Selected Bibliography Architecture - Form Space and Order | Page 280

C ON FIG URAT I ON OF T H E PAT H

1. Linear
All paths are linear. A straight path, however, can be
the primary organizing element for a series of spaces. In
addition, it can be curvilinear or segmented, intersect
other paths, have branches, or form a loop.
2. Radial
A radial configuration has linear paths extending from
or terminating at a central, common point.
3. Spiral
A spiral configuration is a single, continuous path that
originates from a central point, revolves around it, and
becomes increasingly distant from it.
4. Grid
A grid configuration consists of two sets of parallel paths
that intersect at regular intervals and create square or
rectangular fields of space.
5. Network
A network configuration consists of paths that connect
established points in space.
6. Composite
In reality, a building normally employs a combination of
the preceding patterns. Important points in any pattern
are centers of activity, entrances to rooms and halls,
and places for vertical circulation provided by stairways,
ramps, and elevators. These nodes punctuate the paths
of movement through a building and provide opportunities
for pause, rest, and reorientation. To avoid the creation of
a disorienting maze, a hierarchical order among the paths
and nodes of a building should be established by differentiating their scale, form, length, and placement.

CIRCULATION / 2 6 5