It’s clear that creating healthy and well-designed office spaces, whether in Miami, elsewhere in South Florida, or anywhere for that matter, is crucial for the well-being of employees. In this video interview, Dr. Matt Trowbridge emphasizes the importance of the built environment in influencing health outcomes, both physical and mental. Here are some key points from the discussion:
1. Data-Driven Approach: Dr. Trowbridge highlights the data that led him to focus on the built environment. He mentions that only about 20% of health outcomes are determined by the quality of medical care, while the rest are influenced by social and environmental factors.
2. Social and Environmental Determinants: The social and environmental determinants of health play a significant role in shaping people’s well-being. The way we build places, including offices, can impact factors like physical activity, healthy eating, and community connections.
3. Well-Building Standard: The Well Building Institute’s Well Building Standard is organized into 10 concepts, covering aspects like air, water, light, movement, and more. Dr. Trowbridge emphasizes the importance of holistic features and intentional design to create spaces that foster collaboration, diversity, and inclusion.
4. Mental Health Considerations: The discussion touches on the mental health aspect, especially in the context of the challenges posed by remote work. Dr. Trowbridge acknowledges the impact of isolation on mental health and the need for gathering moments in people’s lives.
5. Benefits to Individuals and Businesses: Creating environments that promote well-being is not just about meeting a standard; it’s about sending a clear signal that the organization values and invests in its employees. Businesses can use their spaces to manifest their brand, contribute to employee satisfaction, and become part of their ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) story.
6. Implementing Well-Building Standards: Dr. Trowbridge suggests that office building owners and managers can start by sending a strong signal of investment in their people. The Well Building Standard provides a framework that encourages organizations to think holistically about the opportunities within their spaces.
7. Addressing Return-to-Office Challenges: In the current context of the return to office, considerations include acoustic needs for virtual meetings, creating inclusive communal spaces, and addressing the specific requirements of diverse talent.
8. Small Changes with Significant Impact: There are small changes, such as incorporating plants, optimizing lighting, and providing healthy food options, that can have a positive impact on the well-being of individuals in office spaces.
9. Cost of Ignoring Well-Being: Dr. Trowbridge suggests that it’s essential for business leaders and property owners to recognize the potential costs of neglecting the physical and mental health of employees. It’s not just about a trend; it’s about making spaces that remain relevant and beneficial over time.
10. The Role of Well-Building Institute: The Well-Building Institute has experienced a significant increase in interest and adoption of its standards, especially with the introduction of the Health Safety Rating during the COVID-19 pandemic. The focus is not just on individual assets but on organizational commitment to well-being at scale.
11. Performance-Based Certification: The Well Standard includes a performance rating, rewarding organizations that maintain ongoing vigilance and performance in areas like air quality, CO2 levels, and other factors influencing well-being.
12. Creating Value: Ultimately, taking care of the people around us adds value to both individuals and the organizations they are part of. Well-designed and healthy spaces contribute to a positive and productive work environment.
The key takeaway is the recognition that the built environment plays a crucial role in shaping the well-being of individuals and communities. Businesses and property owners have the opportunity to contribute to a healthier and more sustainable future by prioritizing the design and management of their spaces.