WELL certification - A rigorous standard inspiring work-life balance
Renowned for its comprehensive standards that evaluate architectural structures based on medical research and the interconnection between space, health, and human well-being, WELL certification stands as a benchmark for the health and wellness of employees in office buildings.
To secure WELL certification, office buildings must fulfill ten key criteria, ranging from workspace elements such as air, water, nourishment, light, sound, and materials to aspects of employee well-being and mental health, including movement, mind, thermal comfort, and community. This rigorous standard is developed and managed by the International WELL Building Institute (IWBI), a non-profit organization dedicated to researching health-oriented building solutions.
First WELL precertified office building in Hanoi
In mid-June 2024, the leasing office market witnessed breaking news as Office Tower @ Heritage West Lake (Office Tower @HWL) became Hanoi’s first office building to achieve WELL precertification. This prestigious recognition marks a significant milestone, paving the way for official WELL certification in the first quarter of 2025.
Office Tower @HWL implements a range of energy-saving solutions, resulting in significant annual energy reductions. Incorporating 24mm Low-E glass for its exterior, the building’s energy-efficient design reduces heat transfer, minimizing energy consumption by nearly 70 percent. Additionally, improvements in thermal performance within the building envelope enhance cooling energy efficiency by over 9 percent.
Equipped with 380 lighting sensors, Office Tower @HWL intelligently detects unoccupied areas and automatically adjusts or turns off lighting, optimizing energy consumption. Over 30 percent of the workspace is filled with natural daylight, further reducing electricity usage.
Moreover, Office Tower @HWL features expansive green spaces covering 2.8-times the site area. A highlight is the “Green Oasis”, located on the 22nd and 23rd floors, providing employees with a dedicated sanctuary featuring native plants that minimize water usage.
Beyond its innovative design, Office Tower @HWL prioritizes employee well-being by offering a diverse range of amenities easily accessible within the building or within a 400-meter radius. The West Lake area, where Office Tower @HWL is located, is also a vibrant hub for activities such as jogging, cycling, and boating.
Before achieving WELL precertification, the Heritage West Lake project received another prestigious international green certification - the BCA Green Mark from the Singapore Building and Construction Authority, in 2023. These certifications underscore CapitaLand Development Vietnam’s commitment to its mission of “Enriching Life, Uplifting Communities” while redefining sustainable living and working environments.