Organization

SPATIAL RELATIONSHIPS:

          There are not many buildings that are just a single space. They are typically composed of many different spaces that are related to each other by function, proximity, and path of movement. The basic ways spaces of a building can be related to each other are space within a space, interlocking spaces, adjacent spaces, and spaces linked by a common space.

Space within a Space

            A space within a space is when a space is contained within the volume of a larger space. A space within in a space can have a large impact on the spatial relationship between the two spaces depending on how large the contained space is in comparison to the containing space. For instance, if you had a space that contained a smaller space but the smaller space began to increase in size, the larger space would begin to lose its impact on the smaller space. See below a diagrammatic example of a space within a space. 

In the photo below, the highlighted area represents the contained spaces within the larger space

Photo: Wakely, David. Russian River Studio. (2014).

Overlay: Mine

Adjacent Spaces

            Adjacent spaces are spaces that are next to each other and they are related to each other by the space between them. Depending on the shape, size, and space between the two spaces, the adjacent space is impacted differently. See below a diagrammatic example of an adjacent space. 

In the photo below, the highlighted areas represent the two spaces that are adjacent to each other and the area that isn't highlighted represents the space that connects the adjacent spaces.

Photo: Designs, Tervola. Maui Tropical Kitchen. (2013).

Overlay: Mine 

Spaces linked by a common space

            Spaces linked by a common space are when two spaces that are separated are linked together by a third common space. The two spaces linked by the common space can be the same in size and shape, forming a linear organization of spaces. The linking space can also become a linear form linking the two spaces together, such as a hall. See below a diagrammatic example of spaces linked by a common space. 

In the photo below of Emory University & Hospital, the bridge linked the two building on either side of it together.

Photo: Emory University Research Building. (2013).

Overlay: Mine

SPATIAL ORGANIZATIONS:

          Spatial organization refers to the different ways elements of a building may be configured/ organized. Things to consider when choosing a configuration include what the functions of the building is and other demands of the building system, as well as the exterior conditions of the site. The different types of organizations include centralized organization, linear organization, radial organization, clustered organization, and grid organization. Each type of organization is unique in its characteristics and is used for different reasons.

Linear Organization

            A linear organization is a series of spaces that are either linked together by a linear space or directly related to each other. The length that a linear organization has helps to express direction and signify movement. This characteristic also makes linear organizations flexible in that is can easily respond to conditions of its site. The spaces in a linear organization can be the same or vary in size, shape, and function. See below a diagrammatic example of a linear organization. 

See in the photo below, linear organization being used in the arrangement of these buildings.

Photo: Streetdirectory. HBD Linear Green at Bedok. (2011).

Overlay: Mine

Grid Organization

          A grid organization is when forms and spaces are arranged in particular positions in space by the regulated pattern of a grid. A grid is formed by two perpendicular lines with sets of parallel lines that create a pattern of points are each intersection. This system makes for a very organized space of forms. See below a diagrammatic example of a grid organization. 

In the photo below of a section of New York City, we see the grid system being utilized.

Photo: Hovercraftdoggy. New York, New York. (2011).

Overlay: Mine