Visitor Circulation and Spatial Legibility in Regional Libraries: A Comparative Study of Semarang, Surakarta, and the Special Region of Yogyakarta

https://doi.org/10.59810/archimane.v4i2.238

Authors

  • Bisma Ferdiansyah Putra Department of Architecture, Faculty of Engineering, Universitas Pandanaran,Department of Architecture, Faculty of Engineering, Universitas Pandanaran
  • Mutiawati Mandaka Department of Architecture, Faculty of Engineering, Universitas Pandanaran https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8365-3346
  • Sharfina Bella Pahleva Wahyon Department of Architecture, Faculty of Engineering, Universitas Pandanaran

Keywords:

Circulation pattern, D.K. Ching, Public space, Regional library, Visitor circulation

Abstract

Regional libraries, as educational public spaces, require circulation systems that support spatial legibility, efficient movement, and user comfort. This study compares visitor circulation in regional libraries in Semarang, Surakarta, and the Special Region of Yogyakarta using D. K. Ching’s architectural circulation framework. A qualitative descriptive and comparative approach combined field observation, visual documentation, and literature review. Observations were conducted between 10:00 and 14:00 Western Indonesian Time and involved approximately five to seven visitors. The analysis considered entrances, primary and secondary routes, and spatial circulation patterns. The three cases exhibit predominantly linear, centralized radial, and loop or network configurations, respectively. The visual analysis suggests that clear access, differentiated routes, and appropriately located circulation nodes may support spatial legibility and distribute movement more evenly. Given the limited observational scope, these findings should be interpreted as case-based spatial assessments rather than measured differences in user comfort. The study offers design considerations for improving circulation in regional libraries.

References

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Published

2026-10-31

How to Cite

Putra, B. F., Mandaka, M., & Wahyon, S. B. P. (2026). Visitor Circulation and Spatial Legibility in Regional Libraries: A Comparative Study of Semarang, Surakarta, and the Special Region of Yogyakarta. Journal of Architecture and Human Experience, 4(2), 73–80. https://doi.org/10.59810/archimane.v4i2.238

Issue

Vol. 4 No. 2 (2026): October

Section

Articles
Copyright & Licensing

Copyright (c) 2026 Bisma Ferdiansyah Putra, Mutiawati Mandaka, Sharfina Bella Pahleva Wahyon

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