Scope
WATT The Firms is the first building in Belgium to receive the prestigious WELL Performance Rating Certification.
This certification marks a significant step forward in prioritizing the health, well-being, and performance of building occupants. This case study explores the project’s overview, the challenges faced, the innovative solutions implemented, and the remarkable results achieved, setting a new benchmark for sustainable and health-conscious building design.
Project overview
WATT The Firms, situated in the heart of Belgium, stands as a model for future construction projects focused on sustainability and well-being.
The WELL Certification, awarded by the International WELL Building Institute (IWBI), rigorously evaluates various factors contributing to occupant health. These include air and water quality, nourishment, lighting, fitness opportunities, comfort levels, and mental well-being. Achieving this certification demonstrates WATT The Firms’ commitment to providing a healthier and more supportive environment for its tenants and visitors. It truly showcases what a WELL performance rated building can achieve.
Key Aspects of the WELL Certification
- Comprehensive Evaluation: The WELL standard assesses a wide range of factors impacting occupant health and well-being.
- Rigorous Standards: Achieving WELL Certification requires meeting stringent criteria across all evaluated categories.
- Holistic Approach: The certification promotes a holistic approach to building design and operation, considering both physical and mental health.
Project Details
Company name: Revive
Location: Ghent – Belgium
Size: 2000 m²
Year: 2017
Owner/Operator: Revive
Challenges
The project team faced several challenges in designing and constructing WATT The Firms to meet the rigorous standards of the WELL Performance Rating Certification . These included:
Integrating Advanced Technologies
Implementing advanced air filtration and water purification systems while maintaining energy efficiency.
Optimizing Natural Light
Maximizing natural light exposure while minimizing glare and thermal discomfort.
Creating Supportive Spaces
Designing spaces that promote physical activity, mental relaxation, and social interaction.
Balancing Cost and Performance
Ensuring that the solutions implemented were both effective and economically viable.
Innovations: Smart Solutions for a Healthier Environment
To overcome these challenges, the project team implemented a range of innovative solutions:
Result
As the first WELL Performance Rated Building in Belgium, WATT The Firms has achieved remarkable results:
Significant reduction in airborne contaminants, leading to a healthier respiratory environment.
Increased satisfaction and productivity among tenants, attributed to improved comfort, lighting, and access to well-being amenities.
Optimized building systems and energy-efficient technologies have led to lower energy consumption.
The WELL Certification has enhanced the building’s market value and attractiveness to potential tenants.
WATT The Firms serves as an inspiration for other developers and businesses to prioritize well-being and sustainability in their projects.
Key Takeaways
Holistic Health Approach
The WELL Certification encompasses air, water, lighting, fitness, comfort, and mental well-being, creating a comprehensive approach to occupant health.
Innovative Design Solutions
Advanced air filtration, natural lighting, and dedicated well-being spaces showcase innovative design.
Enhanced Building Performance
The WELL rating enables smarter monitoring and improvement of indoor environmental quality and occupant experience.
Inspiration for Future Projects
WATT The Firms encourages prioritizing well-being and sustainability, shaping healthier urban environments.
