Active Design utilizes design and architectural concepts that make healthy physical activity a natural part of life in and around buildings. It has been proven to help combat the current endemic of obesity and diabetes linked to sedentary lifestyle and poor nutrition.

UAI is committed to creating buildings that excel not only in function, energy efficiency, safety and design, but also in fostering health, well-being and happiness.A strong focus on active design has been an integral part of our work. We look at every building and every design decision as a new opportunity to make lives better.

How to successfully incorporate active design features into a building

Our guiding principle is to make Active Design features as inviting, attractive and easily accessible as possible to maximize their use. Here is how:

mixed-use development

Grand Staircases in direct view of the lobby entrance leading to community spaces and stair tower.

Public staircase at Odyssey Park Avenue connecting the ground floor lobby to the cellar program areas

Health and Fitness Centers for children and adults, centrally located and visible from the entry.

fitness center at 715 Soundview Avenue

UAI has provided health and fitness centers at Odyssey Park Avenue, 715 Soundview Avenue, 880 Tinton Avenue, and 495 East 16th street

Community Gardens to promote locally grown fruits and vegetables for a healthy diet.

community garden at 715 Soundview Avenue

Community and Laundry Rooms located directly adjacent to yards to promote use.

715 soundview avenue

community room at 715 Soundview Avenue

Children’s Playgrounds located in secure and easily accessible locations.

playground at 91 Junius Street

Playground at Greenhope Services for Women’s Kandeke House. Additionally, UAI has designed playgrounds at 91 Junius Street and Mary Mitchell.