Making transitional space in the contemporary city

Abstract

RESEARCH QUESTION: How can traditional urban space elements be used to enhance the design of transitional space in the contemporary city?

The following research is an explorative study on “Transitional spaces” as a means of designing and enhancing urban architecture. To start with, transitional spaces are the intermediate areas that acts as an in-between spaces. Traditionally, spaces were defined as indoor or outdoor spaces and the presence of transitional space was not experienced so this research will be focusing on these transitional spaces and the journey from one place to another marking these spaces as a destination. It also focuses on identifying what defines a transitional space that enhances the pedestrian experience in an urban environment. Also, providing a commercial building with mixed-use areas enhances the overall space and helps it merge into its urban context.

Thus, the research will be an implementation of design by intertwining the publications of architects within Western and Indian urban contexts and traditional transitional space case studies on macro and micro scales, that are related to the topic. It is an attempt to understand the traditional elements of transitional space and then implementing them in today’s urban context.

The potential site for this project is “The Aotea Quarter framework” identified by Auckland Council as the core and cultural heart of Auckland. It includes adjoining mixed-use neighbourhoods and physical interventions revealing opportunities to improve the public realm.