The American Institute of Architects (AIA) has released strategies and 3D models for retail stores and office spaces to help businesses reopen more safely during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The design strategies provide “a holistic approach to modifying stores and offices using a 17-point architectural, engineering, and administrative framework based upon recent COVID-19 public health information,” according to an AIA news release. The models offer cost-effective options that can be implemented immediately, and suggest design alternatives for creating more flexible spaces, enhancing social connectedness, and reinforcing healthy behaviors.
The information contains descriptions of common hazards and considerations for employers to mitigate them. Resources and strategies were developed by a team of architects, public health experts, engineers, and facility managers using a virtual charrette workshop.
The recommendations are part of the AIA’s “Reopening America: Strategies for Safer Buildings” initiative.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Dec 18, 2018
Development in Africa, Asia, and uptake in air conditioning will require more efficient buildings
Dramatic action will be needed for global building sector to cut carbon in line with international agreements.
Codes and Standards | Dec 14, 2018
Emissions for buildings and construction have peaked, UN says
Greener buildings have led to leveling off of GHGs.
Codes and Standards | Dec 13, 2018
Urban flooding causing economic loss, social disruption, and housing inequality
Extensive suburban development, aging and poorly maintained infrastructure, and more intense rainfall mean more flooding.
Codes and Standards | Dec 12, 2018
California’s transportation problems could prevent state from reaching carbon reduction goals
Governor’s carbon neutral-by-2045 ambitions at odds with car culture.
Codes and Standards | Dec 11, 2018
Strict seismic building codes credited with minimizing damage in Alaskan earthquake
Magnitude 7.0 temblor cracked roads and collapsed road ramps, but buildings held up well.
Codes and Standards | Dec 7, 2018
Florida tops ABC’s 2018 Merit Shop Scorecard rankings
Michigan rose fastest after passing prevailing wage law.
Codes and Standards | Dec 6, 2018
North American steel yields lower GHG emissions than Chinese steel
North American construction steel saves about half of GHG emissions on building project.
Codes and Standards | Dec 5, 2018
Canadian retailer builds net-zero stores
Other chains also boost green efforts with PVs, EV charging stations.
Codes and Standards | Dec 4, 2018
Action on building codes would spur low-carbon cities
Faster retrofit cycles, increased energy-efficiency requirements for existing buildings needed.
Codes and Standards | Nov 30, 2018
Best solution to prevent California wildfire disasters: Stop building in places likely to burn
Approach would be unpopular as people attracted to stunning wooded landscapes.