Author Intro of Arch & Rec
Competitive Runner + Outdoor Enthusiast + Health Designer
Hello friends, welcome to Arch & Rec. — an inclusive, friendly, and informative space where design thinking explores healthy environments that actively move and motivate us.
The study of healthy environments is a relatively new field, having been developed over the past three decades in Toronto, Canada, with a focus on the health of the planet, the public, and our way of life. It was eventually adopted by the WHO. I aim to share stories and accurate data that capture our current state and the potential futures of healthy environments in enhancing our quality of life — physically, mentally, and spiritually, as defined by the concept of health.
As I approach three decades, I strive to find the missing links between design, physical, and mental health. The spaces that are shaped around us, in turn, shape our habits and thinking about our way of life. I recently completed a dual master's degree in architecture and urban design in the spring of 2025, along with a certificate in healthy cities. Throughout my final year of schooling, I contributed to healthy environments through my studies, and now I aspire to use this platform to underscore the importance of healthy living.
As a competitive runner and outdoor enthusiast, my appreciation for human movement and limitations drives my passion for functional spaces where we live, work, and play. I’ve lived in Detroit and San Francisco, studied in Paris for two months, enjoyed Amsterdam, and now I am in Ann Arbor living my post-master’s life as a young professional. I continue to learn by observation, reading, and applying design thinking. My goal is to involve you and give you a front-row seat to my explorations, both in studies and individual goals, such as training to become a competitive runner again (aka running my first half-marathon this fall) and helping guide you in promoting healthy movement in your local environment.
So here’s to finding, learning, and appreciating more of what healthy environments can do for us and what we can do in return. All thoughts are welcome, all voices are heard, and all stories are to be shared.🏙
-Lo Pettinga
For a quick snapshot of Arch and Rec, follow along on Instagram @arch_and_rec.