TECHNICAL

DOCUMENTATION
PART I

A presentation by
TWO JOINTS
Building Systems and Design Lecture
CONTENTS
I. SPACE PLANNING
Definition
Flexible Space
Consideration in Space Planning
Design Requirements for Corporate
Functions
Approach in Space Planning
Closed-Plan Approach
Advantages and Disadvantages
Open-Plan Approach
Advantages and Disadvantages
II. SPECIFICATIONS
Definition
Purpose
SPACE
PLANNING
SPACE PLANNING
Space Planning is the strategic
process of organizing a space to
optimize functionality, improve the
layout, and ensure a smooth flow of
movement.

As a crucial component of interior

design, space planning ensures that
every area is used effectively,
meeting user needs while
maintaining a balanced and
efficient environment and
supporting seamless transitions
between different areas.
01
SPACE PLANNING
What is the primary purpose of the
PURPOSE space? (e.g., office, retail, residential,

AND
educational, recreational)
02 What specific activities will be
FUNCTION conducted in this space?
03 Who are the primary users of the
space, and how many people will
use it regularly?
04 Are there any secondary functions that
the space should accommodate?
05 What are the key tasks that need to
be performed, and how should the
layout support these tasks?
SPACE PLANNING

FLEXIBLE SPACE
A flexible space refers to an environment or area designed to adapt easily to different
uses, functions, or activities over time without requiring significant structural changes.
SPACE PLANNING

FLEXIBLE SPACE
A flexible space refers to an environment or area designed to adapt easily to different
uses, functions, or activities over time without requiring significant structural changes.
PURPOSE 01 What is the primary purpose of the
space? (e.g., office, retail, residential,
AND educational, recreational)

FUNCTION 02 What specific activities will be

conducted in this space?
03 Who are the primary users of the
space, and how many people will
use it regularly?
04 Are there any secondary functions that
the space should accommodate?
05 What are the key tasks that need to
be performed, and how should the
layout support these tasks?
TWO JOINTS 2024 @Buildingdesignlec

TECHNICAL
DOCUMENTATION
1
SPACE PLANNING
Space Planning is the strategic process of
organizing a space to optimize functionality,
improve the layout, and ensure a smooth
flow of movement.
As a crucial component of interior design,
space planning ensures that every area is
used effectively, meeting user needs while
maintaining a balanced and efficient
environment and supporting seamless
transitions between different areas.
Understanding the Purpose and Function
What is the primary purpose of the space? (e.g., office, retail,
residential, educational, recreational)
What specific activities will be conducted in this space?
Who are the primary users of the space, and how many people
will use it regularly?
Are there any secondary functions that the space should
accommodate?
What are the key tasks that need to be performed, and how
should the layout support these tasks?
FLEXIBLE SPACE

A flexible space refers to an

environment or area designed to adapt
easily to different uses, functions, or
activities over time without requiring
significant structural changes.
Key Characteristics: Benefits:
1. Multi-functionality 1. Cost-effectiveness
2. Adaptability 2. Increased usability
3. Efficient use of 3. Future-proofing
space 4. Encouraging
4. Technology collaboration and
integration creativity
Specifications
Specifications are written requirements
that describe the materials, products, or
services required for a proposed project,
such as a building, bridge, or machine.

These specifications are included in the

Contract Documents for construction
projects, along with bidding requirements,
construction details, and project
drawings.
CONSIDERATION IN SPACE
PLANNING
Space planning is the process of designing and
arranging physical space to meet functional and
aesthetic requirements. It's a critical aspect of
architecture, interior design, and urban planning. When
planning a space, several key considerations must be
taken into account.
Purpose of
Specifications:
Product kind and Quality
Workmanship Requirements
Process Guidelines
Compliance with Codes and Standards
Alternatives
DESIGN REQUIREMENTS FOR
CORPORATE FUNCTION
Corporate space planning should prioritize efficient use,
smooth workflow, employee well-being, technology
integration, and branding. Modular furniture, flexible layouts,
and adaptability are crucial. Sustainable design choices,
compliance with safety and accessibility standards, and
privacy needs are also important. Balancing design goals
with budget constraints ensures functional, comfortable, and
aligned spaces, enhancing productivity and brand
representation.
1. Function and Zoning
Function and zoning are essential components of
space planning. The intended use of a space, or its
function, determines how it should be divided into
different areas or zones. Zoning helps to organize
activities and create a logical flow within the space. By
aligning zoning with the intended function, we can
ensure that spaces are used efficiently and effectively
to support their intended purposes.
1. Function and Zoning
2. Dimensions and Shape of the Space
The design process starts by determining the required space for each area within a
building. Typically, 80% of the space is allocated for living areas, 10% for circulation
(passages), and 10% for storage. To create comfortable interiors, the size, shape, and
arrangement of rooms should influence the building's exterior shape. However, the
desired style and proportions of the exterior might limit the interior's design.

The number of people who will use the space is crucial. The average floor area per
household differs between countries. For example, homes in the United Kingdom are
smaller than those in the United States, while those in Hong Kong are significantly smaller.
Developed countries generally have more space per person compared to less developed
countries.

Interior spaces have both horizontal and vertical dimensions. Rectangular rooms are
common but less visually interesting than spaces with curved or angled walls and
ceilings. These features can create a sense of greater space and visually expand the
interior.
According to the 2020 census, there were about 28.5 million housing units in the
Philippines, a large volume of which were in Regions IV-A, the National Capital Region
(NCR), and Region 3. The majority of these were single houses, with a floor area
between 10 and 29 square meters, as revealed by a 2022 survey.
3. Site, Orientation and Climate
The size and shape of a building are often influenced by site
constraints like the plot's size, slope, and proximity to other
buildings. The orientation of the plot affects window placement
and good design should maximize sunlight exposure. Climate is a
crucial design factor. Homes in colder regions are designed for
winter warmth, while homes in hotter regions focus on protection
from the sun.
4. Economy
Economic Considerations in Space Planning:
Budget: Clients often have spending limits.
Space: Larger buildings are more expensive. Multi-story homes and
attic/basement conversions can be cost-effective.
Shape: Simple shapes (square, rectangular) are cheaper than
complex ones.
Future Planning: Flexibility for extensions avoids costly structural
changes.
Multi-Use: Open-plan spaces allow for versatile use and save on walls.
Spaciousness: Creating the illusion of space can be economical.
5. Stretching Space
is a technique used to make smaller areas appear
larger in space planning. This can be achieved through
a combination of architectural and interior design
elements.
Techniques to Expand or Reduce Space
Expanding Space:
Open-plan layouts with minimal walls
Half-walls or transparent walls
Windows and glass doors
Vertical space: Vaulted ceilings, 1.5-story ceilings, skylights
Decorative devices: Light colors, smooth textures, wall-to-wall flooring, vertical
lines, floor-length window treatments, horizontal holdings, small-scale
furnishings, mirrors, small-scale patterns, glass elements, furnishings with
exposed legs
Reducing Space:
Dark colors Large-scale furnishings
Heavy textures Large-scale patterns
Furniture groupings Solid furniture or upholstered skirts
Area rugs
6. Circulation Patterns
Traffic Flow in Space Planning
Traffic flow (circulation patterns) is essential in space planning. Direct traffic
flow should be unobstructed. Avoid rooms that act as hallways, cramped
areas, doors blocking furniture, and exposed private areas. Hallways and
staircases should be wide enough for two-way traffic (1-1.5 meters). Place
doors in corners to maximize flexibility.
Also known as the Traffic Flow in Space Planning
Traffic flow (circulation patterns) is essential in space
planning. Direct traffic flow should be unobstructed. Avoid
rooms that act as hallways, cramped areas, doors blocking
furniture, and exposed private areas. Hallways and staircases
should be wide enough for two-way traffic (1-1.5 meters). Place
doors in corners to maximize flexibility.
7. Storage
Storage in Space Planning
Storage is essential for organizing possessions. Locate storage
near where items are used. Consider storage for:
Entrance hall: Coats, shoes, accessories
Kitchen: Food, cookware, cleaning supplies
Laundry room: Appliances, cleaning tools
Linen closet: Towels, bed linen
Bedrooms: Clothing
Bathroom: Toiletries
Study: Books, paper, supplies
Family room: Media
Outdoor: Garden tools
8. Permanent Fixtures
Permanent Fixtures in Space Planning
Permanent fixtures (built-in elements) require careful planning
and are included in architectural drawings. Kitchens, bathrooms,
and laundry rooms often have permanent fixtures. Kitchens are a
focal point for food preparation, dining, and entertaining. They are
expensive to outfit. Kitchen designers consider lifestyle factors,
family dynamics, and work zones when planning layouts. The
working triangle (refrigerator, cooking, sink) is a common concept
in kitchen design.
9. Special Needs for Elderly or Disabled users
Universal Design in Space Planning
Universal design is essential for creating spaces accessible to all
users, especially the aging population and people with disabilities.
Safety and accessibility are paramount. Consider factors like:
Shelving height: Avoid excessively high or low shelves.
Work surfaces: Ensure comfortable heights.
Wheelchair accessibility: Provide adequate clearance and turning
space.
Anti-discrimination legislation: Comply with laws regarding
accessibility in rental properties and public spaces.
Separate ramps: May be necessary in older buildings.
10. Emotion and Psychology
Interior design can significantly impact our emotional state
and psychological well-being. By carefully considering the
shape, size, scale, materials, colors, and textures of a space,
designers can create environments that evoke specific
emotions and moods.
Effective space planning necessitates careful consideration of the principles of design –
harmony, emphasis, rhythm, balance and scale – in order to create effective and
aesthetically pleasing interiors.
Harmony: Creating a sense of unity and coherence throughout the space.
Emphasis: Highlighting key elements to draw attention and create a focal point.
Rhythm: Establishing a sense of movement and flow through repetition or variation.
Balance: Achieving a sense of equilibrium and stability in the arrangement of elements.
Scale: Considering the size and proportions of elements in relation to each other and
the human body.
Scale and proportion are particularly important in interior design. They should be
carefully considered to create a harmonious and comfortable space. The size of
furniture, fixtures, and other elements should be in proportion to the overall dimensions
of the room and the human body.
12. Skillful use of the Elements of Design

The objective of achieving a balance between functionality

and aesthetics in space planning is accomplished by
manipulating the elements of design – shape, mass, light, line,
pattern, colour and texture.
Shape: The outline or form of objects in a space.
Mass: The size, weight, and density of objects.
Light: The intensity, direction, and quality of light.
Line: The direction, length, and thickness of lines created
by edges or outlines.
Pattern: The repetition of elements or motifs.
TWO APPROACHES IN
SPACE PLANNING
1. Closed-Plan Approach
2. Open-Plan Approach
CLOSED-PLAN APPROACH
An office space design that uses panels
and cubicles to separate individual
workspaces for each employee.
CLOSED-PLAN APPROACH
Advantages
Controlled environment
Security
Privacy
Physical separation
Concentration
Disadvantages
Less efficient than open-plan approach
Lack flexibility
Cost of relocation
Restricted individual and group interaction
Space consumption
Low supervision
OPEN-PLAN APPROACH
An office space design that uses
large, open spaces and minimizes the
use of small, enclosed rooms such as
private offices.
OPEN-PLAN APPROACH
An office space design that uses
large, open spaces and minimizes the
use of small, enclosed rooms such as
private offices.
OPEN-PLAN APPROACH
Advantages
Efficient space utilization
Greater planning flexibility
Ease of communication
Less expensive
Disadvantages
Less visual privacy
Less environmental control
Less auditory privacy
Less security