DYNAMIC CIRCULATION IN ARCHITECTURE : EXPLORING THE FLOW OF PEOPLE,

IDEAS, AND SPACES

Theory of Architecture1

1st Semester 2023-2024

Jude Marco G. Estolas

BSAR - 1F

09632264617

judeestolas@gmail.com

Abigail Encarnacion, MS Arch

Instructor 1
BRIEF INTRODUCTION OF THE PROJECT

According to the Marcus Vitruvius Pollio, a Roman Chatolic architect and engineer, commonly
known as Vitruvius, a well-designed building embodies the three critical elements in architecture called
the Vitruvian Triad, they are firmtas, utilitas, and venustas. Firmitas or durability is a principle that
ensures buildings or structures to be constructed are stable and long-lasting. The principles of venustas
is about the beauty aesthetics and visual qualities of a building. And lastly, and the focus of this research
is the principles of utilitas or utility refers to the functionality and practicality of a building. It involves
the design and arrangement of spaces to serve their intended purposes efficiently. Utility is crucial in
ensuring that a building meets the needs of its occupants and serves its intended functions (Farman,
2021). Architects should design construction projects and redevelopment considering its functionality,
safeness, sustainability, and beauty with the use of their construction knowledge and high-level skills in
drawing (Rowland, 2023).

In the realm of architecture, there exists a complex and dynamic interplay of elements that give
life to the built environment. Among these, "circulation" stands as a cornerstone—a network of paths
and channels that intricately weave together the movement of people, ideas, and spaces within
architectural compositions. Like the veins of a living organism, the people, circulation pulses through
structures, influencing not only the functional efficiency but also the very essence of architectural design
(Hamer, 2020)

This synthesis paper embarks on an exploration of dynamic circulation in architecture, a journey

that traverses the physical and the conceptual. It seeks to unravel the multifaceted layers of circulation,
scrutinizing the ways in which the flow of individuals shapes and is shaped by the built environment.
Beyond the tangible, this inquiry delves into the circulation of ideas in architectural design—how
concepts flow, evolve, and materialize within the creative process.

lll. OBJECTIVES

This study aims to assess the comfort and practicality of commercial or residential spaces by
examining the application of circulation concepts in architectural design. The research seeks to
understand how the organization of circulation within a home impacts the overall convenience,
usability, and quality of life for its occupants. Specifically, this study aims to:

1. Discuss and asses the concepts of Circulation on a deeper level.

2. Examine and synthesize the given concepts and;

3. Apply the synthesized concepts in real-life scenarios.

IV. METHODOLOGY

In order to conduct this research, the researcher used a systematic approach to select credible and
relevant sources. Both online and physical materials are used to ensure a comprehensive and well-
rounded collection of references that is applicable to the needed data for section V. Primary and
secondary information are used. Then, the data gathered was summarized, paraphrased, and directly
quoted in order to preserve the original context and intent of the authors. The information was
organized in a systematic approach to be applied in creating a synthesis framework aiming to highlight
the multifaced layers of circulation in architecture, encompassing the physical and the conceptual.
Illustrations and images from the internet, Architecture: Form and Space, and Order, 2nd Edition, and
hand-drawn by the researcher were used in order to visualize the aforementioned topic.

Throughout the whole research process, ethical considerations were given importance. Proper
citation and referencing of sources were adhered to in order to avoid plagiarism and respect the
intellectual property rights of the author.

V. DISCUSSIONS WITH ILLUSTRATIONS

"Circulation is one of the most influential components of a design". (Schitti, 2013). Schitti asserted
that Circulation somehow serves as the calling card of a building and is somewhat being used as an
important design feature in sophisticated architecture. This can be proven back to the Renaissance
period where one of the showpieces of architecture at that time was the stairs in castles, palaces, and
cultural buildings. This means that these features highly influence the overall design of the structure.
Some great examples of these concepts are the works of Michael Angelo at the Laurentian Library in
Florence and Balthasar Neumann's staircase in the Wuzburg Residence in Germany.

Figure 1. Michael Angelo's sophisticated stairs in the Laurentian Library, Italy

Figure 2. Balthasar Nuemann's marvelous staircase in Wuzburg Residence, Germany

 According to Arch-Monarch (2020), good circulation is a vital aspect of architectural design since
it will affect the safety, accessibility, and comfort of the users of the structure. The design and
arrangement of elements can also play an important role in the occupant's emotions. Since the flow or
arrangement of space can somehow give comfort or a sense of safeness or the opposite to the user of
the space itself. It asserts that architecture is emotional, and that is what differentiates architecture
from a building since it evokes emotion ( Kiesler et al., 1996 ).

Circulation in architecture serves as the guiding path leading to a building's entrance and facade,
seamlessly connecting its various interior and exterior spaces. It is not just a functional necessity but a
perceptual journey that unifies the built environment. (Ching, 1996). Circulation, viewed as a perceptual
element, profoundly influences our perception of architectural forms and spaces, becoming an integral
part of the architectural language. This interplay between circulation and design elements underscores
the importance of architects incorporating circulation as a dynamic and positive force in their creative
endeavors.

The first phase of the Circulation system is the approach. Wherein this stage we tend to prepare
to see, experience, and use the space within the building. There are three types of approaches
depending on the route to be traveled in order to reach the entrance of a building. First is the Frontal
approach. It is simply the leading path towards the entrance of a building in a straight, axial path. The
second is the O blique approach. It is an approach that involves an angled path towards the entrance of
a building. This gives a more visible perspective of the entrance of the building given that the angular
perspective will project the entrance clearly beyond its facade. And lastly, is the Spiral approach. From
the name itself, the path to be traveled in order to reach the entrance of a building is in a spiral manner.
This approach gives a clear three-dimensional form of a building. Given the three sixty path to be
traveled in order to reach the point of entry. (Ching, 1996)

Figure 3. Three types of circulation approaches; Frontal, Oblique, and Spiral, respectively.

This approaches can be applied to the day-to-day life of a student in Bicol University Institute of
Design and Architecture when attending class. The approach from BUCIT road to the main gate of the
East Campus can be considered frontal. Since a straight line will be traveled to reach the entrance.
Figure 4. Frontal approach from BUCIT road to the main gate of the Bicol Universit East Campus.

Considering that you already entered the campus, and you are going to the BUIDeA building you
will be traveling with the oblique approach. You'll travel in a straight path from the gate and will turn left
in order to reach the entrance of the BUIDeA building. This will create an angular path traveled which
simply explains the oblique approach.

Figure 5. Oblique approach from BU East Campus gate to BUIDeA building left side entrance.

Last month, the drainage system on the left side of the BUIDeA building was being repaired.
Going back to that scenario, considering that since you can't travel directly from the main gate of the
East Campus to the entrance of the building, you'll need to travel around the BUIDeA building to the
Chemical Engineer department's building and then enter at the right entrance of the BUIDeA building.
This scenario demonstrates a spiral approach since you traveled in a round path to reach the entrance of
the building.

Figure 6. Spiral approach from BU East Campus to BUIDeA building right side entrance

After experiencing the approaches on how to reach the entrance, let's now have a deeper
understanding of the second element of the circulation, the entrance. As stated by Mosaic Property
(2016), it's crucial to recognize that first impressions hold significant weight. Therefore, the design of a
building's entrance, lobby, and hall is a crucial architectural element. These spaces play an important
role in creating positive and lasting impressions on both residents and visitors as they step into the
building.

A Flush entrance seamlessly blends with the wall's surface, providing a discreet and concealed
entry point. On the other hand, a Projected entrance is designed to create a transition space from the
exterior to the interior of the building. It not only serves as an entry point but also offers an overhead
shelter to those passing through.
 Lastly, a Recessed entrance similarly offers an overhead shelter, while the entry point itself is set
back or recessed from the building's exterior, providing a distinct architectural feature. (Ching, 1996).

Figure 7. Three types of Entrance; Flushed, Projected, and Recessed respectively.

One example of a Flush entrance is the Casa Meztitla, Mexico designed by the firm EDAA. Casa
Meztitla emerges as an intervention within a pristine natural canvas, celebrating the opulent essence of
leisure, the tropical climate, the sun's radiant embrace, the aromatic whispers of nature, the ancient
terraces that have witnessed over five centuries of history, and the ever-watchful presence of the
rugged El Tepozteco mountain. Constructed from raw, weathered stone, the house humbly nestles
beneath the canopy of trees, harmonizing with the lush, vegetation-covered stone slopes. It embodies
the creation of pure space within the natural world, as aptly described by Octavio Paz in 1987 (Archdaily,
2014). A flush entrance simply bridges the gap between the natural environment and the structure
itself. Exhibiting simplicity in a very aesthetic approach.

Figure 8. Casa Meztitla, Mexico designed by the firm EDAA, shows a Flushed entrance.

A notable instance of a Projected entrance can be observed in "The House in La Cañada" by

Ramón Esteve Estudio, situated in Spain. This residence finds its place within a residential area near
Valencia, Spain, characterized by the presence of lush existing vegetation. The incorporation of a
Projected entrance not only aligns seamlessly with the structure's exquisite and highly modern design
but also adds to the overall appeal of the architectural composition.

Figure 9. The House in La Cañada" by Ramón Esteve Estudio, Spain, showing a Projected entrance.
 An exemplary illustration of a recessed entrance in building design is evident in the Central Arizona
College, Maricopa Campus, a project undertaken by SmithGroup. The planning of this structure aimed to
establish a distinctive and genuine identity for the expanding Central Arizona College, ultimately
enhancing its standing in higher education. The building's design concept draws inspiration from the
region's rich agricultural and Native American heritage. The architectural ingenuity is manifested in the
structure's overhangs, which skillfully facilitate a seamless transition from indoor academic spaces to the
outdoors. This design choice not only showcases the historical legacy but also effectively demonstrates a
recessed entrance, providing a unique and inviting dimension to the building's aesthetics (ArchDaily,
2016).

The location of the entrance when entering the form will determine the configuration of path. The
third element of circulation (Ching,1996). The term "configuration of the path" encompasses the
orchestrated sequences of spaces that guide users from a selected initial point to a predetermined
destination. Various architectural configurations can be employed to create these paths, each offering a
unique experience. The diverse approaches to path design enable architects to shape user experiences
in different ways, aligning with the goals and intentions of a particular architectural project (Issuu,
2019).

There are six types of path configurations, namely Linear, Radial, Spiral, Grid, Network, and
Composite. The Linear configuration allows for a path to be traveled in a linear manner, whether it is
curved, segmented, or intersected. The Radial configuration involves multiple paths culminating at, or
extending from, a shared central point. The Spiral configuration is a continuous path that revolves
around a central point. The Grid configuration is formed by two sets of parallel paths that intersect at
regular intervals. The Network configuration involves a series of paths that connect at specific points of
intersection. Lastly, the Composite configuration is simply a combination of different patterns (Ching,
1996).

Figure 10. Illustration of Configuration of Path by Ching (1996).

One example of a configuration of path is Le Corbusier's Museum of Endless/Unlimited Growth,

Philippeville, Alegria, 1939. A building inspired from a shell of a mollusk. And considered one of the
earliest antecedents of an architecture oriented toward the future (Heccrujes, 2017). This building
demonstrates a Spiral configuration of path.
Figure 11. Illustration of the Museum of Endless/Unlimited Growth by Le Corbusier.

The interplay between paths and space represents a fundamental aspect of architectural design,
where the way people move and interact within a given environment directly influences the overall
experience and functionality of that space. This dynamic relationship between paths and space may be
linked in the following ways; pass by Spaces, Pass through Spaces, and Terminate in Space (Ching, 1996).

Pass-by spaces come into play when the integrity of each individual space within an architectural
design is preserved. In such a scenario, the configuration of paths remains flexible, allowing for dynamic
movement within the space. Mediating paths act as connectors, seamlessly linking various spaces within
the design, and ensuring a harmonious and fluid transition from one area to another. This approach not
only encourages efficient circulation but also preserves the distinct character of each space, creating an
architectural composition that prioritizes both functionality and spatial coherence (Ching, 1996).

This concept can be observed within the BUIDeA building. When walking along the hallway, a Pass
by Spaces can be observed. It is when walking along the series of classrooms along the way.

Figure 11. Illustration of Pass by Spaces along the BUIDeA Building

Pass-through spaces are a critical design consideration, particularly when paths are intended to
traverse space in various ways, such as axially, obliquely, or along its edge, or even by cutting through it.
This design concept emphasizes the dynamic and flexible nature of paths within architectural
compositions (Ching, 1996). The inclusion of pass-through spaces showcases the versatility and creativity
in architectural design, where paths are not merely functional but also contribute to the spatial
experience and aesthetics of the environment. Architects use these approaches strategically to achieve
specific design goals and engage users in diverse ways.

The concept of Pass through Spaces can be applied when passing through LCC Legazpi City in order
to reach the other side of the road.

Figure 12. Illustration of Passing through LCC Legazpi City in order to reach the other side of the road.
 The concept of "Terminate in Space" represents a significant aspect of architectural design where
the physical location and arrangement of a space play a crucial role in determining the path that leads to
it. In this design approach, the path is intrinsically linked to the space it serves, and this relationship is
leveraged to approach and access spaces that hold either functional or symbolic significance (Ching
1996).

This concept recognizes that the very location and alignment of a space can act as a guiding force
for the path that connects to it. Whether it is a functionally crucial area or one laden with symbolic
meaning, the design ensures that the path leading to it is defined by its spatial context.

The concept of "Terminate in Space" finds a compelling application in the architectural masterpiece
of the Taj Mahal in Agra, India. In this iconic structure, the design purposefully utilizes the path to guide
visitors toward the specific and highly significant space—the Taj Mahal itself.

Figure 12. Illustration of the Taj Mahal in the concept of Terminate in Space.