Fat-Friendly Design

Over one-third of the adult U.S. population is plus-size, but you would never know it based on our seating options. Without readily available best practices, architects and designers can unintentionally create spaces that are uncomfortable or even painful for plus-size individuals. Everyone deserves to have a seat at the table, and it’s time we shape best practices and spaces that reflect this.

A Seat at the Table

To better understand how to make fat-friendly spaces, Holst’s Inclusive Design Facilitator Hannah Silver partnered with Rebecca Alexander, Founder and CEO of AllGo. In 2019, they reached out to Portland’s plus size community, gathering valuable insights through a survey and “Chair Talk” event on how to create environments that are supportive of large peoples’ needs.

Thanks to many participants’ contributions, Hannah, Rebecca, and Poley Creative developed an informative short video (below), workshop, and on-demand course that outlines best practices for selecting furniture and designing spaces that are comfortable for people of all body sizes.

“Fat-Friendly Design” is overlaid on a photo featuring plus-size person sitting at a picnic table enjoying drinks with their friends.

Photo and video by Michael Poley of Poley Creative for AllGo, publisher of free stock photos featuring plus-size people.

A view from the back of PRAx’s large recital hall, looking down at the seats and stage.

Seating Variety in Performance Spaces

Holst’s Oregon State PRAx auditorium features a dozen fat-friendly seats interspersed throughout the venue that can be reserved during ticket sales and are accessible without the use of stairs.

Fat‑Friendly Civic Spaces

Holst’s East County Library features a broad array of furniture options, some with arms, some without, to accommodate different body sizes. The auditorium also incorporates fat-friendly seating.

Accessible Common Spaces

The community room at Francis + Clare Place includes a wide array of seating options, including a cushioned yet firm bench, which is a great option for plus size people – especially when throw pillows are available for further flexibility.