Public and Community Buildings: Libraries, community centers, and government buildings can all be designed or retrofitted to be healthy buildings. These spaces serve a broad community section, and enhancing their health can have widespread benefits.
• Retail Spaces: Retail establishments, from small shops to large malls, can incorporate healthy building features to enhance customers’ and staff’s shopping experience and well-being. This includes improving indoor air quality, optimizing lighting, and using safe materials.
• Hospitality Industry: Hotels and resorts can also embrace the concept of healthy buildings. Guests value environments that promote health and relaxation, and implementing these practices can significantly enhance guest satisfaction and loyalty

The adaptability of healthy building concepts makes them suitable for a broad range of architectural styles and purposes. The key lies in the commitment to creating spaces that prioritize the health and well-being of their occupants, regardless of the building’s primary function. By integrating health-focused design principles, we can transform the built environment across the board, making health and well-being a universal feature of our physical spaces.

This pun is very much intended. 

But in all seriousness, healthy buildings have some key components that allow them to be labeled “healthy.” Let’s dive into what those foundational elements are.