The Impact of Strategic Spatial Planning on Activity Flow in Youth Development Centres
CHINWOR, Okechukwu Confidence, ADIBE-OKWAKPAM Nkeiruka
Abstract
This study explores the impact of strategic spatial planning on activity flow within youth development centres, focusing on how spatial organisation influences user experience, movement efficiency, and functional synergy. As multifunctional spaces serving educational, recreational, and developmental needs, youth centres require thoughtful spatial configurations to perform effectively. Through a qualitative, design-based methodology involving literature review, case study analysis, and spatial observation, this research identifies key planning strategies that significantly enhance activity engagement and operational performance. These strategies include program or activity compatibility and adjacency, circulation integration, flexibility and multi-use potential, accessibility, and the integration of indoor and outdoor spaces. Findings reveal that when these principles are intentionally applied, youth facilities benefit from intuitive navigation, balanced spatial hierarchy, increased user participation, and improved safety. Effective spatial organisation was also shown to reduce congestion, support inclusive access, and optimise transitions between functional zones. The study culminates in a site-specific design proposal in which these strategies were practically applied. The design demonstrates how deliberate spatial planning can transform static environments into inclusive, adaptable, and high-performing youth development centres that respond to the evolving needs of users. By placing emphasis on spatial hierarchy, modularity, and connectivity, the proposed layout supports efficient circulation, encourages interaction, and aligns with programmatic demands. This work contributes to the discourse on youth infrastructure by offering practical design insights and spatial recommendations. It serves as a valuable guide for architects, planners, and policymakers seeking to develop resilient, flexible, and user-responsive youth spac
Keywords
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