Space Syntax

BUILDINGS & ESTATES | Step 3: Performance forecasting
https://spacesyntax.com/brochures/
We measurably improve the performance of buildings & estates, enhancing user experience & increasing value to owners.

We provide predictive modelling of user flows and interactions to support development appraisals, augment planning applications, facilitate negotiations and aid decision-taking.

User behaviour​
We generate data-driven insights on future user experience patterns. We forecast space-use patterns, flow densities, ease of wayfinding and human/object interactions.

Spatial layout​
We demonstrate how proposed spatial layout designs will support individual user needs and deliver operational objectives. We provide comparative appraisals to assist in client selection.

Read the full Buildings & Estates brochure on our website.
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JUST LAUNCHED | Space Syntax Training
Spatial network analysis: urban scale
https://spacesyntax.cademy.io/spatial-network-analysis-urban-scale
An online, self-paced training course for the construction & interpretation of spatial connectivity models.
Created by Space Syntax, the course introduces Depthmap and QGIS, and is designed to build the same practical, analytical skills we apply in daily practice. If you work or train in urban design, planning or research and want to get to grips with space syntax analysis - this is for you!

The course comprises three parts…

Part 1 | Representing space
We introduce how we represent urban space in 'space syntax' analysis. We explain how we conduct axial analysis of cities, and explore the concepts of lines of sight, the isovist, just about axial analysis and symbolic forms of axiality. We also look at the challenges of representing particular urban features such as parks, roundabouts and streets that cross over or under each other in bridges and tunnels.

Part 2 | Using depthmapX to analyse urban systems
We will explore how to use the opensource software depthmapX to analyse urban systems. We will begin by exploring some basic concepts that are important to grasp when using this software, and then introduce you to an exercise which you can do at home while following on from a step-by-step video.

Part 3a | Introduction to QGIS for beginners
A comprehensive introduction to QGIS for those not familiar with the software or similar Geographical Information Systems.

Part 3b | Working with the Space Syntax Toolkit for QGIS
We will introduce you to how to undertake space syntax analysis in geographical information systems. We will introduce the Space Syntax Toolkit for QGIS and undertake an exercise together, importing and analysing an urban area.

Access the course through the link above.
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BUILDINGS & ESTATES | Step 2: Strategic design
https://spacesyntax.com/brochures/
We optimise the human performance of buildings & estates through targeted spatial layout design advice: data-driven planning and design strategies that inspire audiences and optimise performance outcomes. We create vision-led concepts, from strategic designs to detailed floorplate layouts.

Design development​
We work throughout the design process from initial strategy to detailed space-planning. We analyse proposed designs to forecast how people are likely to move through them, testing and refining options.

Functional performance​
We identify the locations that are best suited to specific uses, ensuring that activities are in the places that best support them. We use targeted spatial layout design to enhance functional performance.

Read the full Buildings & Estates brochure on our website.
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BUILDINGS & ESTATES | Step 1: Appraisal & benchmarking
https://spacesyntax.com/brochures/
Optimising the human performance of buildings & estates begins with appraisal & benchmarking. We analyse existing buildings to assess current performance & establish realistic design targets.

In order to do so, conduct user behaviour and spatial layout modelling to provide benchmarked evidence for brief-writing and design development.​

How do we perform user behaviour analysis?​
We survey existing patterns of movement and interaction, recording current user flows, congestion hotspots and underused areas. We cross-match this with sales, safety and other building performance data.

What is spatial layout modelling and why do we use it?
We evaluate the spatial layout of buildings, using advanced modelling techniques to explain existing user behaviours and reveal potentials for improvement. We benchmark spatial layouts against international exemplars.

Read the full Buildings & Estates brochure on our website.
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BUILDINGS & ESTATES | Introduction to Space Syntax
https://spacesyntax.com/brochures/
Space Syntax is a globally respected pioneer in science-based, performance-focused design, advising building designers, owners & occupiers for over 35 years.
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Acting across a wide range of sectors, from retail environments to research departments, parliamentary offices to passenger terminals, we analyse space-use patterns in existing buildings and provide targeted design advice on development options.​
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By putting the movement and interaction of people at the heart of the design process, we help organisations create places that work for their users.​
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Our data-driven approach…
- Appraisal & benchmarking​
- Strategic design​
- Performance forecasting.​
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Our broad experience…
Cultural
Workplace
Retail
Transport
Healthcare
Education
Mixed-use
Government

Read the full Buildings & Estates brochure on our website.
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EVENT | UK-China trade partnership
Last week, our Chief Representative in China, Ning Liu, attended the 2026 Western China International Fair for Investment & Trade to showcase Space Syntax’s data-driven approach to vision-led spatial planning.

Building and maintaining strong international relationships is integral to the global dissemination of our work. China has long been a place where the Space Syntax approach has been welcomed, nurtured and applied in major real estate development projects.
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The King’s Foundation & FormationQ | Harmonious Urban Growth: A Health-Optimised Expansion Framework Using Quantum

Earlier today, The King's Foundation announced it is partnering with FormationQ to launch a three-year programme exploring how quantum technologies can help cities across the Commonwealth grow in healthy, sustainable and resilient ways.

Space Syntax is pleased to be contributing to the programme, working with IonQ to develop a set of digital tools to support planning in rapidly growing areas. Our contribution builds on decades of Space Syntax research, accelerated now through the emerging potential of quantum computing.

Last month, our Director Ed Parham joined the formal launch of the partnership at Dumfries House, where partners from across the initiative gathered to discuss the collaboration and the exciting opportunity it presents in combining advanced technology with evidence-based urban planning to support long-term sustainable growth.

We look forward to working together with The King’s Foundation, FormationQ and IonQ.
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