Wellness architecture goes beyond just creating beautiful buildings; it prioritizes the health and well-being of the people who inhabit them. From using sustainable materials to incorporating biophilic design principles, wellness architecture focuses on creating spaces that promote physical, mental, and emotional wellness. Here are 7 stunning examples of wellness architecture that are leading the way in promoting healthier, more sustainable built environments.
1. The Edge, Amsterdam
The Edge is a prime example of wellness architecture, designed with a focus on sustainability, employee well-being, and productivity. The building features a smart LED lighting system that adjusts to the natural light outside, as well as a rooftop garden where employees can relax and reconnect with nature.
2. Bosco Verticale, Milan
Bosco Verticale, or Vertical Forest, is a pair of residential towers in Milan that are covered in more than 20,000 trees and plants. This unique vertical forest helps to absorb CO2, produce oxygen, and regulate the buildings' temperature, creating a healthier environment for residents and the surrounding area.
3. The Spheres, Seattle
The Spheres in Seattle are a trio of interconnected glass domes filled with over 40,000 plants from around the world. The buildings act as a workplace for Amazon employees, providing a lush, green environment to work and socialize in. The incorporation of nature into the workplace has been shown to reduce stress and enhance creativity.
4. MUSE School, California
MUSE School in California is the first school in the world to achieve LEED Platinum certification. The campus features sustainable, energy-efficient buildings with plenty of natural light, as well as organic gardens and outdoor classrooms. The design promotes a healthy, environmentally conscious lifestyle for students and staff.
5. 111 East Grand, Chicago
111 East Grand is a luxury apartment building that prioritizes resident wellness. It features a fitness center, yoga studio, outdoor pool, and a rooftop garden with stunning views of the city. The building also utilizes sustainable materials and energy-efficient systems to minimize its environmental impact.
6. The Pavilion, Groningen
The Pavilion is a sustainable healthcare facility designed to promote healing and well-being. The building incorporates natural materials, plenty of daylight, and greenery to create a calming and uplifting environment for patients and staff. It demonstrates how thoughtfully designed architecture can contribute to the healing process.
7. The CopenHill, Copenhagen
CopenHill is a power plant in Copenhagen that has been transformed into a multi-use facility with a ski slope, hiking trail, and climbing wall on its exterior. The innovative design not only provides a unique recreational space for the community but also integrates sustainable energy production with a bold architectural statement.
These examples showcase the diverse ways in which architecture can contribute to the wellness and sustainability of our built environment. By prioritizing the health and well-being of occupants, wellness architecture sets a new standard for design that benefits both people and the planet.
