Sometimes when you enter a building you can feel like you are on the threshold of a space. In some cases it can even feel a little uncomfortable. Similarly, you may feel a little off entering certain spaces at unusual times. For example, it could be a car park at night. What you are experiencing in these instances is a liminal space. You need to be careful when you design them.

Some examples

A number of different spaces can be classed as liminal. The most common ones are lobbies, stairwells, and elevators. In each of these you can feel like you are between spaces. It is very hard to avoid these feelings because these are literally connective spaces. As a result they can have a very different atmosphere, flow, and character.

Hallways are another liminal space you will likely have a lot of experience with. The feelings of being in between spaces can be quite oppressive here, especially when it is spaces like hotel floors or corridors between offices in blocks.

As we said above, car parks are a good example. They are literally a transitional space because people park and then leave. The space is not designed for people to spend any longer here than they need to.

There are plenty of other examples worthy of note. This includes things like airport waiting areas, train stations, and even art galleries. Abandoned buildings are also liminal because they are no longer in use.

Designing the spaces

While many of these spaces are vital, you need to be careful when you design them. With thought and planning you can make it so they are far more comfortable. You can help to make it feel like they connect to the larger building rather than feeling completely separate and transitory. That can elevate the whole space.

You also need to think about how spaces feel at different times. For example, a hallway may feel perfectly normal during a busy day. However, at night when it is quieter and there are less people in a building it can be oppressive. You need to plan for things like this.

Plan with architects in London

At Coffey Architects we know a great deal about liminal spaces. In fact, we have designed many properties that have them. Our goal is to make sure they don’t have a negative atmosphere that can influence people. To do this we take the time to ensure that each space has a great design and feels comfortable and welcoming.

So, if you want to talk to us about a project, please get in touch. We are proud to be among the top architects London has, whether you are thinking about creating a home, an office, or a commercial space.