Open spatial planning
Approved document B, Fire Safety, Volume 2, Buildings other than dwellinghouses (2019 edition), defines open spatial planning as:
'The internal arrangement of a building in which more than one storey or level is contained in one undivided volume, e.g. split-level floors. For the purposes of this document there is a distinction between open spatial planning and an atrium space.'
An atrium (plural atria) is: 'A continuous space that passes through one or more structural floors within a building, not necessarily vertically. NOTE: Enclosed lift wells, enclosed escalator wells, building services ducts and stairs are not classified as atria.'
See also: Spatial planning.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- Atrium.
- Approved document b.
- Building regulations.
- Fire.
- Open space.
- Open plan and cellular.
- Spatial planning.
Featured articles
Check out some of the best features and news from Designing Buildings as well as key stories from around the web.
Minimum energy efficiency standards (MEES)
CIAT briefing on response to consultations for privately rented non-domestic properties.
Connect, collaborate, shape the future
Registration now live for UK Construction Week Birmingham.
CIOB announces Saul Humphrey FCIOB as new President for 26/27 term.
A quick, simple, and zero-bills solution to prevent overheating.
The adaptive reuse of large industrial structures.
Promoting the circular economy by extending the life of buildings.
CIAT responds to Climate Change Committee report
An urgent wake-up call for both government and the built environment.
Construction Management, 24 June
FMB pilot aims to build pipeline of site-ready tradespeople.
A quick introduction.
CLC publishes Mental Health Joint Code of Practice.
A quick introduction to its uses and risks.
Construction Management, 17 June
Government rolls out digital planning tool to all local authorities.
Your views needed - a strategy for the professions, trades and occupations.

















