Spatial Layout and Face-to-Face Interaction in Offices—A Study of the Mechanisms of Spatial Effects on Face-to-Face Interaction

Mahbub Rashid, Kevin Kampschroer, Jean Wineman and Craig Zimring
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Mahbub Rashid: Department of Design, University of Kansas, 1467 Jayhawk Boulevard, Room 300, Lawrence, Kansas 66045, USA
Kevin Kampschroer: Public Buildings Service, US General Services Administration, 1800 F Street, NW, Washington, DC 20405-0002, USA
Jean Wineman: Taubman College of Architecture and Urban Planning, University of Michigan, Room 2150, 2000 Bonisteel Boulevard, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2069, USA
Craig Zimring: College of Architecture, Georgia Institute of Technology, 245 Fourth Street, Atlanta, GA 30332-155, USA

Environment and Planning B, 2006, vol. 33, issue 6, 825-844

Abstract: In this paper we report a study that uses space-syntax theories and techniques to develop a model explaining how spatial layouts, through their effects on movement and visible copresence, may affect face-to-face interaction in offices. Though several previous space-syntax studies have shown that spatial layouts have significant effects on movement and face-to-face interaction in offices, none has investigated the relations among movement, visible copresence, and face-to-face interaction in offices with significantly different layouts. On the basis of statistical analyses of the spatial and behavioral data collected at four moderately large offices, this study shows that spatial layouts have consistent effects on movement, but inconsistent effects on visible copresence and face-to-face interaction; that visible copresence, not movement, is an important predictor of face-to-face interaction; that movement has negligible effects on the relationship between visible copresence and face-to-face interaction; and that functional programs have little or no effect on the culture of face-to-face interaction in these offices. Limitations of the research design for workplace study and implications of the research findings for workplace design and management are discussed.

Date: 2006
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:sae:envirb:v:33:y:2006:i:6:p:825-844

DOI: 10.1068/b31123

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