As we spend increasingly more time indoors, it’s essential to consider how our built environments impact our physical health. A well-designed residential building can significantly boost occupants’ mood, sleep quality, productivity, and overall well-being.

Natural light and ventilation: Exposure to natural light and fresh air is crucial for our physical and mental health. Natural light regulates our circadian rhythms, influencing our sleep-wake cycles, hormone secretion, and mood. Adequate ventilation, on the other hand, removes stale air, reducing the concentration of pollutants and allergens.

To incorporate natural light and ventilation into your residential building design:

• Orient windows to maximize natural light exposure.
• Incorporate skylights, clerestory windows, or solar tubes.
• Use light-coloured interior finishes to reflect natural light.
• Install ventilation systems that provide a consistent supply of fresh air.

Ergonomics and Accessibility: A Well-designed space should accommodate occupants of all ages and abilities. Ergonomic design principles prioritize comfort, reducing the risk of injury and strain.

To design ergonomic and accessible spaces:

• Incorporate adaptable fixtures and furniture
• Ensure sufficient clearance for wheelchair navigation
• Install grab bars, non-slip flooring, and tactile signage
• Design spaces with flexibility in mind, accommodating different user needs

Indoor Air Quality: The air we breathe indoors can be up to five times more polluted than outdoor air. Indoor air quality is influenced by various factors, including building materials, ventilation systems, and occupant activities.

To improve indoor air quality:

• Specify low-VOC (volatile organic compound) materials
• Install effective ventilation systems, including air filtration
• Incorporate plants, which naturally purify the air
• Implement regular maintenance schedules for HVAC systems

Thermal Comfort: Thermal comfort significantly impacts our mood, productivity, and overall well-being. A well-designed thermal environment should maintain a consistent, comfortable temperature range.

To achieve thermal comfort:

• Install efficient HVAC systems with precise temperature control
• Incorporate passive design strategies, such as insulation and shading
• Specify materials with high thermal mass, which absorb and release heat
• Design spaces with flexible thermal zoning, accommodating different occupant needs

By incorporating these design principles into your residential building, you can create a healthier, more comfortable indoor environment that supports the well-being of occupants.

— The author is an architect and is the founder of Anjaney Vastu & AB Architects