In a recent study published in Energy & Buildings, researchers have developed a comprehensive framework for designing, constructing, and managing healthy buildings. This framework integrates insights from architecture, public health, and environmental science to address the complex nature of healthy buildings and enhance occupant well-being.
Study: Creating a comprehensive framework for design, construction and management of healthy buildings. Image Credit: Treecha/Shutterstock.com
Background
The concept of healthy buildings has gained significant attention in recent years, driven by a growing awareness of the impact of the built environment on human health. Various studies have highlighted the correlation between building design, indoor environmental quality, and occupant health outcomes. However, despite the increasing body of literature, there remains a lack of a unified framework that encompasses the diverse aspects of healthy buildings.
The authors identify this gap and argue for a holistic approach that considers not only physical health but also mental well-being, social interactions, and environmental sustainability. The paper reviews existing literature and frameworks, including policies and certification systems, to contextualize the need for a comprehensive model applicable across different building types and geographical contexts.
The Current Study
The development of the framework was conducted in two major phases comprising five distinct steps.
Phase One: Literature Review
The first phase involved an extensive literature review that included academic articles, industry reports, and case studies related to healthy buildings. This review aimed to identify current understandings, perceptions, and gaps in knowledge regarding healthy building practices. The authors focused on existing policies and regulations, particularly within the European Union, to understand how these frameworks influence building design and management.
Phase Two: Synthesis of Findings
The second phase involved synthesizing findings from the literature review to define five key dimensions of healthy buildings:
- Improving Mental and Physical Health
- Designing for Human Needs
- Sustainable Construction and Management
- Resilience and Adaptability
- Empowering Occupants
Each dimension was elaborated with specific indicators and sub-indicators linked to existing datasets to ensure the framework's applicability across various contexts.
Results and Discussion
The results reveal a comprehensive framework that integrates the identified dimensions and their corresponding indicators. The framework is designed to be universally applicable, allowing stakeholders to assess and implement healthy building practices tailored to specific needs and contexts. Validation through real-world case studies demonstrated its practical relevance and adaptability.
However, challenges arose in obtaining data for certain indicators—particularly those related to occupant behavior and communication channels. The discussion highlights the importance of collaboration among stakeholders—including architects, builders, health professionals, and policymakers—to ensure successful implementation of the framework.
The authors emphasize that while the framework provides a structured approach, flexibility is essential to accommodate the unique characteristics of different buildings and their occupants. Furthermore, ongoing research is necessary to refine indicators and enhance the framework's effectiveness in promoting healthy building practices.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this article presents a significant contribution to the field of healthy buildings by proposing a comprehensive framework that synthesizes diverse insights and practices. The authors advocate for a holistic understanding of healthy buildings that encompasses physical, mental, social well-being, as well as environmental sustainability.
The framework offers a structured approach with clearly defined dimensions and indicators, serving as a valuable tool for various stakeholders involved in designing, constructing, and managing buildings. The authors call for further research and collaboration to address challenges identified during validation and enhance applicability in different contexts.
Ultimately, this paper aims to foster a deeper understanding of the relationship between the built environment and health—paving the way for healthier, more sustainable buildings that benefit individuals and communities alike.
Journal Reference
Elnagar E., Düvier C., et al. (2024). Creating a comprehensive framework for design, construction and management of healthy buildings. Energy & Buildings. DOI: 10.1016/j.enbuild.2024.114883, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S037877882400999X