Space Syntax is a configurational theory which aims to explore the social logic of space: how people move through space, encounter each other and form social groups. Traditionally, space syntax focused on collective patterns of space usage, for instance the flow of movement through a spatial network as a result of its structure.

In this talk, I will present examples of empirical work that highlight how space syntax can be used to shed light on the diversity and dynamics of socio-spatial behaviours, such as preferences of different groups of people as well as perceptions of space. This contributes to an understanding of space as a layered, dynamic and changing experience.

Dr Kerstin Sailer is Reader in Social and Spatial Networks at the Bartlett School of Architecture at University College London. She investigates the impact of spatial design on people and social behaviours inside a range of buildings such as offices, laboratories, hospitals and schools. An architect by training, her research interests combine complex buildings, workplace environments and space usage with social networks, organisational theory and organisational behaviour.

At the Bartlett she leads the module ‘Buildings, Organisations, Networks’ in the MSc ‘Space Syntax: Architecture and Cities’. Her research has been funded by both industry and research councils including the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council, the Arts and Humanities Research Council, Innovate UK and Google. Kerstin has co-founded the think-tank brainybirdz to advance scientific thinking in workplace design. She also runs the blog Space and Organisation.