Wellbeing in a crisis
“If you choose to fail us, we will never forgive you” – eleven words aimed at the neck of the world by 16-year-old Greta Thunberg via address to the UN’s 2019 Climate Action Summit in New York City.
How architecture can support the wellbeing of building users
Architecture is not just about creating aesthetically pleasing buildings; it plays a crucial role in creating environments that support the health and wellbeing of those who live, work, and play in those spaces. This concept has gained recent attention, as studies highlight the impact of indoor environments on our physical and mental health and how architects are playing a leading role in an increasingly wellness-focused world.
Wellbeing for whom?
What do you think accessibility means? Does it mean compliance with AS1428.1 or the ability to enter a building and spaces within it? Is it about usability? Even if it means all these things, the word accessibility is too limited to encompass all the considerations for people with disabilities and generally does not account for the psychosocial or psycho-emotional experiences of a building.
The state of wellbeing in the architectural profession
A recent ground-breaking study into the Wellbeing of Architects in Australia, (based at RMIT and Monash Universities, funded by the Australia Research Council and supported by numerous industry partners) found that working in the profession isn’t necessarily easy. In fact, many architects display concerningly low levels of personal wellbeing.
How can architects measure the impact of design on wellbeing?
Design decisions made by an architect have a fundamental impact on an inhabitant’s quality of life. Decades of research have shown how good design can enhance both people and the planet’s sense of wellbeing.
Social value in the built environment
The built environment plays a key role in improving people’s wellbeing by creating social value. Wellbeing and social value are interconnected, with social value being described as the positive effects buildings, spaces, and infrastructure have on people’s wellbeing and quality of life.
