Breathing Easy: How to Design Indoor Spaces for Clean Air and Healthy Lungs

Radmila Andjelkovic

People tend to spend the majority of their time indoors. More precisely, or scary, it is 90% of our time. Homes, offices, gyms, leisure activities, caffes, restaurants.  All in enclosed, built settings.

Today, when indoor air quality is often compromised by pollutants and contaminants, the need for conscientious design has never been more urgent. I'm passionate about sharing with you the essential principles and practices for designing indoor spaces that prioritize clean air and promote healthy lungs.

Understanding Indoor Air Quality


Indoor air quality (IAQ) is a critical determinant of occupant health and comfort. Unfortunately, many indoor environments suffer from poor IAQ due to factors such as inadequate ventilation, off-gassing from building materials, and the accumulation of airborne pollutants. These pollutants can include volatile organic compounds (VOCs), particulate matter, allergens, and even mold spores—all of which have the potential to compromise respiratory health and contribute to a range of health issues, from allergies and asthma to more serious respiratory conditions.


The WELL and LEED Standards


In the pursuit of healthy indoor environments, two standards stand out as beacons of excellence: the WELL Building Standard and LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification. Both frameworks provide comprehensive guidelines for designing and constructing buildings that prioritize occupant health, with a particular emphasis on indoor air quality. By adhering to the rigorous criteria set forth by these standards, architects and designers can ensure that their projects not only meet but exceed the highest standards of indoor environmental quality.


Strategies for Clean Air


So, what are the key strategies for designing indoor spaces that promote clean air and healthy lungs? Here are some essential principles to consider:

  1. Effective Ventilation: Proper ventilation is the cornerstone of good indoor air quality. By ensuring adequate fresh air intake and efficient air circulation, architects can minimize the buildup of indoor pollutants and maintain optimal IAQ levels.
  2. Low-Emission Materials: The materials we choose for interior finishes, furnishings, and construction have a significant impact on indoor air quality. By selecting low-emission materials that are free of harmful chemicals and VOCs, architects can reduce the risk of indoor air pollution and create healthier indoor environments for occupants.
  3. Air Filtration Systems: In addition to ventilation, air filtration systems play a crucial role in removing airborne contaminants and allergens from indoor air. By incorporating high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters and other advanced filtration technologies into building HVAC systems, architects can further enhance indoor air quality and protect occupants' respiratory health.
  4. Natural Ventilation: Where feasible, natural ventilation systems can provide an effective and energy-efficient means of supplying fresh air to indoor spaces. By harnessing natural airflow patterns and strategically positioning operable windows and vents, architects can facilitate passive ventilation and reduce reliance on mechanical HVAC systems, thereby minimizing energy consumption and environmental impact.


The Bottom Line


In conclusion, designing indoor spaces for clean air and healthy lungs is not just a matter of compliance—it's a moral imperative and a fundamental commitment to the wellbeing of occupants. As architects and designers, it is our responsibility to prioritize IAQ in every aspect of our practice, from material selection and building design to ongoing maintenance and operations. By embracing the principles of the WELL Building Standard and LEED certification, we can create indoor environments that not only support respiratory health but also foster a greater sense of wellbeing and vitality for all who inhabit them.

Holistic Havens: Integrating Wellness Principles into Every Corner of Design

By Radmila Andjelkovic • April 21, 2023
In the realm of modern architecture, the pursuit of wellness has emerged as a paramount concern. The spaces we inhabit profoundly impact our physical health, mental clarity, and emotional equilibrium. At the core of every design philosophy should lie a profound appreciation for the interconnectedness of human health and the built environment. True wellness encompasses not only the absence of illness but also the presence of vitality, balance, and harmony in all aspects of life. We bring you some of the wellness principles we stick to in 2024.

Mindful Interiors: Creating Zen Spaces for Inner Peace and Productivity

By Radmila Andjelkovic • April 21, 2023
In the hustle and bustle of our modern lives, finding moments of tranquility and calm can feel like a rare luxury. If we put attention to our wellbeing, we will see that the spaces we inhabit have the power to nurture our inner peace and enhance our productivity. That's why creating mindful interiors matters—spaces designed with intention, sensitivity, and a deep understanding of the connection between our surroundings and our mental wellbeing.