The Challenges of Achieving WELL Standards in Residential Apartment Design and Enhancing the Concept of Quality of Life: An Analytical Study in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Abstract

This study focuses on the quality of life and well-being in the design of residential apartments, highlighting the WELL standards, the first building standards in the world centered on human health and well-being. Residential apartments in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia face numerous challenges in meeting these standards. The study explore local practices and challenges associated with applying the concept of well-being in residential apartment design considering WELL standards to improve the quality of life. A descriptive analytical approach involving semi-structured interviews with 18 interior designers and architects. Results showed that participants had a background and interest in well-being in residential environments, although most had limited capacity for application. Participants agreed on several criteria when selecting materials, emphasizing water, natural and artificial lighting, thermal comfort, and acoustics. However, results indicated variability in practices related to good ventilation, along with obstacles preventing the application of well-being concepts according to WELL standards. The study includes recommendations for different groups and serves as an important reference for the concept and applications of well-being in residential apartment design according to WELL standards, enhancing quality of life in housing specifically.