Evidence-Driven Solutions. People-Centered Results.
Winnersh Triangle, Reading, United Kingdom | Image Courtesy of Frasers Property UK
The Center for Active Design (CfAD) is the preeminent global not-for-profit organization working at the intersection of health, value and the built environment.
We transform design and development practice to support health and ensure equitable access to vibrant public and private spaces that support optimal quality of life.
The Center for Active Design is Leading the Global Movement to Transform Our Environment for People
Our Story
CfAD was launched by Mayor Michael Bloomberg in 2012 to transform Active Design into an international movement. Today, as the certifier of Fitwel, our work has gone global—reaching over 180 countries and informing the design of buildings and infrastructure pects around the world.
Launching Fitwel Certification System in 2017 marked a new chapter in our work. By setting a standard for the real estate industry, Fitwel supports widespread adoption of health-promoting strategies across all asset types.
By translating the global public health and economic evidence base we ensure the Fitwel Standard remains science-based, rigorously maintained, and aligned with real estate priorities—delivering measurable value through healthier, more resilient buildings.
From New York City to global impact, we continue leading the movement that transforms how the built environment supports human health and wellbeing.
Healthy Buildings Drive Value and Impact
Research shows that health-focused strategies enhance tenant satisfaction, boost retention, and can even increase property values while mitigating risk.
Higher Returns
A study from MIT found that buildings certified for health command rents 4.4% and 7.7% higher for certified healthy buildings when compared with non-certified peers.
Health Starts with Place
Up to 40% of a person’s health is influenced by their environment and daily behaviors—both of which are shaped by the built environment.
Backed by Science, Built to Scale
The Fitwel Standard is grounded in over 7,000 peer-reviewed studies - covering public health and economic research
Fitwel Certification has been adopted across 6,000+ assets, impacting more than 5 million people worldwide.
Making the Business Case for Health
CfAD transforms public health research into actionable solutions that extend beyond the Fitwel Standard to drive innovation and inform the global dialogue around how the built environment nurtures quality of life for all people. In a time of evolving risk, our groundbreaking publications deliver critical insights covering investor sentiment and the business case for health across diverse asset types—from industrial to residential to commercial.
Investing in health isn't just good for people—it's a competitive business advantage.
Our research-backed strategies help the real estate industry understand not just the why behind healthy building practices, but the how—providing concrete pathways to enhanced performance, stronger returns, and market differentiation through evidence-based design.
