Prospect and Refuge has been a well-studied topic since the 1970’s. This theory examines the balance between aesthetic satisfaction in terms of safety and opportunity within a space. Have you ever thought about why you feel more comfortable in one setting versus another? Even in an unfamiliar setting, the design elements that were implemented may influence one’s perception of a space that make it more inviting or comfortable. Whether you realize it or not, the theory of Prospect and Refuge surrounds our daily lives and as designers, plays a major role in how we create spaces.

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Office and bedroom: Both rooms in my house provide the perfect balance of prospect and refuge. I have windows to see and hear out of, but also dark curtains to close it off when I need to feel secure. These spaces help me to unwind after busy days and aid in letting creative energy flow. This space is inviting and matches up to my needs/wants in a space.

Home in Costa Rica: My house in Costa Rica was villa style home centered around a court yard. Broken up into 4 sperate apartments/homes and one large common area/living area and kitchen, a large family could live together with a good balance of prospect and refuge. Everyone had the ability to hangout in one location or spend their time privately. The wall surrounding the home also made it feel closed in and safe, but you could look out over the wall and see up and down both the street and beach.

Car: Driving your car down the road you are exposed to the environments. You see many different people, places and events. However, in times of insecurity, your car offers a sense of refuge by simply locking the doors and rolling up the windows. This is important because you need to feel safe, but not too sheltered.

Sketch by me, hiding behind the wall
while watching my surroundings.

Cruise Ship: While on a cruise, you can interact with many people and see beautiful unobstructed views. However, you also have the privacy of your individual room to escape to whenever you want. If you opted for a room with a balcony, you have the perfect balance of prospect and refuge.

Most people do not notice or pay attention to this concept even though prospect and refuge is all around us, everyday. Designers should always have this theory in mind when designing new spaces.  When done properly you should feel equally safe in both familiar and unfamiliar environments.

Stamps, A. (2006). INTERIOR PROSPECT AND REFUGE. Perceptual and Motor Skills, 103(3), 643-653.