U.S. Courts Design Guide
Spatial Relationship, Accessibility, and Circulation Diagrams
SRAC diagrams are provided for Chapters 3 through 5, and 7 through 12. Each
diagram represents an arrangement of required types of spaces, circulation
patterns, and access points. Every effort must be made during the design process
to maintain the arrangements illustrated in the SRACs. In practice, however, this
may not be possible.
It is important for users of the Guide to understand what the diagrams do and do
not represent. SRAC diagrams describe only circulatory relationships among
spaces; they are not floor plans, which normally describe exact spatial sizes,
configurations, and corridor distances between spaces. In a SRAC diagram, the
boxes representing spaces show only gross, relative sizes. Regular shapes do not
imply that actual spaces must be rectangular. Similarly, irregular shapes convey
no particular form since physical conditions, external constraints, and design
considerations might dictate other configurations. In addition, the relationships
between spaces along circulation routes indicate only adjacencies, not approximate
distances. The location of spaces on one side of the diagram or another does not
necessarily fix their position on any side of a planned facility or office. Circles
showing vertical circulation do not indicate the number or specific location of
elevators or stairwells; for example, requirements for a freight elevator might be
accommodated by a single elevator.
Programming Notes
The actual types, numbers, and sizes of
spaces shown on the SRAC diagrams should
not be interpreted literally; instead, they
must be determined on a case-by-case basis,
depending upon the program, design,
applicable building codes, and other
requirements.
For certain spaces, such as courtrooms and
judges' chambers suites, the number of
boxes shown on the SRAC diagrams does
not necessarily indicate the number of actual
spaces in a planned facility. The diagram
should be used as a guide for determining
the space required.
Introduction-12
12/19/97
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