SAN FRANCISCO—The WELL Building Institute initiative called WELL focuses on the inhabitants of a building rather than the sustainability of the structure. Alex Spilger, senior vice president, sustainability services for Cushman & Wakefield discusses the concept in this exclusive Q&A.

GlobeSt.com: We are all familiar with LEED and its ratings. How is WELL different?

Alex Spilger: While LEED is focused on energy, materials, water and site selection, WELL is focused on the health and well-being of building occupants.

GlobeSt.com: Is WELL a certification or simply a set of guidelines?

Spilger: In a way, it is both a guide for implementing strategies focused on occupant health and well-being and a path toward formal WELL certification earned by gaining points across seven categories: air, water, nourishment, light, fitness, comfort and mind. Certification includes comprehensive project documentation and an onsite audit, and is awarded at one of three levels: silver, gold or platinum.

GlobeSt.com: Who is behind the WELL movement?

Spilger: WELL is administered by the International WELL Building Institute, a public benefit corporation with a mission to improve human health and well-being through the built environment. It was launched in 2013, following a Clinton Global Initiative commitment to improve the way people live by developing spaces. WELL is third-party-certified by Green Business Certification Inc., which administers LEED certification.

GlobeSt.com: What are the costs and advantages?

Spilger: We don't yet have concrete data on costs and payback for buildings of different sizes and uses. Costs will come down as the design and construction community becomes more familiar with how to implement WELL strategies. The return on investment is more difficult to measure than with energy efficiency upgrades, however, creating workplaces where employees thrive is proven to have a strong positive impact on a company's bottom line.

GlobeSt.com: Does WELL have a professional designation similar to the LEED AP credential?

Spilger: Yes, professionals can take an exam (which I helped to develop) demonstrating proficiency in the WELL rating system.

GlobeSt.com: Where is this movement headed?

Spilger: Using our physical spaces to enhance health and well-being is a huge global movement with far-reaching implications. Our clients are recognizing that creating a healthy workspace is critical for recruiting and retaining top-talented employees. We may even see health insurance companies offering lower premiums for firms that have WELL-certified office spaces.

Instant Insights /

Healthy Workspaces Are Vital in Recruiting Top Talent

Related Stories

Recommended For You