Q&A with David Hooley: Designing for the Future of Sports & Leisure - Embracing Accessibility, Inclusivity, and Sustainability
The Sports & Leisure sector is experiencing a significant transformation, driven by the COVID-19 pandemic and a renewed focus on individual health and well-being. The DB3 Sports & Leisure design team, led in part by David Hooley, is at the forefront of this industry transformation. With David’s guidance, the team are well-equipped to tackle the challenges posed by this shift towards more accessible and inclusive spaces, while capitalising on the opportunities it presents. In this Q&A, we spoke to David to learn more about his team’s approach to innovating the sector.
How do you envision the Sports & Leisure industry evolving in the near future, and what implications does that have for your team's approach to design and consultation?
How do you envision the Sports & Leisure industry evolving in the near future, and what implications does that have for your team's approach to design and consultation?
“In recent years, the Sports & Leisure sector has experienced a significant transformation, particularly in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. With more people focusing on individual health and wellbeing, the industry has shifted its attention towards creating more accessible opportunities for general physical activity, moving away from traditional ‘sports’ focused facilities. This change has led to an increase in the popularity of activities such as walking, cycling, running.
As a result of this shift, the Sports & Leisure sector has a real opportunity to promote and encourage increased participation in facilities within communities. The key to success lies in how these facilities adapt and develop to meet the evolving needs of the community. To achieve this, there has been a heightened level of consultation with potential partners, including local councils, health organisations, and community groups. The aim of these consultations is to develop new wellness hubs that offer a range of services and activities tailored to the needs of the local community.”
What steps are you taking to prepare the Sports & Leisure design team for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, and what new skills and capabilities do you see as essential for success in the future?
What steps are you taking to prepare the Sports & Leisure design team for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, and what new skills and capabilities do you see as essential for success in the future?
“As Sports & Leisure consultants, we recognise the importance of being proactive in preparing ourselves for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Our team is constantly seeking to keep pace with the trends and developments in our industry, and we make significant investments in training to ensure we have the necessary skills and knowledge to innovate and produce high-quality work.
One of the key areas we focus on is sustainability, which is a driving theme in the public facilities we develop. We place a strong emphasis on both environmental and financial sustainability, and our in-house specialist net-zero and Passivhaus skills are shared with all members of our team through regular workshops and training seminars.
In addition to sustainable design principles, we believe that familiarity with emerging technologies is essential for success in the future. The rapid pace of technological change means that we must remain informed about the latest tools and techniques to remain competitive. Our team stays up to date with the latest sector trends to ensure that we can provide cutting-edge solutions for our clients.”
What strategies do you use to ensure that your designs are inclusive and accessible to a wide range of users, including people with disabilities?
What strategies do you use to ensure that your designs are inclusive and accessible to a wide range of users, including people with disabilities?
“At DB3, we prioritise accessibility and inclusivity as fundamental design themes on all of the projects we undertake. Our approach involves identifying and eliminating barriers that could potentially limit participation across all spectrums of society. We believe that our buildings should reflect the needs of our communities, providing access to as many facilities and services as possible, to as many people as possible.
Our focus on accessibility and inclusivity is not only socially responsible, but also has far-reaching positive effects on the health, sport, and community facilities we deliver. Our clients share our passion for serving their communities and supporting them to achieve their goals through these schemes is incredibly rewarding for our team.
We believe that designing with accessibility and inclusivity in mind benefits everyone, not just those with disabilities. It encourages more diverse participation, enhances user experiences, and ultimately contributes to the overall success of the project. Our commitment to creating truly inclusive environments remains steadfast, and we look forward to continuing to make a positive impact in the communities we serve.”
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