Which approach focuses on the allocation of space by functional need?

• A. Inside-out
• B. Outside-in
• C. Top-down
• D. Bottom-up

Answer: (A)

Inside-out planning begins by identifying the specific functions and activities that must occur in the space—the number of occupants, the types of work, the equipment and support spaces required, and how people and materials will move through the area. Once these functional needs are defined, you size and place spaces to meet them, arranging adjacencies and circulation to support the actual work. This approach directly ties space allocation to how the work is performed, promoting efficient use of area and proper operational support.

In contrast, outside-in focuses on external constraints like site features or exterior access; top-down starts from broad organizational goals and assigns space accordingly; bottom-up begins with individual workspaces and aggregates upward.