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The required space to allow for a comfortable 90 degree turn by an individual depends a large part on the velocity of the individual. Reciprocally, the velocity of an individual is influenced by the spatial arrangements of spaces adjacent, and including, the space being analyzed. It is also influenced by the speed at which the individual feels they should move through the space.

To avoid some complexity, the internal motivations of individuals as well as local spatial arrangements can often be determined by the use of a space; such as in the case of an airport, where a speedy pace is commonplace, and accommodated for with the use of large open spatial arrangements that generally flow seamlessly together.

Also, a review of every type of use, and the associated velocity of an individual, may be avoided with three generalized rules of thumb as follows:

In the diagram, I show three turning radii, each representing a natural 90 degree turn in different contexts. Turning radius #1 represents intimate spaces; #2 represents semi-public spaces; #3 represents public spaces, such as an airport. Note the dimensions, which serve to provide some guidelines for actually generating the scale of a space.

These radii, and the corresponding purposes and dimensions I provide, are only guidelines to help simplify the understanding an individual’s velocity and the required space to accommodate their 90 degree turn.