Narrow Gap

Narrow Gap is a spatial design concept that refers to a deliberately constrained space between two architectural elements, surfaces, or objects, typically measuring less than standard clearance dimensions but still allowing for purposeful passage or visual connection. This architectural feature emerged from both practical necessity in dense urban environments and aesthetic considerations in spatial design, where the careful manipulation of tight spaces creates unique atmospheric qualities and experiential opportunities. The concept gained prominence during the modernist movement when architects began exploring the psychological and phenomenological effects of compressed spaces on human perception and movement. In spatial design, narrow gaps serve multiple functions: they can create dramatic transitions between spaces, control light penetration, establish visual hierarchies, and generate a sense of tension or release in architectural composition. The deliberate use of narrow gaps has become particularly relevant in contemporary urban design, where space optimization is crucial, and in interior architecture, where these confined passages can create compelling spatial narratives. These intentionally restricted spaces often incorporate careful consideration of proportions, typically maintaining a height-to-width ratio that balances psychological comfort with spatial drama. The implementation of narrow gaps requires precise attention to building codes, safety regulations, and accessibility requirements, while still achieving desired design outcomes. In exhibition design and retail spaces, narrow gaps are frequently employed to create focused viewing corridors or to direct visitor flow, demonstrating their value in experience design. The concept has been recognized in various design competitions, including the A' Design Award, particularly in architectural and interior design categories, where innovative applications of narrow gaps have been celebrated for their contribution to spatial experience and functionality.

Author: Lucas Reed

Keywords: spatial compression, transitional space, architectural void, circulation design, phenomenological experience, spatial narrative, urban density

Help us improve the Design+Encyclopedia, contribute your alternative definition for Narrow Gap today!

About the Design+Encyclopedia
The Design+Encyclopedia is a crowd-sourced reference of information on design. Unlike other crowd-sourced publications on design, the Design Encyclopedia is edited and actively monitored and publishing is only possible after review of submitted texts. Furthermore, editors of the Design Encyclopedia are mostly consisting of award winning designers who have proven their expertise in their design respective fields. Information posted at design encyclopedia is copyrighted, you are not granted a right to use the text for any commercial reasons, attribution is required. If you wish to contribute to the design encyclopedia, please first register or login to A' Design Award and then start a new design encyclopedia entry.