Complexity in the Built Environment: Wayfinding Difficulties in the Modular Design of Qatar University’s Most Iconic Building

Abstract

Constructed in the 1980s, the BCR Corridors complex is the most iconic building at Qatar University (QU). However, it is also notorious for way-finding difficulties. The problem appears to derive from the repetitive similarity of individual parts in its modular design. Elevators, stairwells, screens, and temporary installations also create impediments to user readability and visibility. Collectively, this tends to complicate its relationship to the immediate context of the university campus. Recently, researchers at QU conducted a post-occupancy evaluation (PoE) of the BCR Corridors. It included (1) direct observation of movement flows and static occupation of space in common areas, (2) room use and photographic surveys, and (3) computer modeling of the spatial layout using space syntax. Space syntax is an international research program of academics and practitioners studying the role of built space in society from the single building to entire cities. The purpose of the PoE study was to understand observed patterns of movement and space use with reference to the problems for way-finding in the BCR Corridors. Based on this, researchers developed proposals for design alterations to enable easier use of the complex. The findings of the study support the above hypothesis about navigation problems in the building.

Evaluation the Impact of Spatial Configuration on Socio-Economic Parameters in Emerging Shopping Centers. Case study of Ritaj Mall in Constantine, Algeria

“…To this correspond the theories of spatial syntax, amethod based on the principle of digital modeling of urban and architectural form. It aims to simulate conditions of functioning and use of an architectural object or an urban environment (Major et al, 2020). In other words, it permits the testing and analysis of an architectural device or an urban spatial planning and the prediction of the repartition of flow densities.…”

“…It is an explanatory method of the reports that individuals make with the architectural and urban life space, in addition to the "traditional" or "classical" approaches (Hillier and Hanson, 1984;Hillier et al 1987;Hillier, 2007 ;Lévy, 2005).Indeed, spatial syntax has been applied on different architectural complexes : museums, residential buildings, shopping centers, supermarkets, hospitals, university centers, educational center, administrative buildings, mosques, etc. (Dursun, 2007 ;Hillier and tzortzi, 2006 ;Kim et al, 2008 ;Major et al ;Sari and Alhamdani, 2021).…”