P12 · NATURE OF THE SPACE
Refuge
A place of withdrawal from environmental conditions or the main flow of activity while maintaining orientation and connection.
How to read this pattern
Refuge combines protection, reduced stimulation and connection. Different people need different degrees of enclosure
A pattern becomes design only when it is connected to people, activities, climate and the specific conditions of the site. Quality matters more than mere presence.
Three design moves
From intention
to a concrete choice
Protect back and sides
Use alcoves, planting, curtains or level changes without complete closure.
Reduce stimulation
Calibrate light, sound, movement and visual density.
Maintain connection
Keep a view towards the outside or principal activity.
P12 / Repertoire
3 elements
for exploring the pattern
Each card shows one possible translation of the pattern. Applications need to be selected and adapted rather than added automatically.
B52 · 1
Bounded Spaces
Bounded Spaces is one possible way to apply Refuge. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
- Potential benefits
- Potential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
- What to observe
- Define suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B53 · 2
Inside-Outside Spaces
Inside-Outside Spaces is one possible way to apply Refuge. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
- Potential benefits
- Potential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
- What to observe
- Define suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B54 · 3
Security & Protection
Security & Protection is one possible way to apply Refuge. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
- Potential benefits
- Potential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
- What to observe
- Define suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
Observe and verify
Signals that can guide
project evaluation
- 01perceived protection
- 02stimulus control
- 03choice
- 04view out
These are possible signals, not automatic proof of benefit. Suitable methods and thresholds depend on the project.