Chapter 5

Circulation

Building Approach is the preception of a building from a distance.  The approach to a building may vary in distance, view, and continuity with the surrounding enviroment.  The entance may be frontal, oblique or spiral.  

A frontal approach guides us along a direct, paramount lane.  This lane has a clear end, the entrance of the building.  

An oblique approach plays off the vantage point of the vaneer and the entire form of the building.  An oblique lane of enrty may by redirected numerous times in order to enhance the experience of entering the building.  

A spiral entry exaggerates the approach of the building so that we may experience the formand space from all angles.  As the lane of entry leads around the perimeter of the building, the entrance may be viewed at different points during the approach or it my remain obscured until the end.

Building entrances are the transition from the exterior to the interior of a building.  The act of entering requires a perpendicular structure that defines one space from another. An entrance may be as simple as a hole in a wall, a beam and pillars , or a threshold; or it may be complex and elaborate.  

Entrances are arranged into three groups:  flush, projected and recessed.  A flush entry is a cohesion of the exterior wall.  A projected entry constructs a variable space that provides overhead coverage to the entry way.  A recessed entry also provides shelter as in carves the  entrance into the buildings form.  Entry ways may be a preview of the space about to be entered or may be unique to the space in order to underscore the the seperation of the exterior and interior space.

The entrance may be visually enhanced by making the entryway opening lower, wider or narrower the expected.  The entrance may also be enhanced if it is meandering or deep.  Many times the entrance of a building is distinguished by an embellished entry ways.

Configuration of the path is a linear avenue with ab distinct beginning that directs through a series of spaces to a destination. The delineation of the path is determined by the way and manner in which the path will be followed.  ie: pedestrian, cyclist, cars etc.  

The traverse of two or more paths give the traveler a point at which alternative routes may be explored.  The continuance  and proportion of the path helps differentiate major routes and spaces from minor routes and spaces.  The nature of composition and structure of a path is both determined by and determines the organization of spaces and forms that it brings together.  

All paths are linear in nature.  These linear paths may take on the nature of being curved or segmented, having interchanges, with various branches and hoops. 

A radial path leads to or from a pivotal site in the space.

A spiral path is one path that begins at a central point and orbits out at increasing intervals.

A grid path is made up of two parallell lines that cross in consistant sequences forming a geometric pattern of square shapes.  

A network path is made up of serveral different trails that lead to and bring together different points in a field.

Building spaces generally use a  composite or combination of these path configurations.  A stratified system of paths , building forms and spaces are created and emphasized by varying placement, shapes, size and span .

Path-Space relationship may be translated in three ways:  pass by spaces, pass through spaces and terminate in a space. 

Pass by spaces preserve the individaulity of each space.  The contour of the path traveled is adjustable.  Arbitrary spaces may be placed along the joining path. 

Pass through spaces do just that, they literally pass through a space at a given point. By passing through the space different patterns of flow and shift are created in the form.

In the terminate in a space, the emphasized space determines the path to be followed.  The path established leads directly to and ends at the entrance of the determined space.

The form of circulation space is designed to entertain the flow of people in a location. The form of circulation space changes based on: the defined space; how the space relates to the joining spaces;  the nature of light, size, scale, and perspective; various entrances; various levels in the spaces linked by stairways and ramps.

The form of a circulation space may be enclosed completely, open on one side or open on both sides.  The size and scale of a circulation space is determined by the amount of travel that it must handle.  A tight path urges forward movement.  This space is expaneded to encourage stopping and observing the space.  An expansive space may have no pre-determined path, but the movement may be altered by the activities taking place or an adjustment of accessories in the space.

Stairways allow for movement between levels of a space. A stairwell should be broad enough to allow for easy passage.  The height and width of stairs vary according to the nature and purpose of the building.  Landing provide a break in the stairs which allow for a pause or change in movement.  Stairs are designed to allow for a change in level, movement or course of travel. There are five main configurations of stairways: straight run, L-shaped, U-shaped, circularand spiral.

Stairways may be carved into the design of a building as a volumetric solid. They may wrap around the edge of a space.  Stairs may be placed in a thin uninviting shaft between walls or have large steps that spill out from large inviting landings.  Stairways are three-dimensional structures that may appear as a freestanding or fixed sculpture in a room.