A computer aided architectural design technique for the appraisal of domestic activity spaces

Abstract

A computer program has been written which allows numerical appraisal of the efficiency of floor area usage of activity spaces. This was achieved by first developing a theoretical model of the 2-D plan layout of activity spaces, taking into account the distribution of elements (predominantly furniture and fittings) and the user spaces required for using these elements, and secondly by allowing for the development of a model to “assemble” and combine these elements to form activity spaces. The mathematical evaluation method is based on a penalty system containing three main penalty factors; one, degree of overlaps of elements and user spaces; two, economy of perimeter length of the activity space; and three, economy of proportional floor area consumption within the activity space. The technique should be of use to architects and other designers at the early design stages of floor space planning. Computer aided architectural design, design systems, architectural design appraisal techniques, space planning appraisal techniques, floor layout appraisal techniques.