Simplifying architectural space based on design experience

Łukasz Wojciechowski, Andreas Wolf

doi:10.37190/arc250210

Abstract

The article addresses the process of space improvement in buildings that serves to introduce clear and intuitive usage layouts. The goal guiding the authors was to discuss the main features of work on building optimization while considering numerous variables in the investment process. In the article, they presented methods of simplifying architectural space in relation to initial design assumptions, which are usually based on complex functional programs. Variables affecting simplification possibilities in the investment and design process were analyzed. Based on their own experiences, the authors presented simplification possibilities through examples of realized buildings and concepts.

Simplification is associated with increasing building readability and enabling intuitive navigation for its users. The conclusions were also illustrated with diagrams that can serve as universal design guidelines.

Full article view is only available on bigger screens.

2025

2(82)

Łukasz Wojciechowski*, Andreas Wolf**

Simplifying architectural space

based on design experience

DOI: 10.37190/arc250210

Published in open access. CC BY NC ND license

Abstract

The subject of the article is the process of simplifying buildings to introduce clear and intuitive operational layouts. The goal is to discuss the main

features of the optimising processes, taking into account the numerous variables of the investment requirements. The article explores the simplication

of architectural space in relation to initial design assumptions, which are often dened by complex functional programs. It examines the variables

inuencing the potential for simplication, particularly those which are related to the investment and design process. Drawing on the author’s own ex-

perience in this area, the article presents opportunities for simplication through examples of completed buildings and design concepts. Simplication

is linked to enhancing the legibility of a building and enabling intuitive navigation for its users. The conclusions are also illustrated through simple

diagrams, which serve as universal design guidelines.

Key words: contemporary architecture, functional program, simple architecture

Introduction

The reason for taking up the topic of simplifying archi-

tectural space was the observation of numerous contempo-

rary projects created both in architectural studios and by

architecture students. In them, one can observe persistent

functionalist and formalist tendencies, which make the

space illegible, over-complicated or treated in a fragmen-

tary way. Above all, one can nd many common features

such as dark, meandering corridors, small rooms scattered

throughout the buildings and dispersed primary functions.

All this is often laced with formal treatments (e.g., round-

ed corners, slants), which are used ad hoc, as solutions to

problems that have arisen in the design process. This article

is not a guide to design mistakes, but shows the most basic

ways of dealing with the shaping of architectural space,

which can be grouped under the concept of simplication.

This is based on the authors’ conviction that many of the

spatial arrangements designed in our environment are too

complex, and thus fail to support certain key values such

as exibility, social integration, economy of resources or

sustainable development.

Simplication of architectural space means emphasis-

ing the essential elements of architecture in order to make

buildings as clear and readable as possible. It often in-

volves modifying the initial functional program in order

to arrive at a space with an intuitive layout. This process

applies to buildings with functions of great complexity,

the program of which can primarily be changed during the

pre-design and conceptual phases.

In general, the purpose of simplication may be to re-

duce volume, save building space, minimise the prolifera-

tion of spatial layouts and installations, and foster positive

social relations.

Simplication can take place at least at two stages:

during the formulation of a functional program and during

the design process based on a preset or dynamically modi-

ed program. At the level of program formulation, simpli-

cation can involve, for example, combining selected func

tions, assigning additional functions to circulation areas,

allowi 1ng for the interchangeability of functions, and pro-

ducing informal use opportunities. Spatially, such actions

* ORCID: 0000000186952325. Faculty of Architecture, Wro

cław University of Science and Technology, Poland, email: lukasz.

wojciechowski@pwr.edu.pl

** ORCID: 0000000312612525. HTWKLeipzig University of

Applied Sciences, Germany.

104 Łukasz Wojciechowski, Andreas Wolf

involve combining rooms in groups, enlades and connect-

ing selected functions in shafts.

A consequence of simplication is the need to proper-

ly organize the functioning of the building during its use,

which can be seen as problematic. The article therefore

describes simplication processes and their eects, but it

should be emphasized that, like any design decision, such

measures must precisely relate to the individual situation

in which the building is being constructed and cannot be

treated as universal. The potential space simplication pro-

cess is fraught with many unknowns and variables both

during the design and use of the building.

Here it is worth emphasizing that wrongly developed

simplication may cause unfavourable solutions (monot-

ony, lack of space identity, nonfunctional exibility, etc.)

therefore, as noted earlier, the eects of space simplica-

tion will depend on factors individualized for each situa-

tion, and the examples described above cannot be taken as

universal.

Purpose and research method

The purpose of this article is to describe selected ways

and eects of simplifying architectural space relative to the

initial functional assumptions. The degree of simplication

is impossible to measure unequivocally, as there are count-

less possible spatial solutions within a single design task.

Therefore, a case study method was adopted. The projects

presented in the paper are discussed on the basis of co-au-

torship and/or on-site research, which helped evaluate

them and understand the intentions of the designers. In the

analyzed examples one can see a clear desire to simplify

the functional layout – with a dierent degree of imple-

mentation of the idea. The choice of projects was made so

that, on the one hand, the issue in question was discussed

as extensively as possible – with the advantages and dis-

advantages of certain solutions, and on the other hand, the

designers’ intentions and way of shaping the space were

clearly shown. The processes described can also be applied

to other projects. Conducting similar analyses of space can

contribute to a better understanding of architecture with an

emphasis on utilitarian aspects.

State of research

The simplication of architectural space in architecture

is primarily associated with the rationalization of buildings

based on industrial standards, a characteristic feature of

Modernism. Subordination to the principles of modularity

(prefabrication) applied not only to industrial architecture,

but also to public, social and residential buildings, with

the goal of simpler, faster and more economical construc-

tion. Throughout the diversity of Modernism, one can see

the dierent ways of shaping space (from Functionalism,

Constructivism to Structuralism) in order to rationalize the

functional program and architectural solutions.

The search for the most essential and adequate spatial

order can be seen in the work of many architects, such as

Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, Cedric Price, Kazuyo Sejima

or in the projects of Lacaton & Vassal. These architects try

to create luxury through simplicity, adhering to the maxim

“less is more” also in the economic edition – “cheaper is

more” (Lacaton, Vassal 2015, 15).

Not only in projects and design trends, but also in the

statements of individual architects, are there numerous re-

cords indicating the need to simplify spaces. Christopher

Alexander, in The Flow Through Rooms chapter of The

Pattern Language (Alexander 1977, 630), advocates for

avoiding designing corridors in public buildings, replacing

them with enlade layouts – this pattern is particularly rel-

evant in the context of space simplication, as it reduces

the circulation area.

One of the contemporary designers paying special atten-

tion to program variability and the need to create freedom

of use at both the city and building scale is Kees Chris-

tiaanse – author of such articles as City as Loft (Chris-

tiaanse 2002) and Fuck the program? (Christiaanse 2001),

in which he cites examples of buildings without an initially

dened functional program.

Bernard Tschumi in Architecture and Disjunction also

wrote about the variability of functions, which can be cru-

cial to simplifying buildings: There are closed sequences

of transformation as well as openness. Closed sequences

have a predictable end because the chosen rules ultimately

imply the exhaustion of the process, its circularity, or its

repetition. The open ones are sequences without closures,

where new elements of transformation can be added at will

according to other criteria, such as concurrent or juxta-

posed sequences of another order, such as a narrative or

programmatic structure, juxtaposed with the formal trans-

formational structure (Tschumi 1996, 154, 155).

The topic of simplication was addressed in the work

of Wrocław architect Tomasz Głowacki – especially in

Academy of Fine Arts in Wrocław. In his report (Głowacki

2000), among the actions conducive to the socalled com-

pression, as a result of which an empty space is exposed,

he mentions: […] multifunctionality, which allows us to

concentrate in one area both interdependent functions, for

example, kitchen, dining room and living room or cinema,

theater and gallery, as well as commonly perceived con-

tradictory, for example, garage and living room, church

and sports hall, and optimization and minimization of the

dimensions of the space and objects in it. The size of sec-

ondary spaces within the dominant space is reduced (for

example, a bathroom and kitchen in a one-room apart-

ment; toilets and locker rooms in a small oce) (Głowacki

2025). These activities are the same as those described in

this article.

In summary, the desire to simplify space in architecture

is not a new phenomenon, and it is driven by various rea-

sons, such as simplifying and standardizing construction,

aestheticizing space or ensuring its multifunctionality,

future variability, as well as achieving clarity in function-

alspatial arrangements. Despite the rich source material

and references in countless architectural projects, the

guidelines for the simplification in question are not obvi-

ous, and knowledge on the subject is fragmented. This

article is based primarily on previously undescribed per-

sonal design experiences, drawn from work on concepts

and realized objects.

Simplifying architectural space based on design experience 105

Variables and uncertainties

Behind the simple slogan of simplifying space in archi-

tecture, there are many threats and unknowns involved in

the process of designing and using buildings. The spatial

layout of a building is inuenced by such obvious variables

as location, context, local plan considerations, budget,

etc. – important elements in any development analyzed in

predesign work. Like the factors described below, these

issues apply to every investment, but in the context of the

goal of simplifying space, attention should be paid primar-

ily to the functional program, since its modications can

signicantly aect the building layout. It can be rigid in

buildings dened by technology, such as industrial plants,

specialty hospitals or nurseries; it can be in a limited way

susceptible to modication as in schools (where specic

teaching conditions are dened, but some functions remain

exible, such as the library or common rooms); and it can

be strongly susceptible to change as in cultural centers,

galleries, museums, cafes, stores, training and convention

centers, etc. The above division is not rigid, of course, and

at early design stages functional modications are possible

in each type of building and, on the contrary, can be reject-

ed by commissioners.

Assuming that architects are usually (although it should

be emphasized that not always) excluded from the devel-

opment of the initial functional program (which involves

specialists in the relevant elds, sales departments, com-

mercialization companies, independent consultants, o-

cials, etc.), the degree to which the program can be ma-

nipulated depends largely on the client and his openness to

change, as well as the method of project selection adopted.

Even an institutionalized public client, where the invest-

ment process is strictly dened by procurement regulations

and legal strictures, can select a project through a com-

petition (or other ways of qualication procedures like

workshops or alternative design studies) that relates to the

program in a creative way. Private clients – who can also

use various methods of project selection – are potentially

more exible in working on functional layouts for build-

ings with a specic use, although this is by no means the

rule. It happens that the client does not have a typical set of

rooms dened when the architects join the design process,

and the program is created during the emergence of the de-

sign concept (this may be related, for example, to the study

of the absorptive capacity of the plot with dierent func-

tional assumptions or the adaptive potential of an existing

building, as well as – not insignicantly – the client’s trust

in the chosen architect). It should be emphasized that each

situation is individual and depends on how the client and

the architect approach the assigned topic.

The layout of rooms in buildings is signicantly inu-

enced by technical conditions and re protection regu-

lations with the division into re zones of specic sizes,

length and width of escape routes depending on the class

human risk. Fire protection regulations in some cases are

interpreted dierently by individual experts and the State

Fire Service. Dierent solutions to individual cases are also

possible, and hence during design work on certain projects

it is necessary for architects to consult with experts.

A very important variable at the stage of operating

a building and understanding its possibilities, limitations

and unique features lies with the managers. The architect’s

role at this stage may be advisory or limited to preparing

rules for interference with the building, such as for tenants

in oce buildings or shopping centers. The manager’s role

must not be marginalized in the design process, especially

if we are dealing with a space that requires certain perfor-

mance standards.

In summary, the variables of functional space design are

very uid, and it is impossible to identify all the challenges

facing architects trying to simplify spatial layouts. In ad-

dition, one of the most important conditions determining

functional character is the toolset

and creativity of indi-

vidual architects, who have very dierent approaches to

design, abstracting from the requirements of commission-

ers, context or purpose.

Functional and spatial actions

for simplification of architectural space

Manipulation of the functional program

The functional program is mostly the basis of architec-

tural design, and its modication can signicantly aect

the complexity of the space. In the context of its simpli-

cation, the following ways of manipulating the program

can be distinguished: grouping and combining functions,

designating zones of dierent functionalities in the open

space, and additional functionality of circulation areas. At

this point, it is worth mentioning the aspect of time – func-

tions can change depending on the building program during

its operation at dierent frequencies, for example the role

of circulation space or exhibition halls can be variable in

various intervals. All these assumptions can promote the

overall ordering and reduction of rooms in a building,

which in turn can lead to a signicant simplication of its

spatial layout. Although, as noted below, it is necessary to

balance their application – if only to avoid creating spaces

that are too universal, and consequently anonymous and

indierent – the manipulation of the functional program is

a creative and highly individual activity.

Grouping of rooms

The analysis of the program, in addition to purely func-

tional, technological or sunlight considerations, can allow

us to combine rooms into groups according to their nature,

purpose, size, proportions, etc. Based on our own practice

and analysis of other projects, the most obvious is the divi-

sion into rooms that require natural light and dark ones (e.g.,

toilets, storerooms, utility rooms). Such grouping allows,

for example, the maximization of the facade’s potential by

placing dark rooms deeper within the plan. This frees up

Design techniques can inuence the nal solutions, in which

CAD tools that enable 3D modeling and other advanced software using

articial intelligence, such as Finch 3D, can be particularly helpful. The

software itself may be the subject of other research on the technical as-

pects of the topic at hand.

106 Łukasz Wojciechowski, Andreas Wolf

exterior walls and corners, enabling the interior to open up

to the streets and/or surrounding environment.

An example that can well illustrate the method of sim-

plifying space as well as functional issues in the completed

building is the Wrocław Congress Center (authors: Agniesz 

ka Chrzanowska, Marta Mnich, Łukasz Wojciechowski,

Wojciech Chrzanowski, Andrzej Chrzanowski, Jerzy Erd 

man, Grzegorz Kaczmarowski, Danuta Katarasińska, Aga-

ta Kurto, Natalia Rowińska, Sebastian Stanisławski) (Ru-

tecka 2010). The conceptual design signicantly reduced

the volume in relation to the guidelines of the local plan

to minimize interference with the historic surroundings. In

order to maximize the use of the elevated 1

oor of the

existing part connected with terraces descending to the wa-

ter pond and pergola, all facilities (sanitary, kitchen, tech-

nical) were moved to the partially lighted basement. Here

it was necessary to obtain a variance from the regulations

justied by the unique value of the existing fabric.

On the 1

oor, where up to two thousand people can

be accommodated, there were only four functional boxes

which house: freight elevators, restaurant bars, waiter’s

switchboard, handy backrooms, director’s room in the au-

ditorium and installation ducts. The cores were located in

the center of the plan in order to free the elevations from

unnecessary walls and thus open the interior to the sur-

roundings where this was possible within the original his-

toric structure of the building designed by Max Berg – the

author of the neighbouring Centennial Hall. The stairways

leading to the basement and to the 1

oor are open, thanks

to the proper division of the building into re zones. The

two restaurants, the auditorium and the multipurpose hall,

and their foyers have been arranged in the simplest possi-

ble enlade layout allowing to avoid designing corridors,

moreover, the two foyers can be used not only for check-

rooms and passage to the large halls, but by connecting

them with the restaurants, they can also be used in various

ways, for example for workshops or as an extension of the

dining area.

The use of interchangeability of functions and the use

of circulation areas for other events allowed the building’s

volume to be reduced. The entire functional potential is

complemented by the opening of the façade by means of

sliding and opening glass doors, allowing access to the

outside – to the area bounded by the pergola designed by

Hans Poelzig (Posener 1992, 89). It should be noted that

the simplication of space here is directly related to the

rigorous structural layout of the historic part, which is

continued in the extension wings (Fig. 1). The divisions

of the façades and interiors are consistently maintained in

a tripartite order between the elements of the structure. All

these elements are interconnected: exposing the rhythmic

nature of the skeletal structure ensures the clarity of the

space and its exibility of use (Fig. 2). Preservation of the

existing values and openness to the surroundings consti-

tute the identity of the space.

The project of the Wrocław University of Technolo gy

Li brary (authors: Sebastian Stanisławski, Monika Sta ni 

sław s ka, Łu kasz Woj ciechowski, 2

prize in the realiza-

tion competition in 2007) proposes a very simple functional

layout resulting from the context of social realist buildings

D1 and D2 (designed by Tadeusz Brzoza, Zbig niew Ku

piec, 1

950–1955). Here, parts adjacent to the blind walls

of the existing symmetrical building function as two shafts

(structural with mainly circulation and service rooms). Be-

low ground, they are connected by storage sections, and

above, by a two-story bridge, which mainly houses reading

rooms with open access to shelves – this is the main space

of the library designed to be exible. The subdivisions in

two legs of the building are rigid but at most neutral – the

small rooms (technical, service, oce, etc.) are grouped

in a simple grid what allows us to dene a clear layout

(Fig. 3). An important urban design element of the project

is the gate, which leads to the University campus and pro-

vides the setting for the Monument to Murdered Professors

of Lviv (Borys Michałowski, 1964) (Majczyk, Tomasze-

wicz 2015, 72–76) (Fig. 4).

In summary, grouping rooms can contribute signicant-

ly to organizing the functions and spaces in a building, thus

simplifying them. Such an action is the result of an individ-

ual design process (conceptual phase), and each situation

Fig. 1. Wrocław Congress Center – main floor plan.

Below diagram with marked shafts (black) and groups of rooms (grey)

(drawing by Ł. Wojciechowski)

Il. 1. Centrum Kongresowe we Wrocławiu – rzut przyziemia.

Poniżej schemat ukazujący trzony (czarne) i zespoły pomieszczeń (szary)

(rys. Ł. Wojciechowski)

Fig. 2. Wrocław Congress Center – view from the north showing

the kitchen shaft in the terrace restaurant (photo by Ł. Wojciechowski)

Il. 2. Centrum Kongresowe we Wrocławiu

– widok od północy okazujący boks zaplecza w restauracji tarasowej

(fot. Ł. Wojciechowski)

Simplifying architectural space based on design experience 107

requires separate analysis. However, the cited examples,

despite their dierences, present common features that

can be applied to a variety of architectural projects such as

rows of similar size rooms, shafts made of dark rooms and

a structural grid merging with the layout.

Combining rooms

Combining rooms, as opposed to grouping them, in-

volves creating multifunctional spaces of dierent scales.

It is a process that can contribute to streamlining the oper-

ation of a building (e.g., it is common to combine small-

er conference rooms into large rooms, divided by sliding

walls) and signicantly simplifying space (e.g., combining

individual oce rooms into socalled open space). Here, of

course, it is important to recall the numerous variables that

arise in specic cases, which do not always enable spatial

values to be improved by means of these treatments. In

manipulating the number of rooms, therefore, the specics

of the development, its users, location, etc. should be tak-

en into account. However, it is worth noting that in many

programs separate rooms are multiplied, which do not nec-

essarily require rigid functional divisions, for example, en-

closing of an employee’s oce in a small library may not

be necessary and it can become a zone in the open space.

The project where selected rooms have been connected

and functions have been interlocked in shafts to simplify

the public space (Fig. 4) is the competition entry for the

Museum of Contemporary Art in Wrocław (authors: Ag-

nieszka Chrzanowska, Wojciech Chrzanowski, Grzegorz

Kaczmarowski, Agata Kurto, Marta Mnich, Łukasz Woj

ciechowski). Here is an excerpt from the description of the

concept:

The project is an attempt to give specicity to the muse-

um by modifying the initial program. The exhibition space

has been saturated with public-access functions, as depict-

ed in Hubert Robert’s 1798 painting Louvre. Commer cial,

catering, teaching and conference functions have been in-

tegrated into the exhibitions. Each public room is an ex-

hibition room – each exhibition room is assigned a public

function. The number of public-access rooms has been re-

duced to 12 rooms with dierent lighting characteristics,

which are arranged in enlades. All of the museum’s core

rooms are therefore spaces with the proportions, height and

quality of a neutral exhibition space (the so-called white

cube). This action creates new circumstances for exhibiting

art, which is a potentially positive challenge for curators,

artists and, above all, audiences. All technical functions

and communications have been hidden in the thickness of

the walls and ceilings that dene the building’s structure

The 18

-century painting cited above, fully titled Projet

d’aménagement de la Grande Galerie du Louvre, depicts

a single-space, elongated interior where not only visitors

can be seen, but also artists painting and drawing, suggest-

ing the multifunctionality of the space, particularly strik-

ing in comparison to the current situation in the Grande

Galerie, where there are only queues of visitors. Inspired

Unpublished description of the competition entry.

Fig. 3. Library of Wrocław University of Technology – the 4

floor.

Below diagram with marked shafts (black) and groups of rooms (grey)

(drawing by Ł. Wojciechowski)

Il. 3. Biblioteka Politechniki Wrocławskiej – czwarte piętro. Poniżej

schemat ukazujący trzony (czarny) i zespoły pomieszczeń (szary)

(rys. Ł. Wojciechowski)

Fig. 4. Museum of Contemporary Art in Wrocław – ground floor plan.

Below diagram with marked shafts (black) and groups of rooms (grey)

(drawing by Ł. Wojciechowski)

Il. 4. Muzeum Współczesne Wrocław – rzut parteru.

Poniżej schemat ukazujący trzony (czarny) i zespoły pomieszczeń (szary)

(rys. Ł. Wojciechowski)

108 Łukasz Wojciechowski, Andreas Wolf

by the presented situation, we attempted to connect all

public rooms, listed in the competition functional program

as separate, in a layout of exhibition galleries connected in

enlades. These are served by functions interlocked within

the walls. The result is a signicant simplication of the

plan and an increase in the quality of the public rooms

through their large size, proportions and lighting (depend-

ing on the level).

A similar model of how museums (but also buildings

with other purposes) operate on the basis of interchange-

ability of functions can be seen in other situations – one

striking example is the arrangement of workshops between

exhibitions in the same exhibition rooms in the Deutsches

Architektur Museum building in Frankfurt am Main (de-

signed by O.M. Ungers) (Kieren 1994). This process takes

advantage of the fact that the walls between exhibitions are

painted, so scheduling a design workshop during the break

allows participants to work in large, bright spaces and also

to draw directly on the walls (Fig. 5). This requires proper

organization of the building’s operations during use but

may be a more economical solution than a proliferation

of mono-functional rooms and may also provide a higher

quality of space for users.

In summary, combining functions requires close co 

ope ration between the architect and the client, or detailed

ana lysis at the competition stage. It is a process that will

rely heavily on the proper organization of the building by

the manager or tenant. Combining functions can signi-

cantly contribute to simplifying the space and building

interaction between users. However, as we cannot measure

it precisely and design process is often based on intuition,

it is important to keep in mind the risk of combining too

many functions or creating too big spaces that can lead to

functional disturbances, anonymity or acoustic problems.

Additional functionality and simplification

of the circulation space

On the one hand, design often seeks to minimize circu-

lation space, on the other hand, expanding it by assigning

additional functions can have a signicant eect of making

the space more legible and balanced. The corridor, despite

being the archetype of architecture, is often a space used

only for passage and is treated as such in the utility program

(usually as 10–15% of the total area of the building with

complex functional layouts). Circulation is customarily as-

signed the functions of a waiting room, checkroom, lobby,

etc. but it is possible to combine it with other more or less

formal functions, e.g., the cloister of the Museum of Archi-

tecture in Wrocław

hosts workshops, lectures, temporary

exhibitions, banquets and houses a bookstore with a read-

ing room. This formerly monastic space shows the poten-

tial of a suitably wide, welllit circulation area (Fig. 6).

The simple functional layouts of historical buildings are a very

inspiring issue for the subject under consideration, especially in the con-

text of their harmonious adaptation to modern functions. This issue is the

subject of separate research.

Fig. 5. Deutsches Architekturmuseum in Frankfurt am Main

– workshop in the vast exhibition areas organized between exhibitions

(photo by Ł. Wojciechowski)

Il. 5. Deutsches Architekturmuseum we Frankfurcie nad Menem

– warsztaty zorganizowane w salach wystawowych

między wydarzeniami

(fot. Ł. Wojciechowski)

Fig. 6. Museum of Architecture

in Wrocław cloister (circulation)

with the temporary exhibition

(photo by J. Wypych)

Il. 6. Wystawa tymczasowa

w krużganku Muzeum Architektury

we Wrocławiu

(fot. J. Wypych)

Simplifying architectural space based on design experience 109

Of course, the atmosphere, the materials and architectural

details, as well as the scale are crucial to the functionality

of this kind of interiors. Leszek Zdek’s monographic ex-

hibition in the cloister of the Museum of Architecture is

an example of such a solution (authors: Aleksandra Czup-

kiewicz, Łukasz Wojciechowski, Branda Studio). The

elon gated proportions of the interior resulted in a linear

layout of the exhibition, but it does not interfere with the

passage of visitors, while enriching it with the new con-

tent. Finally, it is worth noting that the plan of this muse-

um follows a very simple medieval layout, which ensures

spatial clarity.

Integrating functions into circulation spaces helps re-

duce mono-functional corridors, which are often narrow,

long and dark. Because of this, they can cause a sense of

confusion and stress – such a space is user-unfriendly. An

additional program can involve enlarging the space, illu-

minating it and opening it up to the surroundings, making

it less monotonous and making the transition between cer-

tain points in the building more interesting and pleasant

for the user. Attaching certain functions customarily as-

signed to separate rooms to the circulation space can also

signicantly simplify the building layout. An example of

such a solution is the combination of lobby and lecture hall

at Kunsthal in Rotterdam (authors: OMA, 1996) (Wolf

1997). Two functions required a spacious room and sepa-

rately they would probably have been distributed to small-

er spaces. The slope of the auditorium oor is also part of

the system of internal and external circulation. Some op-

erational challenges may arise from the interchangeability

of functions; however, as mentioned in the previous sec-

tion, these can be addressed through proper organization

of events within the building.

In the implemented project of the School and Kindergar-

ten Complex in Karpnicka Street in Wrocław’s Stabłowice

(authors: Marta Mnich, Łukasz Wojciechowski, Agnieszka

Chrzanowska, Wojciech Chrzanowski, Grzegorz Kacz ma

rowski, Mikołaj Smoleński, Agnieszka Hałas) (Gło wacki

2018), the entrance hall was enlarged to the ma xi mum, and

thus can simultaneously function as a lobby with lockers,

plaza

for the canteen, library and common rooms, and is

a meeting and exhibition place. This is not functionally

dierent from most schools, but in this case values such as

windows on three sides, lanterns (which are smoke cham-

bers), opening to the atrium and mezzanine are important.

Simplication of the space was achieved by connecting

the circulation with the lockers area (although it should

be noted that such a solution is sometimes challenged on

re safety grounds) and using the aforementioned smoke

chambers, which replace re partitions, thus creating a sin-

gle-space interior. Another important issue of the design

is the presence of open stairs, which were not enclosed in

stairwells – a design challenge in the building of this size

due to re safety considerations. However, this allowed us-

ers to move freely between zones and levels without having

to overcome too many re doors. An important element of

the overall design is also the rhythm of the structure visi-

ble in the functional divisions and on the elevations – this

allows the space to remain clear (Fig. 7), although with

a building of this size it may also evoke a notsodesirable

eect of industrial architecture – this, however, is a matter

of municipal planning.

In conclusion, circulation, as an essential element of

a building, requires special attention from architects due to

its crucial importance for users. Enriching it with additional

functions is an activity similar to combining rooms, but it is

addressed separately in this paper due to the specicity of

circulation spaces, which are often treated purely function-

ally, despite their signicant potential (Fig. 8). Simplica-

tion here will involve minimizing the number of corridors

and solving them in a clear way. An additional important

issue are the stairs, the separation of which in staircases for

re safety reasons often complicates the space. So where

regulations allow it, it is worth considering integrating

them with the other elements of the circulation system

Conclusion

Simplication of space in architecture is applicable to

buildings of dierent scales and purposes. Numerous vari-

ables in the individualized design process make it dicult

to formulate unambiguous and universal design methods.

However, the activities observed in the examples above

allow us to identify their common features. The diagrams

created on the basis of design experience clearly demon-

strate, rst and foremost, the previously described combi-

nation and grouping of rooms of similar size and function,

including the grouping of rooms in shafts (Fig. 9). This was

closely linked to the manipulation of the functional program

and the addition of functionality to the circulation spaces.

The design of the so-called operational topography can contribute

to this concept (Wojciechowski 2011).

Fig. 7. School and kindergarten complex in Wrocław.

floor plan. Below the diagram with marked shafts (black)

and groups of rooms (grey). Circulation is marked in white

(drawing by Ł. Wojciechowski)

Il. 7. Zespół szkolnoprzedszkolny we Wrocławiu – rzut piętra.

Poniżej schemat ukazujący trzony (czarny)

i zespoły pomieszczeń (szary). Komunikację oznaczono na biało

(rys. Ł. Wojciechowski)

110 Łukasz Wojciechowski, Andreas Wolf

Fig. 9. Conclusion diagrams showing: groups and connections

of rooms (grey); groups of rooms in shafts (black);

circulation minimized or enhanced

with an additional program (white)

(elaborated by Ł. Wojciechowski)

Il. 9. Schematy podsumowujące: zestawienia pomieszczeń (szary);

zestawienia pomieszczeń w trzonach (czarny);

zmniejszenie lub rozbudowanie użytkowe komunikacji (biały)

(oprac. Ł. Wojciechowski)

Fig. 10. Conclusion diagrams showing: grouping the rooms (white);

simplification and enhancing the circulation space

with stairs (light grey);

adopting layout to the structure with dark rooms and shafts (dark grey)

(elaborated by Ł. Wojciechowski)

Il. 10. Schematy końcowe ukazujące:

grupowanie pomieszczeń (biały); uproszczenie i rozwinięcie funkcji

przestrzeni komunikacji wraz ze schodami (jasny szary);

dostosowanie układu przestrzennego do konstrukcji

z pomieszczeniami ciemnymi i trzonami (ciemnoszary)

(oprac. Ł. Wojciechowski)

Fig. 8. School and kindergarten

complex in Wrocław.

View of the rhythm of

the internal structure

and elevations

(photo by Ł. Wojciechowski)

Il. 8. Zespół szkolnoprzedszkolny

we Wrocławiu.

Rytmy wnętrza i elewacji

(fot. Ł. Wojciechowski)

In conclusion, it is worth stating that the role of designers

in formulating the functional program is highly desirable,

as they can inuence numerous modications to improve

and simplify the operation of the building. Both in the real

design process and in architectural education, a critical ap-

proach to customary room tables can result in positive ar-

chitectural, social and environmental eects. Any action in

this regard, however, is individualized and requires precise

justication in each case, taking into account such factors

as structure, installations, economics

, sustainability, envi-

Here it is worth noting that valuable results could be obtained

from cost analysis, but they would require studying various design vari-

ants, which at the conceptual stage are often excluded and not subjected

to further design development. It is possible in this aspect to compare

dierent variants of nished designs (e.g., during architectural competi-

tions), but it requires a dierent scope of study of nished designs pos-

sible in further research.

ronmental psychology

, etc. The following three diagrams

show “patterns” of operations potentially enabling archi-

tectural space simplication (Fig. 10). Based on our own

experience, they have the potential to be applied to diverse

projects of dierent scales.

I cover the topic of environmental psychology in architecture in

the pamphlet A Walk Through Architecture (Wojciechowski 2023).

Simplifying architectural space based on design experience 111

References

Alexander, Christopher, Sara Ishikawa, and Murray Silverstein. A Pat-

tern Language: Towns, Buildings, Construction. Oxford University

Press, 1977.

Christiaanse, Kees. “Die Stadt als Loft/The City as Loft.” Topos, no. 38

(2002): 6–17.

Christiaanse, Kees. “Fuck the programme?” Quaderns d’arquitectura

i urbanisme, no. 230 (2001): 86–91.

Głowacki, Tomasz. “Pusta przestrzeń w kreacji architektury najnow-

szej.” Politechnika Wrocławska, 2000 [report].

Głowacki, Tomasz. Pustka w architekturze. SARP Oddział Wrocław,

2025 [in press].

Głowacki, Tomasz. “Szkoła na Stabłowicach we Wrocławiu.” Architek-

tura-Murator 280, no. 01 (2018): 52–9.

Kieren, Martin. Oswald Mathias Ungers. Artemis, 1994.

Lacaton, Anne, and JeanPhilippe Vassal. Freedom of Use. Sternberg

Press, Harvard University Graduate School of Design, 2015.

Majczyk, Joanna, and Agnieszka Tomaszewicz. “Aleja Profesorów

(Ave nue of Professors) in the main campus of Wrocław Univer-

sity of Tech nology – history of the spatial system development.”

Architectus 41, no. 1 (2015): 69–86. https://doi.org/10.5277/

arc150106.

OMA. “OMA/Rem Koolhaas 1992–1996.” El Croquis 79 (1996): 74–

105.

Posener, Julius. Hans Poelzig. Reections on His Life and Work. MIT

Press, 1992.

Rutecka, Agnieszka. “Centrum turystyki biznesowej przy Hali Stulecia

we Wrocławiu.” Architektura-Murator 195, no. 12 (2010): 62–73.

Tschumi, Bernard. Architecture and Disjunction. MIT Press, 1996.

Wojciechowski, Łukasz. “Topograa użytkowa w architekturze budyn-

ków użyteczności publicznej na przełomie XX i XXI w.” Politech-

nika Wrocławska, 2011 [report].

Wojciechowski, Łukasz. Spacer przez architekturę. Pierwsze kroki

z psychologią środowiskową. Fundacja Nowej Kultury Bęc Zmiana,

2023.

Wolf, Andreas. “Ist Stadt als gebaute Gemeinschaft noch lesbar?” Der

Architekt 10 (1997): 622–4.

Streszczenie

Upraszczanie przestrzeni w architekturze w oparciu o doświadczenia projektowe

Tematem artykułu jest proces udoskonalania przestrzeni w budynkach służący wprowadzaniu klarownych i intuicyjnych układów użytkowych.

Celem przyświecającym autorom było omówienie głównych cech pracy nad optymalizowaniem budynków przy uwzględnieniu licznych zmien-

nych procesu inwestycyjnego. W artykule przedstawili oni sposoby upraszczania przestrzeni architektonicznej w odniesieniu do wstępnych założeń

projektowych, które zwykle oparte są na złożonych programach funkcjonalnych. Przenalizowano zmienne wpływające na możliwości upraszczania

w procesie inwestycyjnym i projektowym. Opierając się na własnych doświadczeniach, autorzy przedstawili możliwości uproszczeń na przykładach

zrealizowanych budynków i koncepcji. Uproszczenie wiąże się ze zwiększeniem czytelności budynku i umożliwieniem intuicyjnej nawigacji jego

użytkownikom. Wnioski zostały również zilustrowane diagramami, które mogą służyć jako uniwersalne wytyczne projektowe.

Słowa kluczowe: architektura współczesna, program funkcjonalny, prosta architektura