Framework for Enriching Design of Living Environments

Research Project, 2025 – 2028

This project aims to explore design qualities in living environments that clearly contribute to health and well-being based on the theories of enriched environment - a widely accepted way to study the health impact of the physical environment.
There is strong evidence showing the health-promoting and therapeutic effects of an enriched environment, as physical, social, and cognitive stimulation influences brain structure and function. However, there is a lack of in-depth and operational knowledge and tools regarding design that contribute to an enriched living environment.The result will be a framework with guidelines, principles, and indicators for enriching design of living environments, from the scale of individual residences to the broader neighborhood level, which contribute to well-being and health. This framework should be applicable in planning and development to serve as a basis for decision-making, prioritization, and requirements related to health-promoting design of living areas.The work is carried out through a translational collaboration between academia (Chalmers, SLU, and Sahlgrenska) and practice (Härryda municipality and Landvetter Södra Development AB) in a multidisciplinary approach involving three fields of theory, using both quantitative and qualitative methodologies. The residential project Landvetter Södra in Härryda municipality serves as a unique testbed for research as well as a strong platform for involvement and dissemination of results.