Architectural Space Research Articles

BLINKRESNET: COST-EFFECTIVE EYELID LOCALIZATION FOR USE IN A BLINK REFLEXOMETER

Four keypoints corresponding to upper and lower eyelid positions may be localized in the scan videos of a blink reflexometer, an edge device. Images from prior reflexometer scans are tagged in order to train a residual neural network, dubbed BlinkResNet. In order to provide adequate demographic coverage, comprehensive data collection procedures are implemented. The architecture is thoroughly parameterized, allowing for a multidimensional space of compatible architectures to be swept through using a random search. Experimental results on a dataset of annotated reflexometer frames demonstrate significant improvement over a previous algorithm for eyelid localization. A random search identified variants of BlinkResNet best-suited for reflexometer frame annotation, with BlinkResNet-Default achieving a [Formula: see text] score of 0.966 on the validation dataset. Requirements for deployment on an edge device are met: training ease, generalizable inference performance, and low computational cost. A sweep may be conducted on any combination of hyperparameters and datasets, making it an adaptable tool for the continual development of customized machine learning architectures. The analysis of sweep results provides valuable insights into optimal model organization for specific tasks. Thus, methodical data annotation and sweeps over a parameterized machine learning routine are investigated as measures to achieve rapid, accurate inference results.

How urban renewal affects the sustainable development of public spaces: trends, challenges, and opportunities

The process of urbanization has spurred economic growth and social challenges, necessitating research on public spaces in urban renewal to optimize design, enhance functionality, promote sustainable urban development, and improve residents’ quality of life. However, existing studies lack in-depth discussions on development trends and research focal points. This study addresses the gap in existing literature, by conducting a bibliometric analysis using data from the Web of Science Core Collection database from 1 January 2000, to 1 April 2024. Using visualization tools such as VOSviewer and CiteSpace, the study examines publication trends, collaborative networks among countries, institutions, and authors, co-citation relationships among key journals and articles, and emerging research hotspots through keyword analysis. A total of 393 papers were analyzed, with China contributing the highest number (65), followed by the United States (51). Leading contributors include Zazzi Michele and Anguelovski Isabelle. The top three journals for publications are Sustainability, Cities, and Land. Key research trends highlight themes such as space syntax, nature-based solutions, and sustainable transportation. These findings have significant implications for urban planning and policy, suggesting that future urban development strategies should increasingly incorporate sustainable design practices and nature-based solutions to address both environmental and social challenges. By identifying global research trends and highlighting future challenges, this study provides a comprehensive overview that will help policymakers and practitioners in urban planning align their efforts with cutting-edge research and emerging best practices for more sustainable and resilient cities.

Spatial reconfiguration of Iranian traditional houses to explore effective strategies of flexibility using space syntax analysis

Spatial reconfiguration of Iranian traditional houses to explore effective strategies of flexibility using space syntax analysis

Stress and Built Environments: Assessing Architectural and Urban Impacts

Considering the intricate relationship between the built environment and users’ mental well-being, the present study aims to evaluate how architectural and urban spaces significantly influence stress levels of residents. In this regard, the neighbourhood of Aydogdu in the city of Konya, where traditional and modern lifestyles are in conflict and certain urban problems are beginning to emerge, was chosen as a case study. Data were collected by using the questionnaire on environmental factors causing stress in the neighborhood and Dass’ Standard Questionnaire for measuring stress. Data analysis was performed through using the Pearson correlation coefficient and the results showed that there is a significant relationship between environmental factors and the occurrence of stress in the neighborhood. Accordingly, the factor of environmental qualities has the greatest impact, and the climatic factors have the least relationship with the stress of citizens. The results of regression analysis showed that environmental qualities, visual elements, and regulation of environmental conditions predicted 67% of citizens’ stress. The analysis of variance also indicated that young people aged 18 to 46 years are more influenced by the factors in which environmental stressors are found.

Visibility and annoyance of the phantom array effect varies with age and history of migraine

The phantom array effect (PAE) is a series of repeated images that may be perceived when a person moves their eyes in large saccades across a light source (or a specular reflection of that light source) that is modulating in output over time. Fifty-five people, including a group of 25 who experience migraine, evaluated the visibility and annoyingness of phantom arrays produced by 85 unique temporal light modulation waveforms (including sine, rectangular, complex and DC waveforms) generated using an LED placed against a black background. Those with migraine exhibited higher average visibility compared to those without migraine ( p = 0.019) and were relatively more sensitive at higher frequencies ( p < 0.001). Younger participants also found more stimuli to be visible ( p < 0.001). The threshold sensitivity function was similar to that developed for the phantom array visibility measure (PAVM), and PAVM was effective in predicting visibility ( R2 = 0.87 for the relevant region of PAVM < 3). While those in the migraine group did not report seeing the PAE more often in everyday life at a statistically significant level, they reported being more annoyed by it and having more unwanted physiological responses (headaches, eye fatigue and distraction/disorientation). Members of the migraine group were also more likely to have changed their behaviour in architectural spaces (such as leaving a restaurant with ‘flickering’ lights). In the four hours after completing the experiment, 64% of the migraine group (vs. 19% of the non-migraine group) reported experiencing discomfort or an adverse reaction. In particular, 41% reported experiencing a headache (vs. 8% for those in the non-migraine group).

Parliament Hidden in Small Streets and Squares. The Significance of Parliament’s Seat for the Constitutional System

Abstract Parliament is the space where politics and (constitutional) law literally take shape. Here, collective decisions take form in a specific setting where relationships between various political actors are organized through architecture. The architecture of spaces of political congregation is not only an abstract expression of a political culture – it participates in politics and it is part of the constitutional system. This paper focuses on the question, whether the location (and architecture) of the seat of the parliament is somehow significant for decision-making practices and for the role of the parliament in the constitutional system and for its values. This is discussed based on the example of the seat of the Parliament of the Czech Republic. The parliament (and especially the Chamber of Deputies) is one of the key institutions in Czech constitutional system. This is kind of paradox, because unlike other significant parliaments, the buildings of the Parliament of the Czech Republic are not dominant of the city of Prague.

Developing a Workflow for Transforming BIM Models into Immersive Virtual Reality Experiences

Abstract. The integration of Extended Reality (XR) and Building Information Modelling (BIM) has emerged as a promising approach for enhancing interaction with spatial data in the built environment. While the potential of BIM for advanced visualization has been recognized, there remains a need for standardized workflows that facilitate the transformation of BIM models into immersive virtual reality (VR) experiences. This research contributes to the ongoing development of BIM-VR integration by presenting a workflow that leverages Revit, Twinmotion, and Datasmith to create visually rich and interactive VR environments. The established process focuses on enhancing textures, incorporating dynamic lighting and weather simulations, and populating the virtual space with realistic elements. The workflow also addresses the integration of interactable objects to elevate user engagement and the use of cutting-edge VR headsets for an immersive experience. By providing a structured approach to bridging complex BIM data with VR, this research aims to support architects, engineers, construction professionals, and clients in design collaboration, project review, and decision-making across the building lifecycle. The workflow's potential for facilities management and training applications is also explored. Through a case study, the research demonstrates the workflow's effectiveness in facilitating a deeper understanding of architectural spaces before construction, highlighting its potential for improving efficiency and reducing rework. The paper also discusses the challenges and opportunities associated with integrating BIM with GIS and sensor data to create comprehensive digital twins. This research contributes to the growing body of knowledge on BIM-VR integration and underscores the importance of continued development in this field to enhance the design, communication, and experience of the built environment.

The Role of Sound in Shaping Architectural Spaces: A Multisensory Approach

The integration of sound within the built environment represents a pivotal yet often overlooked aspect of architectural design. This study explores the multifaceted dimensions of sound incorporation, emphasizing its potential to profoundly impact spatial experience and individual well-being. Through a comprehensive review of the literature, the study elucidates the diverse roles sound plays in shaping human perception, social interactions, and environmental quality. Sound, as a fundamental element of sensory experience, significantly influences our perception of space and place. Whether through the subtle ambiance of natural sounds or the deliberate orchestration of architectural acoustics, sound has the power to evoke emotions, establish atmosphere, and define spatial boundaries. Incorporating sound consciously into architectural processes presents opportunities to enhance the quality of life for inhabitants. By prioritizing acoustic comfort and fostering sonic diversity, designers can create environments that promote relaxation, productivity, and social cohesion. Furthermore, leveraging technology and design strategies enables the optimization of soundscapes to mitigate negative sounds and improve overall environmental sustainability.

Carceral Soundscapes

My central research focus seeks to define a poetics of the carceral; to accomplish this goal, I study the relationship between inmate authors, the space of the prison, and the soundscapes their works create. My work builds on that of scholars like Nicole Fleetwood who have shifted conversations toward the materiality of the prison in recent years. My work emerges in conversation with this scholar, as I expand her frameworks to examine how the material shape of the prison is revealed through and imprinted on the work of incarcerated poets. In my paper, I argue that inmate authors articulate the prison experience in unique ways by reconstructing and experimenting with sound to push back against a dehumanizing carceral space. I begin by foregrounding the work of Reginald Dwayne Betts, as he uses the material prison to create soundscapes of his experience. His material use of legal documents and prison moderators creates a tension between the sounds the prison implicitly creates, and those Betts explicitly recreates. The sensory experience of prison, how it is heard and seen, and the recreations of that experience allow us to understand the architecture of carceral space. Ultimately, my paper identifies new directions for analyzing how inmate artists transform the experience of carceral space and inscribe the material life of the contemporary American prison into poetry.

Evaluation of spatial form and activation strategies of traditional villages using spatial information technology

Traditional villages are important carriers of regional cultural inheritance. The challenge of utilizing spatial information technology to protect and preserve the architectural spatial patterns and regional context of traditional villages has attracted significant attention. This study focuses on Biasha Miao village in Guizhou province, China, as the case study. Digital information technology was used to evaluate the architectural spatial texture and typical street space characteristics of different villages. Using the DepthMap model of space syntax and parameters such as integration, average depth value, and connectivity, the article examines the spatial form of traditional villages across three aspects: overall space, street space, and point-like public space. In the end, a spatial activation optimization strategy was proposed. The results showed that the spatial layout of buildings in different villages is closely related to the distribution characteristics of landscape elements such as landform, water system, and farmland, as well as residents’ production, lifestyle, and regional culture. Da village and Zaige new village are well-connected to the main traffic roads connecting them to the outside world, resulting in high spatial permeability and a more extroverted spatial development. Most public spaces are located near the main village road, offering good accessibility, or at the geometric center of the village, where they serve critical roles in cultural display and distribution. This study proposes targeted activation strategies focusing on road traffic, street layout, and spatial nodes to optimize and enhance the spatial quality of traditional villages, improve residents’ living environments, and provide practical guidance for the sustainable development of traditional village spaces.

The use of photobioreactors in façades for decarbonization process

The paper deals with the application of microalgae in building’s façade, regard to the broader project comprising the aspects of the environmental comfort of academic spaces and the energy consumption with on-grid photovoltaic generation, as well as the investigation of alternatives for the improvement of the performance of the building envelopes. Thus, its main objective is the application of interdisciplinary concepts involving Architecture and Biotechnology, as known by Black Ecologies, referring to an investigative interest to explore a new approach of nature, not only related to architectural space, but an emergent environmental focus. This relationship is performed by using photobioreactors with microalgae, installed on the façades of buildings for educational use. The present work presents the methodological outline of the research, based on literature review and case studies; complementary experimental methodologies are also presented to contextualize the subject and its application and feasibility. The current state of art showed an emergent approach in terms of international level, but in the Brazilian context any further research was identified yet. In addition to thermal and energy performance, the strategies will allow the process of sequestration of carbon dioxide and other GHG (greenhouse gases) that impacts on the process of climate change and can contribute to reach the sustainable development. This subject coincides with the discussions of the 2050 scenarios and emission reduction, which were faced at the recent COP-27 and its connections with an integrative way to contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

Architectural Dynamics in Tolkien’s Novel, The Hobbit: A Literary and Cinematic Perspective

This study investigates the dynamic interplay between architectural elements and narrative construction in J.R.R. Tolkien’s novel The Hobbit (1937) and its cinematic adaptations directed by Peter Jackson. By focusing on both literary and cinematic mediums, this research elucidates how architectural elements contribute to world-building, character development, story progression, and thematic expression. The fantasy genre, with its potential for spatial constructs, provides fertile ground for this exploration. Through comprehensive analysis, it is revealed that Tolkien’s strategic use of spaces such as the Shire, Erebor, and the Woodland Realm enhances the narrative's depth and realism. These spaces are integral to the narrative, reflecting the cultural and moral attributes of their inhabitants and influencing the story's progression. In parallel, Jackson's films reinterpret these architectural spaces, employing cinematic techniques to amplify their visual and emotional impact. The adaptation showcases the integration of architectural elements with narrative and character development, creating a different kind of experience for viewer. This study adopts an interdisciplinary approach, drawing from literary analysis, film studies, and architectural theory, to offer new insights into the significant role of architecture in storytelling. The research highlights how architectural principles are translated into narrative devices in literature and visual representations in film. The findings underscore the transformative potential of architectural elements in narrative construction, highlighting their importance as central components rather than mere background settings. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of the multifaceted relationship between architecture, literature, and film, and calls for further interdisciplinary exploration to fully appreciate the impact of spatial dynamics in narrative art.

Historic street layout and its impact on shaping residents’ daily lives: insights from Sanxue Street, Xi’an

ABSTRACT Historic street layouts are integral to historic districts’ tangible cultural heritage and are intricately linked to the residents’ daily lives; however, existing studies have only examined their spatial aspects, primarily using quantitative methods. Conversely, studies on tangible cultural heritage’s impact on residents’ lives have principally employed qualitative methods. Therefore, this study bridges qualitative and quantitative approaches to propose a layout – daily life model, which explains the relationship between the layout of Xi’an, China’s Sanxue Street historic and cultural district, and its residents’ daily lives. A combination of space syntax and geographic information system-based land-use analyses revealed that eating, shopping, calligraphy, and transportation were the main activities of residents. Questionnaire responses from 335 participants validated the proposed model and confirmed its feasibility. When certain types of facilities are widely distributed in streets with high choice and integration, residents’ daily lives tend to involve the functions represented by them. Furthermore, calligraphy is an important part of most residents’ daily lives, regardless of the transportation mode used. This study contributes to the understanding of the effect of tangible cultural heritage, particularly street layouts, on residents’ daily lives in historic districts.

The impact of visitor attributes on the spatial experience in exhibition halls with background music

The exhibition hall is public architectural space with diverse forms, which serves as an exceptional research environment for investigating spatial experience. As a potent auditory stimulus capable of evoking emotions effectively, music exerts influence on behavioral responses in different contexts. However, the existing literature on interior space design rarely integrates soundscape considerations. Therefore, this study aims to explore the impact of tourist attributes-such as music learning experience, listening frequency, exhibition visiting motivation, personality traits, and neuroticism-on spatial experiences based on music perception and interior layouts. The background music is categorized into five sound conditions based on mode and tempo: no music, medium tempo in major, medium tempo in minor, fast tempo in major, and slow tempo in major. Meanwhile, the exhibition space is classified into four categories according to its interior layout: axis space, scale contrast space, shape contrast space, and flow space. The result shows that in different spatial environment with different music background, tourist attributes have different effects on the subjective spatial perception.

Narrative Space and the Figure of the Refugee in the Early Life Writing of Ocean Vuong

ABSTRACT This paper will read for the representation of space in the Vietnamese American author Ocean Vuong’s narrative essay “The Weight of Our Living: On Hope, Fire Escapes, and Visible Desperation”. The paper places Vuong’s text into conversation with theorists of narrative and architectural spaces – Yi-Fu Tuan, Umberto Eco, and Mikhail Bakhtin, among others – and draws on critical refugee studies to explore the representation of spaces and places in their relationship to Vuong’s account of refugee experience and trauma. In the essay’s manipulations of narrative space, meditations on architectural space, and engagements with theories of trauma, a spatial understanding of trauma emerges and comes to bear on first wave literary trauma theory, which the essay builds on and departs from with the suggestion that architectural space functions semiotically and is a medium of language by which topics socially and psychologically repressed can be “spoken” despite social taboos and prohibitions. Working against public discourse which reduces refugees to victims of trauma (in their country of origin) and beneficiaries of social uplift (in their resettlement country), Vuong critiques the discursive framing of the refugee as needful ward and perpetual other and works toward a means of speaking about personal experience that speaks back to dominant narratives about refugees.

Medical practices in places of culture and intense architecture: how the visit experience changes.

Cultura di Base is an experimental project realised in Torino between May and October 2022. Some General Practitioners' offices were moved to cultural places of the city, such as museums, libraries, cultural centers, with recognised quality in terms of space design and architecture. The assumption to be tested is that "intense architecture offices" can improve the experience of the visit and possibly strengthen the relationship between patient and doctor. Our counterfactual impact evaluation, based on a quasi-experimental control group design, evidences a significant positive impact both on the perceptions of waiting time and on the post-visit psychological well-being.

Influence of Campus Outdoor Spaces on Students Behavior: Enhancing Social Interaction and Learning at An-Najah University

This study examines how the physical features of university campus outdoor spaces affect student behavior, aiming to promote social interaction and improve learning outcomes. Two central questions guide the research: how student movements relate to open space features, and how campus layout influences student circulation and interaction. By employing a mixed-method approach, including field observations and space syntax analysis, five areas at An-Najah University Campus are studied. The findings highlight the importance of these insights in urban design and planning, especially for teaching staff, students, and visitors. Results indicate that spatial layout and physical features significantly affect space usage, with students favoring areas with seating, shade, and social opportunities, adapting to informal setups when formal options are limited. Visibility is key, with students favoring spaces offering maximum visibility for seating. This understanding informs architects and planners in creating engaging campus environments for social interaction and learning.

Building sustainable mitigation through adaptive green open space on tanjung mas sub district

Abstract Mitigation is a step to reduce the risk of disasters in a particular area. Tanjung Mas sub-district is an area that has a high potential for land subsidence and tidal flooding because it is located on the North Coast of Java. Temporary evacuation points are urgently needed to protect residents from the dangers of tidal floods and distribute logistics from volunteers. Based on community preferences, the Green Open Space in Tambak Lorok are used as an evacuation point for flood disasters. The green open space, which was initially used for sustainable water absorption, was converted into an evacuation point as a flood disaster mitigation measure. This research aims to measure the suitability of green open space as a temporary evacuation site. The research method used is a Space Syntax approach and qualitative description analysis. Based on the results of the analysis, almost all the requirements for evacuation places by the green open space location. It is easily accessible because it is on the primary residential route, easily accessible by vehicles, and has building structures higher than the road. However, the area of green open space still needs to be increased for the minimum standard capacity per person. Apart from that, the infrastructure to support evacuation, such as electricity, communication equipment, or rubber boats, needs to be improved. The construction of green open space as a temporary evacuation site needs to be adjusted to minimum standards and the needs of the population. It is also hoped that the development of green open space will be the responsibility of not only the government but also cooperation between stakeholders. Green open space isn’t just for environment impacts, but can also increase the community resilience.

Investigate Sustainability Aspect in Spatial Configurations of Javanese Vernacular Architecture: Case Study of Joglo House

Abstract This research focuses on the unique spatial designs and variations found in the Joglo houses of Juwana, Pati, in Central Java, a region celebrated for its indigenous architecture. The Joglo house, a fundamental component of the Javanese cultural identity, is often inherited through generations without any formal written records, leaving its architectural details in scholarly discussions. The purpose of this study is to explore the spatial characteristics of spaces in the Joglo house that support the sustainability. The study employs the space syntax methodology to investigate the spatial interrelations among rooms in 16 Joglo houses then the 5 representative houses were picked to be analysed mathematically. By using the justified plan graph analysis, it identifies specific patterns and categorizations in the relationships between rooms, thereby uncovering the intrinsic architectural principles. The findings reveal that all the representative floor plans have a corridor as the most integrated space and there is a distinct separation between public and private spaces. This study bridges traditional knowledge and scholarly research, highlighting the intricate architecture and cultural significance of Joglo houses.

Integrating Streetscape Images, Machine Learning, and Space Syntax to Enhance Walkability: A Case Study of Seongbuk District, Seoul

As urbanization rapidly progresses, streets have transitioned from mere transportation corridors to crucial spaces for daily life and social interaction. While past research has examined the impact of physical street characteristics on walkability, there is still a lack of large-scale quantitative assessments. This study systematically evaluates street walkability in Seongbuk District, Seoul, through the integration of streetscape images, machine learning, and space syntax. The physical characteristics of streets were extracted and analyzed in conjunction with space syntax to assess street accessibility, leading to a combined analysis of walkability and accessibility. The results reveal that the central and western regions of Seongbuk District outperform the eastern regions in overall street performance. Additionally, the study identifies four distinct street types based on their spatial distribution: high accessibility–high overall score, high accessibility–low overall score, low accessibility–high overall score, and low accessibility–low overall score. The findings not only provide a scientific basis for street development in Seongbuk District but also offer valuable insights for assessing and enhancing walkability in cities globally.