Did you know: nearly a quarter of the adult population is physically inactive? Think about it, in your office right now, about 23% of us don’t get the recommended levels of physical activity as suggested by the World Health Organization.
Although WHO suggests 30 minutes, 3 days a week of cardio to get you breathing (nothing heavy, just enough for some breathing) and 2 days a week of strength training, the WELL Building Standard offers an opportunity for people to step away from their sedentary work, and go for an enjoyable walk down corridors and up/down stairs.
As part of the WELLness Series, I wanted to highlight: Feature V03: Movement Network and Circulation, Part 1: Design Aesthetic Circulation Networks
This feature’s intent is to: Promote daily physical activity and movement through the design of the circulation network. As an optimization, it’s worth 1 point – but, can have a huge impact on the spaces we design!
Hallways:
Hallways within the project boundary are aesthetically designed through the inclusion of at least two of the following per floor:
- Music.
- Artwork.
- Light levels of at least 215 lux [20 fc] when in use.
- Views of an interior atrium, courtyard or daylight via windows or skylights.
- Natural design elements (e.g., plants, water features, images of nature).
- Gamification.
Staircases:
At least one staircase or other active paths between floors (e.g., ramps) is open to regular building occupants, services all floors of the project and is an aesthetically designed through the inclusion of at least two of the following per floor:
- Music.
- Artwork.
- Light levels of at least 215 lux [20 fc] when in use.
- Views of an interior atrium, courtyard or daylight via windows or skylights.
- Natural design elements (e.g., plants, water features, images of nature).
- Gamification.
So, how does this affect your home?
Think about how you move about your home. Stairs or no stairs, do you ever stop to appreciate all your home has to offer – even if it’s just the hallway?