Student Wellness Research
Understanding the Impact of Design on Student Well-Being
Recent research reveals a troubling decline in student well-being, with rising levels of depression and anxiety exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. With university counseling services struggling to meet the rising demand, this complex crisis raises an intriguing question: can university planners, designers and administrators design environments that improve student well-being?
In collaboration with universities in Canada and the United States, we are exploring the impact of campus environments on student wellness. Unlike previous studies that focused on specific buildings, our research takes a holistic approach, examining students’ daily activities and experiences. By connecting campus spaces with various aspects of student well-being, we aim to uncover valuable insights for those who design and support educational environments.
Our Research Process
Our multi-site mixed methods study is tailored to reflect the unique culture of each campus. HDR researchers have collaborated with university partners to refine the methods and instruments of the protocol. All studies have undergone rigorous review and received approval from the Research Ethics Board (Canada) and Institutional Review Board (United States).
Our research team conducted focus groups and interviews at Dalhousie University (Halifax, Nova Scotia), Thomas Jefferson University (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania), and Macalester College (St. Paul, Minnesota). The recordings were transcribed and coded to identify themes connecting student well-being and the built environment. Data collection concluded in Fall 2024.
Building on our qualitative findings, the quantitative phase will launch in early 2025. This survey will involve five to seven universities and further explore the impact of campus environments on student wellness.
Sharing Research Findings Around the World
HDR Senior Social Scientist Francesqca Jimenez presents "Cost of Living and Quiet Campus Spaces: Finding Respite When You're Far from Home" at the Environmental Design Research Association (EDRA) 2025 Annual Conference in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.
HDR Social Scientist Melissa Templeton and Dalhousie University Director of Research Assessment Heather Doyle, MEd, present "Campus Spaces and Student Well-Being: A Student-Focused Research Collaboration Between Dalhousie University and Global Architecture Firm HDR" at the Canadian Association of College and University Student Services (CACUSS) 2025 Annual Conference in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.
HDR Director of Education Leila Kamal and Dalhousie University Director of Research Assessment Heather Doyle, MEd, present "Student Focus Groups Provide Key Insights to Improve Campus Environments" at the Society for College and University Planning (SCUP) 2025 Annual Conference in Honolulu, Hawaii, United States.
Why We Do What We Do
“Throughout my career, I’ve always believed in the importance of research to design spaces that enhance student well-being and success. Understanding and addressing the challenges students face today is crucial, and our research is vital in creating environments that truly support their needs and improve their overall university experience.”
"Combining my passion for public health and design, I’m excited to explore how campus environments can promote student wellness. This research can empower higher education leaders to make informed decisions for healthier, more supportive campuses."
"I am passionate about designing environments that promote health and personal development. By researching how university campuses influence student wellness, I hope we can create spaces that enable students to become the best version of themselves now and in the future."
“Supporting the next generation’s vision for a better world starts with creating environments where they can flourish. By understanding how campus spaces impact student well-being, we can help institutions make informed decisions that truly benefit their students.”
