Text description provided by the architects. In response to the recent epidemic situation, there is a growing awareness of the need for buildings and interiors that promote health, adaptability, and overall well-being. Since 2016, Superimpose has been dedicated to indoor well-being, exemplified in the design of Asia’s first WELL Living Lab and an adjacent 26,000 square meter office park in Shunyi, Beijing.
A Collaborative Endeavor
The Well Living Lab in Beijing represents a collaborative effort between Delos, Mayo Clinic, and Sino Ocean Group, combining building science, behavioral science, and health science. This interdisciplinary laboratory aims to conduct innovative research by providing controlled indoor environments that simulate office and residential spaces. The ultimate goal is to enhance human health, wellness, comfort, and performance by improving indoor environments.
Designing for Health and Sustainability
Superimpose’s role was to create a WELL and LEED-certified building while employing low-tech solutions to establish a flexible and optimized environment for research purposes. The design prioritized an open and reconfigurable layout to accommodate various experimental conditions and optimize sun exposure. Notably, escape stairs and the building core were strategically positioned on the northern side to facilitate experimentation and maximize natural light.
Promoting Physical Activity and Interaction
The building core houses MEP spaces, shafts, and washrooms, all with access to natural daylight. Rather than emphasizing the lift for vertical circulation, Superimpose integrated discreet escape staircases as iconic elements to encourage physical exercise and social interaction. This approach aligns with the goal of promoting well-being within the built environment.
Innovative Façade Solutions
The façade was designed as a cassette system to ensure adaptability while maintaining a distinctive architectural identity that complements Shunyi’s industrial context. Internal blinds, external blinds, and electrochromic glass provide on-demand shading and glass color variations. The entrance canopy serves as both shelter and a welcoming gesture, connecting seamlessly with the outdoor staircase.
Rooftop Research and Engagement
On the rooftop, a fully rotatable laboratory facilitates comprehensive sunlight-related research, while a rooftop farm promotes nourishment and community engagement. These features underscore the holistic approach to well-being embedded in the design of the Well Living Lab.
By embodying and adhering to WELL standards in a simple yet effective manner, Superimpose aims to contribute to the advancement of health and well-being in future office and residential developments not only in China but also beyond.
