What are KiG and KiS in Architecture?
In architecture and urban planning, KiG (Koeficijent Izgrađenosti) and KiS (Koeficijent Iskoristivosti Sadržaja) are important coefficients that help architects and urban planners design buildings in accordance with zoning laws, land use regulations, and space optimization principles. These coefficients play a critical role in ensuring that buildings are appropriately sized for the plot they are built on and that their internal space is used efficiently.
1. What is KiG (Koeficijent Izgrađenosti)?
KiG stands for Koeficijent Izgrađenosti (Building Density Coefficient). It refers to the ratio of the total built-up area of a building (or buildings) in relation to the size of the plot on which the building is constructed. This coefficient is a crucial factor in urban planning because it determines the maximum allowable construction area on a given plot of land, ensuring that buildings are not too dense and that there is an adequate balance between built space and open or green areas.
For example:
If a plot has a KiG of 0.8, it means that for every square meter of land, only 0.8 square meters of building space can be constructed. This ensures that the building density remains manageable, contributing to better urban planning and living conditions.
KiG is typically regulated by local zoning laws and building codes to prevent overcrowding and to preserve a certain amount of open space, such as gardens, walkways, or public areas.
KiG helps to define the scale of the building in relation to the surrounding environment and controls how much of a plot can be covered by buildings, balancing construction with the need for public or private open space.
2. What is KiS (Koeficijent Iskoristivosti Sadržaja)?
KiS stands for Koeficijent Iskoristivosti Sadržaja (Coefficient of Usability of Content). It refers to the ratio of usable space inside a building relative to the total floor area. Essentially, it is used to calculate how much of the constructed area is actually usable for its intended purpose, factoring in areas that are not usable, such as hallways, stairs, and elevators.
For example:
A KiS of 0.7 means that 70% of the total floor area of the building is usable, while the remaining 30% is used for circulation, structural elements, or other non-usable spaces.
KiS is particularly important in commercial buildings, where the usable space is key for determining the rentable area. A higher KiS indicates better space utilization, meaning that more of the building is usable for tenants or residents.
In residential buildings, KiS is important for determining how much of the building’s space is actually livable and functional. A high KiS value means that the building's design minimizes wasted space and maximizes efficiency.
3. The Relationship Between KiG and KiS
While KiG determines the maximum amount of construction allowed on a given plot, KiS focuses on how well the available space within the building is utilized. Both coefficients are important for ensuring that the building is not only well-suited to its environment (through the use of KiG) but also efficient and functional inside (through the use of KiS).
For example:
A building with a high KiG may be allowed to cover a large part of a plot, but if the KiS is low, a significant portion of the interior might be unusable, which reduces the overall functionality and efficiency of the building.
Conversely, a building with a low KiG might have less built-up area, but with a high KiS, more of the internal space will be usable.
4. Why Are KiG and KiS Important in Architecture?
KiG and KiS are essential for a variety of reasons:
Urban Planning: KiG ensures that the building's density is in line with the surrounding environment and that the plot’s open space is preserved, which is crucial for healthy urban development.
Space Optimization: KiS helps architects and designers optimize the internal layout of buildings to make the most efficient use of available space, enhancing the functionality of each area.
Regulatory Compliance: Both coefficients help ensure that building designs comply with local zoning laws, building codes, and regulations, preventing overcrowding and promoting better living and working conditions.
Economic Efficiency: A building with a higher KiS is more economical for both owners and tenants, as more of the space is usable, making it more profitable or more comfortable for residents.
Conclusion
KiG (Koeficijent Izgrađenosti) and KiS (Koeficijent Iskoristivosti Sadržaja) are vital in architectural design and urban planning. KiG regulates the total amount of construction allowed on a plot of land, ensuring appropriate building density. On the other hand, KiS ensures that the interior of a building is used effectively, maximizing usable space. Together, these coefficients contribute to creating buildings that are not only in harmony with their surroundings but also functional and efficient for their occupants. Understanding and applying both KiG and KiS is essential for architects, urban planners, and developers working to create well-designed and sustainable buildings.
