Height Variation and Spatial Separation

Figure 11—92 illustrates several examples of varying percentages of openness in fences that are constructed of 2 X 2 wood. The smaller the open pattern, the lower the percentage of openness in the fence. When designing walls or fences for outdoors, it is strongly suggested that the de­signer incorporate them in a variety of heights to provide heights similar to those used each day indoors. However, exterior walls can be incorporated to serve other uses. Windows are very important parts of interior walls and should also be so for out­side walls. It is recommended that changing patterns be explored to create special
Figure 11-89
Varied heights and character of outdoor walls can be as spatially valuable as indoor walls. This will make walls more usable, and thus more appreciated. Some localities, like those adjacent to large bodies of water, may specify the minimum amount of openings for fences or walls. A solid fence is best for cases where complete privacy is needed (top of Fig­ure 11-91). Walls are commonly thought of as (1) separations between other rooms and (2) back­ground settings for furnishings. By allowing vertical planes to have openings in them, walls and fences provide opportunities for viewing beyond, as well as for adding character to the space. The degree of transparency will vary depending on how much open area is planned for the wall or fence. places along the fence to serve as focal areas to display a special plant or sculpture. Some codes require at least 50 percent openness in a vertical screen to allow breezes to travel throughout the neighborhood.