Design for Well-Being

Good design supports health and well-being for all people—considering physical, mental, and emotional effects on building occupants and the surrounding community.

Learn more about the AIA Framework for Design Excellence.

Reproduced with permission of The American Institute of Architects, 1735 New York Avenue, N.W.; Washington, D.C. 20006

Design for Well-Being

Deep Dives

Get up to speed on complex topics. You can also earn CEUs and download PDF Spotlight Reports.

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  • How to Access the Full Power of Biophilia

    Feature

     People wither physically and mentally without nature. Biophilic design is a remedy and a foundation for regenerative design all at the same time.

  • Can Commercial Kitchens Go Electric?

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    An all-electric commercial kitchen offers potential energy and carbon savings over using natural gas, but making the switch can be complicated—and even controversial.

  • Is Using Smart Glass Smart?

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    Electrochromic glazing holds the promise of less glare and better energy efficiency with fewer attachments. The reality is much more complicated.

  • ESG: 6 Things Building Professionals Need to Know

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    Clients need AEC professionals to help them achieve environmental, social, and governance goals. Here’s how people are turning aspirations into strategies.

Quick Takes

Jump straight to the essentials with these short explanations of green building concepts.

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Product Guidance

Unbiased information from our product experts helps you separate green from greenwash.

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  • Interior Paints

    Product Guide

    These coatings meet the highest industry standards for both indoor emissions and durability.

  • Interior Stains and Clear Coatings

    Product Guide

    These stains and finishes are below SCAQMD standards for VOCs and contain no heavy metals, phthalates, or aromatic solvents.

  • Hand Dryers

    Product Guide

    These high-performance electric hand dryers are energy-efficient, fast, and convenient.

  • Wallcoverings

    Product Guide

    These durable wall treatments have no PVC and no toxic phthalates. This mitigates health concerns with this important design choice.

In The News

We break news down to the essentials and provide expert analysis.

Perspective

Thought-provoking opinions from the most trusted minds in sustainability.

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Learning Resources

Syllabus supplements and CEU content, with automatic reporting for AIA and GBCI.

Just For Fun

Something weird happens every April at BuildingGreen...

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