4.2.1 Building Concept
4.2.1.2 Building Forms The basic shape of the building and its layout are often determined by restrictions imposed by the site and by conditions set in building codes, as well as by the location of circulation cores and fire compartments. On this basis, adequate building forms have to be found to suit the particular project. Linear Buildings Linear or slab buildings are among the classic office building forms. Buildings with very different depths can be achieved by varying the circulation system, using singleor double-loaded corridors or double corridors. Additional circulation cores can be used to link several linear buildings. Another option is to connect linear buildings with point-block towers. ≥ Figure 4.2.2 Point-Block Buildings Especially on restricted sites in expensive inner-city locations, a point-block building is often the only form in which an office building can be accommodated. Once a building reaches a certain height, however, the economy achieved by minimizing the horizontal circulation areas is offset by expensive vertical circulation and fire safety measures. ≥ Figure 4.2.3
Spine-and-Fingers Buildings The spine-and-fingers type of layout – with multiple wings, or fingers, perpendicular to a continuous spine along one side – makes it possible to site buildings in such a way that the courtyards between the fingers, which open out to one side only, face away from roads or other sources of noise. When the fingers are located adjacent to an existing building, the new building intermeshes with the existing outdoor areas. Especially when expanding existing office complexes, such a layout offers many design options for linking old and new. ≥ Figure 4.2.4 Courtyard Buildings In courtyard buildings, the protected inner courtyard can be used as a private outdoor area that is largely shielded from environmental noise emissions. Offices located along the facades of inner courtyards benefit from natural ventilation without being exposed to noise. However, the complete seclusion of the inner courtyard creates an isolated situation with few opportunities for interconnecting with existing buildings. Passages at the ground floor level can provide public access to the inner courtyard and likewise serve as covered outdoor areas. ≥ Figure 4.2.5
Figure 4.2.2 (left) Examples of linear buildings Figure 4.2.3 (right) Examples of point-block buildings
Figure 4.2.4 (left) Examples of spine-and-fingers buildings Figure 4.2.5 (right) Examples of courtyard buildings
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