Active Design

What is Active Design?

Active Design is an approach to the development of buildings, streets, and neighborhoods that uses architecture and urban planning to make daily physical activity and healthy foods more accessible and inviting.

The Approach

Active Transportation

Does the project support a safe and vibrant environment for pedestrians, cyclists, and transit riders? Sample design considerations might include:

Wide sidewalks and safe crosswalks
Traffic calming elements that slow driving speeds
Street trees and plantings
Lighting, benches, public art, and other sidewalk amenities
Interconnected bikeways and ample bicycle parking
Comfortable bus stops with benches and protective shelters

Active Buildings

Does the project encourage greater physical movement of users and visitors within the building site? Sample design considerations might include:

Stairs that are accessible, visible, attractive, and well-lit
Wayfinding signage and prompts that encourage stair use
Interesting circulation spaces that promote walking
Space for lactation support
Kitchen and casual eating spaces to promote healthy eating
Outdoor bicycle parking and secure indoor bicycle storage
On-site exercise facilities and play spaces
On-site gardening opportunities
Sidewalk and façade elements that enhance the pedestrian realm, such as street trees, benches, canopies and windows
Access to indoor and outdoor walking trails
Nearby and easily accessible public transit facilities

Active Recreation

ACTIVE RECREATION

Does the project provide access to recreation and play spaces that accommodate different ages, interests, and abilities? Sample design considerations might include:

Parks, plazas, and playgrounds that are easily accessed by pedestrians and cyclists
Spaces and activities that respond to unique local and cultural preferences
Amenities that allow people to enjoy spaces for longer periods of time, such as trees, lighting, water fountains, and seating
Natural elements and landscapes
Colorful ground markings that inspire active and creative play
A safe play environment, including use of safety surfacing, for children of all ages and abilities

For more information on Active Design, please visit http://centerforactivedesign.org/

Happy Paws
Renovation of a retail space into this humane pet training center which is co-owned by three non-profit animal groups in Virginia Beach, Norfolk and Chesapeake. Located in Virginia Beach.
SPCA Satellite Center
The overpopulation of the local animal shelter in Virginia Beach, VA created the need for a retail location for this local non-profit group. The SPCA Satellite Center is located in Virginia Beach, VA.
YMCA Corporate Offices
The YMCA Corporate Office project was a renovated, two-story building in Chesapeake, VA that was transformed into a sleek, elegant, yet fun corporate office space for use by the YMCA of South Hampton Roads.
Twisted Yogurt Bar
Norfolk's "Twisted Yogurt Bar" was a design built from a renovated retail space on the campus of Old Dominion University. The design features a colorful, more artsy feel to set the atmosphere and drive a client base into the bar.