Overview

What practical interventions can office owners implement to improve health and wellbeing? Can these be quantified as part of the decision-making process? These are some of the questions that the biophilic design project will seek to answer.

The biophilic design concept stems from bringing trees and green space into urban areas and using natural elements in interiors. This has been demonstrated to add numerous benefits to mental and physical wellbeing, as well as cognitive function with studies showing an increase in reported levels of wellbeing, productivity, creativity and a reduction in absenteeism.

The project will see BRE refurbish an existing office building at its headquarters in Watford, in collaboration with Oliver Heath Design and a number of manufacturers and industry partners, to create a fully operational office that will enable occupants to be monitored whilst they work. It will become a prototype to change practice in the fit-out and real estate sectors to help them make more informed choices around health and wellbeing.

This webinar will illustrate the concept and main techniques that are being used in this exciting research project.