Ascent In Architecture: Contribution of Means of Ascent (Stairs, Steps, Ramps) in Synthesising Spatial Experience (Cases Of Institutions Of Ahmedabad)

Abstract

The concept of space is physically defined by various space-making elements of architecture: wall, floor, roof, column, and stairs. Amongst these, stair is the only spatial element that allows for ascend, i.e., movement in the third dimension. Apart from being functionally a connector between levels, it contributes to the spatial experience and makes space visually dynamic. It has a multi-facet identity. According to Alan Blanc, neither Vitruvius nor Alberti has included stairs in their list of basic building elements. Thus, the research attempts to establish the significance of stairs and similar ‘means of ascent’ in synthesizing spatial experience to the overall space. Stair, ramps, steps, staircase are described as the various ‘means of ascents’ in this paper. With the background study of ascent and its means, evolution and anatomy, various roles of stairs are identified to harness the spatial potential of this element, through various secondary examples. The basic understanding of spatial experience and perception of space is learned. Then, the factors related to stairs that contribute to the spatial experience, along with the inherent properties of stairs are devised to formulate the framework for analysis. Various means of ascent from the selected institution buildings of Ahmedabad, (Mill Owners Association building, CEPT- Faculty of Architecture building and Gandhi Labour Institute) are studied based on the developed framework. Since the spatial experience changes with the change in position of human in space; kinesthetics and visual perception are the tools of analysis. Different movement paths, pause points and visual frames are adopted to analyze the contribution of stairs in spatial experience. The interpretations would be portrayed in the form of diagrams and 3-D illustrations. The peculiar characteristics of the stairs in terms of aspects like form, movement, physical components and position to compose the induced space experience. Such a research would avail designers attain spatial experience due to thoughtful stair design in their buildings.