Also referred to as "Refuge and Prospect", this pattern is about our desire to occupy spaces where we are able to look out over the life below from a high and private or hidden location. This gives us both a connection to the world, while being psychologically protected by the world.

A space can be made to feel both protective and uplifting at the same time by making a private enclosed place that gives a vantage point that overlooks a larger open space below.

For instance, picture a cave on the side of a hill that gives an outlook over a valley below. In modern times, this refuge and outlook may take the form of an enclosed balcony overlooking a large room, or a second level terrace overlooking street light below. This pattern may also be part of what is behind people's desire to occupy highrise buildings.