What is space? It’s a term that is ubiquitous in today’s lexicon, describing everything from physical to imagined boundaries. However just because the term is frequently used, does that also mean that it is completely understood? Is it a word that can be redefined? The following thesis project aims to explain human behavior as it relates to space. It showcases how people might use an area when the actual designated space is ambiguous. If something is indicative of a seat, will people use it to sit, or will they just walk by? If something gives the appearance of an enclosed shelter, will individuals inhabit the space for a longer period of time? I argue that elements in interiors have the ability to explain resulting behaviors. To test the above, I created a physical sculpture to challenge conventional thinking of space. In the spring of 2017, this exhibition was installed in two areas: the Love Library at San Diego State University and the University Gallery at San Diego State University. Each location was monitored via a time-lapse camera and the footage was then compiled to see how individuals behaved in each location. The following explores how design might influence human behavior regardless of explicit intent. Utilizing the knowledge gained from the sculpture and corresponding human behaviors, this data can help inform new designs in future construction. Ultimately, by exploring how people use space, we can understand how interior and architectural design can be altered to benefit individuals both artistically and functionally.
