What era is characterized by the introduction of larger interior spaces in most buildings?

The era characterized by the introduction of larger interior spaces in most buildings is the legacy era. During this time, architectural design evolved to prioritize open and expansive interior layouts, which contrasted with earlier designs that often incorporated more segmented spaces. This shift allowed for greater flexibility in how buildings were used, accommodating various functions and purposes.

In the legacy era, advancements in construction techniques and materials also played a significant role in enabling these larger open spaces. Traditional load-bearing walls were often replaced with beams and columns, which allowed for the removal of interior walls and opened up the floor plan. This not only improved the aesthetics of the space but also contributed to functionality, facilitating modern usage patterns.

Understanding the impact of these changes is essential in recognizing the evolution of design principles and their implications for safety, particularly within the context of fire dynamics, as larger open spaces can alter the behavior of fire and smoke in a building.