About the Design Institute for Health and Resilience (DIHR)
Launched in 2023 at the University of Utah, the Design Institute for Health and Resilience (DIHR) is an interdisciplinary research institute dedicated to exploring the impact of environmental design on human health and resilience. DIHR serves as a bridge between research and practical application, transforming health and environmental design to enhance quality of life. The institute emphasizes inclusive design practices that support mental, physical, and emotional well-being, aiming to create environments that promote health across diverse populations and throughout all stages of life.
Mission
The mission of DIHR is to translate scientific discoveries and impactful research into practical solutions and design guidance that enhance health and well-being. The institute’s research spans multiple scales of environmental design—from interiors and furnishings to neighborhoods and communities—emphasizing inclusive design principles that foster equity, inclusion, and well-being for diverse populations.
Approach
DIHR engages in translational research to bridge the gap between health research and environmental design. Our work focuses on:
- Research and Training: Conducting interdisciplinary research and offering mentorship to advance understanding of how design impacts health.
- Product and Design Development: Developing and testing innovative solutions for healthier built environments, from building materials to entire neighborhoods.
- Community Engagement: Working with stakeholders to co-design solutions that meet real-world needs and are guided by the experiences of those most affected.
- Summits and Panels: Hosting events like the Mental Health & Design Summit to bring together experts, policymakers, and practitioners to explore the nexus of health and design.
Organizational Structure
DIHR is housed within the College of Architecture & Planning (CA+P) at the University of Utah and is led by Director Keith Diaz Moore. The institute collaborates with faculty from across the university, creating a cohesive and collaborative research environment focused on health and environmental design.
Get Involved
Whether you are a student, a researcher, a community member, or an organization interested in transforming environments for better health, DIHR offers opportunities for involvement. From fellowships and training programs to public events and collaborative projects, we invite you to be part of our mission to create a healthier, more resilient world.