Examining a Single Space ....

With credit to Charlton Jones -


Here's a list of the opportunities that are possible in a single space or room :

1. What is the unit of space in terms of its relationship of height, width and depth?

2. How do the walls, floor and ceiling relate? Are there any particular relationships, i.e. solid to voids, voids to voids, etc.?

3. Is there a center or focus to the space and how is it made?

4. On entering the space, what is your position within the space?

5. What are the parts or pieces, and how does each set of parts relate in their position?

6. In consideration of the parts, and in particular their "spacing" (equidistant, alignment, etc.), are there other spaces formed within the larger place (wall thickness, balconies, beams, etc.)?

7. How are the "spaces" made in the sub-spaces noted above?

8. How do the sub-spaces relate to each other and to the overall formation of the place (size, shape, direction, proportion - of the volume)?

9. How many ways can the organization of the spaces of the place be understood - are there "multiple readings"?

10. Overall, are there pervading qualities or repeating characteristics which develop "unity" of the experience - creating the "spatial image"?

analysis of a plan of a house
designed by Bernard Maybeck

In summary, been in any notable rooms lately?

Can you remember the experience of being in a room and noting the proportions, the relationship of the elements, the great "sub-spaces"?

"Memories lodge in places that are distinct"

Chambers for a Memory Palace
Donlyn Lyndon and Charles Moore

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