Retrofitting towards a healthy building: a case study of hotel in Bali

Abstract

Purpose This study aims to evaluate the feasibility and financial viability of retrofitting an existing hotel in Bali, Indonesia, toward compliance with the WELL Building Standard v2. It shows how health-oriented retrofits contribute to the sustainable development goals (SDGs) by improving indoor environmental quality and generating financial outcomes. Design/methodology/approach A single case study assessed compliance with six WELL concepts (air, water, light, movement, thermal comfort and sound) through on-site measurements, document reviews and benchmarking against WELL-certified buildings. To address performance gaps, retrofitting strategies were formulated. A 30-year life cycle cost framework evaluated financial impacts, including initial, operational, maintenance and renewal costs, as well as revenue projections under two occupancy scenarios. Findings The retrofit raised the WELL score from 34 to 66 points, surpassing the WELL Gold certification threshold. Financially, the internal rate of return rose from 5.71% to 7.55% and the payback period decreased from 13.97 to 11.95 years at 70% occupancy. The results show that WELL-certified retrofits can be financially viable. Practical implications The study demonstrates that health-driven retrofits can support investment by linking economic returns with occupant well-being and by strengthening policy and organizational pathways toward SDGs. Originality/value This paper is the first documented WELL retrofit case for a hotel in a tropical developing country. It integrates health-focused design with quantified financial analysis and provides hotel owners, facility managers and policymakers with reference points.