Space Syntax specialises in the planning and design of human behaviour patterns in new and existing buildings.

Our work focuses on the key role that spatial layout design plays in the way buildings work in terms of:

– communication & innovation
– movement & wayfinding
– spatial components in culture.

We advise on a wide range of building types including:

– cultural buildings
– education
– healthcare
– retail
– transport
– workplaces

Communication & innovation
Innovation in the workplace is often the result of informal, ‘unplanned’ interaction, especially between colleagues working in different parts of the same building. Space Syntax analysis demonstrates why some buildings are more successful at this than others; how interaction can be generated in new designs; and what can be done to re-work failed layouts.

Movement & wayfinding
The physical layout of rooms, corridors and vertical connections exerts a strong influence over patterns of exploratory movement in retail environments, museums and galleries. Understanding the effects of spatial layout on visitor activity allows design proposals to be generated that facilitate access and encourage natural wayfinding.

We offer layout appraisal, investment advice, strategic design and monitoring services to the funders, owners and occupiers of complex buildings. Combining detailed observation studies with customer flow models and sales data analysis, we help to generate schemes that optimise patterns of moving, browsing and buying.

Spatial components in culture
Different cultures assemble space in different ways. Spatial layout reinforces cultural identity. Understanding quantifiable differences between the spatial patterns of Western European, Middle Eastern and North American building layouts, for example, allows us to design for local conditions without imposing predetermined solutions.