KAJIAN RUANG SOSIOPETAL DAN SOSIOFUGAL TERHADAP INTERAKSI SOSIAL DI RUANG PUBLIK

Abstract

This study aims to identify the characteristics of the public areas at the Faculty of Engineering, Sam Ratulangi University, based on sociopetal and sociophugal spatial arrangements, and to analyze their role in shaping users’ social interactions. The method used was descriptive qualitative research, with data collection techniques including field observation, behavioral mapping, documentation, and interviews. The analysis was conducted using Lawson’s (2001) proxemics approach, which examines spatial arrangements that support interaction (sociopetal) and those that limit interaction (sociofugal). The results show that the Dean’s Office Gazebo Public Area exhibits strong sociopetal characteristics through its furniture layout, centered body orientation, and minimal visual barriers. The Public Area of the Faculty of Engineering Laboratory is physically sociocentric, yet user behavior is able to form sociopetal interaction patterns. The Public Area of the Civil Engineering Department, despite lacking formal seating facilities, still supports interaction through the utilization of available spatial elements. The study concludes that spatial configuration influences opportunities for social interaction, but user behavior also determines how that space is utilized.