How to Evaluate Different Architectural Designs

Determine the architectural design's organization. The structure may be a series of axial corridors arranged in a pinwheel, or the structure could be a simple rectangle with one linear corridor.

The structure's organization must be appropriate for its use. For example, a museum or department store would be composed of winding, intersecting paths, while an office building or hospital should have functional, straight corridors.

Analyze the spatial definition. Determine the height, width, and depth of the space, as well as its connection with neighboring spaces. Find any openings or partitions that connect the space to others or the exterior.

Public, open rooms will have high ceilings and large areas with much light, whereas a bedroom will be relatively secluded and dim with low ceilings.

Find the proportion of spaces. A space's proportion is the ratio of the height, width, and depth of the room, and it helps define the space's functionality. Spaces that are equal in height and width or much taller than wide or deep are considered monumental spaces.

A dining hall or central gallery would be much more monumental than a bathroom or garage, so the space's proportions should represent such.

Compare the size of a building to others nearby. Scale is the most basic and important design element to determine a space's importance in the community. The size of the structure and of the spaces expresses the power associated with the building.

A city hall or courthouse will tower over local businesses and residences, expressing the governing authority's importance.

Determine if the structure is symmetrical. Buildings that are highly symmetrical are also considered monumental. Structures that are not symmetrical are typically functional structures.

Most churches are symmetrical on all sides, whereas most factories and schools are not symmetrical.

Compare the structure's attributes listed above to similar buildings, and determine what the ideal form of the structure would be. If the structure compares favorably to these, then the building should be evaluated positively.