Design Elements | Traffic Patterns | Space Planning


"The Mechanics of Inspired Environments"
Design is more than an aesthetic dressing on square walls. It is a series of considerations as to how you live in your space. You not only have an affect on your environment, it has affects you.
Design Elements
MOTIF
A central theme or underlying element, as in a work of art or a musical composition. Repeat a motif to create a cohesive look in a space, but change it in scale, color, size, degree of abstraction and application.

PATTERN
A consistent decorative design element that fills an area. Combine diverse patterns by changing some elements of a pattern - such as scale, size of repeat, color, motifs within patterns - and by keeping some consistency through repetition.

TEXTURE
The physical feel and visual appearance of the surface of a material. Look at a space as if it were photographed in black and white to evaluate the texture of a space.

SCALE
The mass or volume of an object or pattern.
  • Select the scale of furnishings that are compatible with the scale of the space. Large space can have large furnishings.
  • Contrast scale by combining slightly different proportions. A "heavy" sofa can be balanced with 2 "medium" chairs but would look awkward with spindly chairs.
  • Contrast vertical and horizontal scale. Tall windows can be balanced with low horizontals of sofas, desks, or long tables.
  • An oversize sofa changes "scale" depending on the upholstery. Bright red leather would "enlarge" it, whereas a medium-to-small repeating pattern in muted colors would "diminish" it.

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Traffic Patterns

STREETS AND SIDEWALKS through your house.
 

  • Evaluate traffic patterns within a space, such as a kitchen, and between spaces, such as doorways to the next room.
  • Traffic patterns should not interrupt work areas or conversational groupings by passing through them.
  • Spaces with the most traffic between them (kitchen / dining) need the least interference. Traffic patterns are based on function and may be compromised due to design constraints, such as a coat closet too far from door.
  • Traffic Patterns are a determining factor in lighting placement and type of lighting specified. Try to light the path through a space.

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Space Planning

DETERMINED BY FUNCTION of space: recreational, dining, cooking, study ...

  • Multi-use spaces must be designed for flexibility. Prioritize use of each function.
  • Create a conversational grouping based on appropriate distances. Create work areas based on function.
  • Does the furniture arrangement support the type of behavior for that space?From "The Hidden Dimension" Edward T. Hall 1969

    For example:
    • Intimate (physical contact) Oversize chair for reading nighttime stories with young children.
    • Personal (1 1/2 to 4 feet apart) "Your reading chair" set slightly apart from the living room sofa.
    • Social (Impersonal, 4 to 12 feet apart) Open kitchen plan with open floor space beyond counter for conversations with your guests.
    • Public (12 to 24 feet apart) Exterior front entry has a transition from public to private space of your home such as a gate, hedge or steps.
  • Determine the primary and secondary focal points of the room and orient the furniture placement to it within the constraints stated above.

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Space Plan Before: Kitchen As-Built




Space Plan After: Kitchen Remodel




Space Plan: Dual Function Living & Dining

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Space Plan: Studio Apartment For Retiree



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Space Plan: One Bedroom Apartment for Retired Couple



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