Space·Connection·Transition

"Connecting Node of Urban Space" refers to the open space and its surrounding areas which are created by some forms or facilities of spatial transportation, or which include those facilities and are characterized by them. The node takes an important part in urban function and landscape, which gathers and distributes people and other materials between areas and cities. It is also a composing factor of city features.The author put forward the conception of "Spatial Connecting Node of Urban Space" by analyzing the composition, function and layout of all kinds of public spaces, and by summarizing the similarity of them. This article is supposed to create a set of theories, by consulting which we can find some instruction in the planning, design and construction of "Spatial Connecting Node of Urban Space".The whole thesis develops in a logical order from theory to design practice, from universal to specialty. It is aimed to build the frame of the urban design in "Spatial Connecting Node of Urban Space", and to guide the construction of it. The structure of this article is composed of four parts: The first part defines the "Spatial Connecting Node of Urban Space", and makes an introduction of some related conceptions, such as the theory of urban design, the definition of space, the history, the development and the actuality of it. The second part is concerned on some basic investigation, introducing the attribution, classification, composed factors and some other aspects concerning the use of people of "Spatial Connecting Node of Urban Space". The third part makes a detailed statement on the design of "Spatial Connecting Node of Urban Space", including the design contents, space composition, design principles, design essence, evaluation, and some forms of it. The fourth part has a special discussion on the design of "Spatial Connecting Node of Urban Space" in mountainous cities, focused on the unique condition of its topography and transportation. Some unique forms of "Spatial Connecting Node of Urban Space" are mentioned in this part to present its function and design principles.