Form and Space....

Chapter 3 deals with the relationship between form and space.  The volume of space creates forms.  The space a circle fills out into a sphere; the space of a square fills out into a cube.  This same idea can come from planes being linked together to inclose space and create form as well.  Such will be noted in the following examples.

Elevated Base Planes: A way of defining space with horizontal elements.  It creates a separation between activities and fields of space. Along with having a functional purpose, for say a stage, it also can have a psychological purpose.  Placing oneself on an elevated base plane can put one on the spot, making them feel either intimidated or superior.

This stage shows the elevated base plane being used to 

distinguish a clear definition between activities. 

Overhead Planes:  Planes that are not attached to the original base plane, but instead are hovering above the ground.  There can be various sizes of space between the base plane and overhead plane, all having a different psychological effect.  It creates a sense of shelter, but can also be used to define a path or guide one through a space. 

The canopy bed is an example of an overhead plane. 

The canopy provides shelter and comfort.  It also

provides guidance to that area as a place of shelter.

Parallel Vertical Planes:  Space can be defined using two parallel vertical planes.  This creates a highly energetic and moving space.  When walking through two vertical parallel planes, different reactions can occur.  If the planes are tall, one may feel anxious.  If the planes are short, you may feel more secure and not confined by the planes.  Any doors or openings in the planes create a secondary axis.  They slow down movement by creating interest.  Such a space is an alley.  

The alley represents two vertical parallel planes through

two tall cobblestone walls.  There are a few windows

but no doors on the alley.  This creates a rapid movement

through the space. 

Light: Sunlight into a room through a window, door or skylight can create varying effects on the forms within the room.  Since daylight is relatively predictable, it is easy to control how the light effects the forms within that space through use of shade, position of the opening, colors and textures.  

The windows in the image are large and provide a lot

of natural light to the interior space.  This would be ideal

for an office or workspace area needing a lot of light.

View:  Openings in a vertical plane can determine the quality of the space by what is seen through that opening.  Some spaces' focal point may by the view we see when looking out the opening instead of an object or position inside the space.  The size and shape of the opening can determine which part of the view is important and the amount of privacy that still remains within the space. 

This window provides a clear opening to view the sea.  It is 

obvious that emphasis is on the view out the window 

instead of the space inside.  The view is clear and concise with 

all components proportional.