The Center for Active Design

The Center for Active Design (CfAD) is a non-profit organization that promotes design solutions and strategies to create healthy and engaged communities. It was founded in 2012 and is based in New York City, United States.

The mission of the Center for Active Design is to use design as a catalyst for improving public health and well-being. They work with architects, urban planners, developers, and policymakers to integrate health-promoting features into the built environment. By focusing on design principles, they aim to create spaces that encourage physical activity, social interaction, access to nature, and healthy behaviors.

The Center for Active Design offers evidence-based resources, research, and guidelines that help professionals incorporate active design principles into their projects. They have developed the Active Design Guidelines, a comprehensive manual that provides strategies and recommendations for creating environments that support physical activity, mental health, and overall well-being. These guidelines cover various aspects, including active transportation, access to open spaces, stair usage, and healthy food options.

In addition to their guidelines, the Center for Active Design organizes educational events, workshops, and webinars to promote the adoption of active design practices. They also collaborate with cities, organizations, and community groups to implement active design strategies on a larger scale.

By emphasizing the importance of active design, the Center for Active Design aims to address public health challenges such as obesity, chronic diseases, and sedentary lifestyles. They believe that well-designed environments can have a positive impact on people's physical and mental health, leading to healthier and more vibrant communities.