Selected Bibliography Architecture - Form Space and Order | Page 237

CL U STE RED O RGANIZATIO NS

Repetitive spaces

Sharing a common
shape

Organized by an axis

Clustered about an entry

Grouped along a path

A loop path

Centralized pattern

Clustered pattern

Contained within a space

A clustered organization relies on physical proximity
to relate its spaces to one another. It often consists
of repetitive, cellular spaces that have similar
functions and share a common visual trait such as
shape or orientation. A clustered organization can
also accept within its composition spaces that are
dissimilar in size, form, and function, but related to
one another by proximity or a visual ordering device
such as symmetry or an axis. Because its pattern
does not originate from a rigid geometrical concept,
the form of a clustered organization is flexible and
can accept growth and change readily without
affecting its character.
Clustered spaces can be organized about a point of
entry into a building or along the path of movement
through it. The spaces can also be clustered about a
large defined field or volume of space. This pattern is
similar to that of a centralized organization, but
it lacks the latter’s compactness and geometrical
regularity. The spaces of a clustered organization
can also be contained within a defined field or volume
of space.
Since there is no inherent place of importance
within the pattern of a clustered organization, the
significance of a space must be articulated by its
size, form, or orientation within the pattern.

Symmetry or an axial condition can be used to
strengthen and unify portions of a clustered
organization and help articulate the importance of
a space or group of spaces within the organization.
Axial conditions

Axial condition

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Symmetrical condition