Art in the Staircase: A Step Toward Sustainability

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to identify what type of art can be placed in staircases to increase stair use in the Tupper Building at Dalhousie University. This study has taken data collected from Tupper Building users to present their level of interest in art, themes and depictions which appeal to them the most, and finally, asked what mediums of art would they most desire to be placed in the stairwells within the Tupper Building. The research has examined how art can be used as a tool to increase stair use while contributing to Dalhousie’s sustainability goals. This report recounts a number of studies suggesting that various mediums of art may create a more appealing space for people to interact with. Studies have shown people will engage more with a space if it appeals to them. This study identifies what art forms appeal most to survey respondents; and of equal importance, what they do not like. The goal of the study is to determine what art appeals most to users of the Tupper Building in order to make suggestions that spark a transition away from frequent elevator use. The study features multiple recommendations for Dalhousie University to implement across its campuses. This study also makes recommendations for future research in this field. The researchers hope to spark an innovative sustainable initiative, which will be adopted by Dalhousie University and other institutions.