Green building standards demystified: LEED, BREEAM and WELL

SonaSpray K-13 mid grey throughout inclusive office workspace. BW Workplace Experts, TP Bennett. ©Hufton+Crow.
SonaSpray K-13 mid grey throughout inclusive office workspace. BW Workplace Experts, TP Bennett. ©Hufton+Crow.

In 2021, the UK Government introduced green building guidance requiring homes, offices, and shops to reduce carbon emissions by 30%. These regulations were a key step toward the Future Homes and Buildings Standard, which will be fully implemented by 2025.

Under this standard, all new commercial spaces must be net zero ready, ensuring they won’t need retrofitting to meet future sustainability goals.This shift is reshaping construction, impacting everything from energy efficiency to building materials.

What role do acoustics play in these building standards?

As sustainability and wellbeing take centre stage, acoustics must go beyond basic noise control to actively enhance health and comfort. With excessive noise capable of reducing productivity by up to 66%, effective sound control is becoming a cornerstone of tomorrow’s buildings, fostering focus, relaxation and overall wellness.

Recognising this, green building certifications such as LEED, BREEAM and WELL are placing greater emphasis on acoustic performance.

Modern office with brick walls, plants and SonaSpray K-13 Special, acoustic spray applied to the ceiling in light grey.
SonaSpray K-13 Special acoustic ceiling spray in light grey for a sprayed concrete look in Oscar Acoustics’ net zero emissions HQ – the Oscar Innovation Centre. ©Hufton+Crow.

LEED: Planning for sustainable performance

Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) is a global certification program for sustainable building design, construction and operations, with a focus on occupant wellbeing.

LEED provides a flexible framework through:

  • Focusing on material selection, comfort and air quality to prioritise occupant health.
  • Enhancing acoustic performance to create environments that support productivity and focus.
  • Prioritising social equity, inclusivity, and accessibility in sustainable construction.
Modern office design including plants, sofas and desk with Oscar Acoustic Sonaspray k-13 applied to the ceiling. Credit to BW Workplace Expetts, TP Bennett and Tom Green Photography.
SonaSpray K-13 in grey throughout inclusive London workspace for global NGO client. TP Bennett, BW Workplace Experts & Hufton+Crow photography.

Additionally, LEED-certified buildings use 20-30% less energy than traditional structures, resulting in significant long-term cost savings. This makes LEED a critical tool in meeting the recent UK government mandates for emissions reductions, while also ensuring equal access to healthier, environmentally conscious buildings.

BREEAM: Sustainable assessment during construction

The Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM) evaluates sustainability throughout the construction process. It uses a wide range of performance measures to assess:

  • Energy use and waste management during construction.
  • Material sourcing and health and wellbeing criteria.
  • Specific focus on sound insulation and acoustic quality, especially in high-traffic environments like offices and schools.

BREEAM-certified buildings report an average 6% higher rental premiums and 19% higher capital value, thanks to their sustainable practices.

These benefits make BREEAM essential for developers aiming to meet government directives while enhancing both project appeal and long-term value.

SonaSpray K-13 in grey throughout inclusive London workspace for global NGO client. TP Bennett, BW Workplace Experts & Hufton+Crow photography.
SonaSpray K-13 in grey throughout inclusive London workspace for global NGO client. TP Bennett, BW Workplace Experts & Hufton+Crow photography.

WELL: Measuring wellbeing after construction

WELL is a performance-based system focused on how buildings impact occupants, addressing seven key concepts:

  • Air: Ensuring clean, quality air through proper ventilation and purification.
  • Water: Improving water quality and increasing accessibility.
  • Nourishment: Encouraging healthy eating habits by providing nutritious options.
  • Light: Optimising natural and artificial lighting to improve energy, mood and productivity.
  • Fitness: Promoting physical activity by providing opportunities for activity and exertion.
  • Comfort: Creating a soothing, distraction-free environment.
  • Mind: Enhancing relaxation and cognitive abilities.

For example, research from Harvard demonstrates that improved indoor air quality can significantly boost cognitive function, highlighting the importance of WELL in promoting both physical health and mental performance.

Oscar Acoustics SonaSpray® for sustainable and healthy environments

SonaSpray® is a high-performance acoustic plaster spray that plays a vital role in creating environmentally conscious and comfortable buildings. By absorbing sound and controlling reverberation, it creates calm spaces, boosting productivity and wellbeing.

Additionally, SonaSpray® is made from recycled, sustainable materials, supporting LEED, BREEAM and WELL certifications. It also contributes to better air quality and thermal efficiency for healthier and more energy-efficient spaces.

There is no finer reference for SonaSpray® than Delos, the company that founded the WELL Building Standard, using SonaSpray® throughout their HQ. As you would expect, this building is built to the very highest standard of WELL and to achieve LEED v4 Platinum and Living Building Challenge certification.

SonaSpray K-13 in grey throughout London workspace for global NGO client. TP Bennett, BW Workplace Experts & Hufton+Crow photography.
SonaSpray K-13 in grey throughout London workspace for global NGO client. TP Bennett, BW Workplace Experts & Hufton+Crow photography.

Looking ahead to a more sustainable future

Building standards like LEED, BREEAM, and WELL are revolutionising how we design the spaces where we live, work and thrive. They reduce environmental impact while prioritising occupant wellbeing.

Oscar Acoustics is proud to contribute to this transformation. Our solutions ensure that buildings not only meet sustainability standards but also enhance occupant health. By aligning with LEED, BREEAM, and WELL, Oscar is committed to shaping the future of inviting, eco-friendly spaces for all.

Want to learn how Oscar Acoustics can help you meet green building standards like LEED, BREEAM and WELL? Contact us today to discuss our sustainable acoustic solutions.

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