As architects, we don’t just shape spaces—we shape the way people live and work within them. But what happens when a beautifully designed building becomes a source of illness and discomfort? Welcome to the reality of sick building syndrome (SBS)—an increasingly common challenge we’re uniquely positioned to solve through thoughtful, evidence-based design.

What Is Sick Building Syndrome?

Sick building syndrome (SBS) is a collection of symptoms people can experience inside certain buildings. OSHA lists some of the complaints of discomfort as:

• Coughing
• Dermatitis
• Difficulty concentrating
• Dizziness
• Eye, nose, throat, and respiratory irritation
• Fatigue
• Headaches
• Muscle pain
• Nausea
• Sensitivity to odors

These symptoms often disappear after leaving the building—a clear sign that the built environment is to blame.

What Is Sick Building Syndrome Caused By?

Identifying the causes of sick building syndrome is essential for designing spaces that support health and well-being. Here are the most common contributors and how architects can address them.

#1. Poor Indoor Air Quality

Paints, adhesives, carpets, and furniture can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that degrade indoor air quality. Formaldehyde, commonly found in particleboard and upholstery, is a known respiratory irritant. Plus, inadequate ventilation and moisture buildup can lead to mold growth, increasing the presence of allergens and airborne contaminants.

Architectural solutions include:

• Using low- or no-VOC materials
• Designing for cross-ventilation and mechanical ventilation with high-quality filtration
• Incorporating moisture control strategies to prevent mold

#2. Inadequate Daylighting and Lighting Design

Poor lighting doesn’t just strain the eyes. Insufficient exposure to natural light disrupts the body’s circadian rhythm, leading to mood changes and fatigue. Meanwhile, fluorescent lighting can contribute to headaches and reduced concentration, while flickering or poorly diffused light sources add to overall visual discomfort.

Architectural solutions include:

• Maximizing natural light with thoughtful building orientation, clerestory windows, and skylights
• Incorporating full-spectrum LED lighting that mimics sunlight
• Minimizing glare through light placement and shading strategies

#3. The Psychological Effects of Color Choices

Color impacts more than just aesthetics—it has a psychological impact on how people feel and function. An overuse of dull colors, gray tones, or overly bright hues can increase stress and reduce productivity. In contrast, warm, natural tones promote a calming and welcoming environment. Blues and greens are known to support focus and relaxation, enhancing well-being in the workplace.

Architectural solutions include:

• Selecting color palettes that align with the function and emotional tone of each space
• Using warm, muted tones in wall colors, flooring, and furnishings to create a sense of comfort
• Applying consistent color themes throughout shared spaces to promote visual cohesion

#4. A Disconnect From Nature

Biophilic design is an approach that integrates organic elements from nature into the interiors of the built environment, strengthening the inherent connection between humans and the natural world.

Architectural solutions include:

• Introducing greenery through potted plants or living walls.
• Using wood, stone, or other organic materials in flooring, furnishings, and finishes
• Maximizing views of green space and providing direct access to outdoor areas when possible

Sick Building Syndrome Examples

Schools, offices, and healthcare facilities worldwide have reported SBS-related issues linked to poor air quality, inadequate ventilation, and the use of harmful materials. In some cases, these conditions have forced temporary closures, costly remediation efforts, and even legal disputes. These real-world examples reveal the hidden costs of neglecting occupant health, from increased sick leave and employee turnover to rising liability and tenant dissatisfaction.

Let’s Design Buildings That Make People Feel Better, Not Worse

Your building should be more than a structure; it should be a sanctuary of wellness, focus, and performance.

Mitchell Wall Architecture & Design specializes in creating environments that prevent sick building syndrome from the ground up. Whether you’re designing a new workspace or retrofitting an older building, we bring a health-first approach that prioritizes both form and function.

See how choosing healthier materials, thoughtful design, and a stronger connection to nature can make your workplace more comfortable and effective. Reach out today to get started!