Strategic Space Planning Triumphs Over Size
Published in ATÖLYE Insights · 4 min read · August 28, 2024
Strategic Space Planning Triumphs Over Size: Achieving More with Less
Author: Perihan Saad, Sr. Interior Architect - Design Delivery Manager, ATÖLYE
Contributors: Güray Oskay, Director of Architectural Design & Gizem Akın, Senior Architect
There is no doubt that architecture and interior design possess the ability to reshape our world immensely, influencing our experiences, interactions, and the environments we live in.
In the realm of architectural and interior design, bigger isn't always better. The true measure of effective space lies in its functionality, adaptability, and how well it fulfills its intended purpose. This principle was demonstrated in a recent project we delivered for the DIFC Academy within the Dubai International Financial Centre, where strategic space planning turned an expansive, underutilized area into a model of efficiency and functionality.
Our journey began with a lecture theater at the heart of the five-storey-academy that -despite its vast footprint- lacked some basic properties of physical, acoustic and visual comfort, making it a less-than-ideal learning environment. The audience at the back and on the sides struggled to see the presentation screens and hear the lecturer clearly. The theater's size and capacity were its only advantage, but this vastness became a hindrance without proper utilization. It's evident that the large space wasn't enough to fulfill its purpose.
The goal was clear: transform this oversized, underutilized area into a more functional and engaging educational space.
The first step in our transformation was to reimagine the potential of the existing space. Following site surveys and data collection to understand the users needs and journeys, the ATÖLYE Architecture team started by analyzing the seating arrangements and sightlines. It was obvious that a significant portion of the theater could be drastically improved. With this insight, we proposed a bold yet practical solution: reduce the size of the lecture theater and repurpose the excess space.
By strategically reducing the size of the theater and slightly increasing the audience capacity, we created a more focused learning environment.
The new theater was designed with tiered and staggered seating to ensure unobstructed screen visibility from every seat. The introduction of advanced audio-visual technology has not only improved the experience as a whole, but also enhanced the acoustic properties. With the combination of smart space planning and cutting-edge technology, the result was a space that felt both full and vibrant, fostering a better connection between the lecturer and the audience - even ones attending online.
The effects of this transformation didn't stop with the theater: By downsizing the original space, we freed up enough area to create and add two seminar rooms. These rooms were designed for smaller, more interactive sessions, providing versatile spaces that could be used for various purposes, from smaller group discussions to individual workspace when needed. This addition added significant value to the institution by offering more diverse spaces and functions.
The revamped lecture theater and newly added seminar rooms quickly became a testament to the power of strategic space planning. The smaller theater saw increased attendance and engagement, with lecturers and renowned universities endorsing and praising the improved space. This project underscored a crucial lesson in architectural and interior design: the effectiveness of a space is not determined by its size but by how well it meets the needs of its end users. Whether you're working in a large theater or a small office, strategic space planning can unlock the full potential of your environment.
"ATÖLYE has shown a great deal of dedication to their design and seeing it through with the contractors through to detailed design and throughout the construction appointed as design guardian. Organization, communication skills and attention to detail are just a few of the many fine qualities that ATÖLYE possesses. They have been flexible to a certain point and have shown that they have a true eye for design."
— Tuba Demiroğlu, Assistant to Vice President-Design Lead at DIFC
Beyond the positive qualitative feedback, the impact of the strategic space planning is also demonstrated in quantifiable results. The data below showcase the key metrics reflecting the transformation's effectiveness in optimizing the learning environment, within a few months of implementation.
In the end, the power of strategic space planning lies in its ability to see beyond mere dimensions, focusing instead on creating environments and spaces that are as functional as they are inspiring. This approach not only maximizes the utility of available space but also enriches the experience of those who use it, proving that when it comes to space, bigger isn't always better - but smarter is!
Are you also working towards transforming your spaces to be more engaging, functional and more exciting? Then please get in touch with our ATÖLYE Architecture team to find out how we can create long-term value, together.