Selected Bibliography Architecture - Form Space and Order | Page 231

R AD IAL O RGANIZATIO NS

A radial organization of space combines elements of both
centralized and linear organizations. It consists of a dominant
central space from which a number of linear organizations
extend in a radial manner. Whereas a centralized organization
is an introverted scheme that focuses inward on its central
space, a radial organization is an extroverted plan that
reaches out to its context. With its linear arms, it can extend
and attach itself to specific elements or features of its site.

As with centralized organizations, the central space of a
radial organization is generally regular in form. The linear arms,
for which the central space is the hub, may be similar to one
another in form and length and maintain the regularity of the
organization’s overall form.

The radiating arms may also differ from one another in order
to respond to individual requirements of function and context.

A specific variation of a radial organization is the pinwheel
pattern wherein the linear arms of the organization extend
from the sides of a square or rectangular central space.
This arrangement results in a dynamic pattern that visually
suggests a rotational movement about the central space.

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