Abstract
This study applies the 'interface' as the concept to interpret the facade design of parking garages. This study investigates the characteristics of interface design in the parking garages to improve design qualities of parking garages as a daily living space as well as a public space in today's city. The facade of parking garage is an interface between the urban streets and the parking space. Three concepts of interface and design in parking garage are defined. The concept of interface is explained as a boundary surface which activates communication and interaction. In facade design of parking garage, three main concepts of interface design are screen, communication and mobility. Through the investigation of the examples, this study summarizes the characteristics of the facade design of parking garage as follow; first, the facade of parking garage is designed as a screen which represents immateriality by specially selected and arranged surface materials. The screen facade is designed as one homogeneous surface as well as an irregular pattern with operable louvers. Second, the facade of parking garage is designed as a communication media to deliver direct information. The representation of natural or artificial characteristics at the local areas is to communicate with the people in the community. Third, the facade of parking garage is represented mobility which a car symbolizes. It emphasizes various movements and visual changes by movements. People can experience the visual changes of the building facade as they walk or drive. The visual changes of the facade are caused by natural elements such as wind and light as well as an optical illusion.