FORM AND SPACE: THE FUNDAMENTAL ELEMENTS IN

ARCHITECTURE

Theory of Architecture 1
1st Semester 2024-2025

Azotea, Allyzza O.
BSAR-1

09637791475

Alwin S. Calig, MS Arch

Instructor 1
 I. Introduction
Architecture is a field full of wonders. It defines the construction of towering
skyscrapers that stand tall and seem to touch the sky and are invisible to strong
winds, roads that can withstand heavy loads without breaking apart, iconic towers
and sculptures that serve as landmarks, houses that shelter thousands of
individuals, and many other breathtaking structures. However, all this astonishing
structure lies in the concept of form and space. In architecture, form refers to a
building's shape, composition, dimension, and placement, all of which can affect
its usability, aesthetic appeal, and impact on the surrounding environment.
Furthermore, the form must support and enhance intended usage, considering
contextual factors such as cultural, historical, social, and technological influences
(Archi_Com & Archi_Com, 2023). Form and space are versatile and crucial
elements in architecture. For instance, because of form, some bridges are often
built in the form of triangles. This shape is known to be the strongest geometrical
shape that has great strength and stability for it to withstand the loads of thousands
of vehicles. Likewise, vertical columns act as support to the buildings.
On the other hand, space refers to the free space or volume that exists
between the structural components of the solid positives. The borders are visibly
visible, not the actual space itself. The textures of the fabrics, the shadows cast by
light beams, the walls, ceilings, and flooring are the boundaries that define the
space (Admin, 2020). Moreover, space can also be perceived through our senses.
For instance, people can see forms from space, feel the warmth of sunlight, and
smell the fragrance in the garden (F.D.k Ching,1996). The space that surrounds us
also impacts our mood and behavior, just like when people visit the natural space
or the park because of the ambiance that is brought by the cool trees and fresh
breeze. It makes people feel relaxed and content.

II. Objectives of the project

The objective of this project is to help readers grasp form and space,
especially its characteristics. It is also applied to real-life structures and will learn
how to visualize and improve comprehension of the topic. Finally, readers will
learn how to determine the form and space of a structure.
III. Methodology
In designing a structure, it is important to consider not only the design or shape
but also the functionality and livability of the quality of space within the structure.
This includes ensuring that the layout promotes ease of movement, provides
natural light and ventilation, and provides a sense of comfort and well-being for
individuals. Additionally, the relationship between different spaces such as public
and private areas, must be thoughtfully planned to enhance user experience.
Ultimately, a successful design harmonizes aesthetic appeal with practical
considerations, creating environments that are both beautiful and functional.

IV. Presentation with illustrations

1. FORM & SPACE: THE UNITY OF OPPOSITE

In unity and opposite it consists of various elements of form that differ in shape, size,
color, or orientation. It organizes the positive shape and the negative background. There are two
opposing groups and these are positive and negative elements (F.D.k Ching,1996).
 Positive elements are the figures and structures that attract attention.
 Negative elements are the background space of the figure.
These two elements help to easily identify and organize the elements within their area and
understand the connection of the elements with their backgrounds. However, as the figures grow,
the elements around them compete for our attention making it ambiguous to identify them
visually.

Figure 1: “Black and White”

Graphics arrange by Allyzza Azotea
Source: Canva.com
 2. DEFINING SPACE
According to F.D.k Ching (1996), defining space is the two-dimensional or three-
dimensional figures or objects that naturally articulate the surrounding space. Thus, every form
creates a field of territory within the surrounding area and claims as its own.

For example, in two-dimensional figure like a

circle illustration on a white piece of paper
influences its surrounding space or the white paper.

Figure 2: “Circle”
Graphics arrange by Allyzza
Azotea
Canva.com

In a three-dimensional figure, imagine that there is one

huge sphere in the museum, the sphere influences or
articulates the surrounding area. It means that you
cannot put it elsewhere to place the sphere because it
already occupies the space within its field.

Figure 3: “Sphere”
Graphics arrange by Allyzza Azotea
Canva.com

3. HORIZONTAL ELEMENTS DEFINING SPACE

 A base plane is a horizontal plane or flat surface that on a contrasting background defines
a simple field of space (F.D.k Ching,1996). Meaning it creates a separate entity within
its surrounding area. Also, the architecture uses texture and color to differentiate its zone
of space within a larger context.
 A great example of this is the carpet in the living room. This carpet is a flat
surface that has various designs and textures that articulate itself to the
surroundings making it seem to create a sense of another space.
 Figure 4: “Livingroom with fireplace”
By VizArch

FigureSource: Canva.com
5: “Modern House Interior”
By Curtis Adams
 An elevated base plane creates a distinct area within a larger space. It also establishes
Source: Canva.com
vertical surfaces along its edges that reinforce the visual separation between its field and
the surrounding ground (NishanthCm, 2015).
 Stairs are considered elevated base planes that are horizontal planes above the
ground, creating a specific domain within its surrounding space. Stairs are a series
of elevated platform stock together and slightly tilted horizontally making it easy
and comfortable for people to step up to the higher area.

 A horizontal plane depressed into the ground plane utilizes the vertical
surfaces of the lower area to define the volume of the space (Ic3tan, n.d.).
 Basement is a depressed plane also known as the sunken plane that
defines and creates a distinct volume of space. It visually isolates the
lower area from the larger context making it an excellent place to use
as a storage area.
 Figure 6: “Basement Dungeon”
By spxChrome
Source: Canva.com

 A horizontal plane located overhead defines a volume of space between itself and the
Figure 7: “House Roof”
ground plane (F.D.k Ching,1996).
 The roof is known as an overhead By Welcomia
plane. It is located above the ground which also
defines the volume of space between
Source: it and the ground plane, The Roof is
Canva.com
designed to protect the inside or the interior of the house from extreme weather
and environmental factors.

4. VERTICAL ELEMENTS DEFINING SPACE

 Vertical linear elements define the perpendicular edges of a volume of space (F.D.k
Ching,1996). Also, the vertical liner is the perpendicular plane that stands straight
upward just like columns, towers, poles, and even trees. They are often placed at the
center of the environment at a stable point influencing and organizing the elements in its
surrounding area to create the field of territory.
 For instance, the municipal hall or a City Hall is composed of a series of vertical
linear elements or columns called colonnades, usually used to support the
 buildings. Moreover, a colonnade is commonly used in government buildings to
recall political identity.

 A single vertical plane articulates the space on which it fronts (F.D.k Ching,1996).
 An example of this is a single wall that stands vertically. It serves as a devisor to
separate one space into two. This is also known as an accent wall, it is a single
wall differentiated by the surroundings and defining unique elements within the
space.

 L-shape plane is a vertical plane that generates a field space. It creates a strong focus at
the corner and defines the space within (F.D.k Ching,1996). An example of this is two
walls connected in each other forming an L-shape.
 As we notice L-shaped type of wall is usually used in television commercials and
shows for entertainment. They use L-shaped to create an alternative room. The L-
shaped characteristics create a direct focus on the room making it interesting and
attracting people's eyes.

Figure 9: “Single Wall”

Graphics by Allyzza Azotea
Source: Canva.com
 Parallel planes are two vertical planes that define a volume of space between them that is
oriented axially towards both open ends of the configuration (F.D.k Ching,1996). In
other words, it is two walls facing each other defining the open space directed outwards.
Additionally, by making the wall longer the space between the walls will extend.
 Just like a corridor or a hallway in the school, it guides people walking by the
means of its walls.

Figure 9: “3d rendering loft

modern kitchen”
By Ditsangthonsuk
Source: Canva.com

 A U-shaped plane configuration of vertical planes defines a volume of space that is

oriented primarily toward the open end of the configuration (F.D.k Ching,1996). In other
words, it is composed of tree walls connected that form a u-shape that articulates the
inward making but open outward making seem enclosed and spacious.

Figure 10: “Hallway”

By Dosecreative
Source: Canva.com
  For example, there are U-shaped couches in the living room it is open inward
where the area we sit on but they also focus outward pointing to the middle of the
room making the living room a snug area for family activities.

 Four planes: Closure is four vertical planes that establish boundaries that establish an
enclosed or introverted space and influence the space in its surroundings (F.D.k

Figure 10: “Emplty square room”

By Jason Finn
Figure 10: “Cozy living room
with sofa
Source: set”
Canva.com
By KatarzynaBialasiewicz
Source: Canva.com

Ching,1996).

 This plane is durable and stable and is commonly used in architecture for
buildings, houses, and others. It provides privacy and creates shelter for
individuals.
3. OPENING IN SPACES-DEFINING ELEMENTS
Spaces commonly have openings that enable sunlight to penetrate and illuminate the area,
provide scenery, and establish a connection to the space (Joseph Wunderlich, 2022). Windows
come in different varieties: they are within planes, at corners, and between planes
 Within planes is an opening located at the center of the walls.

- Windows allow daylight to illuminate,

offer views, and establish a connection
within the space, and it provide
ventilation to a building. A group of
windows that close together fragment a
scene guiding our eyes to see various
views, and a skylight makes the room
brighter and look bigger.

Figure 11: “Within planes”

Graphics by Allyzza Azotea
Source: Canva.com

 At corners are located at the corner or the ceiling of the wall.

-Opening along edges makes the corners

of the room ambiguous and when the
opening widens, the space loses its
sense of enclosure. Corner windows
brighten the dark corners or areas of the
room. It creates light pinwheel patterns
that obligate us to move around the
room.

Figure 12: “At corners”

Graphics arrange by Allyzza
Azotea
Source: Canva.com
 Between planes are the openings that extend vertically from the floor to the
ceiling and horizontally between the two walls.

- Long, narrow windows present the

areas beyond. As the openings
expand, they can view large
spaces. It also allows more
daylight to penetrate the space
making the room spacious.

Figure 13: “Between Planes”

Graphics arrange by Allyzza Azotea
Source: Canva.com

4. QUALITIES OF ARCHITECTURAL SPACE

In architecture fundamental elements which are linear and planar define a volume of
space and different openings that serve to connect and create stunning structures. However, the
Qualities of an architectural space are much deeper than diagrams and drawings can portray.
Furthermore, the qualities of space have a greater connection to the properties of enclosure
(F.D.k Ching,1996). For instance, the warm sunlight coming to the window, the ambiance of the
room that is cozy and relaxing, the sound of nature, and much more, can only be perceived
through the experiences and feelings of an individual.
 Degree of Enclosure
The configuration of its defining elements and the pattern of its openings. It provides a
significant impact on perception and understanding within the space (F.D.k Ching,1996).
 Opening within the opposing planes
 Opening located along the enclosing planes
 Opening between planes
 FAMOUS ARCHITECTURAL STUCTURE AN
EXAMPLE OF DEGREE OF ENCLOSURE

Figure 14: “GLASS HOUSE”

Design by Architect Philip Johnson
Source: Hawthorne (2012)

Figure 17: “Habitat 67”

Design by Moshe Safdie
Source: Redirect Notice (n.d)

Figure 18: “Solomon R. Guggenheim”

Design by Frank Lloyd Wright
Source: Redirect Notice (n.d)
5. Light
Light penetrating through windows reveals the objects' shape, color, and texture. Sunlight
creates shifting patterns and reveals the objects' true form through shade or shadows that
articulate the form of the object making it more visible. Furthermore, the quality and the position
of light varies with time and day which affects the atmosphere of the room. A room full of defuse
light makes the room somber but if the room is filled with bright daylight it makes the room
festive. Light not only changes the atmosphere of a room but also affects an individual’s whole
being.
According to Hillbrand (2018), light defines architecture, textures, materials, surfaces,
and atmospheres. It impacts our alertness, well-being, and performance. Architects can enhance
daily living by varying light strength, quality, and color, affecting visual understanding, aesthetic

Figure 19: “Light”

Graphics arrange by Allyzza Azotea
Source: Canva.com

appreciation, and biological and emotional health.

6. View
The view is one of the crucial qualities of space because it establishes the visual
presentation of the outside world inside the room. Window and skylight or any other openings
provide a view while also establishing a connection between the structure and its surroundings.
Small windows allow us to use close-up detail or views like the wall painting or wide openings
showing a large scene of space beyond. The view not only functions for the aesthetics of the

Figure 20: “Views”

Graphics arrange by Allyzza Azotea
Source: Canva.com
structure but it provides the cognitive stimulus that reduces the mental fatigue of an individual
( Folkesson, 2023).

V. Reflection

Form and space is not only a simple floor, walls, openings, or any structure but
it at tells us more than their actual purpose. That form of the structure is not only a
geometrical shape but also generates a significant function in buildings. Space is an
area or a surrounding that we move through. Space also affects how we feel in a
certain place and how we see objects and structures and how we interact with it.
Not only that, these elements cretaes a connection with its surroundings creating a
places in harmony.
The form and space also improve the lives of individuals such as columns that
serve as foundations and support buildings making them durable and long-lasting,
windows that allow the natural light to illuminate and brighten the room making
them energy efficient and also serve as ventilation, walls that create enclosure
making us safe and comfortable, and much more.
As architecture students, it is crucial for us to understand and learn about the
fundamental elements of architecture which are form and space. To know that, not
only the deign matters but also the functionality and quality of living within the
space. With the knowledge we gained about the form and space the fundamental
elements, purpose and functions in a building will guide us to build better
structures in the future.
VI. References
Admin. (2020, October 2). How We Experience Spaces. LBR Architecture.
https://www.lbrarchitecture.co.uk/how-we-experience-spaces/
Archi_Com, & Archi_Com. (2023, January 31). FORM IN ARCHITECTURE.
Archi-Monarch. https://archi-monarch.com/form-in-architecture/
Calder, B. (2024, August 8). Louvre Pyramid | History, description, & facts.
Encyclopedia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/topic/Louvre-Pyramid
Hakimi, D. (2023, April 12). What is Architectural Lighting? Insights.
https://www.alconlighting.com/blog/lighting-design/what-are-architectural-lighting
View. (n.d.). Designing Buildings. https://designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/View
NishanthCm (2015, December 24). SCRIBD. Elevated Base Plane.
https://www.scribd.com/doc/293950181/Elevated-Base-Plane
Ic3tan. (n.d.). Depressed Base Plane. Flickr.
https://www.flickr.com/photos/32104005@N04/4343097957
Prezi, Z. a. O. (n.d.). Qualities of Architectural Space. prezi.com.
https://prezi.com/73spiztjnv47/qualities-of-architectural-space/
Folkesson, F. (2023, April 24). Why is it important to have a good view?
Chromogenics. https://chromogenics.com/why-is-it-important-to-have-a-good-
view/
Francis D.k Ching (1996). Architecture Form, Space and Order Second Edition.
310-312 VAN NOSTRAND REINHOLD
Joseph Wunderlich. (2022b, November 21). 2022 LECTURE: Architecture Theory -- FORM &
SPACE [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e1zs07-sf_c
https://www.canva.com/design/DAGQjH0Qq3w/oSDxgTJLMebbAfQXVZYsEw/edit?
embeddedPage=home&appNavState=open#
Hawthorne, C. (2012b, September 1). Architect Philip Johnson’s Glass House. Architectural
Digest. https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/architect-philip-johnson-glass-house-
modernism-article
Redirect Notice. (n.d.). https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F
%2Fwww.britannica.com%2Fplace%2FHabitat-
Redirect Notice. (n.d.-b). https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F
%2Fwww.archdaily.com%2F60392%2Fad-classics-solomon-r-guggenheim-museum-frank-
lloyd-wright&psig=AOvVaw1n5s7SqZiNAA3DOe-
azrYB&ust=1727777326078000&source=images&cd=vfe&opi=89978449&ved=0CBQQjhxqF
woTCOj-0Ji26ogDFQAAAAAdAAAAABAE

Vll. Student Profile:

Name: Allyzza O. Azotea
Permanent Address: Inapugan, Pilar, Sorsogon
Temporary Address: 144, Bgy. 3- Em’S Barrio East, Legazpi City, Albay
Contact number: 09637791475
E-mail: