What is a WELL Building?

For years, LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) and has been the primary standard against which building projects have been measured. You may own, operate, or work in a LEED-certified facility. If not, you likely frequent one on a regular basis.

LEED certification continues to be well respected and widely sought after. However, it is not the only building standard program available.

Another program that is gaining popularity for its focus on human health is the WELL Building Standard™.

About the WELL Building Standard

We spend an average of 90 percent of our time indoors. WELL believes that because our built environment is such a big part of our lives, buildings should function as caretakers. The program promotes designing spaces that improve occupant health and well-being, rather than detract from it.

Launched in 2014, the global program is administered by the International WELL Building Institute (IWBI). It is now in its second iteration, dubbed WELLv2.

WELLv2 outlines 11 concepts that contribute to a successful building:

WELL Building Program - air

Air

Maintaining a high level of indoor air quality and minimizing exposure of occupants to contaminants

WELL Building Program - water

Water

Ensuring access to clean water for occupants, as well as appropriate water management for building operation and protection

WELL Building Program - nourishment

Nourishment

Creating food environments that promote good nutrition and healthy choices for occupants

WELL Building Program - light

Light

Using natural and electric lighting strategies that positively impact visual, mental, and physical health for improved mood and productivity

WELL Building Program - movement

Movement

Designing spaces that encourage physical activity and reduce sedentary behavior in occupants for improved health

WELL Building Program - thermal comfort

Thermal Comfort

Establishing proper HVAC system design and controls to ensure comfortable temperature and ventilation for occupants

WELL Building Program - sound

Sound

Mitigating noise for improved occupant acoustical comfort, focus, and productivity

WELL Building Program - materials

Materials

Ensuring building materials, cleaning products, building waste, and outdoor features are free of toxic ingredients

WELL Building Program - mind

Mind

Using the built environment to positively affect mental and emotional health, through things like indoor natural features and spaces for destressing

WELL Building Program - community

Community

Creating a foundation for equitable and inclusive environments through space design

WELL Building Program - innovation

Innovation

Incorporating innovative design features that go beyond current WELL standards

WELL vs. LEED

Both the WELL and LEED building programs have their benefits and are appropriate for a variety of types of buildings and organizations. In fact, WELL is certified by the Green Business Certification Incorporation (GBCI), which also administers the LEED program.

As we’ve discussed, WELL focuses primarily on the impact a building has on the health and comfort of people. It awards certifications at three levels: Silver, Gold, and Platinum. Level awarded is based on scoring in the areas listed above.

LEED’s focus is primarily on sustainability, efficiency, and environmental impact. It awards certification at four levels: Certified, Silver, Gold, and Platinum. Level awarded is based on scoring in areas such as energy usage, water management, construction materials, indoor air quality, and waste control.

Some organizations attain certifications from both LEED and WELL. This helps ensure a truly well-rounded building with a holistic design approach. There is also some overlap in program requirements, making it reasonable for many organizations to pursue both certifications.

 Also interested in LEED? Learn more in our LEED Certification 101.