Architects and designers play a crucial role in crafting environments that prioritise wellbeing, productivity, and comfort. Occupants are demanding more from their surroundings, be it offices, schools, hospitality, or leisure spaces. For example, 55% of workers want their workplace to provide a wider range of amenities than their home environment. With that in mind, having a thorough understanding of the spaces we inhabit is vital for architects and designers, from air we breathe to hygiene standards.
Understanding Indoor Air Quality
With people spending up to 90% of their time indoors, indoor air quality is a universal concern that impacts people across all sectors and in any shared space. Pollutants or Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are emitted from numerous sources including fuels, flooring, cleaning products, and even soft furnishings. These micro pollutants are impossible to see but can have an impact on our health, wellbeing and productivity.
Short-term exposure to poor indoor air quality can potentially lead heightened fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and an overall sense of discomfort. Those with respiratory conditions such as asthma may notice an exacerbation of symptoms, including coughing and shortness of breath. Additionally, poor indoor air quality can contribute to the spread of viruses and respiratory infections among occupants.
Studies show that 61% of urban offices reported levels of air pollution above the WHO guidelines for safe indoor air quality. This data underscores the critical importance of proactively embracing available solutions for air purification in buildings. This should not be seen as a seasonal measure but rather as a year-round necessity.
Choosing Technology for Cleaner Indoor Environments
When architects and designers are making decisions on suitable technology for their spaces, it is essential to consider various features and technologies that are catered to large, shared spaces which have distinct requirements compared to home environments.
For architects and designers, prioritising good indoor air quality involves making informed decisions about building materials, HVAC systems, and overall design strategies. The implementation of air purification technologies create healthier indoor environments, addresses wellbeing risks and looks to enhance productivity, aligning with the evolving priorities of occupants. This collaborative effort between architects and designers holds the potential to create spaces that prioritise the wellbeing of all, fostering an optimal learning environment. Opting for quiet and powerful purifiers, such as Dyson’s Big + Quiet, are particularly conducive to shared spaces as it reduces exposure to pollution, without disruption.
To learn more on how to create cleaner, and more hygienic shared spaces across workplaces, educational institutions, hospitality venues, healthcare and transportation hubs, visit Dyson technology’s business hub and book a call: https://www.dyson.co.uk/commercial/air-treatment