ARABIS, ANDRE NICHOLE D.

1/22/2024
BS-ARCH 3-5 PLANNING 01

ACTIVITY NO. 08: ANALYSIS OF FIVE DIFFERENT SPATIAL CONFIGURATIONS

What is spatial configuration? Spatial configuration refers to the arrangement of physical

elements within a built environment, such as buildings, rooms, and open spaces. Spaces can be
arranged in several basic ways to define the specific functional and visual requirements such as
accessibility, privacy, and orientation. It is usually considered, especially architects as it creates
functional, aesthetically pleasing, and purposeful design. Here are the some of the following
spatial configurations that can be used to plan a space conceptually:

LINEAR ARRANGEMENT
is composed of a series of spaces placed next to each other in a direct line
that can be straight, curvilinear, or segmented. These spaces can also be
directly linked through a separate common space. A plan that consists of a
central, dominant space with supporting spaces grouped around it or
extending from it is called a nucleus arrangement. These supporting areas
can be in geometric or organic shapes and can extend from the nucleus in
a linear or a radial manner. These areas can be similar or contrasting in
shape and function. Some of the advantages of this type of linear
arrangement are efficient use of spaces (particularly on narrow or
elongated sites), flexibility and adaptability (can be easily adapted to
changing needs and functions), strong sense of connection to the
surrounding environment, and emphasis on movement and progression. One of its
examples is the Terrace housing in Franzfort; the arrangement of the residence at this
housing are made in linear fashion and repetitive modules.

GRID ARRANGEMENT
A grid arrangement is created by a regular pattern of points located at the
intersections of two sets of parallel lines laid perpendicular or at an axis to each
other. The grid creates equal, repetitive units of space. Various spatial
configurations can evolve within the grid while maintaining a constant reference
to the grid pattern. For example, in a large industrial building, structural bays (or
spaces) may be subdivided into smaller units, but with the grid pattern still
evident in the column and beam spacing. In architecture, structural systems are
usually designed in a grid pattern to use fewer materials, to provide better
structural qualities, and to simplify construction methods. Some of its
advantages are order and efficiency (it simplifies navigation, transportation, and infrastructure
development), fairness and equity (provides equal access to land and resources for all), and
social cohesion (public spaces with grid foster community interaction and a sense of shared
identity). One of its examples is the Himeji Castle, Japan; the plan contains long and narrow
buildings with varying shapes placed in an irregular, but like grid like manner.
 CLUSTERED ARRANGEMENT
It relies on proximity to relate spaces to one another. Often, they consist of
repetitive cellular space that have certain visual qualities in common. It also
involves grouping or clustering related areas or functions together within a
larger environment. Clustering spaces can have several advantages, such as
promoting efficiency, enhancing collaboration, and creating distinct zones
within a larger area. It has a central focal point or uniting central form;
however, it lacks the regularity and symmetry of a centralized organization.
The center form can be emphasized to create a greater sense of hierarchy.
Advantages of clustered planning includes preservation of open space
(leaving open areas between clusters helps maintain green spaces and contributes to
environmental benefits), increased density and efficiency, enhance community building,
improved walkability, and public transportation (as it supports walkable and bikeable
communities, making public transportation more efficient), and flexibility and adaptability. One of
its examples is the Sydney opera house in Australia; its major elements are different in size and
are placed in proximity.

RADIAL ARRANGEMENT
Is a combination of linear and centralized arrangements. It has a central
focal point from which linear forms radiate from. It involves arranging
spaces and elements around a central point or axis. This layout radiates
outward, creating a symmetrical or asymmetrical pattern with spaces,
pathways, or features extending from a central focal point. We can see the
radial planning executed in the pla of Auroville in Pondicherry; it was
designed with the dominating sphere-like structures at its center with the
other buildings and courtyards around it. Some of its advantages are its
strong visual impact, efficient circulation, sense of hierarchy and focus, and its adaptability to
different functions.

CENTRALIZED ARRANGEMENT
Is composed of dominant central space, with secondary spaces grouped
around it. It is usually regular in form and large enough to gather smaller
spaces about its perimeter. The secondary space may be equal in size or
shape to create a more balanced composition around the central space. It
also involves organizing spaces and elements around a central point or
core. This design approach often places emphasis on a central focal point,
which influences the layout of surrounding areas. St Peter’s Basilica used
centralized arrangements with linear spatial arrangements on either side.
Some of its advantages in planning are its strong sense of unity and coherence, emphasis on
central space, and its flexibility and adaptability.
Which among them is the most ideal configuration that achieves the best visual
aesthetics?
Among the five spatial arrangements, the most eye catching and the most aesthetically pleasing
is the radial spatial arrangement. It combines both centralized and linear configurations. This
layout radiates outward, creating a symmetrical or asymmetrical pattern with spaces, pathways,
or features extending from a central focal point. Although it may be pleasing to my eyes, it still
depends on various factors such as the context, design intent, and individual preferences. It
shows visually striking and harmonious arrangements by it symmetrically and balanced
arrangements (elements radiate outward from a central point. This symmetry can create visually
balanced composition that is inherently pleasing), focal point (draws attention of the users and
provides a sense of order), spatial hierarchy (central area being emphasized), cohesiveness
(unified designs, especially when applied consistently across various elements within a space),
natural and organic feels (as it often mimic patterns found in nature), and efficient use of space
(Radial arrangements can be efficient in organizing spaces around a central core, optimizing the
use of available space. This efficiency can contribute to a clean and purposeful aesthetic.). We
can see the radial planning executed in the planning of Auroville in Pondicherry (see figure 1); it
was designed with the dominating sphere-like structures at its center with the other buildings
and courtyards around it.

Figure 1. Aerial view of Auroville in Pondicherry

Img src: https://whereisthenorth.com/types-of-spatial-organization-principles-to-follow-while-
designing-spaces/

REFERENCES:
https://bpb-us-e1.wpmucdn.com/blogs.uoregon.edu/dist/1/16101/files/2018/04/Ching_Ch-4-
Organization_FormSpaceOrder-vikn3p.pdf
https://www.yourownarchitect.com/spatial-organization-in-architecture/
https://whereisthenorth.com/types-of-spatial-organization-principles-to-follow-while-designing-spaces/