Figure 3.9: Daylight characterestics in a space

Orchestration of darkness and light in architecture.

3.1.1.9 Penetration of the Spatial Envelope.

According to Michel (1996), “Articulating such [self-confining] spaces by animated detailing of their boundaries begins to break up the static quality, but that technique is not nearly as effective as actual penetration of the greater spatial envelope by windows, doorways, grilles, or other openings that connect adjacent spaces or subspaces.” Spatial articulation is aimed at breaking the static quality of the space and is best achieved by different openings that allow penetration between two or more spatial envelopes.

Penetration of the spatial envelope dramatizes the depth perception as the space flows through the opening diminishing the power of enclosure. The lighting of the architectural space will depend on the penetration that can be seen in terms of the brightness ratio of the reflected light on the surface against the view from the opening.

Figure 3.13: Louvre Abu Dhabi: Penetration of light dramatising the spaces. (Source: Archdaily)

The relatively bright surface seen against a dark opening enhances the articulation and animation of the spatial envelope. The proportion of the envelope that is penetrated compared against that of the opening, will decide the overall dominance of the building mass in a space.

3.1.1.10 Articulation with Subspaces

Orchestration of darkness and light in architecture.

According toMichel (1996), “One of the most reliable design devices for generating visual interest and creating a stimulating quality of architectural space is the controlled use of subspaces working in harmony with a primary spatial envelop a subspace is one of only partial enclosure, identified by its own spatial envelope, but opening freely to join with the primary space to which it clearly relates.

It can be a spatial inset or an element protruding from the boundaries of its parent space.” A subspace is a partial enclosure that has its own spatial envelope but can be seen as an extension to the primary space merging freely at one of the boundary edges. It affects the overall spatial composition of the parent space depending on the way it has been articulated. The visual framing of the subspaces on the primary envelope should be controlled in terms of its detailing. The two spaces should not compete with one another for attention of the visitor. At all times the primary spatial envelope must remain intact maintaining its own identity and clarity. Color difference can be used to differentiate the primary spatial envelope from the surroundings, so that the articulation by subspacing is not weakened. Lighting levels can vary to mark a gradual transition from one space to another.

3.1.1.11 Spatial Banding

Spatial banding is a design pattern created by the linear strips of structural members. Fascias of floors, as seen through an atrium, are an example of horizontal banding whereas piers and columns would depict vertical banding.

Figure 3.14: Spatial Organisation in architecture. (Source: 50Sa.com)