WELL Building Tip #9: Mind(ful) Design That Supports Mental Well-Being

Oculus Inc.’s WELL AP, Joanne Fields, continues to share her perspective on the WELL Building principles with practical wellness-driven design tips.

In this post, Joanne looks at how designing spaces can support mental well-being:

Our environments play a powerful role in how we think, feel, and show up each day.

One of the key concepts within the WELL Building Standard is Mind, supporting mental well-being by creating spaces and experiences that promote resilience, reduce stress, and foster a sense of purpose and connection.

As a WELL AP at Oculus Inc., I work alongside our clients, consultants, and project teams to design environments that consider the human experience. While architects cannot control every factor that impacts mental health, we can help create spaces that support focus, restoration, social connection, and overall well-being.

Some ways Oculus supports the Mind concept through design and collaboration include:

• Designing a variety of spaces that support focus, collaboration, privacy, and restoration
• Incorporating natural light, views to the outdoors, and biophilic design elements
• Creating environments that encourage movement and healthy daily routines
• Designing spaces that foster social interaction and a sense of community
• Supporting opportunities for respite, reflection, and moments of restoration throughout the workday

The built environment has the potential to influence stress levels, mood, engagement, and overall workplace satisfaction. By considering mental well-being throughout the design process, project teams can create spaces that help people feel supported, connected, and empowered to perform at their best.

Supporting mental well-being is a collaborative effort. Through thoughtful design and coordination with clients, engineers, consultants, and workplace leaders, we can create environments that enhance both human experience and organizational success.

If you are interested in learning more about integrating the WELL Building concepts into your environment, email Joanne Fields at joannef@oculusinc.com.