Architecture of Transition

Topic

Architecture of Transition

Our daily life can be characterized by the complex range of activities that we partake in.  We are inevitably on journeys, both long and short, to and from activities.  In movement. We spend a large amount of our time coming and going from one place to another, which presents an incredible opportunity to choreograph inspiring and dynamic experiences in even the most fleeting of transition spaces. 

Issue

As our buildings today get more and more complex, involving a multitude of mixed-use programmatic requirements, spanning across numerous levels with various connections above and below ground in between, it can be extremely challenging to navigate and move through various spaces. The lack of consistency with human spatial cognition processes can lead to difficulties in orientation and way-finding and have a negative effect on one’s well-being, as well as result in functional circulation deficiencies.

Position

Using architecture as the primary guiding medium to navigate through and between spaces has the potential to trigger a powerful positive impact on one’s perceptions and provide an enhanced and intriguing spatial experience.

Strategies

1. The role of narrative structure in architecture – spatial cognition and interdependent relationships; how messaging and meaning are conveyed to the viewer through the architecture

2. The Body in Motion – Sensory and tactile relationships; perceptual experience of the moving user

3. Spatial Hierarchy and landmarks – unique nodes marking significant moments along the journey