The Influence of Curvilinear Architectural Forms on Environment-Behaviour

Abstract

The objective of this paper is to relate various aspects of curvilinear forms of architecture with environment-behaviour. The paper focuses on the curvilinear architectural works of the UK firm of Foster + Partners. The data used for the paper are based on the case studies of six buildings namely the Sage Music Centre in Gateshead, the American Air Museum in Duxford, the Faculty of Law at Cambridge University, The Great Court at the British Museum, Canary Wharf Underground Station and Northern Greenwich Transport Interchange, the last three being in London. The design approach is studied in terms of concept, metaphor and scenario for these building that are curvilinear on plan as well as in section. Of paramount importance is the sectional study of the buildings which reveal the sensation of the spaces created due to the interplay of volumes. This influence behaviour within the environment and how the spaces created within the buildings are perceived and utilised by the users. The paper concludes that curvilinear forms of architecture have vital influence on environment-bahaviour in terms of promoting communication, encouraging movement, lifting the spirit, aiding orientation, changing perception, enhancing social experience, increasing pleasure, supporting the sense of community, relieving sense of distance and dissolving social boundaries.