Designing for Wellness: Neighborhoods, Buildings, and Homes That Prioritize Health and Happiness
Previously, we dived into the impact of design on residential living. Today, we shine a spotlight on neighborhoods, buildings, and houses that have embraced wellness-focused design elements, creating environments that prioritize the health and happiness of their residents.
1. The "Blue Zone" Neighborhoods
Blue Zones are areas around the world where people live significantly longer and healthier lives than the global average. These regions prioritize wellness through urban planning, promoting physical activity, and fostering a sense of community. Loma Linda in California, one of the Blue Zones, is an example of a neighborhood that encourages active lifestyles and healthy diets. The design elements include walkable streets, green spaces, and community gardens, all contributing to the well-being of its residents.
2. The High Line, New York City: Serene Urban Sanctuaries:
The High Line in New York City is an innovative urban park built on an abandoned elevated railway track. It showcases how urban design can enhance well-being in densely populated areas. Lush greenery, walking paths, and art installations create a serene environment for residents and visitors alike. It's an example of how thoughtful design can transform a once-neglected space into a wellness-promoting oasis within the city.
4. 11 Hoyt Residence: New York City
The 11 Hoyt residence in New York is meticulously designed to prioritize wellness and enhance the quality of life for its residents. Its architecture and interior elements integrate a variety of features aimed at promoting well-being and health. The building's abundant natural light, courtesy of its distinctive scalloped façade, not only offers breathtaking views of the city but also floods living spaces with sunlight, contributing to a cheerful and positive ambiance. Spacious, green terraces provide serene outdoor spaces where residents can connect with nature, relax, and recharge. The incorporation of sustainable and eco-friendly materials in the construction fosters an environmentally conscious living environment, reducing residents' ecological footprint. Moreover, amenities like a fitness center, spa, and communal gardens encourage an active and social lifestyle, while soundproofing and advanced ventilation systems ensure a peaceful and healthy living experience, ultimately making 11 Hoyt a haven for residents seeking a holistic and enriching urban living experience.
To create an environment that improves residents’ wellness, design decisions must be taken on the urban, architectural, and interior levels. Developing an approach that can be followed early on for various communities and cities will ease the transition to intention design that focuses on residents’ wellbeing which will have a long-lasting effect. Better health means less of a strain on a city’s medical infrastructure, leading to less resources wasted and more importantly, an improved quality of life. Stay tuned for our next article that will dive into the connection of design on an urban, architectural, and interior scale on health infrastructures. For more information on how to improve your developments, contact our team.