Building Well at Delos Office: Work/Life Elevated on Manhattan’s West Side High Line
摘要
This case study explores the design and construction of Delos Global Headquarters at 860 Washington Street in New York City, a cutting-edge example of integrating health, wellness, and sustainability in the built environment. The building, situated above the High Line, epitomises the intersection of modern architecture and progressive building certification standards, including WELL New & Existing Interiors, LEED v4, and Living Building Challenge Petal Certification. Delos HQ serves as a model for “Building-level Practices” by applying the 10 concepts of the WELL Building Standard™ (WELL)—Air, Water, Nourishment, Light, Movement, Thermal Comfort, Sound, Materials, Mind, and Community—each playing a part in a holistic strategy for occupant health and well-being. Methodologically, the case study examines the incorporation of advanced HVAC systems, underfloor air distribution, and MERV 13 filters to optimise air quality and thermal comfort among employees throughout the office space. It also evaluates the use of biophilic design elements, circadian lighting systems, and sound-absorbing materials to enhance both physical and mental comfort. The office layout promotes movement through features like open stairways and interactive digital screens, while ergonomic workstations and a variety of focus rooms cater to different work styles. At a community level, Delos HQ strengthens its connection to the neighbourhood through its industrial design inspired by the High Line and a terrace that supports local biodiversity. In addition, the building demonstrates its commitment to sustainability through its recycling and composting practices, the use of energy-efficient appliances, and the incorporation of reclaimed wood. Collectively, these building and community-level interventions foster a holistic environment that promotes occupant health, productivity and sustainability, and through rigorous adherence to WELL requirements, exemplify how innovative design and operational practices can set new benchmarks in building excellence.