In-between Spaces

Dear FuturArc readers,

I read somewhere that the purpose of life lies not in either/or situations, but in both/and states.

I realised this applies too to the theme of this issue where we look at in-between spaces. In today’s (mostly) space-starved urban context, every inch matters. Projects taking up ancillary functions should be designed as integral spaces that contribute to the whole as more than the sum of their parts.

What is the whole and what are the parts? As we investigate and look at projects that make up the in-between domains, across different dimensions of function, time and space, we realise that the most effective of such spaces are those that do not immediately call your attention to their ‘in-between-ness’.

This seeming paradox highlights their essential beauty, especially when they are crafted with environmental sensibility and sustainable principles.

From the level of the city and neighbourhood to individual buildings and everything in between, this issue explores projects from China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Myanmar, Singapore and Vietnam that make us rethink their design, purpose and impact.

We are also taking you on a photographic journey to experience the idea of the ‘in-between’ more literally—we are showcasing some familiar interstitial spaces, from India, Malaysia, Taiwan, Nepal and Sri Lanka, and ‘interweaving’ them into the different sections of this magazine.

Captured by FuturArc’s very own lead designer Hans Lim and contributor Nipun Prabhakar, their unique eye for detail immediately draws you to the often-overlooked nooks and crannies that make up the whole architectural tapestry. The pictorial narrative shows how these spaces are used by people and animals, and for informal activities in alleyways to siestas on steps.

The next time when you wander into a place, take a pause and reflect for a moment—are you in a space in between two points, or are you simply at where you are.