The WELL Building Standard is a framework for designing and constructing spaces that enhance occupant health and wellbeing, focusing on air, water, nourishment, light, fitness, comfort, and mind.
With our WELL certification consulting services, we are ensuring built environments adhere to these holistic health-focused criteria.
The WELL Building Standard differs from LEED, BREEAM and other green building certifications primarily in its focus. WELL is dedicated to enhancing human health and well-being through the built environment. It emphasizes aspects like air and water quality, nutrition, light, fitness, comfort, and mental health.
On the other hand, LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) primarily concentrates on environmental sustainability. It addresses energy efficiency, water conservation, reduction of CO2 emissions, and improved indoor environmental quality, among other factors.
While there are overlaps, such as in the promotion of healthier indoor environments, WELL is more human-centric, prioritizing the occupants' health and well-being, whereas LEED and similar certifications are more focused on environmental impacts and sustainability of the building practices.
WELL Certification, focusing on enhancing human health and well-being through the built environment, is structured around ten main categories, known as "Concepts". These are:
These concepts collectively create a holistic framework that integrates design, policies, and practices to foster a health-centric environment.
WELL Certification is a prestigious designation for buildings that prioritize the health and well-being of their occupants. To achieve this certification, a building must meet rigorous standards set by the International WELL Building Institute (IWBI). The process involves seven core concepts: Air, Water, Nourishment, Light, Fitness, Comfort, and Mind. Each concept contains a set of performance requirements addressing various aspects of occupant health, from air quality and lighting to mental health and community support.
The certification process starts with a thorough review of the building's design and operations. This is followed by on-site assessments and performance testing to ensure compliance with WELL standards. Documentation and evidence are submitted to the IWBI for review. Once all criteria are met, the building is awarded WELL Certification, signifying its commitment to supporting the health and wellness of its users.
WELL Certification significantly influences building design and operation by prioritizing health and well-being. It sets stringent standards for air, water, nourishment, light, fitness, comfort, and mental health. Buildings must incorporate features that enhance indoor air quality, ensure water purity, and optimize natural light. Design elements encourage physical activity, while spaces are crafted for comfort and mental well-being. This holistic approach impacts materials used, spatial layout, and operational practices. WELL Certification leads to environments that actively promote occupant health, potentially increasing productivity and well-being.
The WELL Certification offers several benefits for both occupants and owners. For occupants, it ensures a healthier and more comfortable living or working environment by focusing on air, water quality, nourishment, light, fitness, comfort, and mental wellbeing. This can lead to improved health, productivity, and overall wellbeing. For owners, WELL Certification enhances the building's marketability, potentially increasing its value. It demonstrates a commitment to occupant health and environmental responsibility, attracting health-conscious tenants or buyers. Additionally, it can lead to operational efficiencies and possibly lower healthcare costs due to a healthier environment.
Existing buildings can indeed achieve WELL Certification. WELL Certification, developed by the International WELL Building Institute (IWBI), focuses on enhancing the health and wellbeing of occupants through better building practices and design. It is not limited to new constructions; existing buildings can also be retrofitted or modified to meet the WELL standards. The certification process involves meeting various requirements in categories such as air, water, nourishment, light, fitness, comfort, and mind, ensuring that the building supports a healthy environment for its occupants.
WELL, which stands for the WELL Building Standard, is a performance-based system for measuring, certifying, and monitoring features of the built environment that impact human health and well-being. It addresses mental health and well-being by focusing on aspects such as air and water quality, nourishment, light, fitness, comfort, and mind. Specifically, for mental health, WELL incorporates features that enhance psychological and emotional wellness. This includes creating spaces that reduce stress, encourage positive mental health practices, improve mood, and support cognitive and emotional health through design, technology, and policy interventions.
WELL Certification consulting services are typically provided by specialized sustainability consulting firms, architectural firms with a focus on green building, and independent WELL-accredited professionals. These experts guide building owners and developers through the WELL certification process, ensuring adherence to its standards for enhancing health and well-being in built environments.
WELL Certification consulting firms specialize in guiding building projects towards WELL Certification. They offer expert advice on design, operations, and policies to ensure that buildings meet WELL's health and wellness standards, thereby enhancing occupants' well-being and environmental sustainability. They also assist with the certification process and documentation.
In Tokyo, Japan, WELL design adaptations focus on maximizing limited space, enhancing air quality, and incorporating natural elements to improve well-being in dense urban environments.
In Berlin, Germany's capital, WELL Certification is advancing sustainable building practices, emphasizing occupant health and well-being in industrial and commercial sectors, aligning with Germany's robust environmental ethos.
In London, UK, WELL Certification guides retrofitting historic buildings, emphasizing improved occupant health through enhanced air, light, and comfort, blending modern well-being standards with traditional architecture.
In Seoul, South Korea's technology sector integrates WELL principles by focusing on employee wellness through ergonomic design, natural lighting, air quality, and spaces promoting mental and physical health.
In Canberra, Australia, WELL Certification is significantly enhancing workplace environments, prioritizing mental health and well-being through improved design and operational practices in various office settings.
In Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, WELL Certified buildings use advanced ventilation, shading, and air quality control to adapt to the harsh climate, ensuring occupant comfort and health.
In Bern, Switzerland's capital, WELL Certification is increasingly adopted in residential and commercial buildings, enhancing health-focused design amidst the country's high living standards and commitment to sustainability.
In Stockholm, Sweden's dedication to sustainability is mirrored in WELL Certified buildings focusing on energy efficiency, occupant health, and eco-friendly materials, reflecting a holistic approach to design and wellbeing.
In the UAE, Dubai and Abu Dhabi are actively integrating WELL Certification into futuristic buildings, emphasizing occupant health and sustainable design in these rapidly evolving capital cities.
In Qatar's capital, Doha, businesses and government entities are increasingly adopting WELL principles, focusing on sustainable, health-centric designs in new commercial and public building projects.
