Shape

Scale

T R A N S I T I O N A L S PA C E
Orientation Spaces of Transition in Urban Environment
Openness
Functionality
Orientation
Openness
Scale
Functionality
Scale

Form

Orientation
Openness Orientation
Orientation
Functionality Openness

Glazing Openness Functionality

Functionality

Form

Thickness

Orientation
Openness
Functionality
Orientation
Openness
Form of Opennings
Functionality

Orientation
Openness
Functionality Shape

Shuyun Xue
Orientation
Supervisor: Kengo Skorick
Openness
Functionality Examiner: Joaquim Tarraso

Chalmers University of Technology

Orientation
Shape of Wall
Openness
Functionality
 Master thesis in Architecture
by Shuyun Xue
Spring 2020

Chalmers University of Technology

Department of Architecture and Civil Engineer
Master Program of Architecture and Urban Design
Studio of Urban Challenges

Supervisor: Kengo Skorick

Examiner: Joaquim Tarraso

@Shuyun Xue
Gothenburg, 2020

2 3
 CONTENT

1.INTRODUCTION

1.1 Abstract 9
1.2 Background 10
1.3 Definition 12
1.4 Thesis question 14
1.5 Discourse 15
1.6 Research 16
1.7 Delimitation 18
1.8 Methodology 19

2.RESEARCH
Shuyun Xue
2.1 Theoretical Research 22
2.2 Conclusion 28 薛 舒允
2.3 Case Study 32
2.4 Design elements 38

3.CATALOG OF DESIGN ELEMENTS

3.1 Design Elements 42

EDUCATION
3.2 Catalog 43
3.3 Prototype 50 Chalmers University of Technology 09.2018-NOW
Master of Architecture and Uban Design
Gothenburg, Sweden

4.DESIGN PROPOSAL
Beijing Forestry University 09.2013-07.2018
Bachelor of Urban Planning
4.1 Context 58 Beijing, China
4.2 Program 60
4.3 Design Loop 62

INTERSHIP
4.4 Process 64
70 Huahui Architectural Design& Engineering 09.2017-11.2017
4.5 Proposal
Tianjin, China/ Full-time Intern/ Schematic Design

5.CONCLUSION 80 Tianjin Chance Architecture Design 01.2017-02.2017

Tianjin, China/ Intern, Schematic Design
6.REFERENCE 82

7.FINAL COMPOSITION 84

4 5
 CHAPTER 01
Introduction

1.1 ABSTRACT
1.2 BACKGROUND
1.3 DEFINITION
1.4 THESIS QUESTION
1.5 DISCOURSE
1.6 RESEARCH
1.7 DELIMITATION
1.8 METHODOLOGY

6 7
 ABSTRACT
1.1

In the fast-paced society, people are busy with from sensing the atmosphere inside from vision and
working or studying; they have little time to care audition. The transitional space is then a tool which
about or perceive what is happening around them. helps people to some extend communicate with the
This has caused society to become more and city and buildings. It is also the space that can give
more indifferent. The city and architectures, as people a preview of the atmosphere in the building
necessary containers for people’s daily lives, have before they come in.
the responsibilities to provide people perceivable
and interactive space. The transitional space which The thesis will focus on the study of transitional
connects urban areas and buildings, could activate space, exploring the impact of transition elements
the surroundings and make people feel more on people and the environment. The purpose of this
engaged in the city or the buildings. thesis is to understand what factors of transitional
space will influence people's perception, and how
Transitional space is usually easy to be ignored by to make them feel welcomed by transitional space
people. However, it is such an important space that and how to activate both inside and outside of that
could have an influence on the vitality of the city, area.
as well as the popularity of the buildings. Urban
designers and architects used to treat transitional The thesis will firstly find the elements of the
space as an attachment to their design, and rarely transition space through case studies, and then
consider it as the primary subject in their design. understand the different attributes of various
Transitional space is not just a leftover space; it has elements. Through several experiments, it will
its unique value and plays an indispensable role in explore the interaction among different elements,
connecting the urban space with the buildings. their influence of transitional space with the
environment, finally, get a conclusion of how could
When people walk on the street, one of the best the transitional elements make the city and buildings
ways to eliminate indifference and activate social coexistence.
behaviour is to let them perceive the events
happening around them. However, boundaries of Keywords: Transitional Space, Urban Environment,
the buildings are a kind of barrier to stop people Coexistence

8 9
 BACKGROUND BACKGROUND
1.2 1.2

The transitional space refers to the transition from functions inside, because of a closed entrance or
one certain space to another; however, it is a vague, fewer openings of the facade, I feel that I do not
ambiguous and undefined space itself. want to go into that building.

Therefore, hoping more people will be attracted

[Social Inspiration] by architectures is one of the reasons I want to
study the transitional space between the inside and
Whenever I come to an unfamiliar place, I always outside of the buildings.
enjoy observing the environment around me. If
possible, I would like to walk into the building which
is opened to the public and participant the event [Personal Preferences]
that is happening inside. At this time, I found that
the transitional space of the architecture can let The other reason is that the uncertainty of the
people perceive the atmosphere of the building in transitional space, which is very attractive to
advance. If people can have a first perception of me. Such a vague, ambiguous space has many
what is going on inside of the building, then more possibilities and has extremely plasticity.
people will be attracted to enter the building, and
the city life will be activated as well. Just like different people will have different views
on the same thing, for the transitional space, it can
As I mentioned before, I like to feel the city from have different functions for different people. Kisho
the streets or buildings. At this time, I found that Kurokawa saw the street in Asian as a transitional
some kinds of buildings are "welcoming" me. For space between city and buildings, "The street has
example, large-scale canopies can make people no clearly defined spatial function, but within the
feel sheltered by the building, or steps towards the 24h of the day, it is at times used for private and at
entrance, opening facade of the building will make a time for public activities."(Kisho Kurokawa, 1987)
me feel that this building is "welcoming" me. On The transitional space will contribute to different
the contrary, although some buildings have public behaviours and feelings at different times.

Models inspired by transitional space

10 11
 DEFINITION
1.3

AUDITION

VISION
EXTERIOR

NOT ATTACH TO BUILDING

"Architecture that aims to be humane, must
consequently devote special attention to the in-
between; specifically to the architectural forms ATTACH TO BUILDING
and transitional places through which people
meet, and invite them to stay."

---- Aldo Van Eyck,1961 INTERIOR

inspired by Aldo Van Eyck

Transitional space (intermediate area, third area) is In this thesis, I divided the space from inside to the
that space of experiencing, between the inner and outside of the building into four parts. The orange
outer worlds, and contributed to by both, in which area is the transitional space I will mainly study
primary creativity (illusion) exists and can develop with. Elements in transitional space are also divided
("Transitional Objects and Transitional Phenomena," into two parts; one is the element attached to the
Winnicott, 1951; further developed in Winnicott, building, such as the steps, canopies and arcades;
1971). the other one is not attached to the building, such
If we say the interior and exterior are two defined as pavement, squares and other nodes. Except for
space, then other spaces in between are the all of these, the human sensation of transitional
transitional space belong to them. The transitional space cannot be ignores, like the sounds, light and
space always starts from the end of the interior views.
space and end from somewhere outside the building.

12 13
 QUESTION DISCOURSE
1.4 1.5

AN SITIONAL SPAC
TR E

How does the transitional space work to

activate the urban environment and also
make the building which is connected to it
more attractive? In-between

Spatial Continuity

Elements

T
EN
M CO
N EX
IST

RO
EN N
IO
PT

VI
CE
CE

EN

HU
R
PE

MA
URBAN
Public Area/ Vision&Audition

N IZ E
INTERACTION
SOCIAL
Architecture
Activities
Function
Street Spontaneous
Behavior
Flows of Action

The discourse of this thesis is mainly focused on together with the flows of action.
three parts, which are the "the transitional space",
"humanize" and "urban environment". For the third part of the discourse, the humanize will
be taken into consideration. It would mainly focus
The first part of the discourse is to talk about the on the vision and audition of people to evaluate
IN-BETWEEN space, learn the way how it achieved how they sense the space. The activities and
spatial continuity and focus on the elements that spontaneous behaviour of people are vital aspects
would have influences on the transitional space. of the thesis to relate the study with the human.

The second part is about the urban environment. These three parts of discourse are inseparable.
The public area is the main point that focused on, as When they come together, the thesis would consider
well as public buildings with different functions. The the topics of coexistence, perception and social
streets that people walked will also be mentioned interaction.

14 15
 RESEARCH RESEARCH
1.6 1.6
Social Distance Human Perception

The natural starting point for the work of designing cities for people is human mobility and the human
senses because they provide the biological basis for activities, behaviour and communication in city space.

Distance about 100 meters we can see movement Eye level

and body language in broad outline. Between 50
and 70 meters, hair colour and characteristic body
language can be read. At a distance of about 22 –
25 meters, we can accurately read facial expression
and dominant emotions. Between 7 to 0 meters, all
of the senses can be used, all details experienced 50°-55° Gehl(2010) explains that the human eye is frontally
and the most intense feelings exchanged. Social oriented and see up to 70-80 degrees below while
distance is described between 3.7 m to 1.2m, where 50-55 degree up to the horizon. While we are
one all daily conversation can be made and ordinary walking, we mostly see our surrounded environment
10°
information can be exchanged. (Gehl,2010) by bowing our heads 10° .
In the horizontal field of vision, the human eyes
focus to contact and get attracted on ground floors
when one is walking through the buildings. Visual
70°-80°
communication establishes naturally on the first
The angle of sight(Gehl,2010) two floors between inside and outside, this level is
the most important threshold on regulating privacy
level inside. One can see easily from 6.5m and up to
13.5m.

Noise level
A person has long been within hearing distance: At
50 – 70 meters, we can hear shouts for help. At 35
Conversation
Visual Contact meters one-way communication can be conducted
Walk in a loud voice like that used from the pulpit, stage
0 0.45 1.2m 2m 3.7m 5m 7.5m 10m 20m 50m 80m 100m 200m or auditorium. At a distance of 20 to 25 meters,
m short messages can be exchanged, but the genuine
conversation is not possible until people are within
Intimate
distance 7 meters of each other. The shorter the distance in
the range from 7 meters to 0.5 meters, the more
Personal detailed and articulated the conversation can be.
distance
Social
distance
Public
distance
Both in the space with 52 dB and that with 63 dB it
is possible to carry on a pleasant conversation and
often at quite a distance.

16 17
50°-55°
 DELIMITATION METHODOLOGY
1.7 1.8

RESEARCH THEORY CASES

Pedestrian
STUDY
In
-b

by
et
w

ser
ee

n
tio

Pas
n
Sp

p
ce
ac

er Evaluate
Interior

n
Design
e

sio
Extract

Vi
Drive
Atm

t
osp Bu

clis
Pub
lic A her te ildi
e und
Cy
rchi cto ng
So DESIGN
t ectu nic
re s ELEMENTS
ARCHIT-
HUMAN
ECTURE Social
Residential

Environment
Office SOCIAL SUSTAIN-
ABILITY E Compose
colo EXPERIMENTS PROTOTYPE
gy
Ec

s
itie
on

tiv
Pol

Ac n
io
om

al t
oci
itic

ac Compose
ic

S t er
al

l In
cia
So
life
t

Human Scale
an
e
re

Urb
St

Guide
DESIGN PROPOSAL

1. In terms of architecture design, this thesis will people who drive a car or ride a bike. It will study [Rearch] the design principle through the studies of the
concentrate on the public area or public buildings, how the transitional space attracts passerby who The research phase is aimed to gain knowledge prototypes.
figure out different spatial effects of elements in comes to the place spontaneously. about transitional space, and dig into the
transitional space. The atmosphere of the space will architectural theory behind it. It includes literature [Design]
also be taken into consideration. The thesis will not 3. From the perspective of the social environment, studies and case studies, which will be the The design phase includes the site analysis and
focus on the interior of the building and building this thesis will focus on social activities and social guidelines for the following design phase. design proposal. The site is seen as a complex
tectonics. interaction. The design will start from the human background for a new experiment which is based
scale. [Experiment] on the results of the previous studies. The design is
2.This thesis will explore how transitional space After getting transition elements from case studies, also a method to understand how transitional space
influence people's feeling by perception, such as 4.This thesis will consider sustainability. The social the experiment phase is to test how the elements works in an urban environment.
vision and audition. and environment will be the main topic it concerns, implement when they are combined. Then conclude
while it will not focus on the political and economic
The target population will be pedestrian, instead of views.

18 19
 CHAPTER 02
Research

2.1 THEORETICAL
RESEARCH
2.2 CONCLUSION
2.3 CASE STUDY
2.4 DESIGN ELEMENTS

20 21
 THEORY THEORY
2.1 2.1
Kisho Kurokawa Case Study

The Philosophy of Symbiosis Hiroshima City Museum of Contemporary Art

Project: Museum
Architect: Kisho Kurokawa
Location: Hiroshima, Japan
Metabolism
Located on the top of Hijiyama Mountain, sixty
percent of the museum is built underground. The
steps are the first elements coming into people's
eye, which can be seen as the continuation of the
mountain. It leads people directly to the circular
Symbiosis space on the top through a cut notch. To memory
the atomic bomb, the circular space at the center of
the architecture is intentionally empty, the cut notch
IDEA OF COEXISTENCE indicating the direction where the atomic bomb was
dropped. The notch naturally connects the steps
with the circular square and orient visitors to the Transition Elements
entrance.
Grey Space
The entrance is under the eave of a circulear
colonnade. The space under the eave is considered
KEY FOR IMPLEMENTING neutral, where interior and exterior overlap with
THE SYMBIOSIS OF TWO each other. It shows the level of openness clearly
through transitional space, which will give people a
2
ELEMENTS
rich experience. 4
Figure 1: Janpanese courtyard, CC-BY: Adapted with permission
The right and left side of the circular space is 3
exhibition space, where many gabled roofs come
Kisho Kurokawa, one of the founders of the Rikyu Grey is used as a symbolic term by Kisho together. The form of the roof looks like a village, 3
2
Metabolist movement of the 1960s. His concept Kurokawa to describe the multiple meanings which expresses Kisho Kurokawa's idea of symbiosis
is always about adapting the natural systems and or ambiguity of Japan's open spaces. "My own between part and whole. Using traditional materials 1
the life cycle of buildings to become a significant interest in Rikyu grey is because it epitomizes the of stone and tile, then combined with aluminium for
advocate for sustainable design. confrontation or collision of various contradictory a futuristic atmosphere also show symbiosis of past
elements and describes a condition in which those and future.
elements cancel each other out, thus achieving
4 3 2 1
[Metabolism& Symbiosis] coexistence and continuity. "(Kisho Kurokawa, 1987) Openness
low high
Kurokawa believed that cities and buildings are not Kisho Kurokawa has talked about examples of
static, but are in a dynamic process like metabolism. intermediating zoons, such as space under the
He also claims that the inter mediary space eaves, the veranda, corridors, lottice-work dividers,
and ambiguity are important to implement the all of them can make inner and out space to inter-
philosophy of symbiosis both in architecture and penetrate.
urban design.

At that time, Kisho Kurokawa also raised a voice [Street]

against modernism. The virtues of nebulous and
undifferentiated space naturally exist between "Street space becomes an ambivalent space-
demarcated areas, while the function results in the a medium in which individual living space and
articulation and concretization of space. metropolis converge."(Kisho Kurokawa, 1987)
The street has been seen as an intermediate space,
which is the place to undertake social activities.
[Grey Space ]

22 23
Figure 2,3: HCMoCA, Kisho kurokawa, CC-BY: Adapted with permission
 THEORY THEORY
2.1 2.1
Aldo Van Eyck Case Study

Twin Phnomena Amsterdam Orphanage

Project: Museum
Architect: Kisho Kurokawa
Location: Hiroshima, Japan
Structuralism
The Amsterdam Orphanage creates an activity
space for children, and its structure also becomes
a play space. There are spaces such as city squares
and streets in the orphanage, which give people a
feeling that they are in a city.
Twin Phenomena
It was originally an orphanage and then a school,
now it was used as a corporate office. The function
IDEA OF COEXISTENCE is always uncertain. People can adapt to the form,
and a form can also adapt to different functions.
Transitional Space
The rhythm of the space is very interesting, it always
In-between has a courtyard and transition space between
inside and outside. There are also many other
Figure 4: OtterloCircles, Aldo van Eyck, Reprinted with promission transformations between indoor and outdoor,
KEY FOR SHAPING THE including changes in the solid walls and glass Corridor
RELATIONSHIP OF TWO on both sides of the corridor, which make the Interior
experience richer and more orderly. Transitional Space
ELEMENTS
Courtyard
Comments from Kisho Krukawa:
"Children's home in Amsterdam is a combination
of basic spatial unit, but the architect has endowed
Dutch architect Aldo van Eyck was one of the Van Eyck showed his idea of coexistence in the his work with a theatricality that transcends its
most influential protagonists of the architectural theory of twin phenomena, stated that the opposites incremental structure. In some cases, the floor level
movement Structuralism. He was convinced that the do not need to be taken to an extreme, they are two changes; in others, the units are joined to produce a
form of architecture and human activities should different halves of the same entity. large open space that, in the dramatic play of light,
be isomorphic, they are similar and coordinate with dissolves into the whole." (Kisho Krukawa, 1987) Outside
each other. "The twin phenomenon, an original concept of Van
Eyck’s, stems from the insight that real polarities
(such as subject and object, inner and outer reality,
[Structuralism ] small and large, open and closed, part and whole)
are not conflicting, mutually exclusive entities but
The limitations of Modernism made Van Eyck distinctive components, two complementary halves
reconsider the meaning of architecture. He believed of one and the same entity; while conversely a true
that function and form can be completely separated. entity is always twofold."(Francis Strauven,2007)
The pursuit of structuralism is to create a structural
frame, as people are subjective initiative, they can
change the use of the space in the way they want. [In-Between ]

He showed the same opinion of the relationship In-between provides space for people to meet and
between city and house. “A house must be like a stay, it shows a humane architecture. As Aldo Van
small city if it’s to be a real house, a city like a large Eyck mentioned, the best way to unite two opposing
house if it’s to be a real city”(Aldo Van Eyck, 1962) is to establish a third, an in-between.

[Twin Phenomena ]

24 25
Figure 5,6: Amstendam Orphanage, Aldo van Eyck,CC-BY ,CCA Mellon
 THEORY
2.1
Threshold Space

THRESHOLD SPACE

Outdoor

Transitional
Space

Threshold
Space

Indoor
Outdoor

Figure 7: Threshold Spaces : Transitions in

ArchitectureAnalysis and Design Tools.

A word "threshold space" is frequently mentioned to as a barrier. A space that is delimited by thresholds
describe the transitional space. Herman Hertsberger and space defining elements can be termed a
argues about the transition of space, using the term threshold space."(Boettger Till,2014)
"threshold". He said, "The threshold provides the
key to the transition and connection between areas [Orientation ]
with divergent territorial claims and, as a place in
its own right, it constitutes, essentially, the special "The approach toward the entrance determines,
condition for the meeting and dialogue between among other factors, the direction of the path
areas of different orders."(Herman Hertsberger, taken. The visibility of the threshold space body is
1991) a guiding force. It allows the user to perceive the
entrance to the threshold space from a distance
and to make his or her way toward it. Identifying
[Definition ] the point of access gives you an orientation and
a sense of security; the path of approach is given
A threshold space defines the opening of spatial direction."(Boettger Till,2014)
delimiters during the act of crossing them. (Boettger
Till,2014) The threshold place always connected with the
entrance which can provide glimpses of what is
When people come from outside to inside, they happening inside, so threshold space can give
have to cross spatial boundaries. Thresholds are the people a preview of the indoor activities when they
spatial boundaries, at the meantime, it also belongs pass by, which became easier to orient way for
to transitional space. "Thresholds open up spaces people.
and organize transitions. At the same time, they are
read as part of the boundary and can be perceived Figure 8: Dormitori dell’Indian Istitute of Management diAhmedabad,Luious Kann

26 27
 CONCLUSION CONCLUSION Openness
Private P

2.2 2.2
Indoor O

Private Public
Openness
Openness
Indoor Outdoor Private Public
Openness
Indoor Outdoor

Private Public

[Openness]
Openness
Transitional space is that space of experiencing, Indoor Outdoor

between the inner and outer worlds, and

contributed to by both, in which primary creativity
(illusion) exists and can develop (Winnicott, 1951).
Since transitional space is defined as the space
between inner and outer, openness is appropriate Inside In-between Outside
to show how much the transitional space belongs to
Openness is used to describe outside or inside.
how much the transitional space
belongs to outside or inside and
the degree of privacy or publicity When encountering the transition between areas
in transitional space. described by discrete degrees of accessibility and Public
avoiding a sharp division between public and Intermediate
private spaces, thet notion of the ‘intermediate’
Private
is utilized. This kind of ‘transitional’ spaces, known
as thresholds, are accessible to both spheres
(Psillidis,2006). Therefore, I also use openness
[Orientation] to describe the degree of privacy or publicity in
transitional space.

Activity

Orientation
Bar means
Original
abilities of the
Painting
transitional space to lead people
Meeting
to somewhere, such as leading the
Low High
ation way to the entrance of the building.
Private Public
Openness
Indoor Outdoor

[Functionality]

ntation

Indoor Outdoor Architectures and access to them are utilized to demonstrate openness and the associated dissolution of
Functionality means except for the the threshold (Boettger Till. 2014). In previous studies, both Kisho Kurokawa and Aldo Van Eyck created
Private
function that
Public
transfers outside to transitional spaces between inside and outside to provide semi-open spaces for people to have better
inside, the possibilities of other experiences. The openness of transitional space can also demonstrate the capacity of the population.
functions or activities that would People are more likely to participate in those events when they can perceive the activities around them,
happen in the space. such as view inside from the windows or attracted by sounds.

Building City
Functionality
Night Day

28 29
 CONCLUSION CONCLUSION
2.2 Activity 2.2
Orientation Functionality
Bar Original Painting

Meeting

We see threshold spaces as part of the transitional The pursuit of structuralism is to create a structural
space, which lives on their double function: access frame; people can change the function of the space
Activity
control and opening. The threshold space provides in the way they want. Aldo Van Eyck conceived of
orientation and facilitates, both literally and the ‘in-between’ as a place where different things
can meet and unite, or more specifically, as ‘the Bar Original Painting
figuratively, access to space. In threshold spaces,
people find themselves in a state of between-ness common ground where conflicting polarities can
Meeting
(Boettger Till, 2014). I use orientation to describe again become twin phenomena’.
the abilities of the transitional space to lead people
to somewhere, such as leading the way to the The transitional space, as the connection between
entrance of the building. Transition elements can buildings and city, providing spaces for both
help to emphasize the orientation. buildings and city, which made it a multi-functional
spaces. In this thesis, Functionality means except
It should be noted that transparent spatial for the function that transfers outside to inside,
boundaries that can genuinely be looked through the possibilities of other functions or activities that
can make a positive contribution to the orientation would happen in the space.
process because they provide glimpses of what is
to come and in a very natural manner communicate Kisho Kurokawa also mentioned that the transitional
necessary infor mation (Boettger Till, 2014). space served city may have different functions
Perceptions of human, like vision and audition, during days and nights.
can be influenced by the transition elements that
oriented the way.

Low High
Orientation

Low High Building City

Orientation Functionality
Night Day

Building
Functionality
Night

Orientation

Indoor Outdoor

Private Public
Depending on how the sense organs have been trained, humans achieve an ability to perceive their In the previous study of Amsterdam Orphanage, Aldo Van Eyck used basic spatial units to contain different
environment and orient themselves in space. A deciding factor in this interaction of the sense organs is functions. The transitional space between each unit changed with different needs of people. Transitional
movement. Transition elements play an essential role in leading people from outside to inside. For example, space as an intermediate area served both inside and outside of the building. For example, the steps can
the arcades or the steps are always connected to somewhere that people would go. be access to the inside of the building; it can also be a seat for people to view activities that happened on
the street. The Functionality of transitional space can change with the time and people who use it.

Orientation

Indoor Outdoor

Private Public
30 31
 CASE STUDIES
2.3

Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art

Project: Cultural Architecture
Architect: Richard Meier
Location: Barcelona, Spain

The museum plays a vital role in restructuring the to emphasize the entrance, and together with a
urban area and helps to consolidate this new arts semidetached wing at the eastern end of the block, TRANSITION
quarter within the broader urban fabric. animated the plaza elevation.
INTERIOR
The urban area is activated by the ramp and two The building has much of its main facade glazed
sculptural elements. As the connection between the which transit the view between inside and outside. EXTERIOR
museum and plaza, the ramp provides visitors with It gives people chances to view across the plaza and
spaces that not only leading them to the entrance preview the interior galleries and allows sufficient
but also accommodating various city events like natural light to illuminate the interior. Natural light
skateboarding. combined with the whiteness of the interior surfaces Transition Elements
expands and enlarges the perception of the space.
A cut-out plane is set in advance of the building
ENTRANCE SLOPE GLASS WALL ADDITIONAL
STRUCTURE

Highlight Entrance Lead to Entrance View/Light Shelter

Shelter Activities Preceive Inside Privacy

Figure 9: BMOCA, Barcelona. Author's own copyright. Preceive Inside Stay

32 33
 CASE STUDIES
2.3

Portugal Pavilion
Project: Cultural Architecture
Architect: Álvaro Siza Vieira
Location: Lisboa, Portugal

The Portugal Pavilion is designed under the theme canopy, the porches themselves has also created a
of the Expo, "The Oceans: A Heritage for the transitional space between the plaza and building. TRANSITION
Future” and aimed to create an interactive space Each porch is composed of nine massive columns;
between the pavilion and the harbour. the irregular but rhythmic arrangement of the INTERIOR
columns create a beautiful sense of sequence. The
The suspended overhead canopy is the highlight doorway is cleverly hidden between the porches EXTERIOR
of this project, which create a shaded public plaza and unconsciously played a role in the transition of
and connect the space with the view beyond to space.
frame the vista of the water. Space underneath gives
people a sense of peace and elegance. T h e w h i t e a rc a d e g i v e s p e o p l e c h a n c e s t o Transition Elements
communicate visually with the water; the aspect
In addition to being the structure supporting the ratio of the arcade creates a classically modern
CANOPY ARCADE COLUMN THRESHOLD

Shelter Divide spcace Structure Entance

Orient Direction Shelter Shelter Divide Space

Figure 10: Portugal Pailion, Lisboa. Author's own copyright. Activities Orient Direction Stay Orient Direction

34 35
 CASE STUDIES
2.3

Apple Piazza Liberty

Project: Commercial Architecture
Architect: Foster+Pantners
Location: Milano, Italy

The Apple Store in Milan is considered as a city of vertical jets of water. The water feature gives
public facility more than a store, which provides people an interactive, multisensory experience and TRANSITION
citizens with a vibrant city plaza. It is mainly embodies the dynamic nature of the city.
composed of two fundamental parts, a stepped INTERIOR
plaza and a fountain. The fountain flows down into the base of the
amphitheater, forming a new social hub and an EXTERIOR
The only visible building on the ground is a glass outdoor extension of Apple Store. It hosts special
box, which is combined with the fountain. Visitors events throughout the year. The stepped plaza is
enter the fountain through the glass-covered also a second way to enter inside, hiding the retail
entrance enveloped by the sights and sounds area from the public. Transition Elements

STEPS WATER POOL GLASS WALL SQUARE

Walk Landscape Node Highlight Entrance Lead to Entrance

Stay stay Audition Attraction Walk

Figure 11: Apple Store, Milano. Author's own copyright. Orient Direction Visual Contact Precieve Inside

36 37
 DESIGN ELEMENTS DESIGN ELEMENTS
2.4 2.4

Transition elements extract from the references

Door/ Window
Entrance
Attraction
View

Canopy
Shelter
Stay
Entrance

Steps/ Ramp
Arcades
Walk
Stay Shelter
Seat Stay
Orientation Orientation

38 39
"My concepts of intermediating space and
intermediating elements are linked to the CHAPTER 03
question whether we can't reintroduce a space
that permits this kind of communication among
Design Elements
people, unobstructed by any dualistic division
between inside and outside, a space free of the
divisions of walls, into architecture today, I have
identified a variety of architectural details -- the
space beneath the eaves, the engawa, corridors,
and lattice doors among them ." 3.1 DESIGN ELEMENTS
3.2 CATALOG
3.3 PROTOTYPE
---- Kisho Kurokawa,1987

40 41
 DESIGN ELEMENTS CATALOG
3.1 3.2
Entrances
Shape

Shape

Scale

2.ATTACHED 3.NOT ATTACHED

1.THRESHOLD
Orientation
Openness
TO BUILDING TO BUILDING
Functionality Orientation
Openness
Scale Orientation
Scale Openness Functionality
1.1 ENTRANCE 2.1 STEPS 3.1 PAVEMENT
Functionality

Form

Scale

Orientation
Openness
Orientation
Functionality
Openness Orientation
Openness
Functionality

Glazing
1.2 WINDOWS 2.2 CANOPIES 3.2 SQUARE
Functionality

Form

Thickness

Orientation
Orientation
Orientation
Openness
Openness Openness
2.3 ARCADES
Functionality
Functionality
Functionality
Form of Opennings
Orientation
Openness
Functionality Shape

Thickness

Orientation
Openness
Functionality
Orientation
Openness
Functionality
Shape of Wall

After doing the research of the transitional space and the study of cases, these elements
were selected to be the components of my project. Each of them has different parameters;
the combination of different parameters will be influenced by the three properties, openness,
functionality and orientation.
Orientation Orientation
Openness
Functionality Openness
Functionality

The entrance is somehow the first element people will meet when they come from inside to outside or
opposite. It is the most natural element that can make people perceive the atmosphere inside the building.
Different scale of the entrance will be adapted to different functions.

42 43
 CATALOG CATALOG
3.2 3.2
STEPS
Windows Steps
Glazing Angle of Turning

180

90

Orientation
Openness
Orientation
Functionality
Openness
Functionality
Form of Opennings

Number of Landings

Orientation
Openness
Functionality Orientation
Openness
Functionality

Shape of Wall

Weigth of Steps

Orientation Orientation
Openness Openness
Functionality Functionality

The steps are the elements that can transit spaces with different height; it can help people go up and down.
The window is the medium to have visual communication between the transitional spaces. It is the main Usually, it connects to the entrance or other functional area, when there is a height difference, space is
element that can make people sense what is happening inside the building or start to feel the transitional emphasized, and it can easily give people an orientation. Different types of steps have different functions.
space. Different shapes of windows have different sequences that will have different levels of orientation. For example, more significant steps could provide space to sit.

44 45
 CATALOG CATALOG
3.2 3.2
CANOPIES Canopies Arcades
Connections with Walls Density of column

Orientation
Openness
Orientation
Functionality
Openness
Functionality

Angle

Shape

<90°
>90° =90°

Orientation
Orientation Openness
Openness Functionality
Functionality

Connections with buildings

Transmittance
0% 30% 70% 30%

70%

Orientation Orientation
Openness Openness
Functionality Functionality
The canopies, which are the extension structure of the architecture, are usually connected to the building
with the outside environment. They have opportunities to create an underneath space with extra value. It The arcades are similar but different from the canopies, which can exist without the building. It provides
is part of the building and sheltering outdoor people. When they walk under the canopy, people can sense people with an outdoor shelter and usually leads people to a destination where it connects to. The columns
both interior and exterior of the building. of the arcades are the main components that can give the arcades another function.

46 47
 CATALOG CATALOG
3.2 3.2
Pavements Plaza
Scale

Scale

Orientation
Openness
Functionality

Form

Orientation
Openness
Functionality

Form

Orientation
Openness
Functionality

Shape
Orientation
Openness
Functionality

Orientation
Openness
Functionality

The pavement is used to divide the outdoor spaces visually. Different shapes and forms of pavements can
have different functions, some can encourage people to stay, while some can drive people to move. It is an The plaza is an crucial element to provide space for people to hold different activities. It usually connects
element that affects people from vision. with the entrance of the building to both serve the building and people who want to go inside.

48 49
 PROTOTYPE
3.3
Experiment on transition of
architectural space

This prototype is the experiment on the transition of

architectural space. The purpose of this experiment is
to see the differences in the transitional space when
they are combined with different transition elements.

The experiment is creating transitional spaces by

adding transition elements among four separate
buildings, and then trying to find out the transition
rules when building; transition elements are combined.

50 51
 PROTOTYPE PROTOTYPE
3.3 3.3
Scenario 01 Scenario 02

Arcades can give shelter for people to The connection of the steps and
The steps that connect The step can be used to The arcades lead the have different activities. arcades can not only create a
with the entrance will connect the ground with way to the entrance. transitional shelter underneath but
highlight the entrance. the roof. The roof here also also a new path on the top.
become the connection of the
steps.

52 53
 PROTOTYPE PROTOTYPE
3.3 3.3
Scenario 03 Scenario 04

Adding elements with the plaza The canopy can not only give a When the density of the column is
create a mixed space which transits shelter for people but also highlight low enough, the canopy could have
from grey space to open space. the entrance. an entrance which can provide
When the element overlaps, space a new path. The adding of steps
becomes more ambiguous. emphasize this orientation.

54 55
 CHAPTER 04
Site Development

4.1 CONTEXT
4.2 PROGRAM
4.3 DESIGN LOOP
4.4 PROCESS
4.5 PROPOSAL

56 57
 CONTEXT CONTEXT
4.1 4.1
Future PLanning Surroundings

OFFICE
HARBOR

OPERA

NEW STATION

RESIDENTIAL
NORDSTAN
Götaleden is in a complicated urban context. It the site. This area in the future will provide
is located on the southern bank of the river in pedestrian and cyclists with a welcoming
Gothenburg, between Nordstan and the Opera, environment. The north part of Nordstan
surrounded by residential buildings and offices. will be developed into one attractive and
i n t e g r a t e d p a r t o f c e n t r a l G o t h e n b u rg .
In the future planning of Gothenburg, the
riverside will be activated to enrich people's This area will be an attractive, energetic and
daily lives. A new station will be built in functional district and benefit residence,
this area which will bring a heavy flow into officers and passerby.

58 59
 PROGRAM PROGRAM
4.2 4.2
Urban Infrastructure Urban Infrastructure

Cafe

Store Reception

Riverside

Opera Office

Lecture Hall
Station
Residential Exhibition
Figure 12:Central Park to Ho Chi Minh City, LAVA and Aspect Studios
Figure 13: Xili sports and cultural center, MVRDV
Figure 14: Gallery of Children’s House,MU Architecture-10, CC-BY
Norstan

Activity Room Meeting Room

In 2035, the population of Gothenburg will be will transit from inside to outside, from city to
increasing; many immigrants will settle in this city. river and from building to building. Different
This area will be the entrance of the southern functions will be distributed in the whole
part of the city. To help people get familiar with site, which will also serve the surroundings.
the city and also activate the surroundings,
I will treat the site as public infrastructure. Since this area will be an active urban site
connect with the riverside, it will attract
The project will not be a whole building, but p e o p l e t o k n o w m o r e a b o u t t h e c i t y.
public space mainly focuses on transition, which

60 61
 DESIGN LOOP
4.3

FINAL
PROPOSAL
FLOWS

DIVIDE
SITE INTO
Step 1 BLOCKS Step 6
SITE OTHER
OPENNINGS
ANALYSIS
Step 2 ELEMENTS

LAYOUT

HEIGHT
VIEWS
OF SITE
Step 5

OPENNESS

Step 3 Step 4

FUNCTIONAL ORIENTATION OPENNINGS

DISTRIBUTION

62 63
 PROCESS PROCESS
4.4 4.4
Site Analysis Site Analysis

[Site ] [Eye level ]

Divide the site with flows. Limit the height.

Simulate the flows of people between different According to Gelh, visual communication establishes
destinations. At a distance about 25m, people can naturally on the first two floors between inside and
accurately read facial expression and dominant outside. To get better view contact, limit the site
emotions, which is a comfortable walking distance height within three floors. There is a height transition
for humans. Insert activity area into the site to make throughout the site.
sure at least every 25m has attractors.

Ground

Ground Floor

Two Floors
Three Floors

64 65
 PROCESS PROCESS
4.4 4.4
Site Analysis Site Analysis

[Functionality ] [Orientation ]
10-12 km/h cycling on slow
Insert new programs into the site. Design walking routes. motion running

The site is treated as transitional space for the Gehl (2010) distinguishes activities into two
whole area, according to Aldo Van Eyck's theory, in categories: Necessary activities are the functional 4-5 km/h slow motion walking
addition to its function, it also has the possibilities activities that one has to do during his daily life.
to serve the surroundings. The function can adapt to The optional activities are recreational and social
people's needs. Except for serving the surroundings, activities. communicaing with
they also interact with each other. o km/h other

Option activity area

Necessary activities area

4-5 km speed activity level

Meeting
Room
Cafe

Store

Exhibition

Activity
Room
Reception

Lecture Hall

66 67
 PROCESS PROCESS
4.4 4.4
Site Analysis Layers

[Openness ]

Analyse the openness level of the site.

Steps
Distinguish the outdoor, indoor and in-between
area of the site. The site is in 7.5m*7.5m grid,
according to Gelh, 7.5m is a comfortable distance
for conversation. Analyse the openness by different
social distance 1.2m, 3.7m, 7.5m.
1.2m 3.7m 7.5m

1.2m

3.7m

7.5m

Arcades

Threshold

68 69
70 71
PROPOSAL PROPOSAL
4.5 4.5
Meeting room Meeting room

The meeting rooms are several single boxes, which

are flexible to use. The volume of the meeting room is
floating, and it surrounds the stairs, but it is still open.
Instead of play the role of steps to connect different level,
the big stairs also give chances for people to sit or stay.
The U-shape around the stairs is narrow and long, which is
good for people to have conversations or other activities.

The first scenario is in 3.7m interaction zoon where daily conversation can
be made. The appropriate density of the columns creates a sequence of
orientation.

In the next scenario When people walk outside, they are in 7.5m interaction
zoon, which means they see and be attracted by the facial expression of people
who stayed at the big stairs.

72 73
PROPOSAL PROPOSAL
4.5 4.5
Exibition area Exibition area

The exhibition area is made up of arcades and canopy.

There is a courtyard in the middle, providing spaces for
people to have a rest. When people stay in the courtyard,
they can still have a view connection with the exhibition
wall. When people walk along the exhibition area, they can
also sense the activity in the courtyard.

The first scenario shows an exhibition wall that combines with the arcades;
the chose of the type of the arcade provides a space that people can stay.

From the second scenario, we can see the courtyard in the exhibition area. It is
about 7.5m width, which makes a good conversation environment for people.

74 75
PROPOSAL PROPOSAL
4.5 4.5
Reception Reception

The curved entrance of the reception shows a welcoming

atmosphere for people. It also has communication with the
round square before it; people can stay or social before
they enter the reception. The vast canopy creates a shelter
for the visitors, the arcade and canopy are combined, and
the transitional space the create lead the way to the opera.

The first scenario shows that the square creates a spatial continuity
between different levels of openness of the transitional space.

In the next scenario, the entrance of this reception is over 3.7m with a curved
shape, which shows the openness of this building and creates a welcoming
atmosphere.

76 77
PROPOSAL PROPOSAL
4.5 4.5
Activity area Activity area

The activity area is under a round canopy. People can walk

along the column and walk up to the second floor by the
steps. Different density of the columns creates a different
atmosphere of the space with different openness level so
that different kind of activities can happen in this area.

The activity area has two floors, the height is also controlled under 6.5m,
so it is easy for people to communicate even they are on different floors.

The round columns correspond to the round courtyard. Spaces with different
openness level are designed to adapt to different activities.

78 79
 CONCLUSION

The thesis has focused on the study of The experiment was to consider architectures
transitional space, tried to learn how the with transitional space. When combined the
transition elements create a transitional transitional space with buildings, the orientation
space and how could it have an influence and the entrances of the buildings became
on both human and the urban environment. crucial, because the openings of buildings
would cause different levels of openness of
Through the research, the author found that the the space, which would influence the design of
coexistence of the city and architectures is crucial transitional space. When there are architectures
to achieving the spatial continuity, which means the in the experiment, we could know from this
transitional space should change with the urban prototype that for a similar transitional space,
what different functions that space could supply.
CHAPTER 05
context. As Aldo Van Eyck said, "A city is a small
house, a small house is a city"(Aldo Van Eyck,1962)
The boundary of the city and architecture is In the final proposal, the transitional space is
Conclusion ambiguous, transitional space is such a boundary generated in a complexed urban context. If
that connect the city and architectures. Indeed, the experiment is about elements and space,
all of the coexistence is based on humanity. this is about human. The surroundings bring
The reason why the transitional space is always flows to the site, which gave each part of
hard to define is that it concerns about human the site a unique context. Different from the
needs. As a result, transitional spaces usually former study, this experiment concentrates on
have multi-functions and also change with time. the atmosphere. From this experiment, the
ambiguity of transitional space is much more
The author tried to understand the transitional apparent, because the city, building, human and
space through several experiments to see how transitional space continue to influence each other.
much potential the transitional space would
have to adapt to human's needs. Through the Transitional space as the connection between
study of transition elements, I got to know the the city, buildings and human have a very closed
possibilities of each element to combine with relationship with each other. They are organically
other elements. Even for a single element, it influenced by each other.
has the potential to become something else.

80 81
 REFERENCE

Literary:

Kurokawa, Kisho. (1987) The Philosophy of Symbiosis. Rozzoli.

Van Eyck, Aldo. (1962) Steps Toward a Configurative Discipline
Van Eyck, Aldo and O. Newman. (1961) CIAM '59 in Otterlo. Stuttgart. p.33.
Strauven, Francis .(2007) Aldo van Eyck - shaping the new reality
Hertzberger, Herman.(1991) Lessons for Students in Architecture.010 Publishers. p.32.
Boettger, Till. (2014) Threshold Spaces : Transitions in ArchitectureAnalysis and Design Tools, Walter de
Gruyter GmbH.
Madanipour, A., 2003. Public and Private Spaces of the City. Abingdon and New York: Routledge
Gehl, J.(2010). Cities for People .Washington. DC: Island Press.
CHAPTER 06
REFERENCE
Project:

Hiroshima City Museum of Contemporary Art, Kisho Kurokawa (1986-1988)

Amsterdam Orphanage, Aldo Van Eyck ( 1960)
Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art,Richard Meier (1987-1995)
Portugal Pavilion, Alvaro Siza Vieira (1998)
Apple Piazza Liberty, Foster+Pantners (2014-2018)

Figures:

Figure 1: Japanese courtyard

[online image] Retrieved from https://www.sohu.com/a/150270986_748743 (image modified to black and
white)
Figures2,3: Hiroshima City Museum of Contemporary Art,
[online image] Retrieved from https://www.japanvisitor.com/japan-museums-art-galleries/hiroshima-moca
Figure 4:Aldo van Eyck. Otterlo Circles Diagram, 1959
Figures5,6: Amstendam Orphanage, Aldo van Eyck,
[online image] Retrieved from https://www.archdaily.com/151566/ad-classics-amsterdam-orphanage-aldo-
van-eyck
Figure7: Threshold Spaces : Transitions in ArchitectureAnalysis and Design Tools.
Figures8 : Louis I. Kahn, dormitori dell’Indian Istitute of Management di Ahmedabad, foto © Cemal Emden
Figure 12:Central Park to Ho Chi Minh City, LAVA and Aspect Studios
[online image] Retrieved from https://drwong.live/art/design/lava-aspect-studios-central-park-ho-chi-minh-
city/
Figure 13: Xili sports and cultural center, MVRDV
[online image] Retrieved from https://www.designboom.com/architecture/mvrdv-xili-sports-and-cultural-
center-shenzhen-china-10-10-2016/
Figure 14: Gallery of Children’s House,MU Architecture-10, ©David Foessel
[online image] Retrieved from https://www.archdaily.com/771226/childrens-house-mu-architecture/55bedd7
ce58ece0a2b0000bc-childrens-house-mu-architecture-photo

82 83
 CHAPTER 07
Final Composition

84 85
 Conversation
Visual Contact
Walk

0 0.45 1.2m 2m 3.7m 5m 7.5m 10m 20m 50m 80m 100m 200m
m

Intimate
distance

Personal THEORY CASES

STUDY
distance
Social
distance
PublicPrivate Public

distance
Openness
Indoor Outdoor

Private Public

Evaluate
Openness
Indoor Outdoor

Private Public
Openness

Extract
Indoor Outdoor

Activity

Bar Original Painting

50°-55° Inside In-between Outside

DESIGN
Meeting

ELEMENTS
10°
Public
Intermediate
Private
70°-80°

The angle of sight(Gehl,2010)

Functionality Orientation Openness

Shape
Compose
Orientation
Low HighScale PROTOTYPE

2.ATTACHED 3.NOT ATTACHED

1.THRESHOLD
Orientation
Openness
TO BUILDING TO BUILDING

Compose
Functionality
Building City
Functionality Orientation
Scale
Scale Night Orientation Day Openness

2.1 STEPS
Functionality

1.1 ENTRANCE Indoor Outdoor

3.1 PAVEMENT
Private Public

Form

Orientation
Openness
Orientation
Functionality Orientation
Openness Openness
Functionality
2.2 CANOPIES
1.2 WINDOWS 3.2 SQUARE
Guide
Functionality

Glazing
Form

Thickness PROPOSAL

Orientation
Orientation
Openness
Openness
2.3 ARCADES
Functionality
Functionality

Form of Opennings
Orientation
Openness
Functionality Shape

Orientation
Openness
Functionality
Orientation

86 87
Openness
Functionality
Shape of Wall
88 89
 Shape

Scale

Orientation
Openness
Functionality
Orientation
Openness
Scale
Functionality
Scale

Form

Orientation
Openness Orientation
Orientation
Functionality Openness

Glazing Openness Functionality

Functionality

Form

Thickness

Orientation
Openness
Functionality
Orientation
Openness
Form of Opennings
Functionality

Orientation
Openness
Functionality Shape

Orientation
Openness
Functionality

Orientation
Shape of Wall
Openness
Functionality