elements—LED lighting, negative ionization, hydroponic gardening, and curated

soundscapes—into affordable housing. Grounded in available research, this approach seeks to

explore potential benefits for tenant well-being, stability, and long-term outcomes for developers.

While these ideas may not be a universal solution, they offer one possible approach to

incorporating environmental design elements into housing.

A range of studies have explored how factors like light, air quality, natural elements, and sound

shape stress levels, cognitive function, and overall health. While some of these concepts align

with common sense—such as good lighting being preferable to poor lighting—scientific literature

provides a basis for considering their potential impact.

2.1 LED Lighting and Circadian Rhythm Regulation

● Scientific Basis: Research has explored the relationship between negative air ions, air

quality, and potential effects on mood and stress levels (Jiang et al., 2018).

● Application in Housing: Incorporating negative ion generators into central air systems

may contribute to improved indoor air quality and tenant comfort.

● Scientific Basis: Some research suggests that exposure to natural soundscapes may help

reduce stress and promote relaxation (Alvarsson et al., 2010).

● Application in Housing: AI-integrated speakers could offer calming background

soundscapes, such as nature sounds, to create a more peaceful atmosphere.

3. Potential Considerations for Developers

These interventions are designed to be cost-conscious while offering potential benefits in terms

of tenant retention, quality of life, and overall property stability.

3.1 Exploring Tenant Experience

● Some studies suggest that environmental stressors may contribute to increased conflict

within communities. Reducing these stressors could support more stable tenant relations.

● Developments that incorporate wellness-focused design elements may appeal to tenants

and funding programs aligned with sustainability and health initiatives.

4. Estimated Cost Considerations for New Construction

Since this project is being built from scratch rather than upgrading existing units, cost estimates

reflect integration into new construction. The following figures are based on preliminary

estimates and may vary based on sourcing and project scale.

5. Implementation Considerations for Developers

A step-by-step approach to integrating these elements into newly constructed affordable housing

developments.

5.1 Design Integration for New Developments

● Exploring space planning for hydroponic setups and integrating AI-powered soundscapes

where feasible.

The extent to which these elements will impact tenant experience remains to be seen, but they

seem like positive steps to the author.

References

● Figueiro, M. G., et al. (2017). "The impact of daytime light exposures on sleep and mood in

office workers." https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28526259/

● Bringslimark, T., et al. (2009). "The psychological benefits of indoor plants: A critical

review of the experimental literature."

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/277999269_Psychological_Benefits_of_Indoor

_Plants_in_Workplaces_Putting_Experimental_Results_into_Context

● Alvarsson, J. J., et al. (2010). "Stress recovery during exposure to nature sound and