San Francisco International Airport’s Harvey Milk Terminal 1 Center demonstrates how large-scale transportation infrastructure can integrate health, sustainability, and passenger experience—earning recognition in the 2026 Best in Building Health Awards. Photo Courtesy of Gensler & Kuth Ranieri | Jason O’Rear Photography.

As climate pressures intensify, the built environment plays a critical role protecting both human health and planetary resilience. From green space and climate-responsive design to active transportation and indoor air quality, the most effective strategies deliver multiple benefits at once – advancing sustainability, enhancing well-being, and driving long-term value.

Celebrate the 2026 Best in Building Health winners. CEO Joanna Frank discusses the shift toward health at scale and why health-centered real estate is essential for the future of the industry.

New research confirms that healthy building certifications can generate measurable financial returns, including 4–6% higher rents. A Cambridge University study shows that investing in occupant health drives asset value, tenant satisfaction, and long-term performance. Health is no longer a “nice to have”—it’s a strategic real estate investment.

15 years after NYC's groundbreaking Active Design Guidelines transformed how cities think about health, NYC and CFAD today launched Active Design Guidelines 2.0: Designing for Health and Equity—an updated and expanded toolkit that creates a more holistic set of design strategies that promote physical activity mental wellbeing, social connection, and equity.    

Explore how Fitwel’s FSP certification links climate resilience, health, and financial value—insights from Kayne Anderson’s multifamily portfolio.

Explore the evolution of accessibility from fringe to foundational, and how inclusive design benefits all—from curb cuts to sensory-friendly smart buildings.

Discover how bringing nature indoors through biophilic design strategies—like daylighting, indoor plants, and views of nature—can boost health, well-being, and asset value. Explore why indoor biophilia matters year-round.

As we spend more time outdoors and in shared spaces this season, it's important to recognize how design can either support or hinder equity—especially for women and mothers. From public transit seating and lighting to lactation rooms and access to menstrual products, the built environment plays a critical role in shaping health outcomes. This blog explores key strategies—many reflected in the Fitwel Standard—that prioritize women’s needs while benefiting entire communities.

Explore five key takeaways from the newly updated Fitwel Ambassador Course—including the latest research on climate resilience, equity, and the business case for health—designed to help you optimize real estate for health, sustainability, and value.

Discover how the real estate industry's shift towards health-focused, sustainable design is enhancing property values and reducing investment risks. Learn about the Best in Building Health Awards, celebrating leaders in this transformative movement.

The real estate industry is increasingly prioritizing healthier buildings, with research showing financial benefits like higher rents and improved tenant retention. Discover how investors, owners, and tenants can align economic and human well-being to shape the future of real estate.