Place Making and Hierarchy of Space

We intuitively understand that some spaces have greater importance than others. On a domestic scale it seems obvious that our living space should have the best. The living spaces in our homes should have the best outlook, the best natural light and ventilation, the best solar gain, and the best finishings.

It’s no different when designing more complex institutional projects and in particular master planning whole sites. The same principles apply even when master planning whole cities. Where the public come together and enjoy, that greater sense of community should be best space available. The public square should have all the attributes of a place of significance, environmentally protected, easily accessed for all, planned for equity, the highest quality of finish achievable and most importantly honor any cultural heritage.

Arriving at the public square the paving, details and finishes should be increasing in design significance. Urban designers know that manipulating anticipation and building the narrative on approach is key to creating a sense of hierarchy.

All projects have similar challenges and opportunities. The art of architecture, urban design and even finer detailed interior design is to identify the hierarchy of place and space. The journey will lead through served and servant spaces and the joy of order will be revealed as a design narrative.