Chapter IV

Spatial Relationships:

Space within a space is when a smaller space is within the boundaries of a larger space.  Perceptual and structural harmony can exist between the two spaces , however, the lesser space's relationship to the exterior is contingent on the larger space.

The size and integrity of the two spaces is dependent on each other. The relationship between the two spaces changes if either space increases or decreases in size.

The space is made more interesting by the inner structure. The two spaces may share the same shape but the outer space becomes more dramatic if the inner space is set in a different direction. Or the inner structure may take a different shape building on the importance and difference of each individual space.

Interlocking Space is when two individual structures are merged together and share a common space.  Each space remains separate, however the married space may be defined in different ways:

The joined space may share the same volume of each structure.

The joined space may merge completely into one of the structures.

The joined space may become independent of the two original structures.

Adjacent space is when a common border joins two individual structures. This is the most common relationship between two spaces.  Each space remains independent in its form and function.  The plane that both separates and joins the forms determines the relationship between the spaces.

The plane that separates the forms allows limited access between the structures re-enforcing the structural integrity and individuality of each space.  The adjacent spaces may appear as one freestanding structure.  In some cases, the space may be divided by  a row of columns which allows for the separate spaces that appear as one.   The spaces may also be divided by a change in height, material or texture; the spaces may appear as one single structure divided by some form of change. 

Spaces linked by a common space.  Two independent structures may be related and joined by a third structure.  This third, intermediate space, determines the visual and spacial relationship between the entire structure.  The third space may vary in orientation and structure.  All three spaces may be equal in size, shape and space.  The third space may become linear to link the two independent spaces.  The third space may be a large enough to become the dominant space or it may be a secondary structure with its shape determined by the two spaces being joined.

Spatial organizations

Centralized organization contains a number of secondary spaces formed around a dominant space in the center of the structure.  The central space is generally a large regular shape.  The secondary shapes may be equal in size and form creating a symmetrical, geometric structure; or they may be in different size and form meeting individual requirements of the structure. 

Centrally organized structures are non-directional; therefore, an entry must be specified. 

A centrally organized structure may have varying forms of movement (spiral, radial or loop) which all come to an end in the central space.

A central organization may be interior or exterior space.

Linear organization is a series of structures that are directly related by individual linear spaces around them.  Linear organization is generally made up by repeating spaces.  Each structure in the sequence has an exterior exposure.  Although, structures of importance may occur anywhere in the sequence, they are sometimes placed in a sequential location that emphasizes their importance. ie. the end of a sequence, a sequence pivot point or off set from the sequence.  Structures of importance placed in the sequence often vary in size or form.

Linear organization is used to express direction, movement and growth.  Linear organization leads to another space, form or entrance. Linear organization has endless possibilities and can adopt to the surrounding environment.  Linear organization can bring together and organize other forms, serve as a barrier to separate forms, or enclose forms in a limited space.

Radial organization brings together central and linear organization by having a central space from which several linear spaces emerge.  The radial arms are capable of reaching out and linking together distinct spaces and structures.  The center of a radial is generally a regular shape  while the arms may vary in order to meet specific form and function. 

Clustered organization does not depend on a regular geometric shape, therefore, it is flexible and can grow without disrupting the integrity of the design.  Clusters depend on physical location to relate the spaces to one another.  Clusters may be organized on repetitive spaces, common shapes or a common axis.  They may be grouped around an entry way, a pathway or to form a loop.  A cluster may be organized around a central pattern, a clustered pattern or a contained space.  Size, form and orientation dictate importance within a cluster because there is no one place of importance.  A cluster may be unified and better organized by the use of symmetry or a axis.

Grid organization is determined by a three dimensional grid pattern.  It is a structure of repetitive space and pattern that forms the skeleton on which a structure is formed.  A grid may be added to, subtracted from or layered on in order to define the space and allow a space to grow or adapt to the surrounding area.  A grid may undergo countless changes on order to make the  necessary adjustments in a form.