HEALTH AND WELLNESS IN COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE

Building Healthy Commercial Real Estate

A Summer Guide

As we dive further into the summer months, the importance of health and wellness within the workspace takes on an even greater significance. With longer days and warmer weather, ensuring that your employees have a healthy space to work in becomes crucial. Increased climate events further highlight this need. This season presents a great opportunity to enhance your commercial real estate space with features that support the well-being of tenants and employees alike. From improved air quality to ergonomic designs and outdoor recreational spaces, integrating health and wellness elements can transform a commercial property into a thriving, vibrant space.

Moreover, this blog post will explore why these features are increasingly important and how they can benefit your property by boosting productivity, attracting high-quality tenants, and fostering a positive, engaging atmosphere. We’ll delve into best practices for promoting health and wellness in commercial real estate this summer, ensuring your property stands out as a beacon of well-being and innovation.

The Rising Importance of Health and Wellness in the Workplace

In recent years, there has been a noticeable shift in the way workplaces are designed and operated, focusing more on the health and wellbeing of employees. The average working Canadian spends more waking hours at work than at home. According to Statistics Canada, the average full-time worker spends approximately 8.3 hours per day on paid work or related activities, and 7.5 hours per night sleeping. Consequently, with the rising awareness of mental health, landlords and business owners have been adjusting their practices. They are now implementing more initiatives aimed at promoting and improving tenant and employee wellness.

The trend is continuing to grow. By the end of 2024, 92% of companies are projected to implement wellness programs of some type. Popular programs include smoking cessation (91%), physical activities (86%), and increased support for mental health benefits (69%). Furthermore, these programs lead to employees reporting higher job satisfaction and a reduction in sick days. From special programs to additional amenities, implementing health and wellness initiatives will positively benefit both your space and the tenants within it.

Key Health and Wellness Features to Incorporate

Indoor Air Quality

Good air quality is crucial in commercial real estate planning as it directly impacts the health, productivity, and well-being of building occupants. Poor air quality can lead to respiratory issues, decreased cognitive function, and increased absenteeism, making it essential for creating a healthy work environment. Furthermore, with the additional concerns of air quality from longer forest fire seasons, improving air quality should be the first step in enhancing the health and wellness of tenants and employees.

To improve air quality, consider incorporating high-efficiency HVAC systems with regular maintenance, using air purifiers, and ensuring proper ventilation to reduce indoor pollutants. Furthermore, using air purifiers and ensuring proper ventilation can significantly reduce indoor pollutants. In addition, integrating indoor plants can help naturally filter the air and enhance the overall indoor environment.

Natural Lighting and Views

Natural light and access to outdoor views significantly enhance the well-being, productivity, and mood of building occupants. Furthermore, exposure to natural light helps regulate circadian rhythms, improving sleep quality and overall health. Moreover, outdoor views reduce stress and enhance mental clarity. To maximize natural light in commercial spaces, use large windows and glass partitions, strategically position workspaces near windows, and incorporate reflective surfaces and light-colored walls to amplify natural light. In addition, consider using skylights and solar tubes to bring more daylight into interior areas.

Ergonomic Furniture and Design

Ergonomic furniture and design are essential for employee health, reducing the risk of musculoskeletal disorders, and improving comfort and productivity. Ergonomic furniture supports proper posture, decreases strain on the body, and promotes movement, which is crucial for preventing workplace injuries and enhancing overall well-being. Examples of ergonomic solutions include adjustable desks and chairs, monitor stands to keep screens at eye level, and keyboard trays that allow for neutral wrist positions. Incorporating these elements into commercial spaces creates a healthier work environment, leading to happier, more productive employees.

Fitness and Recreational Facilities

Onsite fitness and recreational facilities in commercial spaces are vital for promoting employee health, well-being, and productivity. These amenities encourage regular physical activity, which can reduce stress, improve mental health, and increase overall job satisfaction.


Examples of onsite fitness facilities include gyms equipped with cardio and strength-training equipment, yoga rooms for relaxation and flexibility exercises, and recreational areas for activities like ping pong or foosball. Providing these options not only supports a healthier lifestyle but also fosters a sense of community and work-life balance among employees.

Summer-Specific wellness initatives

Outdoor Spaces and Activities

Incorporating outdoor spaces and activities into commercial real estate planning significantly enhances summer wellness initiatives. For instance, outdoor workspaces, gardens, and patios offer employees fresh air, natural light, and a refreshing change of scenery. This environment can boost creativity and reduce stress levels. Summer wellness events, including outdoor yoga sessions and walking meetings, not only encourage physical activity but also foster community. Ultimately, these initiatives promote a healthier lifestyle and enhance employee satisfaction and productivity during the summer months.

Hydration Stations

In the summer heat, staying hydrated is crucial for maintaining health and productivity. To emphasize this, incorporating hydration stations in commercial spaces can highlight the importance of regular fluid intake. These stations may include water dispensers, infused water options with fruits and herbs, and a variety of healthy drinks. By providing easy access to refreshing beverages, employers can help prevent dehydration, boost energy levels, and support overall well-being. Ultimately, these efforts make hydration a vital summer wellness initiative.

Seasonal Wellness Programs

Seasonal wellness programs are an excellent way to promote health and engagement in the workplace. During the summer, these programs can include initiatives like a summer fitness challenge, where employees track their physical activity and compete for prizes, or a mindfulness series featuring outdoor meditation and stress-relief workshops. Other options include hosting nutritional seminars focused on healthy summer eating habits and organizing team outings to local parks or trails. These seasonal programs not only encourage a healthy lifestyle but also foster a sense of community and boost morale during the warmer months.

Wrapping Up: The Path to a Healthier Workspace

As we move through the summer months, prioritizing health and wellness in commercial real estate is more important than ever. Integrating features such as improved air quality, natural lighting, ergonomic furniture, and fitness facilities can create a workspace that supports the well-being of tenants and employees. Moreover, implementing summer-specific wellness initiatives fosters a healthier environment. These enhancements not only boost productivity but also attract high-quality tenants and promote a positive atmosphere. By embracing these best practices, your property can stand out as a beacon of well-being and innovation, setting the standard for future-forward commercial spaces. Invest in health and wellness today, and watch your property thrive year-round.

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Trust Zinati Realty

Are you looking for commercial space to lease? We have lots of opportunities on the market, regardless of whether you need office space, retail space, or industrial space. Contact us today to schedule tours and get started. Don’t forget to ask about the health and wellness features of the properties you see!

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