Panattoni once again confirms its innovation – the developer has obtained WELL Gold certification for the office space of a BTS project completed in Gliwice for a global automotive company. The certificate was awarded under the WELL v2 system by the International WELL Building Institute (IWBI). This prestigious distinction shows that the industrial real estate sector can successfully meet the challenges of creating a healthier and more comfortable work environment. It is also the first certificate of this type in Poland awarded to office space located within an industrial facility.
The certified area covers nearly 3 600 sq m and is part of a research and development center for an automotive parts manufacturer, which conducts work there on traditional and advanced suspension systems. This project is becoming a new benchmark for the Polish market and stands out in the industrial sector, where WELL certifications are still a rarity. Obtaining the Gold level certificate required an integrated approach, advanced technical solutions, and – most importantly – close cooperation with the client.
Strategic partnership and employee well-being
- „Delivering office space with WELL certification as part of an industrial project is an example of how BTS solutions can meet not only operational and technical needs, but also changing expectations regarding employee well-being and comfort” – says Marek Foryński, Managing Director, Panattoni BTS. - „This is a reflection of the strength of our partnership with a leading automotive client and proof that bespoke real estate solutions can support employer branding and help attract talent”.
Holistic design for health and comfort
The certification process strongly emphasized numerous health aspects of the work environment. High-efficiency ventilation systems provide 30% more fresh air than standard solutions. Advanced water testing, humidity management procedures, and ergonomic workstations were also implemented. Acoustics were taken care of, and access to daylight was maximized.
- „Obtaining the WELL Gold certificate required a comprehensive approach to workspace design” – explains Emilia Dębowska, Head of Sustainability Europe at Panattoni. - „We introduced low-emission materials, optimized air filtration systems, rigorous water quality management, and biophilic design elements to support both the physical and mental health of users. This was possible thanks to the exceptional commitment of our client and the valuable knowledge of experts from WSP, the organization performing the WELL performance testing, which guided us through every stage of the process”.
Client engagement is the key to success
The client's contribution was crucial to the success of the certification. The company actively cooperated at every stage of this process, supporting the creation of a high-quality work environment – including by introducing flexible dress codes to ensure thermal comfort, promoting healthy food options, encouraging physical activity, and implementing stress management and mental health support programs.
An exemplary model of sustainable industrial space
Each of the categories covered by the certification — air, water, nourishment, light, movement, thermal comfort, sound, materials, mind, and community — directly supports the implementation of the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
- „Thanks to this WELL Gold certified office space, located in an industrial environment, Panattoni has shown exceptional commitment to the health and well-being of everyone who works and stays there” – said Ann Marie Aguilar, Senior Vice President, EMEA at the International WELL Building Institute. - „We congratulate Panattoni on their efforts to create spaces that put people first”.
Certified quality in industrial space
The WELL system is based on scientific research that analyzes the relationship between the buildings where we spend about 90% of our time and the impact of these spaces on human health and well-being. To obtain the WELL certificate from the IWBI, the office space at the Panattoni BTS project in Gliwice was subjected to rigorous testing and final assessment by independent entities, which confirmed that all requirements for the WELL Gold level were met.
Obtaining the WELL certificate further solidifies Panattoni's position as a market leader in providing modern industrial spaces that give clients the flexibility to adapt office and production environments to global standards of sustainability and employee well-being.