• KIEAE Journal
• /
• v.11 no.6
• /
• pp.95-100
• /
• 2011

Although Space Syntax is a well-known technique for spatial analysis, debates have taken place among some researchers because the Space Syntax discards geometric information as both shapes and sizes of spaces, and hence may cause some inconsistencies. Therefore, this study aims at developing methods to recognize and manage spatial shapes for more precise space syntax analysis. To reach this goal, this study employed both a graph theory and binary spatial partitioning (BSP) tree to recognize and manage spatial information. As a result, spatial shapes and sizes could be recognized by checking loops in graph converted from spatial shapes of built environment. Each spatial shape could be managed sequentially by BSP tree with hierarchical structure. Through such recognition and management processes, convex maps composed of the fattest and fewest convex spaces could be drawn. In conclusion, we hope that the methods developed here will be useful for urban planning to find appropriate purposes of spaces to satisfy the sustainability of built environment on the basis of the spatial and social relationships in urban spaces.