Promoting spatial cognition in hospital buildings using space syntax analyses

Spatial cognition is a pivotal consideration in hospital buildings. Potential circulation configuration alternatives in hospitals have been filtered to 59 significant alternatives, to be simulated using space syntax analyses for measuring connectivity, visual integration, and visual step depth. Best alternatives have been determined via comparison and correlation analysis. A survey has been conducted, comparing the preferences of professional architects with simulation outcomes. Results show that best and worst alternatives exist in triangular and circular buildings, respectively. Also, cul-de-sac corridors are argued to promote spatial cognition better than looped corridors. Notably, cognition is inversely proportional to the curvature of the circulation spaces, number of nodes, and the number of branches. The survey showed a weak perception of the best alternatives, while respondents have a better perception of highly visible locations in these alternatives.