The spaces we inhabit have a considerable impact on our quality of life and well-being. In this brief contribution, I will describe some of the elements that are important for good quality built environments and how we can all ensure that our well-being is being considered and properly monitored in buildings

Design has its roots in our evaluation of a space, product or architectural element. Think of a mathematical equation which is made up of a number of elements. Each has its input to produce a final solution – same goes for our assessment of a space.

Are our buildings up to scratch? This depends on how well informed we are about how the space we choose to inhabit or work in. Architects, developers, contractors and interior designers would generally know what the requisites are, that separates a good space from a bad one. While some professionals do set high standards and believe they can achieve them, others compromise depending on how much profit is at stake.

But if the audience using the space has limited knowledge of what makes a good or bad space, they are innocent in this respect. This means they could be in a vulnerable position and therefore, I question, who steps in to ensure clients get the best outcome from the sale of a new property for housing or workspace?

There are three top standards that should fit any new development: suitable economical profit, green contribution and quality for all social classes. To these three I would add the practical ones which include minimum light levels, ventilation and adequate circulation space.

For lighting, the range for general lighting comfort varies but one should aim for 150-300 lux. This means two LED ceiling fittings of 50 Watts for an area of 20 square metres. To check the lighting levels in any room, download mobile phone ‘light lux’ apps for free.

In terms of ventilation generally it is accepted that the bare minimum ventilation rate for residential units should be eight litres per second per person. One should ensure that a room has a corner ventilator at the top which should suffice. For added comfort opposing windows would enable natural ventilation to flow in the space. Ventilation in offices should be 10 litres per second per person.

Spaces that should be adequately sized for occupants’ comfort require at least 10 square metres of circulation space.

Externally we should ensure that every building is watertight and does not suffer from dampness problems. This also applies to openings which should be sealed and weatherproof. This ‘seal of workmanship’ should be certified by an independent assessor detached from authorities and professional fields (international design audit) to issue a post-completion certification in buildings. This is the way forward for creating sustainable and ethical solutions in buildings and setting higher standards for our well-being and the environment.

Rebecca Dalli Gonzi is an architect with a specialisation in strategic project management. Dr Dalli Gonzi is a registered and certified civil engineer by the Chamber of Architects, Malta. She has worked in the private and public sector in Malta and Scotland. She is a resident academic at the University of Malta, lecturing project management in the Department of Construction and Property Management.