In studio we have learned how to analyze and evaluate spaces. Five ways to do this is through the factors of preferential, symbolic, behavioral, compositional, and pragmatic evaluation. By using a pragmatic approach we can see how the design of the space above relates to the design decisions based on the function of the space.
The space above is a meeting room that would typically be found in a large corporate company. Therefore, the function of the space is simply to hold professionally conducted meetings. In order for the space to be designed properly with its function in mind the existing conditions needed to be addressed. The existing shape of the room is rectangular with the center portion of the ceiling elevated, also the room is surrounded by windows on at least two sides. With these factors already established, the designer had to make the decision of how to properly design the room to make it functional for the needs of the users (i.e. professional, private, focused, business oriented). Having that in mind, it looks as if the designer wanted the space to seem longer. In order to create this exaggeration a long rectangular table was used. Following that the designer turns to the ceiling to reiterate their purpose. By taking full advantage of the extra space created by the elevated portion of the ceiling the designer painted black lines that run horizontal, reiterating the length of the room. The recessed lights on the lowered sides parallel those black lines, again reinforcing the length. By using light fixtures that run perpendicular to the sides of the room the designer created a contrast that helps keep the space interesting. On the window walls the designer has used wood blinds to create a more private atmosphere while still allowing the light come in.
The space above is a meeting room that would typically be found in a large corporate company. Therefore, the function of the space is simply to hold professionally conducted meetings. In order for the space to be designed properly with its function in mind the existing conditions needed to be addressed. The existing shape of the room is rectangular with the center portion of the ceiling elevated, also the room is surrounded by windows on at least two sides. With these factors already established, the designer had to make the decision of how to properly design the room to make it functional for the needs of the users (i.e. professional, private, focused, business oriented). Having that in mind, it looks as if the designer wanted the space to seem longer. In order to create this exaggeration a long rectangular table was used. Following that the designer turns to the ceiling to reiterate their purpose. By taking full advantage of the extra space created by the elevated portion of the ceiling the designer painted black lines that run horizontal, reiterating the length of the room. The recessed lights on the lowered sides parallel those black lines, again reinforcing the length. By using light fixtures that run perpendicular to the sides of the room the designer created a contrast that helps keep the space interesting. On the window walls the designer has used wood blinds to create a more private atmosphere while still allowing the light come in.
Considering these observations, answer one of the following:
Do you think the designer was successful at creating a space with its function in mind? If so, why? If not, what would you have done differently?
What kind of effect do you think this space would have had if the ceiling was all one height? If there weren’t any windows?
Image found at : www.jja.in/services/interiors.html
I feel that the designer took advantage of the rectangular shape of the space to bring emphasis towards the projector screen on the back wall. This is important to keep people engaged during presentations. Since windows are a part of the existing building, wood blinds were added not only for privacy, but also to reduce glare on the screen. The designer then enforced the focal point even more through repetition by adding the recessed lighting fixture, furniture, table set-ups, and so on. The large space also allows more room for circulation despite the large table being the dominant feature in the space. If the space had a lower ceiling, the designer would not have been able to add additional dropped elements to the ceiling since it would make the space seemed smaller. However, a lowered ceiling would allow for softer communication and reduce echoes. If there were not any windows, the designer would have to provide extra lighting in order to keep people focus and awake during the meeting.
ReplyDeleteSeveral methods were employed by the designer to create a warm, welcoming environment for the company’s employees and visiting presenters. The designer effectively used light to capture the attention of users within the space and to keep them easily engaged in their work. By using blinds, the natural light within the space has been filtered in order to keep users psychologically interested, yet not distracted by bright light. Also, the blinds limit visibility from surrounding areas, thus keeping focus within the space. The amount of lighting within the space is also adequate for business transactions to progress effectively. The designer uses ergonomically-friendly furniture within the space in order to capture and retain the audience of users during long meetings and presentations. The chairs surrounding the table feature lumbar support and most likely have adjustable armrests. These chairs have the ability to keep clients and employees comfortable, which in turn increases overall productivity.
ReplyDeleteAs Jessica stated earlier, the strong use of horizontal line creates a central focus on the presentation projector screen, effectively capturing and retaining client/employee interest. Warmth is created within the space through the warm accents of the yellow legal pads and the warm wooden blinds. These pops of color unite the room in producing overall warmth that retains comfort, yet does not become distracting. Overall, the designer was quite effective in creating a successful conference meeting room for both the corporate employees and the company's clients.