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Guide to Creating Size-Inclusive Space at UC Davis

Size inclusive spaces allow everyone to feel comfortable, welcomed and valued. Here are some tips to help you create size inclusive spaces on campus.

Physical Spaces

Celebrate and Showcase Diversity in Your Space

Feature diverse body types in photographs and artwork. People need and want to see themselves in your space.

Be Intentional About Furniture

  • Choose chairs that are between 19”- 22” tall. It’s OK to have chairs that are taller or shorter – just make sure you also
    provide some that are in that range.
  • Check weight ratings and choose options with at least 400 lb. limit.
  • Ensure tables and desks are completely separate from chairs. Combination chair-desks are not comfortable for the vast majority of people.

Choose a variety of seating options. For example, not every chair has to be armless but there should be plenty of armless options available.

Create a Spacious Layout

Make sure you provide enough space for people to move around furniture, even when the furniture is occupied.

Cozy waiting area with green chairs, two people seated, and framed portraits on the walls.

People

Educate Yourself and Your Team

Complete the Cultivating Body Inclusivity at UC Davis training to improve your understanding of the impacts of weight stigma and how you can create a size inclusive culture on campus.

Train Staff

Provide training for staff members on size inclusivity, sensitivity, and how to serve individuals of all body sizes without bias or discrimination.

Promote Body-Positive Messaging

Use language and imagery in your space that promotes body positivity and diversity. Avoid promoting unrealistic body standards or using language that stigmatizes certain body types.

Avoid Diet and Body Talk

Don’t comment on other people’s appearances, bodies and food they are eating.

Seek Feedback and Listen

Actively seek feedback from students, staff and faculty of diverse body sizes. Listen to their experiences and suggestions
for improvement.

A group of six people engage in a discussion in a modern conference room.

Events

If you’re using folding chairs or temporary seating, check the weight limit to ensure people in larger bodies feel comfortable sitting in the chairs at your event.

Allow plenty of space between rows and chairs for people to move freely without touching other people.

Students seated in a classroom, facing a lecturer and two screens displaying charts.

Resources