The Well Living Lab – the first human-centred research centre investigating the links between health and well-being and indoor environments – has announced its founding “alliance members”.

architecture and engineering firm Arup, technology giant IBM, real estate developer Lendlease and energy saving window company View Inc are among the founding supporters of the project.

The announcement was made during the first Well Living Lab Alliance Summit, held on September 13 – 14 in Rochester, Minnesota.

A collaboration of wellness real estate developer Delos and non-profit healthcare group Mayo Clinic, the Well Living Lab expands upon the principles of the WELL Building Standard – which focuses on how indoor environments consider air, water, nourishment, light, fitness, comfort and mind.

The lab generates evidence-based practical information to create healthier indoors environments “in which to live, work and play.”

CBRE Group, the world’s largest manager of commercial buildings; and Chinese developer Sino-Ocean Group are the two other founding members of the lab.

International Flavors & Fragrances Inc, which designs products consumers can taste, feel or smell; and healthcare group the Noaber Foundation have also joined the lab as Sustaining Alliance Members. Steel and energy company Welspun has joined as a Supporting Alliance Member. Other interested companies are invited to join the alliance.

“A powerful community is forming around the indoor, built environment and its effect on human health and well-being,” said Brent Bauer, medical director of the Well Living Lab. “New knowledge shows that building healthier indoor environments can actually preserve and enhance human health and quality of life."