Habits profoundly physical and mental health, shaping behaviours such as exercise, diet, and
social interaction. Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), responsible for 70% of global deaths,
are closely linked to unhealthy lifestyle factors, including inactivity, poor diet, and social isolation. Tarwewijk, a neighbourhood in Rotterdam, shows elevated rates of obesity, limited healthy food options, and challenges related to mental resilience and social interaction, making it an ideal context for exploring architectural strategies to promote healthy habits.

This research investigates the role of architectural design in fostering health-oriented behaviours, bridging gaps in the interdisciplinary understanding of habits, health, and architecture. Drawing from environmental psychology and anthropology, the study integrates theoretical insights from scholars like Jane Jacobs and Jan Gehl with the concept of “nudging” to subtly encourage healthier choices while addressing ethical considerations.

Fieldwork, case studies, and literature reviews form the methodological backbone, uncovering existing and missing habits in Tarwewijk and assessing architectural influences on behaviour. Key findings highlight the significance of multifunctional spaces, accessibility, visibility, and the integration of transit and destination roles in designing for health. Case studies reveal the potential of adaptive spaces and spontaneous activity programming to promote participation.

The study culminates in design guidelines tailored to Tarwewijk, emphasizing:
1.Integration of local habits into programming.
2.Addressing NCD risk factors through the program
3.Ensuring participation by enhancing multifunctionality, transit-destination synergy, programming spontaneous activities and spatial visibility.

The research contributes to understanding how architecture can influence habitual behaviours, offering actionable design principles to reduce NCD risks and foster healthier communities.