Understanding

Transition
Spaces
Importance and Role in Indian
Architecture

Rashmi Singh B.Arch., SSAA (12000099)

Dissertation | UNDERSTANDING TRANSITION SPACES | 2015

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

This dissertation would not have been successful without the support and encouragement of many
people.

I would like to take this opportunity to express my sincere gratitude and deep regard to my
guide, Ar. Vandini Mehta, for her exemplary guidance, valuable feedback and constant
encouragement throughout the duration of the dissertation. Her perceptive critiques kept me
working to make this dissertation better. Working under her was an extremely knowledgeable
experience for me.

Besides my guide, I would like to thank my mentor, Ar. Thomas Oommen, for his insightful comments
and assistance during the initial, decisive stages of the research that helped me frame and direct
my dissertation. His valuable suggestions were of immense help.

I would also like to thank our dissertation coordinators, without whose hard work the dissertation
would not have been successfully complete. The time table and the reminders helped me
immensely, in managing my time along with the other subjects.

Lastly, I would like to thank my family for their moral support and encouragement throughout the
semester.

Page 2 of 33
Dissertation | UNDERSTANDING TRANSITION SPACES | 2015

CONTENTS

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS ............................................................................................................................................ 2

CONTENTS .................................................................................................................................................................... 3

List of Figures ................................................................................................................................................................ 4

Chapter 1: ABSTRACT ................................................................................................................................................ 5

Chapter 2: INTRODUCTION ...................................................................................................................................... 7

 What is a Transition Space? ....................................................................................................................... 7

 Hierarchy ........................................................................................................................................................ 9

 Transition Spaces in Indian context ........................................................................................................... 9

Chapter 3: TRANSITION SPACES IN SPACE AND TIME ................................................................................... 11

 Variation with building type or scale in India ..................................................................................... 13

Chapter 4: TRANSITION SPACES IN INDIAN ARCHITECTURE ......................................................................... 16

 Courtyard as a Transition Space in Indian context............................................................................. 16

 Entrance or Threshold as a Transition space ........................................................................................ 18

Chapter 3: CASE STUDIES ...................................................................................................................................... 19

 ARCHITECT: B. V. DOSHI .......................................................................................................................... 19

Philosophies and Ideologies .................................................................................................................... 19

Analysis of Projects ................................................................................................................................... 20

 ARCHITECT: CHARLES CORREA .............................................................................................................. 26

Philosophies and Ideologies ..................................................................................................................... 26

Analysis of Projects..................................................................................................................................... 26

Chapter 5: CONCLUSION ...................................................................................................................................... 31

BIBLIOGRAPHY ......................................................................................................................................................... 32

Page 3 of 33
Dissertation | UNDERSTANDING TRANSITION SPACES | 2015

List of Figures

Figure 1: Diagram explaining the relationship between public- private and open- closed transition
spaces. .......................................................................................................................................................................... 7
Figure 2: Anup Talao, Fatehpur Sikri, with the platform in the centre. .......................................................... 10
Figure 3: Threshold of a haveli. Figure 4: The courtyard inside a haveli. ............. 13
Figure 5: Plan of the Ranganathaswamy Temple, Srirangam. ........................................................................ 14
Figure 6: The interior courtyard of nalukettu. ..................................................................................................... 16
Figure 7: Courtyard like spaces in between houses/ havelis in Jaisalmer.................................................... 17
Figure 8: Entrance at the Buland Darwaza, Fatehpur Sikri.............................................................................. 18
Figure 9: The image shows the cluster of houses in the Aranya Township. .................................................. 21
Figure 10: The image shows the basic layout of the Aranya housing development. ................................ 21
Figure 11: Characters of Otla. .............................................................................................................................. 22
Figure 12: The different types and level of activities in the otla. .................................................................. 22
Figure 13: An otla without any boundary. Figure 14: An otla with a boundary wall. ... 22
Figure 15: House in Aranya Development showing different otlas................................................................ 23
Figure 16: The front façade of Institute of Indology. ...................................................................................... 24
Figure 17: Plan of Institute of Indology................................................................................................................ 25
Figure 18: The garden and the entrance. Figure 19: The paved courtyard. ................ 25
Figure 20: Plan of the Belapur Housing. .............................................................................................................. 27
Figure 21: Relation b/w single units Figure 22: Small Courtyard town ................ 27
Figure 23: Formation of the plan from a single unit to the settlement. .......................................................... 28
Figure 24: Private transition space. ...................................................................................................................... 28
Figure 25: Small Courtyard town serving 6-8 houses. ...................................................................................... 28
Figure 26: Community Park at a development level. ........................................................................................ 29
Figure 27: Landscape of Bharat Bhavan. ............................................................................................................ 29
Figure 28: The different courtyards in the premise. ......................................................................................... 30
Figure 29: The galleries of Bharat Bhavan. ....................................................................................................... 30

Page 4 of 33
Dissertation | UNDERSTANDING TRANSITION SPACES | 2015

Chapter 1: ABSTRACT

“Architectural spaces that envelop us like a physical presence, simple and dense, defying description
imitation and photography. . . . universal, yet present. The exterior is simple leading to greater levels
of mystery surprise and memory, creating poetic changes of light and shade . . . guiding us through its
spaces . . . .” - Alvaro Siza on Mexican Architecture (Deshmukh, 2009)

Transition – an in between state, in Architecture, is defined as a link or a connecting space

between two enclosed spaces. An architectural space is incomplete without transition spaces. The
inclusion of transitional and circulation spaces, in the form of corridors, atriums and stairwells, is
unavoidable in the design of most buildings. The percentage of these spaces may however vary
according to the function/ type of the building. Their functionality also varies according to the
appropriate requirements of the building or the user.1

These in between spaces offer an opportunity to interfere and create a space which re-engages
the person, in that space or passing through that space, through repetitive interruptions or pauses.
The transitional spaces can be planned or can be a left over space, but both these types of spaces
are in a continuous state of flux resulting into a “transition place”. The spaces could create subtle
interconnections which can be exploited and temporal experiences could be defined through
architectural interpretation of transitional spaces.

Looking at Indian architecture, there are features like pavilions, courtyards, terraces, and
thresholds which accentuate transition. All of these features come together to articulate the space.
The elements can be used in buildings of many typology or function, such as, temple, palaces,
ghats, residence, institutional buildings, etc. The listed features might show anonymity in their
existence but their true meaning emerges from the context and its use. We will look at the use of
these features, in detail, later in the dissertation.

We transit so often that we are not even conscious of that space being there. It is very interesting
to know about it. We experience them from macro to micro levels, while being completely
unaware of its presence.

Therefore, in order to understand transition spaces, I would like to do an in depth study of how
such spaces came up, their evolution, hierarchy and to analyse their role and importance. The

1 (Deshmukh, 2009)

Page 5 of 33
Dissertation | UNDERSTANDING TRANSITION SPACES | 2015

evaluation of the works and philosophies of architects working with transition spaces will further
help in understanding such spaces in Indian context.

The dissertation examines the various transitional spaces used in Indian Architecture by
investigating the works of architects like B. V. Doshi and Charles Correa. The aim will also be to
derive how these transition spaces have lend Indian-ness to buildings, their different typologies
and variation according to the function of the building. The dissertation will include case studies of
the philosophies and various projects of these architects. My research will also include a formal
analysis of the works, which will be covering a housing project and an individual house/ building.

I have chosen these particular architects as both of them try to identify Indian identity and
introduce it in their projects. Through their projects I will be able to understand the various
transition spaces that they have integrated and it will allow me to analyse the expression of Indian
identity.

Page 6 of 33
Dissertation | UNDERSTANDING TRANSITION SPACES | 2015

Chapter 2: INTRODUCTION

What is a Transition Space?

If we look at the definition of a transition space, it is a space of experience between the inner and
the outer worlds; an intermediate or a third space. It is understood as a ‘buffer zone’ or a
passage from inside to outside. They act as both a buffer space and a physical link. Other than
being functional as circulatory routes for the building, the designs of these spaces is considered
very important by building designers for reasons of aesthetics, health and comfort, and as exit
routes in the event of an emergency. 2

Another feature in this architecture is the subtleness in the transition—instead of a sudden and
abrupt change from inside to outside and open to closed, a range of intermediary spaces fall in
between the two extremes. A transition space not only acts as a link between open and closed
spaces, but also is a link between private and public areas; serves as a delicate transformation
between the public and private domains of urban residential buildings.

The transition space, therefore, is neither wholly private nor public, neither external nor internal. It
can be defined as an indefinite zone, which is defined by the relationship of the existing extreme
zones (internal v/s external and private v/s public).

Figure 1: Diagram explaining the relationship between public- private and open- closed transition spaces. 3

2 (Deshmukh, 2009)
3 (Kent, 1990)

Page 7 of 33
Dissertation | UNDERSTANDING TRANSITION SPACES | 2015

A transitional space, be it open or semi-enclosed, is an important element of the abode in the

Indian context. It should be viewed in its plurality. At one level, it is an architectural solution to the
problem of connecting the residence to the street or the public premise. On the other level, it is full
of social meanings signifying welcome, auspiciousness and prominence. This integral in-between
realm is also an indirect form of passive control that shapes people’s behaviour on a day to day
basis. 4

Transition spaces generally consist of: entrance foyers, corridors, buffer zones, lobbies and other
transitory areas which are used inside a building, but then again are not occupied at all times.
Such spaces have a different impact on people who are passing through them than the areas
which are outdoors or fully indoors.
These transition spaces or the thresholds in architecture (a building or its premise) can be created
by the change of light, a change of sound, a change of direction , a change of surface, a change
of level, perhaps by gateways which make a change of enclosure and above all with a change in
view.5

In our modern society where everything is based on the interests or the requirements of a
consumer, the real question to ask is not whether or not we are surrounded by transitions but what
is the quality of those transitions and how are they integrated into the building to generate an
improved environment.

It is quite interesting to draw a comparison between transitions in the field of architecture and
transitions as a sociological moment. For example, the situations most commonly associated with the
phenomenon of transition are death and mourning. The rituals surrounding death used to be
qualified by a series of events spreading into time in order to make each death more bearable.
Now this transition moment or threshold between our life before and after is supposed to last not
months but instants. Theoretically, it symbolizes the transition point between the outer world of the
senses and the inner world of the spirit; a transition between the inside and outside. I think there is
a similar process in architecture, the process of entering or leaving; the transitional quality of
spaces, however, is often under addressed and weak. The richness of a building should be judged
mainly by the transition experiences it proposes. In the way it suggests rituals that guide you
through a journey of exploration.6We would then address the issue of quality of the environment
creating transition experience. The space should be understood as an event, a gradual transition
towards a more inclusive interiority.

4 (Kaza, 2010)
5 (Bhonsle, 2010)
6 (Bhonsle, 2010)

Page 8 of 33
Dissertation | UNDERSTANDING TRANSITION SPACES | 2015

Hierarchy

When serving in an urban outdoor space, a transition affects the physical environment in which the
city functions, in turn affecting the experience of the people. In a public setting, they may vary in
scale but they succeed in creating a fluid and elastic outdoor space.

A transition space began with and still is the element of transit between the public (street) and the
private (house) domains considered to be irreverent and sacred, respectively. It is the first point of
contact of the house with the outside. It becomes a centre for informal gatherings of small groups
adding life to the street.
Therefore, we can say that after an individual building and its premise the next level of transition
happens at the intersection of streets (primary, secondary and tertiary).

This type of hierarchy of transition spaces is visible in any urban planning, be it City level, Town
level, District level or Local level. The entire road network itself acts as a transition mode.
Integrated in the city scape there are interaction spaces, gathering spaces, urban corridors, plazas
that standstill but act as a transition space in their own way. Urban nodes or the intersection points
of streets can also be referred to as transition space, but at a macro level. These nodes however
are in a complete state of flux and the level of activity is not constant. Similarly a slight hierarchy
is visible in buildings as well i.e. the transition space between the outside (street) and the edge or
a semi private area of a house. The next level is the semi-private to completely private area.

Transition Spaces in Indian context

In Indian architecture, the transition spaces play a very significant role, especially in residential
buildings. The transition spaces marked the boundaries of the living space. They played a role in
both dividing and connecting the inner and outer space: the gate, the door, the threshold. These
spaces were richly decorated and ornamented to highlight the transition space.

In Indian architecture, the typology and nature of the transitional spaces have been changing with
time. They vary in scale, usage and connection. The earlier cities were dense; hence the transitional
spaces were tight and mostly bound by all sides, creating a sense of space and comfortable scale.
As settlements grew, they became more planned and organized; hence, the transitional spaces
were organized and no more acted as left out spaces. Visual expression became a very important
aspect of such spaces. With modern age came the functional use of these spaces. These enable
equal distribution of physical benefits.

Also, in Indian architecture, design elements contribute a lot to transition spaces. There are
colonnades, aisles, courtyards, water bodies, openings like doorways, pathways, grounds, patios,

Page 9 of 33
Dissertation | UNDERSTANDING TRANSITION SPACES | 2015

gardens, trellis, pergolas, foyers, lobbies etc. If there is no defined space then confinement by
some of the above elements makes the space functional and sensible; or a transitional space. For
example, the Anup Talao in Fatehpur Sikri provides a very elegant transition from the inside
(Khwabgah complex) to the outside. The central platform in the talao serves as a nice interaction
space as well as a quite space.

Figure 2: Anup Talao, Fatehpur Sikri, with the platform in the

centre.

The platform here can be reached by the four bridges only;

hence the four bridges here also act as a transition space. 7

Thus, by studying the transition spaces, we become aware of their role and importance in the
design of a building or its setting. We are also able to fathom the significance of various design
elements in designing a transition space in Indian context.

7 (Deshmukh, 2009)

Page 10 of 33
Dissertation | UNDERSTANDING TRANSITION SPACES | 2015

Chapter 3: TRANSITION SPACES IN SPACE AND TIME

Planned and unplanned transition spaces have always been a part of human settlements. The scale
of these transitional spaces and the way it is used, however, has undergone massive changes over
time. From medieval times to modern, the transition space has been permitting continuous
adjustments and adaptations, in turn effecting the physical environment in which the city or building
functions.

The typology and nature of the transitional spaces have been changing with time. They vary in
scale, usage and connection.

Medieval cities were densely packed blocks with market places integrated inside them and
narrow alleys. This setting in itself gives a very different perception of space than what exists
today i.e. properly planned outdoor plazas and wider lanes. Due to the density of the settlements
the transition spaces were also tight and mostly bound by all sides, creating an enclosed space.
Transition spaces in such settlements were often self-evolved, according to the use and the
requirements of the user.
With dense living conditions the houses were mostly dark and most of the transition and
experiences took place outdoors, in external open spaces. These spaces were more comfortable
and interactive unlike the closed walls of a house. These transition spaces from inside to outside be
where people made social contact and interacted with each other. Very big social gatherings used
to take place in the outdoor plaza which was bigger in dimension. 8

These outdoor transition spaces, from the threshold to the other destination, have ever since self-
mutated in time. Their scales varied but they succeeded in creating fluid, elastic and malleable
outdoor in-between spaces which were mostly unprogrammed areas, but later were defined by
usage. The self-evolvement of these spaces, over time, can be defined as one of the reasons in
shaping up of the medieval cities and their extremely flexible open spaces.

The absence of the focus on individual buildings/ dwellings and its private spaces could also be
the success of the liveliness of the outdoor transition spaces.

Medieval period in India was a transitional time. Only fortress towns under the patronage of
chieftains and petty rulers used to grow. The biggest transition was from the settlement inside the
fortress to the outside settlement. The huge fort wall followed by a moat stood tall as a transition,
clearly demarcating the low/ medium density settlement from the high density settlement.

Also, in Indian architecture, the very ancient civilizations like Mohenjo-Daro and Harappa were
expertly built as an advanced civilization, as compared to the ancient Mesopotamia and Egypt. If
8 (Ramaswamy, 2005)

Page 11 of 33
Dissertation | UNDERSTANDING TRANSITION SPACES | 2015

we study the city planning here, you will find a well thought planned city with the interplay of
transition spaces. The utter size of the city, its provision for public buildings and all the basic
amenities itself proposes a high level of social infrastructure. The separation of the residential and
market area provided a transition from the private areas of the city to the more busy and public
parts. The transition was very clear in the plan.

The shift from a freely self-evolving city and open spaces to a strategically planned environment
took place during the Renaissance; wherein the city was preconceived and planned. There was a
gradual increase in scale of transition and open spaces. The transition spaces existing between
two buildings were also mostly bigger and focussed on spatial effects, views and volumes. Visual
expression became important in such spaces. For example, in the renaissance city of Palmanova
built by Scamozzi in 1593, the streets all had same widths, 46 ft. this type of formalizing or urban
streets and spaces led to a formal setting of transition spaces as well. 9

Within the city, there was a clear distinction between different zones based on importance. This
created a new structure of hierarchy between the relationship of transition spaces and the streets
(primary and secondary). The monumentality of buildings also enabled a sense of transition and a
space.

The modern spaces, however, brought to forefront the physical and functional aspects of buildings
and their setting.

The transition spaces were now used as a means to provide light, air and ventilation and enable
sufficient access to open spaces. This led to detached housing. The requirements of such transition
spaces were incorporated in house designs to ensure good individual living conditions, which aso
benefited to the requirements of the space.

Modernity is but one of the many overlays that constitute the complex canvas of Indian lifestyles, and
in every region the architectural features of the buildings have deep cultural resonances of older ways
of living. 10 There is a distinct focus on individual spaces. The detached housing led to big open
spaces which served as a transition space from inside. These transition spaces, however, do not
have any apparent function for them to be occupied at all times. The distances between different
built spaces have increased as compared to medieval times, which increased the size and
dimension of transition or in-between spaces.

9 (Ramaswamy, 2005)
10 (Thapar, 2004)

Page 12 of 33
Dissertation | UNDERSTANDING TRANSITION SPACES | 2015

Variation with building type or scale in India

The traditional homes in India (mostly havelis) have some of the spatial and decorative elements in
common, irrespective of the region where they are located. The names of these elements may also
vary according to the region but their function and character are accepted as indispensable to
domestic architecture, just as the zenana (women’s quarter) was essential for the reasons of purdah
and distinct from the mardana (restricted to men). These elements would be, namely, the threshold
(transition at a point), the courtyard, the hearth, etc. 11

Figure 3: Threshold of a haveli. Figure 4: The courtyard inside a haveli.

In traditional Indian architecture, a transition space was treated in two very different manners,
with different levels of importance. The function of the space was same though; a transitory area.

The difference can be clearly seen in two different types of buildings, a temple and a residence.

Indian temples are one of the best places to study ‘transition spaces’ in Indian context. In one plan
only we are able to see the different levels, scales and points of transition. The transition that
happens is not only physical but is also psychological, because of the experience you gain. In a
temple, the transition space holds a spatial typology of procession and is very prominent. It
doesn’t go without noticing. This transition space, acting as a passage leads to or is served with a
destination, which in itself is very grand. The journey to the destination becomes a procession or a
ritual. This is how the procession takes place:
The very first transition happens when we enter in the temple through the giant Gopuram. Then we
come to Sabhamandapa that is connected to Mandapa through a colonnade (here the colonnade is
acting as a transition space). Then the Antaralaya between the Mandapa and Garbhgriha stands as

11 (Thapar, 2004)

Page 13 of 33
Dissertation | UNDERSTANDING TRANSITION SPACES | 2015

another transition space. Garbhgriha is again protected by Pradakshina path one more form of
transition space.
Figure 5: Plan of the Ranganathaswamy Temple,
Srirangam.

The image shows the various levels or layers of transition

spaces in a temple.12

There is hierarchy of transition spaces here; there is a series of physical and spiritual transition
elements which one is required to experience before entering into the God’s adobe. A person
entering into a temple mentally gets prepared for his actual confrontation to almighty, through this
journey. He can’t directly enter to Garbhagriha as he cannot achieve that level of devotion
required to enter in a shrine. He develops it slowly through transcendent travelling of his own
self.13
But, in a residence or a house, the element of grandness is not there. The transition space is not
very noticeable and is subdued by the other elements. Also, there is not a particular destination
inside a house. Hence, the passage is only from inside to outside or there is a transition from the
house to the spaces around it.
Here, the scale also stands important in differentiating the two spatially different and functionally
similar transition spaces. The scale of the space is flexible in terms of its outlines as its limit is based
on the requirement of the dweller and not the space.

At a macro level if we look at a residence and its premise, there are different levels of transitions
going on. First is at the threshold of a house. At the threshold also, there are two different
scenarios. One is where the wall stands separating the inside and the outside, clearly defining the
private and the public. A completely different transition of spaces is happening at the gate. Here,
the gate and the area around gate are acting as a transition space. The sharp distinction by the
wall is softened at the gate. It acts as a semi private area. Second is a house where there is no
built boundary wall or a gate per say, then the verandah acts as a transition space. It becomes a
spatial sequence from the interior to the exterior and from there to a public space i.e. the street.

12 (Deshmukh, 2009)
13 (Deshmukh, 2009)

Page 14 of 33
Dissertation | UNDERSTANDING TRANSITION SPACES | 2015

The entrance space also, as a transitional zone, is an important concept in the cultural study of any
traditional house form. A transitional space, open or semi-enclosed, can be thus called an important
component of the dwelling in the Indian context. It should be viewed in its plurality. At one level, it can
be seen as an architectural solution to the problem of connecting the dwelling to the street. At another
level, it is full of social meanings symbolizing welcome, auspiciousness and status. This important and
necessary in between realm is also an indirect passage that controls and shapes the behaviour of
people on a day to day basis. 14

14 (Kaza, 2010)

Page 15 of 33
Dissertation | UNDERSTANDING TRANSITION SPACES | 2015

Chapter 4: TRANSITION SPACES IN INDIAN ARCHITECTURE

Courtyard as a Transition Space in Indian context

Internal open spaces are other subjective elements in all types and scales of domestic architecture.
These internal open spaces, or courtyards, had become the key organisational element in buildings
or all types and scales; from small scale urban house to large bungalows and palaces.

A courtyard is a medium to establish a controlled yet direct connection from the inside to the
outside or vice versa. And being a transition space, from inside to outside, courtyard act as a very
functional interaction space. Another reason for the courtyard to function so well is that it is a semi
private space and is devoid of any public intrusion. This transition space actually serves various
levels of privacy. Apart from interaction, a wide range of household activities could extend into
these inside open transition spaces; these become the breathing area of domestic architecture.15

Other than being just a transition from inside to outside and vice versa, these spaces are designed
to respond to the climatic conditions and sometimes the cultural needs of communities. They also
contribute to the spatial quality of the space by bringing a subdued light and creating a calm
environment.

The courtyards serving as an open transition space if often bounded by semi open verandahs
along its periphery. The completely closed private rooms open into these verandahs which leads to
the courtyards producing a spatial organisation based on the hierarchal system of spaces ranging
from closed to open. This spatial sequence results in intermittent flow of activities responding to the
needs of the dweller.
The courtyard would provide space for ventilation and thus fewer openings were required on the
façade facing the street or an exterior area. This would enable privacy. These open, yet
protected spaces became the heart of Indian living.

Figure 6: The interior courtyard of nalukettu.

The courtyard here is a transitional space between

the inside and the outside realms. 16

15 (Anonymous, 1992)
16 (Infratech, 2014)

Page 16 of 33
Dissertation | UNDERSTANDING TRANSITION SPACES | 2015

Terraces with similar type and function also started to come up, which would serve as an inside
open space (courtyard) but at a different level or height.

There weren’t many changes observed in the general form of courtyards. However, there were
changes in the materials, articulation or ornamentation of the enclosing elements, scale, proportion
or the complexity of the plan. These factors depended on the kind of building and the user.

By and large they receive a treatment similar to the external facade; they are in fact facades inside
the house. In large houses, havelis, palaces or public buildings, the nature of the architecture is formal.
Hence, all sides tend to be of symmetrical, orthogonal and ordered. In vernacular conditions where
the houses are smaller, it is quite different. 17

The scale of the courtyards were according to human proportions to make it a more comfortable
and habitable space. In bigger houses also, the number or the complexity of the courtyards would
increase, not the size; sometimes even a series of courtyards were created with a hierarchy of
open and closed spaces. This feature of a courtyard makes the transition fluid and not too
dramatic.

In Indian settlements with dense fabric, courtyard enables porosity and provides for lung spaces.
Courtyard like spaces between houses also provide for an interactive transition spaces at a public
level. Narrow streets open into these open transition spaces which can be used as public
gatherings.

Figure 7: Courtyard like spaces in between houses/ havelis in Jaisalmer.

The transition from a narrow street to an open space is clearly visible here.

17 (Anonymous, 1992)

Page 17 of 33
Dissertation | UNDERSTANDING TRANSITION SPACES | 2015

Courtyard not only satisfies the aesthetic and spatial purpose of a building but, also helps in the
sustainability factor. It is a passive design element and helps keep the inside spaces cool.

Entrance or Threshold as a Transition space

The threshold or the transition space is the space along which one approaches the building prior to
actually entering inside. This point or space serves as an introduction to the building and preconditions
our mind for the kind of activities inside.

Figure 8: Entrance at the Buland Darwaza, Fatehpur Sikri.

The image shows how the entrance has been marked by

staircase. Here, a frontal approach has been used, where the
staircase lead directly to the entrance, physically and visually. 18

The idea of a threshold is one which is constant in architecture, an ambiguous moment that defines the
inside and outside. Without the threshold, almost no transition spaces would have been possible in
architecture. There would have been a single continuous space. The threshold therefore has a dual
purpose, of separating as well as linking the two completely different realms.19 Therefore, we can say
that for the creation of transition spaces, thresholds serves as an intrinsic element of architecture.

An entrance or a thresholds best expresses the most significant transitional relationship between two
distinct realms; the inside and outside, private and public or open and closed. Whether it is a single
distinct entrance to the city, through a fort wall, or a hierarchal order of spatial layers with a series of
in between realms, the most significant aspect which remains is ‘transition’.

This complexity of transition as an element varies through space and time.

Entrances are often, in many cultures, not in direct contact with the exterior space, to achieve privacy.
On the other hand, there are many examples, where a single door serves as the only link between the
outside and the inside realms. And in yet another form, an entrance may be the medium (transition
space) through which one is introduced to the inside space. 20

18 (Bhonsle, 2010)
19 (Bhonsle, 2010)
20 (Anonymous, 1992)

Page 18 of 33
Dissertation | UNDERSTANDING TRANSITION SPACES | 2015

Chapter 3: CASE STUDIES

In India the version of architecture, where decorative and scenographic elements are used to make
a building more communicative, has established itself in the works of prominent architectural
professionals such as B. V. Doshi and others who have used historical elements to create fancy
housing estates. This is also evident in the works by famous architects such as Charles Correa and
Raj Rewal who make serious claims to be searching for an Indian identity buried in the layers of
history. This expression centred on identity has shifted the discourse of Indian architecture from the
quasi- scientific social concerns of the early post-independence period to a culturally based search
for “Indian-ness”. 21 Regionalism rooted from this, the architecture all over followed certain norms
of society.

The choice of these case studies allows me to analyse the formation of this Indianized Indian
identity, and the various types or hierarchy of transition spaces. The study will be first through an
understanding and critique of the philosophies and ideologies, and then through a study of the
influence of this expression upon actual building production in India.

ARCHITECT: B. V. DOSHI

Philosophies and Ideologies

“I think architecture is a matter of transformation. Transformation of all adverse situations into
favourable conditions” – B. V. Doshi (Sen, 2009)

Balakrishna Vittaldas Doshi is a pioneering architect, a teacher and an influential architectural

thinker of modern India. His architectural work can be seen as a judicious combination of tradition
and modernism, and his life is almost parallel to the growth of modern architecture in India.

Doshi believed that architecture of a building should be able to transform a space and not just
imitate or reproduce what already exists.

His works consistently revolve around the relationship between the inside and the outside. There is
proper climatic response and a hierarchy and order of spaces to be observed. Beyond the climatic
aspect of the design, Doshi explores the mythical sense and the poetic dimension of nature- the
contrast between shade and light, flow of breeze, the relationship between earth (ground) and
sky.22 According to him a space is never confined to open or closed, they are inter related and

21 (Bhatt, 2001)
22 (Curtis, 1988)

Page 19 of 33
Dissertation | UNDERSTANDING TRANSITION SPACES | 2015

are static. The outlook of the space is up to the perceiver. He also favours a flexible and
amorphous form as to a rigid or a finite form. He wanted the space to have multiple experiences.

His architecture embodies a vision or man in harmony with the natural order. It is an idea which
combines the character of the modern movement with that of an ancient and spiritual tradition. The
structural and formal system that Doshi adopted was of the Vastu-Purusha-Mandala. He also
wanted to achieve a timelessness in his architecture; an architecture for all times.

Doshi believes that there is no difference between architecture and urbanism. The individual house
is a hypothesis for a better kind of city; room, terrace, court, transition space, street and communal
space are all related. According to him, the architect must give a symbolic shape to a building, as
it is the building which provides the social life with coherence and continuity.23

According to Doshi, tradition, lifestyle, community feeling, culture and religion have all influenced
the spaces of the past. However, he believes, that nowadays architecture has become more about
aesthetics and that architects are designing products rather than buildings. 24

Analysis of Projects

ARANYA TOWNSHIP, INDORE, MADHYA PRADESH (1983-86)

Aranya Township is a development with total site area of 85 hectares. It is situated six kilometres
away from the centre of Indore. The plan was such that there were six sectors, with primarily
residential blocks, that converged on a central spine known as the business district.

Doshi had worked out a set of ideals to deal with townships and rural developments.
Prefabrication and local crafts were to be combined. To do so a limited set of “types” were to be
designed and then laid out along shaded streets. He tried to develop a gradual hierarchy from
the private dwelling to the public realm, going through various degrees of transitions, from steps
and ledges at the threshold of a house to small street or Public Square/ chowk and then to
communal places for markets, theatres.25

For Doshi, the Aranya Township Project was an experiment. He dealt with the entire project as a
dialogue. The project was a live example where the organic growth, which is invariably a part of
any growing mechanism, is gelled with the designed space, and the function extends to the spaces
in and around, to make it a live architectural experience.26

23 (Curtis, 1988)
24 (Detail, 2013)
25 (Steele, 1998)
26 (Detail, 2013)

Page 20 of 33
Dissertation | UNDERSTANDING TRANSITION SPACES | 2015

Figure 9: The image shows the cluster of houses

in the Aranya Township. 27

The Aranya Township is an urban level project. It sites and services approximately 40,000 people.
It is a low price housing project developed by the Indore Development Authority.

Aranya replaces the insensitive grid plan which is usually associated with sites and projects of such
scale and type; a township. It attempts to provide an architectural vocabulary suitable to both
socio-economic circumstances and the spaces.

Due to the small sizes of the plots, a hierarchy of shared open spaces were created in the
neighbourhood, which will serve as transitional spaces between public- semi-public- private areas.
The settlement also seems to have a very dense fabric due to these small and narrow plots.
The plan was informal, imitating that of a slum settlement. The centre is divided into 4 clusters:
shopping, residential, office complexes and mixed use at the edges. The residential clusters open
into a street and have a rear courtyard, which can be used as a play area or as a service area.
The open spaces and pedestrian pathways help in connecting these clusters to the central spine
and hence acting as a ‘transition space’ between the clusters and the central spine.

The Central Spine.

The Residential Clusters.

Figure 10: The image shows the basic layout of the Aranya
housing development. 28

27 (Development, 2013)

Page 21 of 33
Dissertation | UNDERSTANDING TRANSITION SPACES | 2015

The otla generally consists of a platform across the entire front of the house, and as it mostly
creates a transition from a public to private space, it is interesting to see how in Aranya housing
the variations in otla created different transitions and experiences.

Figure 11: Characters of Otla.

Figure 12: The different types and level of activities in the otla.29

Figure 13: An otla without any boundary. 30 Figure 14: An otla with a boundary wall. 31

A gated or a fenced otla provides a higher level of privacy than the one without a clearly marked
threshold. The level of transition from one place to another also depends on the height solidity and
the thickness of the threshold. A higher otla tends to separate the inside private space more from
the outside streetscape. The transition here is a bit sudden. However, a deep and open otla
extends the transition from the interiors to the streets enabling the transition to be gradual.
Variations in a single otla also creates a hierarchy of transition spaces in a single house.

28 (Kolamkar, 2012)
29 (Curtis, 1988)
30 (Kaza, 2010)
31 (Kaza, 2010)

Page 22 of 33
Dissertation | UNDERSTANDING TRANSITION SPACES | 2015

For example:

Figure 15: House in Aranya Development showing different otlas.

In this house the side otla is lower than the front otla. Therefore, the
relationship of the side otla with the interior and the street is stronger
than the direct relationship of the street and the inside and the
transition is gradual. In the front however, there is a sudden transition
between the outside and the inside or the public and the private. 32

Traditional elements, such as the ‘Otlas’ contributed to the transition of spaces from a private
dwelling to the street. The otla was an extension of the plot. The dweller had the freedom to use
the extension as they pleased. This freedom enabled an interesting street character. Some of the
house extensions were platforms, porches, open stairs and all of them either served as a transition
from the inside to outside or as a transition between the private and the public.

The otla in the Aranya neighbourhood plays a very important role in creating an individual
identity for each house. The variations in the otlas provide subtle transition from one house to
another also, and enables a difference in experience.
However functional, social or symbolic is the role of the otla, it also serves as a visually interesting
space. We can conclude that the otla in Aranya housing contributes to the spatial quality of the
streets and the dwellings and provides interesting transition spaces.

INSTITUTE OF INDOLOGY, AHMEDABAD (1957-62)

Doshi’s inspiration for the creation of institutions begins with his interactions with the Indian temples,
moving him to recreate the pauses, transitional spaces and thresholds which act as catalytic agents
for the built form and the individual or the community to enter into a dialogue at the level of

32 (Kaza, 2010)

Page 23 of 33
Dissertation | UNDERSTANDING TRANSITION SPACES | 2015

comprehension and this dialogue gives direction to the community at large. Built form which generate
such holistic experiences finally become human institutions. 33

The L. D. Institute of Indology is located on a total site area of 3.7 hectares, donated by the
Ahmedabad Education Society. It is located on the periphery of Gujarat University and is
essentially a museum which stores ancient manuscripts and texts which were originally stored in
basement beneath Jain temples. The institute is an attempt at defining an architecture appropriate
to the Indian climate, on the basis of both a contemporary structural instrument – the concrete
frame – and schemes of order with an ancient character in the Ahmedabad region.34

The plan is linear in design and stretches across the site presenting a long façade in the front. The
building is partially recessed into the ground to obtain a cooler environment at the half basement
level. This creates a very intriguing entry and helps in highlighting the threshold of the building.
The entry is at a level which is half a storey above grade, reached by a raised bridge that
connects the entrance deck with the street. The transition here is very strong as the entrance deck
gives an experience of grandeur and procession.

Figure 16: The front façade of Institute of Indology. 35

The building is divided into two parts connected via an open platform or a paved courtyard in
between them. Here, the courtyard acts both as a link between the two structures and as a break

33 (Steele, 1998)
34 (Curtis, 1988)
35 (Curtis, 1988)

Page 24 of 33
Dissertation | UNDERSTANDING TRANSITION SPACES | 2015

from the built form. This open platform provides for a transition from the inside to outside; open to
close.

Open Platform
The entry deck

Figure 17: Plan of Institute of Indology.36

The plan shows the alternating transition of spaces from open to close and semi-close.

Another interesting feature in this building are the circulation spaces i.e. the corridors and the
hallways. These spaces are mostly present on the periphery to ensure a subtle transition from the
public to private and also to ensure air circulation.

In this project, the transition spaces also help in making the building sustainable. The corridors and
circulation spaces present at the periphery helps in cross ventilation and keeps the rooms inside
cooler. Similarly the paved courtyard in between the two blocks accelerates the process of
convective cooling. The gardens enveloping the entrance also help in cooling and they also calm
the ambience by subduing the monumental entrance.

Figure 18: The garden and the entrance.37 Figure 19: The paved courtyard.

36 (Wright & Dimick, 2011)

37 (Curtis, 1988)

Page 25 of 33
Dissertation | UNDERSTANDING TRANSITION SPACES | 2015

ARCHITECT: CHARLES CORREA

Philosophies and Ideologies

Charles Correa is an Indian architect and urban planner particularly known for his use of
traditional methods and materials.

An open to sky space plays a very vital role in the works on Correa and can be seen in most of
them. He believes that an open to sky space is very important in a housing, where it can make a
decisive difference between a liveable habitat and claustrophobia- particularly in low income
housing. In planning for neighbourhoods his ideas focussed on the individual identity and hierarchy
of open spaces.

In terms of design there seems to be two major concerns. The first being the cosmological
approach in single buildings. He used a system of mandala as a system of organisation. The
second deals with the idea of enclosure by a wall i.e. the vertical element of the structure as an
element to define a space as opposed to horizontal platforms.38

Correa’s work in India also shows a careful development, understanding and adaptation of
modernism to a non-western culture. His works attempt to use a vernacular approach. Some of the
components that he uses in his buildings are courtyards, terraces, ritualistic pathways, gardens, etc.
He believes that there should be a subtle transition from one space to another. For example, a
private room opening into a verandah which then leads to an open terrace or a courtyard which is
probably shaded by a tree.

Complementing the site in its context was also a constant approach in Correa’s works.

Analysis of Projects

BELAPUR HOUSING, BELAPUR, NEW BOMBAY (1983-86)

Correa has done a great deal in housing. He tries to articulate the volume of each house, of the
development, in plan and in section to take advantage of all the spatial experiences and natural
ventilation. Interlocking courtyards, open to sky in between spaces have allowed him to create a
convective flow of currents and also serve as a transition space.

The total site area is of 6 acres and caters to approximately 550 families.

”Making housing is like a bird building its nest. You start with a basic house, but you have to let
people change it to their own needs.” – Charles Correa

38 (Khan, 1987)

Page 26 of 33
Dissertation | UNDERSTANDING TRANSITION SPACES | 2015

The housing project at Belapur, follows similar ideals as quoted above by Correa – each unit is in
its own individual site and has a scope of change and expansion. Each basic block has its own
courtyard as well. These blocks come together and form community spaces between them. These
generated groups then come together to form the settlement. The formation of the settlement thus
obtained is a clustered one.

Figure 20: Plan of the Belapur Housing.

The housing re-interprets the traditional Indian urban spatial syntax. The socio-economic ideals of
Correa are visible in the project.

A hierarchy of transition spaces can be observed in the project. The first is the private courtyard of
the single dwelling unit which acts as a transition space from closed inside to an open outside, but
acts as a private space at the same time. These spaces are used for private outdoor activities
throughout the year.
Subsequently, these individual units generate a small courtyard town when grouped together. This
courtyard acts as a public space on the second level; a courtyard for a community for 6-8
families.

Figure 21: Relation b/w single units Figure 22: Small Courtyard town 39

39 (Torus, 2012)

Page 27 of 33
Dissertation | UNDERSTANDING TRANSITION SPACES | 2015

The small courtyard towns then go on to form the complete settlement. The scale of these spaces
have increased and is much bigger than what it was in the single dwelling unit.

Figure 23: Formation of the plan from a single unit to the settlement.
The image shows the change in scale and character of the open transition spaces. The relationship of the space
with its surrounding changes with the proportion and function.

When looked as these transition spaces at the scale of a development, they start to function as
community spaces accessible by all unlike the private courtyard in single dwellings used only by
the occupants.

Figure 24: Private transition space.

Figure 25: Small Courtyard town serving 6-8 houses.40

40 (Torus, 2012)

Page 28 of 33
Dissertation | UNDERSTANDING TRANSITION SPACES | 2015

Figure 26: Community Park at a development level.41

However functional, social or symbolic is the role of the courtyard in this context, it also serves as a
visually interesting space. We can conclude that the courtyard in the Belapur housing contributes to
the spatial quality of the streets and the dwellings and provides interesting transition spaces.

BHARAT BHAVAN, BHOPAL, MADHYA PRADESH (1975-81)

Bharat Bhavan is a multi-arts complex and museum situated on a gently sloping hill overlooking the
lake in Bhopal. The total floor area of the complex is approximately 1.2 hectares.

The natural contours had provided Correa with an opportunity to create a series of experiences
with the help of terraced gardens and sunken courtyards. The building was design to merge with
the already existing landscape features.
The visitors enter at the highest level and walk down a pedestrian spine, flanked by a pattern of
courtyards, to reach the various parts of the complex. Each curve and space defines itself. Every part
of the building is distinct in itself and yet they are able to flow into one another, linked by twisting
paths. A variety of experiences are created for a visitor. The total effect is one of the surprise and
pleasure. There is always a moment when the eye can rest and the mind contemplates. 42

The terraces and courtyards reflect Correa’s concern with progression through space; a transition
of space through space.
Figure 27: Landscape of Bharat Bhavan.

The landscape of Bharat Bhavan is its built form terminating

itself at the lake forming into an amphitheatre. 43

41 (Torus, 2012)
42 (Co., n.d.)
43 (Oke, 2012)

Page 29 of 33
Dissertation | UNDERSTANDING TRANSITION SPACES | 2015

The thoughtful hierarchy in the design and organization of spaces, is what allows for the transition
courtyards to create an informality and openness which gives this space its character, as a
platform for interaction and sharing ideas.44

Figure 28: The different courtyards in the premise. 45

Figure 29: The galleries of Bharat Bhavan. 46

All the galleries and exhibition spaces are standing as individual units and have their own
significance. The in between spaces guides one through them to these destinations whilst providing
an experience. The body gets driven by the captivating and subtle forces one enjoys of the
transfusion of light through the chimney-like skylights and of the wind through the gradually
transforming volumes.47

44 (Oke, 2012)
45 (Associates)
46 (Oke, 2012)
47 (Oke, 2012)

Page 30 of 33
Dissertation | UNDERSTANDING TRANSITION SPACES | 2015

Chapter 5: CONCLUSION

On studying and researching the case studies or the topic in general, I noticed that, transition
spaces play a very important role in design and architecture. We can also say that transition
spaces, and the scale of it, plays a very important role in human behaviour, which in turn affects
the planning of a city or building. The human behaviour impacts the properties of various urban
spaces, the study of interaction between people taking place in those spaces, culture and physical
environments of all scales, planning of interior spaces, regional planning, and applications to
improve the quality of life, planning and design.

One of the most important functions of transition spaces is sustainability in building design. The
proper use and placement of these spaces in a building design may increase its energy efficiency.
The design consideration should contain this space as a necessary feature and should not be
considered a constraint. When architects talk about orientation of the building, built form, site
organization, topography, landscape then they should consider Transition Spaces as one of the
aspects in building design.

Let’s conclude by looking at how these spaces could be beneficial by the sustainability
perspective:

The layer of a corridor as a transition space on the periphery of the built form/ private rooms,
reduces glare and direct sun, which results in cooler inside spaces.

An enclosed or semi closed passage connecting two dwelling units creates a comfortable transition
for the occupants. If the space is semi closed it can be used as a space for interaction or sit outs.

The provision of water bodies in a transition space invokes cool breezes giving out the cooling
effect to the interiors.

As discussed above, courtyards serve as a nice interactive space. They also prevent heat and
glare from directly entering the rooms and keep them cooler. Extended roofs in the courtyards
makes the courtyard cooler itself.

Therefore, by understanding the various features of a transition spaces, I can say that it is a very
interesting space over all. It contributes to the spatial quality of a space, whatever be the setting
and context. Its role is functional, social, symbolic, and visual and it serves a building from the
perspective of sustainability also.

Page 31 of 33
Dissertation | UNDERSTANDING TRANSITION SPACES | 2015

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Anonymous. (1992). The Vernacular Architecture of Rajasthan. Retrieved November 2015, from
Archinomy: http://www.archinomy.com/case-studies/1992/the-vernacular-architecture-of-
rajasthan

Associates, C. C. (n.d.). Bharat Bhavan. Retrieved from Ebuild: http://ebuild.in/bharat-bhavan-bhopal

Bhatt, R. (2001). Indianizing Indian Architecture: A Postmodern Tradition. Traditional Dwellings and
Settlements Review, 43-51.

Bhonsle, K. D. (2010). Thresholds in Architecture. Architecture- Time Space & People, 30-36.

Co., B. B. (n.d.). Bharat Bhavan :: Introduction. Retrieved from A Multi Art Complex - Bharat Bhavan:
http://bharatbhawan.org/index.html

Curtis, W. J. (1988). Balkrishna Doshi- An Architecture for India. Ocean Township, Monmouth County:
Grantha Corporation.

Deshmukh, S. (2009, 10 14). Transition Spaces. Retrieved 9 2015, from INFINITY Architecture:
http://shwetadeshmukh.in/2009/10/14/transition-spaces/

Detail, D. (2013, April 24). Beyond mere aesthetics, Architecture is about life. Retrieved from Designer +
Builders: http://www.designerplusbuilder.com/beyond-mere-aesthetics-architecture-is-about-
life/

Development, A. I. (2013, September 25). Aranya Housing Project. Retrieved from Architecture In
Development: http://www.architectureindevelopment.org/project.php?id=401

Infratech, N. (2014, February 5). Nalukettu Architecture of Kerala. Retrieved November 2015, from
Home Sweet Home: http://nestinfratech12.blogspot.in/2014/02/nalukettu-architecture-of-
kerala.html

Kaza, K. (2010). The Otla: A ‘Free Space’ in Balkrishna Doshi’s Aranya Settlement. Unitec New Zealand
School of Architecture.

Kent, S. (1990). Domestic Architecture and the Use of Space: An Interdisciplinary Cross-Cultural Study.
Melbourne: Press Syndicate of the Universit of Cambridge.

Khan, H. U. (1987). Charles Correa. London: Concept Media Ltd. with Butterworth Architecture.

Kolamkar, A. (2012, May 20). Aranya Low Cost Housing . Retrieved from SlideShare:
http://www.slideshare.net/ankita224/aranya-low-cost-housing

Page 32 of 33
Dissertation | UNDERSTANDING TRANSITION SPACES | 2015

Oke, S. (2012, May 19). Bharat Bhavan, Bhopal.. . Charles Correa. Retrieved from OKE Studio:
http://www.okestudio.in/bharat-bhavan-bhopal-charles-correa/

Ramaswamy, D. (2005). THRESHOLDS AND TRANSITIONS | IN BETWEEN THE PUBLIC AND PRIVATE
REALM. Blacksburg: Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University.

Sen, T. (2009, July 12). B. V. Doshi- The man in search of unknown. Retrieved November 2015, from
Rain and Sunshine: http://trinathsen.com/2009/07/12/b-v-doshi-the-man-in-eternal-search-
of-unknown/

Steele, J. (1998). The Complete Architecture of Balkrishna Doshi: Rethinking Modernism for the
Developing World. Mumbai: Super Book House.

Thapar, B. (2004). Introduction to Indian Architecture. Singapore: Periplus Editions.

Torus, B. (2012). CHARLES CORREA’S HOUSING LANGUAGE. Turkey: Bahçesehir University.

Wright, H. D., & Dimick, K. M. (2011, May 24). Institute of Indology.

Page 33 of 33