Are we on the right path towards indoor environmental well-being?

Aalborg University, Department of the Built Environment, Thomas Manns Vej 23 9220 Aalborg, Denmark

^* Corresponding author: lro@build.aau.dk

Abstract

This position paper challenges the current perspective on indoor environmental quality (IEQ) improvements and proposes a new direction to increase occupant well-being. The purpose of buildings has been to shelter us from the outdoor environment, enabling humans to migrate to colder climates ca. 100,000 years ago. While we remain genetically fit to live outdoors, we spend almost all our time indoors. Research has helped reduce specific health- and comfort-compromising aspects identified in indoor environments. However, this paper argues that we are now less exposed to positive stimuli from outdoor environments, which could be essential for our well-being. The paper presents a series of statements concerning previous and current practice, pointing to unrealized potential for future practice. The statements are followed by reflections on 1) a conceptual comparison between indoor and outdoor conditions, 2) a meta-analysis of selected building developments over time to indicate possibly unfavourable trends, and 3) a proposal for a new direction for future IEQ improvements.