top five Real estate developers using biophilia for sustainability & wellbeing
biophilia = sustainability + wellbeing combined
Real estate developers in the residential, commercial and mixed-use sectors are increasingly leveraging the occupant appeal and value-adding benefits of nature in their development briefs.
Why? For its unique position straddling both sustainable real estate (green buildings) and wellness real estate (healthy buildings); in other words, it benefits People and Planet through the built environment, which can only be good for the developer's bottom line.
Here we look at a hot selection of developers from the global real estate industry that have captured our attention for their interest in the natural world, biophilic design, healthy indoor environments, wellness and green buildings.
Beulah, Australia
Coima, Italy
Colonial, Spain
Fabrix, UK
Oxford Properties, Canada
Beulah, Australia - a sustainable real estate developer using biophilic design
Beulah are behind the 25 ecologically sustainable two-storey townhouses in Melbourne called Brunswick townhomes leveraging biophilic design, sustainable building materials and a carbon-neutral concept inspired by natural systems.
Carbon neutral houses
Their ‘Wilds’ project currently under construction contains 15 carbon-neutral houses immersed in nature with creek-front sites based on a healthy living concept, solar power, biophilia and sustainability.
STH BNK by Beulah, Australia
Their Fawkner House in Melbourne is made up of nine large-scale residences designed for health and wellness, key characteristics include abundant natural light, smart buildings systems for lower operating costs and a focus on occupant wellbeing.
STH BNK
It is arguably their STH BNK development that stands out here though as Beulah’s most ambitious development to date.
Currently under development, this UNStudio and Cox Architecture designed precinct in Melbourne will include a Four Seasons hotel, healthy living residences with garden views, pocket parks, a sky garden, auditorium, branded hotel residences and an entire level of the podium devoted to wellbeing.
This wellness precinct involves a curated selection of health and fitness practitioners focused on science, nutrition and medicine while workspaces combine co-working, sustainability, technology and greenery.
Coima, Italy
Coima, Italy - building with biophilia in Milan
Coima, Italy is a leading Italian real estate investment, developer and management company founded in 1974 that has set itself apart in the industry by focusing on three major aspects: sustainability, nature, and wellbeing.
With a strong commitment to these values, Coima has successfully managed to create unique and innovative green buildings, healthy building environments, and spaces that seamlessly integrate with nature.
Coima aims to create high quality real estate assets which enable sustainable growth over the long term
Porta Nuova, Milan, Italy
Porta Nova by Coima, Milano
One of the most notable projects that exemplify Coima's focus on these principles is the redevelopment of Porto Nuova in Milan, Italy.
Porto Nuova is an ambitious urban regeneration project that has transformed a previously underdeveloped area in Milan into a thriving and sustainable district.
Spread over 290,000 square meters, the project has been designed with the adoption of cutting-edge green building techniques and technologies for enhanced building performance while providing access to significantly higher quantities of plants and green space.
These features not only help in reducing the environmental impact of the development but also contribute to creating a healthy building environment for its occupants.
Some of the key green building aspects of Porto Nuova include energy-efficient systems, rainwater harvesting, green roofs, and extensive use of natural light.
The integration of nature into the design and planning of Porto Nuova has been a central focus for Coima.
This is evident in the abundance of green spaces and parks throughout the development, which not only enhance its aesthetic appeal but also provide numerous benefits for the wellbeing of its residents and visitors.
By incorporating nature into the urban fabric, Coima has created a harmonious balance between built environments and natural ecosystems, promoting biodiversity and fostering a strong sense of community.
Another noteworthy aspect of Porto Nuova is its emphasis on wellbeing. Coima has ensured that the development offers a wide range of amenities and facilities that cater to the physical, mental, and social wellbeing of its occupants.
Wittywood, Barcelona by Colonial
Colonial, Spain - real estate with a conscience
Colonial, Spain, a leading real estate developer in the country, has been at the forefront of sustainable development and green building initiatives.
With a strong commitment to creating buildings that promote wellness, the company has been making significant strides in incorporating sustainable materials, energy-efficient systems, and state-of-the-art technologies into its property portfolio.
As a result, Colonial has gained recognition for its sustainability credentials and garnered international attention for its efforts in promoting green building practices.
Wellness in real estate
One of the key aspects of Colonial's approach to sustainable development is its focus on creating buildings that prioritize the wellbeing of occupants.
To achieve this, the company employs a combination of innovative design strategies, cutting-edge technologies, and best practices in environmental management.
Occupant health
By emphasizing wellness and occupant health, Colonial is not only reducing its environmental footprint but also enhancing the quality of life for those who live and work in its properties.
LEED
A prime example of Colonial's commitment to sustainability is its pursuit of Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification for many of its developments.
LEED is a globally recognized green building certification system that provides a framework for the design, construction, and operation of high-performance green buildings.
Furthermore, Colonial is an active participant in various industry initiatives and partnerships aimed at promoting sustainable development and green building practices.
This includes collaboration with organizations such as the Green Building Council España (GBCe) and participation in events like the Greenbuild International Conference & Expo.
Fabrix, UK
Fabrix, UK - focused on health benefits of nature and supporting local communities
Fabrix, a leading real estate developer in the UK, is committed to implementing wellness real estate and sustainable real estate strategies in its portfolio. And they really mean business.
By focusing on innovative design, energy efficiency, and environmentally friendly materials, Fabrix aims to create spaces that enhance the wellbeing of their occupants while minimizing the ecological footprint.
Renewable energy
Roofs in the Sky by Fabrix London
One of the key environment friendly strategies employed by Fabrix is the incorporation of renewable energy systems, such as solar panels and wind turbines, into their projects.
This not only reduces the dependency on fossil fuels but also lowers the overall carbon emissions of the buildings.
Indoor air quality
Additionally, they make use of natural ventilation systems to improve indoor air quality and reduce energy consumption related to heating and cooling.
Biophilic design
In terms of healthy building strategies, Fabrix focuses on incorporating biophilic design elements that bring nature into the built environment.
This includes the integration of green roofs, living walls, and indoor gardens that not only improve air quality but also contribute to the overall wellness and productivity of occupants.
The use of non-toxic materials and finishes further ensures a healthier indoor environment free from harmful chemicals.
The Gramophone Works, London
A notable case study showcasing Fabrix's commitment to sustainability and wellness in real estate is their recent project, The Gramophone Works, in London.
This mixed-use development incorporates various green building features such as a green roof, solar panels, rainwater harvesting systems, and electric vehicle charging points.
The project also prioritizes wellness by providing ample natural light, high-quality acoustics, and a range of amenities designed to promote physical activity and social interaction among occupants.
Oxford Properties, Canada - Combining human health and green spaces
Oxford Properties, a leading real estate developer in Canada, has demonstrated a strong commitment to sustainability and wellness in their projects through the implementation of green building and healthy building strategies.
This commitment is evident in the numerous case studies showcasing their innovative approaches to sustainable real estate development.
Environmental footprint
count those rooftop solar panels! Oxford Properties, Canada
One of the core aspects of Oxford Properties' sustainability strategy is the integration of sustainable design features, such as energy-efficient systems and renewable energy sources.
The company actively seeks to minimize its environmental footprint by incorporating advanced technologies, such as solar panels, green roofs, and rainwater harvesting systems in their properties.
Indoor air quality
Additionally, the company focuses on improving indoor air quality and utilizes environmentally friendly materials in construction to ensure the overall health and well-being of occupants.
WELL Building Standard
A prime example of Oxford Properties' commitment to healthy building and wellness is their participation in the WELL Building Standard certification program.
This program evaluates buildings based on various factors related to human health and well-being, including air, water, nourishment, light, fitness, comfort, and mind.
The company has successfully achieved WELL certification for several of its properties, highlighting its dedication to creating spaces that promote occupant health and wellness.
EY Tower, Toronto
Case studies showcasing Oxford Properties' commitment to sustainability include their work on the EY Tower in Toronto.
This LEED Platinum certified office tower features energy-efficient HVAC systems, a green roof that reduces stormwater runoff and provides insulation, and extensive use of natural light to enhance occupant well-being.
Park Place III, Calgary, Canada
Another example is Park Place III in Calgary, where Oxford Properties implemented a comprehensive waste management program that resulted in a 77% waste diversion rate.
By prioritizing environmental considerations and occupant health in their projects, they are setting an example for other developers to follow and contributing to the creation of a more sustainable future.
https://sustainable.oxfordproperties.com/2021/materials.html