i wanted to share a little reading on how bringing art and design into more stairwells could actually encourage us to use the stairs more often. i've talked before about the importance of adding art and design into everyday spaces and this is yet another example of how thoughtful design can enhance our lives - and maybe even improve our health!
from the article:
"on average, american adults gain about a pound a year, but some research (PDF) has suggested that just two additional minutes of stair-climbing a day could prevent that gain... design can play an important role in encouraging this, especially in subsidized housing developments where many avoid stairwells that are dirty, dark, and sometimes unsafe."
“with active design we want to entice people to be physically active but we want to make it in a way that’s desirable... humans are stimulated by trees, shade, dappled light, scale of the sidewalks, and perceived safety. understanding all this adds a layer of information for designers and planners.”