Health And Wellness in Architecture
We consider the complex relationship between ourselves and our homes and how they can transform and enrich our lives.
Health and Wellness in Architecture goes beyond the visual and physical design of a building - it considers the more complex relationships that occur in a space between the building and its occupants to improve their health and wellbeing in order to transform the quality and enhance the richness of their lives.
Designing to a high standard with regard to health and wellbeing, consideration must be made to space, material, layout, view, journey, temperature, colour, texture, ventilation etc to best address the physiological (ensuring the optimum functioning of our bodies), psychological (promoting positive attitude, contentment, confidence), social (increasing strength of individual relationships within a space) and ecological (positive impact of biodiversity to health) welfare of the occupants.
It is therefore becoming more and more important for health and wellness to be incorporated into architectural designs. From the outset concepts should consider its natural surroundings into the architecture. Its orientation can address the panoramic vistas, with large windows inviting views into internal spaces. Blurred divisions between inside and out will encourage interaction with the natural environment, with the incorporation of external areas maximising the use of planting and vegetation whilst promoting exploration and play.
Central open-living promotes social interation within a home. Visual connectivity between such spaces encourages positive family interaction whilst secluded, private spaces support focused work. Natural materials should be chosen that promote good indoor air quality. High levels of sound insulation absorbs unwanted external noise, whilst an infinity edge pool or water fountain will create a calming background noise that will encourage quiet and tranquil living.
Tags: sustainable architecture, health and wellness, green living, off grid buildings; well building standards; health architecture; healthy lifestyle; healthy living; wellness design
