Space, society and construction refurbishment

Abstract

Researchers in the Space Syntax group at UCL have shown distinct sets of patterns relating spatial configurations and observed movement within the built environment. They have also demonstrated how patterns of control and exclusion are implied by spatial organisation. Analytical tools have been developed to measure the extent of these patterns and so enable comparative analysis of different spaces. Axial analysis subjects grids of spaces to modelling through long lines of sight to create axial maps whose properties have been found to be associated with both pedestrian and vehicular movement, in particular, low levels of wayfinding complexity. Visibility Graph Analysis uses areas of visibility from individual points as a basis for mapping the inter-relationship of spaces and associated movement and space use by pedestrians within and between buildings. Such tools have wide application. An example is presented through the examination of the problem of phased construction refurbishment in a combined railway and retailing environment and the effect of such works in reshaping the spatial characteristics of an ongoing business which depends upon public access. Previous research findings are confirmed and demonstrate the usefulness of Space Syntax analysis in predicting the effect of spatial disruption in a commercial environment. © 2006 RICS, The Bartlett School, UCL and the contributors First published