Simulation of the circulation complexity in student residence buildings using space syntax analyses (Case studies: Highland hall, Rita Atkinson, Rutgers University and Tooker Residences, USA)

Investigating the spatial configuration can effectively interpret the circulation of an architectural plan layout. Student residences are among the most critical but neglected buildings in which the circulation system plays a vital role in efficient orientation and wayfinding. This study seeks to simulate and quantitatively assess the complexity of circulation spaces in student residence buildings in four different plan layouts. Space syntax analyses include the visual integration and connectivity drawn from Visibility Graph Analysis (VGA) maps for accessibility assessment, intelligibility calculated through all-line axial maps for wayfinding assessment, the field of view from the isovist map for visibility assessment, and agent-based analysis from the VGA map for the overall flow of occupants. Results revealed the strength and weaknesses of each layout. They indicated that the courtyard-shaped and figure-eight-shaped layouts could satisfy the highest degree of circulation efficiency. At the same time, the U-shaped and double-L-shaped plans had the weakest circulation. The study concludes by highlighting the practical implications for future strategies and the importance of syntactical analysis in the early stages of design.