PLANNING 1 ARC1429 MODULE 1

INTRODUCTION TO SITE PLANNING AND LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE PLANNING 1 ARC1429

REVIEW TRANSES – ARCHITECTURE QUALIFYING EXAM

1. Site Selection Process - The process selects from a list of

TOPIC OUTLINE
potential sites one that suits best the given use and
PLANNING 1 ARC 1429 OUTLINE requirements of the project.
01. Introduction to Site Planning and Landscape 2. Development Suitability Process - This process selects the
Architecture
best possible use and development suited for a given site.
02. Parameters of Site Selection and Analysis
DIFFERENT DEFINITIONS OF SITE PLANNING
03. Ecological Considerations of Site
1. Site Planning occurs after Strategic Planning has taken place
04. Social and Psychological Considerations and after the land use has been decided in relation to social,
economic, and environmental needs.
05. Aesthetic and Physical Considerations
06. Movement Systems 2. Site planning is an integral part of land use planning that
involves the arrangement of structures, natural or man- made,
07. Site Development on the land and shaping the spaces between.
08. Landscape Design 3. “Site Planning” involves planning for a smaller urban area
09. Concepts and Principles of Green Architecture as already defined for commercial, residential, industrial,
applied in Site Planning and Landscape Design recreational, or mixed-use development.

10. Cost Factors 4. Site planning determines the detailed layout of an area so that
it functions effectively in relation to a given range of land uses
INTRODUCTION TO SITE PLANNING AND on the site and others around it.
LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE
5. Site Planning is working out the detail of: (1) what should
1. Site - Any area which has played a significant role in the happen on a given area of land, (2) how it should happen, (3)
what will it cost to implement and manage proposed
history of our country (Historical, Cultural, Archaeological,
developments on the area of land.
Sociological, Scientific)
Note: Analysis of the site shall consider all existing features,
2. Site - A space or ground occupied or to be occupied by a
building or a concentration of building developments or human both natural and man-made in order to determine those inherent
activities that fall under the same land use category; Through qualities that give a site its ‘personality’. A topographical
analysis is mandatory. Emphasis should be made on the site’s
site planning, a site is made suitable for building purposes,
human activities, or life sustaining processes. relationship with the total environment and its special values or
potentials .
3. Site Planning - The art of arranging structures on the land
SIGNIFICANCE OF SITE PLANNING
and shaping the spaces between; an art linked to architecture,
engineering, landscape architecture and city planning (Kevin 1. Site Plan - shows the full relationship of the building to the
Lynch). land, and is a graphical representation that includes special
requirements such as site access and circulation, parking,
4. Site Planning - The art and science of arranging the uses of
walkways, and landscape/hardscape areas. Typically, the initial
portions of land. These uses are designated in detail by
concept site plan is drawn by an architect, and the engineer’s
selecting and analyzing sites, forming land use plans,
role is to help develop it further.
organizing vehicular and pedestrian circulation, developing
visual form and material concepts, readjusting the existing 3 SIGNIFICANCE OF SITE PLAN
landforms by design grading, providing proper drainage, and
developing the construction details necessary to carry out the A. Planning the Site can help you understand potential
projects. (Harvey Rubenstein, 1980). constraints early in the process.

TWO METHODS OF ESTABLISHING A SITE: ❖ Critical Issues integrated to the site plan:
➢ site access and circulation, including fire
department access

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 PLANNING 1 ARC1429 MODULE 1
INTRODUCTION TO SITE PLANNING AND LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE PLANNING 1 ARC1429
REVIEW TRANSES – ARCHITECTURE QUALIFYING EXAM

➢ drainage vs. latest environmental clean water ➢ SCHAP – Ship

requirements ➢ LAND – Ground or Soil – the most basic commodity,
➢ utility services becomes landscape when it is describe or seen in
➢ any site specific encumbrances such as terms of physiographical & environmental
easements/ dedications, and characteristics.
➢ jurisdictional setbacks.
2. Landscape – a picture of natural inland scenery.
Note: The site plan needs to depict developable building areas
3. Landscape Architecture – planning & design of land & water
in relationship to the land, parking requirements, and other
by society.
zoning as well as site specific constraints. This is why a
topographic survey supplemented with a good depiction of 4. Planning of Landscape Architecture – futuristic approach
underground drainage and utility services on-site or in the to land; land is regarded as a resource to be considered in
adjoining streets is of key importance at an early stage of the relation to demands & predicted needs of society & its values
project. You can integrate the proposed site development with
the topographic survey to get a comprehensive understanding 5. Design of Landscape Architecture - qualitative & function
of how the proposed development is served and works with the arrangement of parcels of land set aside in the planning process
known existing constraints and features. for some specific social purpose such as housing education or
recreation.
B. Site planning can help you determine the project’s
constructability and prevent future mistakes. Note. Planning & Design suggest man-made or man regulated
landscapes.
➢ Given the initial information from the initial conceptual
site plan and the topographic survey, the site plan can LAWS RELATED TO LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE
then be reworked to incorporate any accommodations ❖ R.A. 9053 THE PHILIPPINE LANDSCAPE
or changes. Every square foot counts–sometimes, you ARCHITECTURE ACT
may end up with a smaller or bigger project that you ➢ Was signed in 2001 recognizing the full status
thought you had. Or perhaps you may need to make of Landscape Architecture as a new
changes to your budget because of the information that profession. Graduates of Landscape
you found. An accurate site plan can signal you to Architecture will therefore have to take the
make necessary changes, and also save you from licensure examination given by the
making costly construction mistakes throughout the Professional Regulation Commission.
building process. This can save valuable time and ➢ Like Interior Design, it ceases to remain a
resources and allow for a fully functional and cost- specialization of building architects.
effective building project in the end. Graduates of Architecture and related
C. Accurate and detailed site planning serves as a talking courses may however opt to take this
point for the regulatory agencies that have jurisdiction over program as a second profession.
the project for approvals. Note: Landscape Architecture has a broader scope than mere
➢ An accurate site plan can can help you understand site garden design.
constraints, prevent potential mistakes, and serve as ❖ R.A. 9053 of 2000
part of the construction document process to meet ➢ An Act Regulating the Practice of Landscape
permitting standards. The design and permitting review Architecture in the Philippines
process associated with site planning can be a ➢ it is timely that the USC offered this program
challenging, yet rewarding and extremely valuable to train more professionals nationwide in
process that the civil engineer can facilitate. responsible land stewardship for
LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE improved quality of life for society and
while rehabilitating and conserving the
1. Landscape - german “landschaft” - small collection of natural environment.
bldgs. as a human concentration (both physical & spirit) in a
circle of pasture or cultivated space surrounded by wilderness
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 PLANNING 1 ARC1429 MODULE 1
INTRODUCTION TO SITE PLANNING AND LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE PLANNING 1 ARC1429
REVIEW TRANSES – ARCHITECTURE QUALIFYING EXAM

❖ The profession has responded to a national Note: 5 Rs – REFUSE, REUSE, REDUCE, RECYCLE, AND
expansion of actions: RESTORE
➢ to protect and improve environmental quality
Protecting our Natural Preserves
and resources
➢ the continuing process of urbanization, ❖ Natural found within various ecosystems
industrialization, and land development o Rainforests
➢ the concentration of population in o Principal Watershed (collection of water)
metropolitan areas o Sanctuaries (ex. Bird, Marine, etc.)
➢ the need to conserve energy o Mangroves
o Wetlands
Note: All require fresh concepts of open space & land use o Coral Reefs
❖ National Parks
- Building location has important implications for energy
o Law protecting our national parks: NIPAS Act -
costs of heating and cooling.
National Integrated Protected Area System
- Northern areas should be located on the portion of the
o enforced through the DENR and the PAMB
site that receives the most light during the hours of (Protected Area Management Board)
greatest sunshine, particularly in the winter months –
about 9:00am-3:00pm. COMPONENTS OF LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE
- The building should be located in the northern most
1. Land Assessment and Land Planning (Environmental
part of this area, but allowances should be made for
Planning)
adequate distance from neighboring properties to allow
for possible shading due to future development. Open ➢ concerned with regional scale land use, environmental
space should be located on the southern side of the impact predictions
building. Open space with a southern exposure is ➢ concerned with systematic evaluation of large areas of
preferred over open space with a northern exposure land in terms of land’s suitability or capability for any
likely future use
- The location and shape of buildings can be
➢ usually involves a team of specialist; environmental
managed to reduce the site albedo and the heat
planner / lawyer / architect/ landscape architect/ urban
island effect created by development. The use of
planner/etc.
vegetated roofs can further reduce these effects.
➢ the selection of land suitable for urbanization should
depend on an assessment of its fragility and its value
Watershed - an area or ridge of land that separates waters for other uses.
flowing to different rivers, basins, or seas; A watershed is 2. Site Planning
an area of land that drains or “sheds” water into a specific
waterbody. Every body of water has a watershed. ➢ the creation of environments that satisfy the functional
Watersheds drain rainfall and snowmelt into streams and needs of the project while remaining sensitive to local
rivers. These smaller bodies of water flow into larger ones, site conditions.
including lakes, bays, and oceans ➢ concerned with analysis of site (functional relationship,
resources, site structure relationship, land use
relationship)
LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT’S ROLE: RESPONSIBLE LAND
STEWARDSHIP 3. Landscape Design
1. Stewardship (Managers not owners) - Take charge; active ➢ the site planning and the detailed design for specific
participation in the preservation of life; i.e. Quality and beauty projects
of life (architecture, music and arts); Subdue creation with ➢ seeks to improve the quality of the landscape,
authority and accountability ( as a steward); Creation reflects producing tangible forms with structures and with
the character of God (Perfect, complete and balanced; plants whose growth results in changing appearances
beautiful); Harnessing the natural forces to serve man’s need with the seasons and passage of time

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INTRODUCTION TO SITE PLANNING AND LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE PLANNING 1 ARC1429
REVIEW TRANSES – ARCHITECTURE QUALIFYING EXAM

➢ selection of components, materials & plants & their environments, ongoing costs (utility bills, maintenance and
combination as solutions to limited & well defined our physical and psychological well-being.
problems; paving steps, fountain, etc.
o planting design on broad macro scale – 2. Site Selection - The process encompasses many steps from
project-based planning to construction, including initial inventory, assessment,
o indoor / outdoor relationship (circulatory alternative analysis, detailed design, and construction
element) procedures and services. Site selection includes the housing,
o material designation basic services (e.g., water, fuel, sewage, etc.), access
infrastructure (e.g., roads, paths, bridges, etc.) and social and
LANDSCAPE DESIGN & SITE PLANNING economic structures commonly used by site residents (e.g.,
➢ Provides design services and prepares detailed schools, clinics, markets, transport facilities, etc.).
layouts for a wide variety of projects including but not 3. Site Development - The physical process of construction at
limited to: a building site. These construction-related activities include
o open space clearing land, mobilizing resources to be used in the physical
o housing projects infrastructure (including water), the fabrication of building
o residential areas
components on site, and the process of assembling
o school grounds, university & college
components and raw materials into the physical elements
campuses
planned for the site. The site development process also includes
o urban parks
o campgrounds as well as facilities within the provision of access
national parks 4. Site Development - includes the physical process of
o downtown shopping malls construction at a building site, as well as environmental
o street systems improvements such as the addition of home gardens and live
o industrial parks
fencing (e.g., fencing made out of live shrub cuttings)
o waterfront projects
PROJECT CYCLE AND STRATEGIC SITE SELECTION AND
DEVELOPMENT
Strategic Site Selection and Development
- Site selection and development involves a wide range
INTERRELATIONSHIP OF THE 3 ASPECTS of actions with social, environmental, and economic
dimensions. These can result in a wide range of
1. Landscape Planner - Program requirement (process of impacts, all of which play a role in the long-term health
planning); Presentation drawing / concept; Specifications & and security of people and communities recovering
estimates; Quality control from disaster. The long-term impacts of site selection
2. Domain of Landscape Architecture - Architectural and development decisions need to be defined,
Communication; Design; Ecology and Planning; Construction considered, and addressed. Likewise, any
and Technology; Professional Practice/Ethics opportunities that improve the overall well-being of
disaster survivors beyond pre-disaster conditions
3. Site Elements – Foreground, Building Area, Service Area, should be maximized wherever possible.
Play Area, Private Area, Entourage ❖ Maps as Tools
PARAMETERS OF SITE SELECTION AND ANALYSIS o Identify possible site locations, applying criteria
such as elevation, slope, aspect (the direction the
KEY MODULE DEFINITIONS site faces), distance from roads and towns,
proximity to natural resources, distance from
1. Site - Choosing a site on which to locate a new home is not rivers and other water supplies, risk to
a simple task. Countless factors –natural, man-made, social and environmentally unique locations (e.g., parks or
economic – must be examined. Where we choose to build and reserves), and distance from industrial or mining
how we build on a site have an impact on the local and global sites.

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INTRODUCTION TO SITE PLANNING AND LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE PLANNING 1 ARC1429
REVIEW TRANSES – ARCHITECTURE QUALIFYING EXAM

o Design the actual layout of the site, taking into ▪ Have the least negative impact on the
consideration guidance on matching the physical environment
layout of the site with the infrastructure to be ▪ Have the fewest possible threats from
constructed. the environment
o Develop plans for the use of natural resources ▪ Require the least extraction of natural
within or near the site as the site is developed resources for site preparation,
(e.g., sourcing of sand and gravel) and once the construction, and operation
site is occupied. ▪ Incorporate infrastructure and
o Help new residents and visitors find homes and community-managed systems for
services within the site. minimizing and managing solid and liquid
waste
The choice of the most appropriate and efficient
▪ Offer the best quality of life for residents
mapping tools for use in shelter site selection and
o These considerations are not absolutes. Every
development depends on several factors, including:
shelter site has some impact on the environment,
o The physical size of the site
and often compromise is needed to attain the best
o The number of sites to be developed reasonable outcomes under competing demands
o The complexity of the site development and pressures to rebuild.
process and infrastructure to be built
o Ideally, post-disaster reconstruction efforts,
o Available funds
including site selection and development and on-
site reconstruction, should be integrated into the
❖ Site Selection and Design Considerations
natural characteristics of the location where the
o Details complementing the strategic concepts
site development is to take place rather than
presented above are presented in this section.
attempt to dramatically alter the existing physical
This information can be used to define post-
environment. Realistically, all site development
disaster resettlement options, plan for the
impacts the existing environment. The challenge
establishment of a specific site, and review an
is to minimize this impact to the greatest degree
existing shelter site in terms of rehabilitation or its
possible.
evolution from a transitional shelter site to a
KEY ATTRIBUTES OR CONSIDERATIONS IN SITE
permanent site.
SELECTION AND DEVELOPMENT
o Reference should also be made to local and
national laws, regulations, and standards for site ➢ CAPACITY - The number of people at a new site
selection and development. Most locations have should not result in resource requirements that
detailed laws and regulations about spatial unsustainably exploit locally available natural
planning, environmental impact, housing, and resources, because this is likely to result in lack of
sanitary facilities, which lay out specific site access to vital resources in the future (e.g.,
selection and development requirements. overpumping of groundwater). As a rule of thumb, the
o There are numerous factors to consider in per capita resource requirements of a new site will be
selecting a site for the reconstruction of housing as high as existed before the disaster, and may be
and related infrastructure following a disaster. higher if new housing, infrastructure (e.g., water,
While this document focuses on factors sewage), or livelihoods are introduced as part of the
contributing to sustainability, other considerations, reconstruction process. Planners should consider, as
such as the availability of land, legal status of well, that some countries may have official criteria
disaster-damaged communities, and the distance defining site capacity limits. The number of people at a
from the new site to sources for livelihoods, also new site will not result in resource requirements that
play important roles in the selection process. unsustainably exploit locally available natural
o Broadly, the sustainability component of the site resources.
selection and development process should focus ➢ DENSITY - By definition, increasing the density of
on the selection of sites that will: inhabitation at the site reduces additional land needs,
thereby reducing the immediate environmental
“footprint” of the site. However, sufficient space needs
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 PLANNING 1 ARC1429 MODULE 1
INTRODUCTION TO SITE PLANNING AND LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE PLANNING 1 ARC1429
REVIEW TRANSES – ARCHITECTURE QUALIFYING EXAM

to be available to allow residents to conduct their settlement. A culturally significant site may not be
livelihoods and social activities, and to live with dignity. clearly marked to outsiders and may be significant for
An approach to defining density limits is to consider the one group in an area but not for others. In some
normal social and livelihood activities of a typical family locations, areas of significant cultural importance are
in the disaster-affected area, and to plan for sufficient also areas of considerable biodiversity precisely
space for these activities. In general, the density of a because they are treated as special and not used in
site should be no greater than it was before the disaster the same manner as the surrounding landscape. The
and should include space for upgraded infrastructure cultural, historical, political, and social significance of
(e.g., sewage system) and services (e.g., schools with locations at or near the proposed site have been
sport fields) after a disaster. An appropriate density of considered as part of the site selection and plan
inhabitants for a site will also depend on cultural development process.
considerations, a process requiring the participation of ➢ VEGETATION - As much of the natural vegetation
the intended residents of the site and the recognition should be retained at a site as is possible. Additional
of gender-based differences in the use of space. Some vegetation should be added through gardens, tree
countries may have official criteria defining density planting in public areas and near schools and clinics,
limits. There may also be circumstances in which a planting along water courses and in designated
higher density is preferable for a short period of time greenbelts, and planting as privacy buffers between
so that the safety of residents can be better ensured in houses and to separate housing from public areas.
areas where security is an issue. The density of Indigenous vegetation with economic value [such as
habitation of the new site will not be greater than it was fruit trees], should be planted where possible, with
where the inhabitants lived before the disaster. The community-level agreement as to their ownership and
density of habitation of the site meets local regulations use. The ownership of trees or vegetated areas and
or international best practice. their produce – whether by individual, household, or
➢ CLIMATE - Most new shelter sites will be in the same community – should be decided through participatory
climatic zone as was the pre-disaster shelter. discussions to avoid potential conflicts. The use of
However, new shelter sites should consider the impact nonnative plants that have the potential to invade
of potential future changes in climate, such as the need agricultural and wildland areas should be avoided.
for increased drainage because of future increased ▪ The retention of vegetation has been
rainfall), and incorporate features to enhance local maximized in the site plan.
climate conditions. The site plan incorporates ▪ Indigenous vegetation with
measures to address current climatic conditions. The economic value [such as fruit trees],
potential for negative changes to local climate, such as is maintained or reintroduced at the
changes in rainfall or frequency of severe storms, has site.
been considered in the site plan. ▪ the planting of nonnative plants has
➢ SLOPE - Sloping land is very important for proper been avoided or minimized.
drainage, piped water, and sewage systems. However, ➢ HAZARDS - The safe management of natural hazards
it is preferred that new shelter sites be located on land should be integral to a site development plan. Hazards
with a slope of no more than 5%. Where this is not from natural or technological sources (e.g., a toxic
possible, a combination of terraces, vegetation, and dump) should be identified in the site selection process
appropriately designed drainage systems should be and in the associated environmental screening. As it is
installed to limit erosion. Steep slopes are also subject not possible to avoid all hazards, a risk management
to landslides and slumping and should be avoided strategy should be established as part of the
measures to control these processes are very development of the site. This strategy should include
expensive and of limited reliability. both structural measures (e.g., drainage canals in flood
➢ CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE - Inhabitants near a areas, adequate roof attachments in cyclone areas)
prospective settlement site and the prospective and nonstructural measures (e.g., community-based
residents of the site should be consulted on whether warning systems, education) to minimize hazard
the possible site has any cultural, historical, political, or impact. Planners should note that some countries may
social significance that could inhibit its use as a have official regulations relative to use of land subject
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INTRODUCTION TO SITE PLANNING AND LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE PLANNING 1 ARC1429
REVIEW TRANSES – ARCHITECTURE QUALIFYING EXAM

to significant hazards, e.g., flood plains and areas can enhance passive cooling and heating of the
subject to landslides or avalanches. building which will be more comfortable for building
• A hazards assessment for the site has been occupants. Adapting site designs for wind conditions
conducted and mitigation plans have been can also reduce demand for fuel, lowering costs for
developed. building occupants.
• The hazard assessment covers both natural ➢ SUN - The siting of the building should reflect
and technological hazards. consideration of the sun track across the site. Similar
• Mitigation plans incorporate structural (e.g., to designing for wind, a site design for the sun track
flood walls), nonstructural (e.g., warning can enhance passive heating of the building which will
systems), and ecological (e.g., maintenance be more comfortable for building occupants. Adapting
of natural floodways) measures. site designs for sun conditions can also reduce
➢ SITE ACCESSIBILITY - A new settlement site should demand for fuel, lowering costs for building occupants.
not be physically isolated from road networks, towns, In areas with high amounts of regular sunlight, project
and markets, and should have easy internal access to planners may consider promoting solar water heaters
all parts of the site. Steep roads should be avoided. and other solar-based technologies.
Where possible, roads should follow the contours of ❖ Site Analysis
the site. Aligning roads along contours is helpful for o A. Natural Factors
disabled persons. Road surfaces should be paved with ▪ Geology
stone, cement, or asphalt to limit dust and water ▪ Geomorphology - physiography,
erosion; stone is preferred for paving if sufficient landforms, soils, drainage,
quantities are available locally, so that water can be topography and slopes, and soil
absorbed by the underlying soil. All roads should have erosion
adequate drainage systems to prevent flooding and ▪ Hydrology – surface and ground
surface erosion. Vegetation, indigenous if possible, water
should be used to stabilize slopes and road shoulders. ▪ Vegetation – plant ecology
Runoff can be channeled to retention areas that can be ▪ Wildlife – habitats
used to water vegetated areas within the site. Where a ▪ Climate – solar orientation, wind,
settlement reconstruction site is located close to a and humidity.
navigable body of water, space should be allocated for o B. Cultural Factors
the on-land storage of boats and related equipment. ▪ Existing land use - ownership of
Any docks and boat launch/recovery areas should be adjacent property, off- site
located away from sensitive marine habitats. nuisances
• The site is not physically isolated from road ▪ Traffic and transit - vehicular and
networks, towns, and markets. pedestrian circulation on or
• There are adequate roads and access within adjacent to site
the site. ▪ Density and zoning – legal and
• Roads/paths within the site follow the regulatory controls
contours of the site where possible, and steep ▪ Socio-economic factors
roads/paths are avoided. ▪ Utilities – sanitary, storm-water,
• Crossings of water courses are designed for water supply, power supply, and
maximum flows, and include pedestrian communications
passages for use during periods of high ▪ Historic factors – historic buildings,
water. landmarks, and archaeology
• Road surfaces limit dust and water erosion. o C. Aesthetic Factors
▪ Natural features
• Roads have adequate drainage to prevent
▪ Spatial patterns – spaces and
flooding and surface erosion.
sequences
➢ WIND - The siting of the building should reflect
▪ Visual Resources – views and vistas
consideration of the local wind conditions. Proper siting

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o B. Organic Matter varies radically in soils and

ECOLOGICAL CONSIDERATIONS OF THE SITE usually imposes a limitation to any building
structure. Organic matter is important only for
soil fertility, moisture absorption and retention
1. Geology - is the natural science that studies the Earth – its
and for landscaping.
composition; the processes that shaped its surface; and its o Water content varies with particle sizes, local
history. Earth is made up of rocks (including soil, sand, silt and drainage, topography and climate. Most
dust); rocks are composed of minerals; minerals are made up water occupies the spaces between particles;
of atoms. only in organic soils do the particles
themselves actually absorb measurable
2. Igneous Rocks - (from the Latin word for fire) form when hot, amounts of water.
molten rock crystallizes and solidifies. ... Igneous rocks are o Air is what occupies remaining space that is
divided into two groups, intrusive or extrusive, depending upon not occupied by water. In layers where
where the molten rock solidifies.. groundwater is formed by gravity water in the
subsoil and underlying rock, there is absence
3. Sedimentary Rocks - when igneous rocks are exposed of air.
to surface and weathering reduces them to particles, ➢ Texture – is the term used to describe the composite
these particles are moved by erosional process and sizes of particles in a soil sample.
deposited in layers into rivers and oceans . o There are 12 basic terms for texture, at the
center of which is Class LOAM, which is an
4. Metamorphosed Rocks - when sedimentary rocks are intermediate mixture of 40% sand, 40% silt
pushed to deeper levels of the earth, they transform into and 20% clay
metamorphosed rocks due to changes in pressure and
DRAINAGE
temperature
❖ GOOD DRAINAGE - refers to the soil’s ability to
GEOMORPHOLOGY
transfer gravity water downward through:
❖ In site planning, it is important to establish the o Infiltration - the rate at which water
relationship between soil composition and land penetrates the soil surface (usually
uses (other than agriculture). Soil surveys help measured in cm or inches per hour);
guide in site selection for residential, industrial, o Permeability - the rate at which water within
and other forms of development that involve the soil moves through a given volume of
surface and subsurface structures. material (also measured in cm or inches per
❖ PROPERTIES OF SOIL USED IN SITE DESIGN hour)
o Percolation - the rate at which water in a soil
o Composition
pit or pipe within the soil is taken up by the
o Texture soil (used mainly in wastewater absorption
o These two are generally the most tests and measured in inches per hour)
meaningful; from them we can make ❖ POOR DRAINAGE - means that gravity water is not
inferences about bearing capacity, readily transmitted by the soil and soil is frequently or
internal drainage, erodibility, and slope permanently saturated and may have water standing
stability. on it caused by :
o The local accumulation of water ;
➢ Composition - refers to the material that makes up o A rise in the level of groundwater
soil: mineral particles, organic matter, water, and air. within the soil column;
➢ Geomorphology Composition o The size of the particles in the soil being
o A. Mineral Particles comprise 50% to 80% of too small to transmit infiltration water
the volume of the soil and form the all
important skeletal structure of the soil. Sand TOPOGRAPHY AND SLOPES
and gravel particles provide for
the greatest stability, usually yield a
relat- ively high bearing capacity.

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❖ SLOPE ANALYSIS - Understanding slope forms for ❖ TOPOGRAPHIC MAP - a map of a portion of the earth
site design requires understanding of local geologic, that describes the shape of the earth’s surface by
soil, hydrologic, and vegetative conditions. contour lines.
❖ SLOPE FORM - is expressed graphically in terms of a
slope profile, a silhouette of a slope drawn to known VEGETATION
proportions with distance on the horizontal axis and
elevation on the vertical axis. Four basic slope forms ❖ Benefits of natural vegetation:
are detectable on contour maps: o Foliage intercepts raindrops
o Organic litter on the ground reduces impact
of raindrops
o Roots bind together aggregates of
soil particles.
o Cover density, in form of ground cover or tree
canopy, decreases soil loss to runoff
❖ SOIL TYPE
o Intermediate textures like sand will usually
yield (erode) first
o Similarly, high velocities would be needed to
move masses of pebbles and particles larger
than those of sand
❖ SOIL EROSION PREVENTION
o Slope Size and Inclination:
o The velocity of runoff is closely related to
the slope of the ground over which it
flows. Slopes that are both steep and long
produce the greatest erosion because they
generate runoff that is high in velocity and
mass
o Slope also influences the quantity of runoff
since long slopes collect more rainfall and
thus generate a larger volume of runoff.
Figure: Basic slope forms – Straight, S-shaped, Concave shape
WATER RESOURCES
❖ ANGLE OF REPOSE - angle at which soil can be
safely inclined and beyond which it will fail. ❖ HYDROLOGY - the natural science that studies the
Waters of the Earth, their occurrence, circulation and
distribution, their chemical and physical properties,
and their reaction to the living environment including
their relation to all living things.
❖ HYDROLOGIC CYCLE - or the planet’s water cycle,
described by the movement of water from the oceans
to the atmosphere to the continents and back to the
sea .
HYDROLOGY
❖ AQUIFER - A permeable geological stratum or
formation that can both store and transmit
groundwater in significant quantities.
Figure: Angle of repose for each type of soil ❖ WATERSHED - a geographic area of land bounded
by topographic features and height of land that

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captures precipitation, filters and stores water and anticipate and address these expectations in the early
drains waters to a shared destination. Knowledge of phases of design to elicit the project’s acceptance by
watershed boundaries is critical to water quality and the community. Your project should be able to
storm water management. contribute positively to the community needs.
➢ Monetarily, the estimate of the site value is based on
CLIMATIC CONTROL
land assessments provided by the local assessor’s
❖ PRECIPITATION - Plants help to control precipitation office, land sales throughout the area, and the
reaching the ground. By intercepting rain and slowing appraiser’s general knowledge of local areas.
it down, they aid in moisture retention, and in the ➢ Site value reflects what the land would be expected to
prevention of soil erosion. They also help soil retain sell for in its current condition. It includes any work
water by providing shade, or protection from the wind, undertaken, or materials used, to improve the physical
or by water shedding function of trees’ roots. nature of the land to prepare it for development.
➢ Below is a table which shows the classification of land
WILDLIFE based on composite land characteristics. This also
❖ WETLAND WILDLIFE - wetland species include birds serves as a guide in the valuation of the land which
and mammals needing habitats with: affects its suitability for a planning project.
o Wetland food plants or wild herbaceous
plants of moist to wet sites, excluding
submerged or floating aquatic plants;
o Shallow water development with water
impoundments not deeper than 5 ft.;
o Excavated ponds with ample supply of water
at least one acre and average 6ft depth.
o Streams
SOCIAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL CONSIDERATIONS

1. SITE VALUES/SOCIAL IMPACT 2. BEHAVIOR SETTINGS

➢ In doing a site analysis, the designer should consider ➢ The demand for a particular type of development
the value of the site to the community and its social (recreation opportunity or facility) should be tied to the
impact. Usually, the community standards and target population. Are you targeting the whole
expectations are not written and may be ambiguous, population of a community or are you interested only in
but they can be very important considerations in the the new population that would occupy the new
site analysis. development? If it is to be used exclusively by the new
➢ Site designers may be able to assess these standards development, then the demographics of the new
and expectations through observation especially on population should lead the design. If the facility is to
what has been acceptable to the community in the have broad-based community use, a different set of
past. For example, what does the community and considerations is required. In developing active or
neighborhood around the site look like? Are there passive open space, developers and communities
certain standards which are to be observed like the alike must be concerned about the actual demand,
types of plants, the architectural elements and styles, current and future, for those facilities.
the materials, the setbacks and how pedestrians and ➢ ACTIVE AND PASSIVE OPEN SPACES
vehicles move about in the place? o Active and passive open space should be
➢ Social considerations may include patterns of access balanced. All age groups have a desire and
to, and tenure on land, according to Prof. Ernesto an interest in both types of facility. The active
Serote. Is the site being used by the public as an open open space for community activities must be
space or a means of access? If you develop the land, large enough to serve the user population but
there might be a resistance to the proposal by the remain within the scope of the responsible
community if the loss will not be addressed. Begin to parties’ ability to maintain the facility.
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o Passive activities include reading, picnicking,

sightseeing, photography, people watching,
and strolling (as opposed to walking for
exercise). Space for passive activities
includes unimproved open space, park land,
and wildlife habitat, but it can also include
space on the fringes of activity areas that
allow, or even encourage, people watching
and observation.
o The table below shows the rank of activities
that may be used to consider what facilities
may be desirable to be integrated in site
planning.

➢ EXAMPLE OF USER REQUIREMENTS:

DETERMINING WIDTH OF SIDEWALK DESIGN
o The width can be determined using the
following method:
o W = V(M)/S
o where W = the width of the pathway or
sidewalk
o V = volume in person/minute
o M = the space module or square feet allowed
per person
o S = walking speed in feet per minute
➢ WALKING SPEEDS
3. USER REQUIREMENTS o Walking speeds vary greatly among people,
➢ Sites often support multiple uses and users with but an average walking speed of 4 ft per
second is usually assumed.
different needs and expectations, and accommodating
o A number of factors influence this speed, and
those needs and expectations has led to a variety of
the needs of particular users should be
approaches to design.
considered. The very young and older people
➢ A site designed using these precepts avoids
walk slower than the average speed, and
segregating one set of users from another whenever
people tend to walk faster in the middle of a
possible. Multiple but equal points of access to
block and slow down at intersections.
accommodate people with accessibility issues are
o The activity people are engaged in affects
planned to avoid stigmatizing some users.
walking speed as well: for example, shoppers
➢ Signage is designed to be useful regardless of one’s
walk slower than commuters, men tend to
language.
walk faster than women, and groups of
➢ Understanding the limitations of site users who range people walk slower than a lone individual.
from toddlers to the elderly requires more than the o Curbs, islands, circuitous pathways, changes
common human factors and range of motion charts in grade, and even ramps can present
established for the “average person”. barriers of one sort or another to users. Grade
changes of more than a few percent should
be signaled visually and texturally.
o To determine the appropriate level of service,
designers should weigh the designated site

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use, the user, and the character of the final However, on the other hand, the development of lands
design. can also be encouraged if this development will serve
to foster or enhance culture and historical significance.
4. CULTURAL/HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE
Environmentally sensitive areas which are protected
➢ Culture is narrowly defined as “customary beliefs and lands can be exempt from development. Areas
values that ethnic, religious, and social groups transmit required for future public recreation and those that
fairly unchanged from generation to generation”. would serve as “buffer zones” may be important areas
Woolcock (2014)highlights how the sociologic for development.
scholarship has evolved to consider culture as ➢ According to Prof. Ernesto Serote, erstwhile
“shaping a repertoire or ‘tool kit’ of habits, skills, and considered as a bulwark in urban planning, cultural
styles from which people construct ‘strategies of considerations will include strong family ties, food
action”. What may appear to be cultural traits may, in preferences, religious beliefs.
fact, be behaviors shaped by economic incentives and ➢ Lopez-Claros in his essay entitled “What role does
thus amenable to change through changes in the culture play in development?” said that “We are
underlying incentives. witnessing the gradual emergence of a universal,
➢ Landscape values are learned behavior, passed from global culture based on such values as adherence to
generation to generation, usually by example. civil and human rights, gender equality, respect for
Professional designers produce work based on a property rights, the rule of law, acceptance of market
cultural ideal or a refinement of traditional values. forces as a mechanism for resource allocation.” and
Exceptions are noteworthy primarily in their differences that “Development is not only about reducing poverty
from the traditional models or because they provide an and expanding opportunities against the background of
expanded view of the landscape. Often the degree of rising incomes. It is also in a very fundamental way
change is quite small and could be seen as about adopting a set of values that are compatible with
incremental evolutionary steps toward new values and humanity’s moral development.”
new cultural norms. ➢ Changes in the land come about with the project. Here
➢ In the United States, the task force of the Citizen’s is a summary of changes on account of a project as is
Advisory Committee on Environmental Quality studied detailed by Prof. Ernesto Serote.
how the process of development might be organized,
controlled, and coordinated to protect the environment
and the cultural and aesthetic characteristics of land
while balancing the needs for housing, manufacturing,
public access to open space, and the infrastructure of
society such as shopping and highways.
➢ CULTURAL FACTORS
o Existing Land Use - Ownership of adjacent
property, off-site nuisances
o Legal Land ownership - land use 5. ACTIVITY/ COMMUNICATION LINKAGES
regulations, easements and deed restrictions
o Circulation - Vehicular and pedestrian ➢ Linkages are defined as connections or relationships
circulation on or adjacent to site, traffic between two or more things.
volume, street function (arterial, collector) ➢ SIX PRINCIPLES OF LINKAGES
o Density and Zoning - Legal and regulatory o Common Purpose
controls o Advantage
o Socio-economic factors and o Common ground
sensory (noise, odor, visual quality) o Compatibility
o History factors - Historic buildings, o Rewards
landmarks, and archeology o Open Communication
➢ Types of linkages that may be useful in cases of site
➢ The development of some lands can be restricted
planning may be the formal and the informal linkages.
because of culture and historical significance.

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Formal linkages refer to linkages that are specified and ▪ Lighting – paths/streets should have
agreed to by organizations. Informal linkages are direct proper lighting which may also serve
person-to-person contacts, based on the need for as guideposts.
collaboration between individuals. Since informal ▪ Fencing – not only serve as security
linkage is an effective and low-cost method, it should but as demarcations of site
be encouraged along with formal linkages. boundaries.
➢ Applying this to site planning, the linkages should be o 5. Offices - which can also serve as sources
specified and agreed to by the planners. What of information and guidance and help.
activities need to be linked together? What activities o 6. Water Supply and Sanitation - It is
are related to a group or would involve individuals necessary to have water and toilet facilities in
only? Is the communication linkage important to the convenient locations but they are also
whole group of users or only between individuals? important for wayfinding
➢ Some conditions that may be useful in planning for 6. PERTINENT LAWS
linkages:
o Awareness of their importance ➢ According to Prof. Ernesto Serote, political
o Consensus of those who will plan linkages considerations would include government formulation
o Commitment to the implementation of the and enforcement of policies affecting rights on land
linkages through land use planning and zoning, subdivision and
➢ Consideration of these linkages are of primary building regulations, environmental laws, taxation,
importance especially when planning the site layout. special levies, and other impositions on various land
➢ A well planned site lead to increased productivity and transactions.
safety and maximized utilization. ➢ LOCAL GOVERNMENT ORDINANCES
➢ The following points should be considered in good site o There are different types of ordinances that a
layout. local government might adopt, and the
o 1. Safety – Fire prevention and availability of process and procedures to adopt each are
medical services very different. There are generally three types
o 2. Site Accessibility - Proper planning to of ordinances:
layout the roads leading to and from the ▪ Police power ordinance
nearest highway. Internal roads are also ▪ Zoning ordinance
necessary for easy flow of work. Parking lots ▪ Budget or appropriations ordinance
should be provided where space is available. ➢ LOCAL GOVERNMENT CODE OF THE
o 3. Information Signs – PHILIPPINES
▪ Site map: It should locate details of o Section 15. Political and Corporate Nature
the project, and displayed in the of Local Government Units. - Every local
office of the site superintendent and government unit created or recognized under
posted at the entrance gate. this Code is a body politic and corporate
▪ Traffic regulatory signs: For large endowed with powers to be exercised by it in
projects, traffic regulatory signs help conformity with law. As such, it shall exercise
in guiding the traffic on the site and powers as a political subdivision of the
avoid accidents to a considerable national government and as a corporate entity
extent. representing the inhabitants of its territory.
▪ Emergency routes and underground o Section 20. Reclassification of Land. –
services ▪ (a) A city or municipality may,
o 4. Security through an ordinance passed by the
▪ Entrance: It is necessary to have a Sanggunian after conducting public
proper guard entrance to the site hearings for the purpose, authorize
provided by a booth. the reclassification of agricultural
lands and provide for the manner of
their utilization or disposition in the
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following cases: (1) when the land Panlalawigan for review an ordinance to
ceases to be economically feasible determine its consistency and validity.
and sound for agricultural purposes ➢ TAX ASSESSORS AND PROPERTY TAXES
as determined by the Department of o Some municipalities are responsible for
Agriculture or (2) where the land collecting property taxes and other local taxes
shall have substantially greater as well. While some taxes are collected at the
economic value for residential, state level, these taxes are collected to help
commercial, or industrial purposes, fund the local government. Depending on the
as determined by the Sanggunian location, the local government entity
concerned: responsible for this role may be referred to as
▪ Provided, That such reclassification a tax assessor, tax collector, or sometimes
shall be limited to the following collector of revenue.
percentage of the total agricultural o Should there be an issue with your taxes or
land area at the time of the passage are unsure of how much tax you should pay,
of the ordinance: a local tax attorney can help you determine
▪ (1) For highly urbanized and how to proceed. Some tax attorneys also
independent component cities, advise on criminal charges as well in
fifteen percent (15%); instances of tax fraud.
▪ (2) For component cities and first to ➢ LAND USE AND ZONING
third class municipalities, ten o Land use and zoning laws involve the
percent (10%); and regulation of the use and development of real
▪ (3) For fourth to sixth class estate. Land use is imperative because of the
municipalities, five percent(5%): scarcity of land. It aims to find a balance
▪ Provided, further, That agricultural among competing and contradictory uses.
lands distributed to agrarian reform o The most common form of land-use
beneficiaries pursuant to Republic regulation is zoning. Zoning regulations and
Act Numbered Sixty-six hundred restrictions are used by municipalities to
fifty-seven (R.A. No. 6657), control and direct the development of
property within their borders.
otherwise known as "The
o Local zoning ordinances can apply to both
Comprehensive Agrarian Reform
businesses as well as residential areas.
Law", shall not be affected by the
These ordinances are created for public
said reclassification and the
safety and health concerns. Municipalities
conversion of such lands into other
have the power to make laws on which
purposes shall be governed by
geographic areas may be used for specific
Section 65 of said Act.
purposes such as indicating where a new
➢ POWERS OF SANGGUNIAN
o Approve ordinances and pass resolutions neighborhood can be built or dictate an area
necessary for effective and efficient local is for industrial use only.
government. ➢ COMPREHENSIVE LAND USE PLAN (CLUP)
o Generate and maximize use of resources and o THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT CODE OF THE
revenues for development plans, program PHILIPPINES STATES THAT:
objectives and priorities of the local ▪ Section 20. Reclassification of Land
government. ▪ (c) “The local government units
o If the Local Chief Executive does not veto any shall, in conformity with existing
ordinance made by the Sanggunian, or the laws, continue to prepare their
Sanggunian overrides his veto by 2/3 vote of respective comprehensive land use
all its members, the Sanggunian secretary plans enacted through zoning
shall transmit to the Sangguniang ordinances which shall be the
primary and dominant bases for the

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future use of land resources:
Provided, That the requirements for
food production, human
settlements, and industrial
expansion shall be taken into
consideration in the preparation of
such plans.”
▪ The Comprehensive Land Use Plan
is a document embodying specific
proposals for guiding and regulating
the growth and/or development of
the city/municipality. It is a long term
plan (10 years) and will have to be
reviewed or redone. It is mandated
for all local government units
(province, city or municipality).
➢ ZONING
o The basic purpose and function of zoning is
to divide a municipality into residential,
commercial, and industrial districts (or
zones), that are for the most part separate
from one another, with the use of property
within each district being reasonably uniform.
Within these three main types of districts
there generally will be additional restrictions
➢ OTHER IMPORTANT LAWS
that can be quite detailed -- including the
o National Building Code
following: o Water Code
▪ Specific requirements as to the type o Philippine Environment Code
of buildings allowed o Climate Change Act
▪ Location of utility lines o Accessibility Law
▪ Restrictions on accessory buildings, o Urban Development and Housing Act of 1992
building setbacks from the streets ➢ THE ARCHITECT’S ROLE
and other boundaries o The architect must consider that site planning
▪ Size and height of buildings will be affected by social impacts, user
▪ Number of rooms behavior and requirements, and culture and
o These restrictions may also cover the history of the place. Linkages must be
frontage of lots; minimum lot area; front, rear, maintained for activity and communication in
and side yards; off-street parking; the number the area.
of buildings on a lot; and the number of o The architect must ensure that all legal
dwelling units in a certain area. Regulations requirements pertaining to buildings and sites
may restrict areas to single-family homes or are adhered to and must follow the
to multi-family dwellings or townhouses. In government’s laid down laws by providing all
areas of historic or cultural significance, basic items necessary within the proposed
zoning regulations may require that those development
features be preserved.

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➢ Many architects try to design the shape and
AESTHETIC AND PHYSICAL CONSIDERATIONS orientations of their buildings to blend in with their
surroundings and to maximize energy efficiency within
AESTHETIC AND PHYSICAL CONSIDERATIONS the microclimate of the site.
➢ Some of the questions that we should consider site
➢ Site Context planning are the following:
➢ Image / Symbols o Considering scale – “Is the environment
➢ Sensuous Qualities monumental or is it intimate?
➢ Sensuous Form o Considering views – “ Are there good views
that deserve to be enhanced?
AESTHETICS o Considering user movement and
➢ Aesthetics is a branch of philosophic study that relates requirements – “How do people gather and
to the nature and expression of beauty and taste; in move through these spaces?”
other words, the appearances of things. It is derived
from the Greek word ‘aisthetikos’, which refers to
sensory perception and understanding or sensuous
knowledge. As aesthetics concerns an appreciation of
beauty, it is influenced by the subjective taste of an
individual.
➢ Aesthetics may include all the elements of architecture
that we have studied such as line, shape, size, texture,
colour, balance, unity, movement, and others but we
have to think of this as related to site planning.
WHY DOES AESTHETIC DESIGN MATTER?
➢ Today, users expectations have evolved together with ➢ Cost, aesthetics and functionality are three important
the design field. People expect usability by default but criteria of site planning in architecture. Keeping within
they want to experience pleasure, to stimulate the the costs of the development as well as achieving the
senses and to evoke positive emotion. Aesthetic use for which it is designed and considering and
design is crucial to satisfy these needs. maximizing the important site characteristics will be
➢ Aesthetically pleasing designs are bringing up positive able to ensure a design that is worth appreciating
attitudes in the users. It makes them care more about ➢ Site planning should be considered at the start of the
the product. Aesthetic design is influencing how project with proper site analysis and space zoning . A
people think and feel. It influences how much pleasure better organization of the development will help to
is felt from the design and produces long-term affinity. meet the clients’ requirements satisfactorily.
AESTHETIC AND PHYSICAL CONSIDERATIONS 2. Image / Symbols
1. Site Context ➢ Image or symbols refer to shapes, objects, colors,
characters or shapes used to symbolize something
➢ Aesthetics in site context should be related with all the
else, commonly an abstract quality or thought. Use of
characteristics of the site, like climate or sun imagery or symbolism generally represent something
orientation patterns, prevailing winds, precipitation, else by connection, similarity, or conventionality.
and soil condition like topography, types of soil, ground
➢ In literature, imagery refers to the use of figurative and
covers, etc.
descriptive language to create images in the readers’
➢ However, it should also be related to the existing mind while symbolism refers to the attribution of certain
environment. Does the development blend in with the ideas and qualities to objects and concepts.
existing environment or does it provide a striking
➢ Every piece of architecture is symbolic in its own right.
contrast?
Buildings carry encoded within their shape a whole

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wealth of significance and meaning. Any structure ➢ There are sensuous qualities, which can make or
immediately declares all sorts of information regarding break the aesthetics of our designs. These are: Vision,
it’s owner or inhabitant’s wealth, status, taste, history Hearing, Touch, and Taste and Smell
and circumstance. o Vision:
➢ Any design we do in the site as well – layout of ▪ The most dominant sense in
buildings or the landscaping - can carry the same majority of people is our sight. We
symbolism that any architectural structure would can’t stop ourselves to look at what
declare. we find beautiful. It is as if the light
➢ Symbolism in Religious Architecture and Sites that reflects from the beautiful
o Symbolism is mainly a derivation of faith. design acts as a magnet for our
Faith relates itself directly to our culture & eyes.
culture is a product of people. Symbolism for ▪ Visual aesthetics have these key
any community or group of people is a direct elements: Color, Shape, Pattern,
expression of their beliefs, ideas, fears & Line, Texture, Visual weight,
celebrations. Architecture is a form of Balance, Scale, Proximity and
symbolic expression which represents in Movement. Using these elements
concrete form the prevailing religious well will help us achieve good visual
consciousness of the people. aesthetics.
o In architecture, this involves a development of ▪ In site planning, this could be in the
experience in terms of depth of space. The colors and shapes of the plants, the
concept of space including the depth of space pattern of the site design, the
and time is the tool for symbolic expression in materials that we use, the
architecture. This can encompass various enframement of views.
applications such as in – o Hearing:
▪ Forms of structure/structures. ▪ Our ears are capable of perceiving a
▪ Planning & organization of built whole another level of aesthetic
forms. design. The ability to hear the water
▪ Details & motifs representing the element in the design or the rustle of
particular belief/ideology. the leaves as the wind pass by or of
powerful ocean waves near the site.
This is the power of sound
aesthetics.
▪ Sound aesthetics have these key
elements: Loudness, Pitch, Beat,
Repetition, Melody, Pattern and
Noise. Using them well will create
enjoyable “music” for our users.
o Touch:
▪ The skin is the largest organ in
human body. It also helps us
experience aesthetics. Material
3. Sensuous Qualities aesthetics are especially important
for physical products.
➢ Sensuous is believed to have been created by John
▪ The materials that we use in the
Milton in 1641 to mean relating to the senses instead
development can be powerful stuff
of the intellect. Anything that is pleasing to the senses
that would draw in the users: plants,
can be called sensuous. Sensuous describes anything
furniture, pavements, and walls
that feels, tastes, smells, looks, or sounds good.
have different effects when touched.

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▪ Material aesthetics key elements designs communicate ideas and deeper
are: Texture, Shape, Weight, meaning. This can frequently result in very
Comfort, Temperature, Vibration deep aesthetically pleasure once the user
and Sharpness. realizes it.
o Taste and Smell:
4. Sensuous Form
▪ Taste and Smell are senses that
help us experience aesthetics even MOVEMENT SYSTEMS
more deeply. In different
environmental designs, these ➢ Vehicular Circulation Systems are the primary
senses play an important role in structuring element of a land use plan, often
experiencing aesthetics. determining the location of utilities and communication
▪ Key elements are: Sweetness, networks and pedestrian circulation systems.
freshness and aroma . Use these o In land planning and site planning, it is
elements when possible to enhance standard to begin laying out the site with the
the full picture, so our users can feel surface roads. This most often determines the
the aesthetics even deeper. patterns of land use and utility systems.
➢ Pleasure Aspects of Design o Roads systems must be carefully adapted to
o Physical pleasure - Pleasure derived mostly the topography.
from touch, smell and taste. We need to make o Utility services are generally located above/
or below the road system.
sure the design is ergonomic, it feels
o Surface drainage channels are usually
comfortable and doesn’t overload the user
located alongside the roadways connecting to
senses. Consider how sensitive are your
underground storm water conduits.
user’s senses, what is the average norm.
o As the amount of vehicular/ pedestrian flow
Make sure the smell and taste is either neutral
increases, the need to organize and define
or brings positive associations.
the channels of flow also increases. (ex.
o Social pleasure - Pleasure derived from
Which streets will channel the heaviest
interacting with other people. Spaces may be
traffic).
designed with social interaction as the
o As a result, those channels that carry large
primary goal. We need to make sure the
volumes over greater distances are often
design supports social interaction in the best
physically separated from the region served.
way possible. It could be as simple as the
(ex. expressways, freeways, and railroads)
sound aesthetics of the coffee machine that
allows employees to communicate, while
waiting for the coffee to be ready.
o Psychological pleasure - Pleasure derived
from completing a task or feeling in control
and safe. Spaces should make the users
secure.Making things look and feel simple
and stable. Make users feel a potential for
mobility in the design. Using aesthetics plays
a big role in making the users feel safe and in
control.
o Ideological pleasure - This context is mostly
about abstract pleasure - the glue that binds
the other pleasure types. For example, taking
the sustainability angle in planning can trigger
pleasure in the users, making them feel well FORMS OF CIRCULATION:
because they are responsible for the
environment. We need to make sure that our

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▪ Often used for its regularity,
simplicity, and convenience.
▪ It simplifies the subdivision of land
for both agriculture and urban use,
along with providing a sense of
orientation if not extended (vast) and
sufficient landmarks are present.
▪ Grids can be used on sloped sites if
carefully configured.
▪ Traffic flows can be controlled by
increasing capacity in certain
channels while decreasing them in
others. This can direct heavier
through-traffic to those channels that
can handle them.
▪ A grid system can lose its
effectiveness regarding circulation
when its channels become
congested. Usually before this point
is reached, a freeway or expressway
is introduced.
o Advantages of Grid System
▪ High accessibility,
▪ minimum disruption of flow,
➢ GRID SYSTEM ▪ expansion flexibility,
o The grid plan, grid street plan, or gridiron plan ▪ excellent psychological orientation,
is a type of city plan in which streets run at adaptability to level or moderately
right angles to each other, forming a grid. The rolling terrain.
infrastructure cost for regular grid patterns is o Disadvantages of Grid System
generally higher than for patterns with ▪ Requires flow hierarchies,
discontinuous streets. ▪ limited in its adaptability to the
o Costs for streets depend largely on four terrain,
variables: street width, street length, block ▪ potentially monotonous
width and pavement width. Two inherent ➢ Radial System
characteristics of the grid plan, frequent o Directs flow to or from a common center, with
intersections and orthogonal geometry, straight channels of circulation radiating from
facilitate pedestrian movement. The this center point.
geometry helps with orientation and o This is the typical pattern created by
wayfinding and its frequent intersections with traditional city growth outward (radially) from
the choice and directness of route to desired the original settlement.
destinations. o This usually causes the center point, where
o In ancient Rome, the grid plan method of land all channels converge, to become congested.
measurement was called centuriation. The This can be alleviated by creating “by-passes”
grid plan dates from antiquity and originated that connect outlying hubs/radials thus
in multiple cultures; some of the earliest allowing through traffic to avoid the congested
planned cities were built using grid. area. As a result, a radio-centric pattern is
o A Grid System: consists of equally spaced created. This can also sometimes create
streets or roads which are perpendicular to concentric rings around the center.
each other.

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o In this pattern, the ring roads spring from the o Advantages
central civic centre like the spokes of a wheel. ▪ A direct line of travel for centrally
o Such an arrangement increases the directed flows,
significance and importance of civic centre ▪ economics of a single- centralized
which may be in the form of palace, market, terminal or origin point
public office buildings, historical monument, o Disadvantages
beauty spots, etc. ▪ Central congestion
▪ local flow problems
➢ Linear System
o of circulation connects flow between two
points, either along a single line or along a
series of parallel lines.
o Activities can be situated along the route or
be routed into loops or branches on either
side. Excessive traffic along the route could
ultimately cause congestion.
o A drawback to this system is a lack of focal
point and the on-and-off movements from the
branches or activities can impede the flow of
traffic. This can cause inefficiency and be
hazardous to oncoming traffic

o Advantages
▪ High accessibility
▪ Adaptability to linear growth
▪ Useful along the limited edge
o Disadvantages
▪ Very sensitive to blockage requires
control of growth
▪ Lacks focus

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▪ The choice of connection or of residential neighborhoods/suburbs.
direction of movement are much o (PUD’s) employ this system for more interesting
less street layouts, better views, and site adaptability
➢ Curvilinear System (topographic changes).
o Responds to the topography of the land and ➢ cal access streets, collector/ distributor streets.
aligns with natural contours. arterial streets and freeways
o This system works best at small scales
BASIC CATEGORIES OF TRAFFIC ARTERIES ARE:
because the curving of the path reduces
speeds. 1. Freeways/ expressways/ motorways
o A network of curvilinear systems can conform 2. Arterial streets/ highways
to the natural topography of the landscape as 3. Collector/ distributor streets
well as be arbitrary. Most common to 4. And, Local access streets

VEHICULAR CIRCULATION
➢ The development potential of land is largely
determined by the system of traffic access to the land.
➢ Vehicular traffic flows in sequential order from low
intensity to high intensity.
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obstruction such as frontage of building, parking
places, loading and unloading areas.
➢ Arterial roads should serve the following 3 purpose:
o The movement and safety of through traffic
i.e. traffic moving beyond its point of origin
There is some economy in construction in the
sense that only arterial routes are designed to
carry heavy traffic and other types of roads.
o The through traffic is not allowed to pass
through residential areas. Hence, the
discomfort and danger to the residents of
FREEWAYS / EXPRESSWAYS / MOTORWAYS such area is minimized

➢ are designed to allow movement of large volumes of COLLECTOR-DISTRIBUTOR STREETS

traffic between, around, or through urban areas. ➢ serve as the transition between arterial streets and
➢ Velocity is reached because of high intervals between the local access streets of a neighborhood.
traffic interruptions (on-off ramps). ➢ A collector road or distributor road is a low-to-
➢ All cross traffic is accomplished by overpasses and moderate- capacity road which serves to move traffic
underpasses eliminating all grade level intersections from local streets to arterial roads. Unlike arterials,
which would impede traffic. collector roads are designed to provide access to
➢ Divided highway with high standards of geometrics residential properties. Rarely, jurisdictions differentiate
➢ Full or partial control of Access major and minor collector roads, the former being
➢ Vehicle parking, loading, and unloading of products generally wider and busier.
and passengers and pedestrian traffic are not allowed ➢ They provide access to adjacent residential properties
on these kinds of highways ➢ They are usually discontinuous, thereby preventing
ARTERIAL STREETS / HIGHWAYS through-traffic and reducing vehicular speed
➢ Curb-side parking is allowed but only at certain times
➢ are continuous vehicular channels that connect with of the day and may be limited or prohibited
expressways by means of on-and-off ramps at ➢ When collector streets intersect with arterial streets,
carefully determined locations. traffic signals are used
➢ These are typically two and three lanes wide in each ➢ Local and collector streets are usually controlled
direction by stop signs
➢ On street parking is prohibited ➢ Collector Roads Development Collector roads can
➢ Access to adjacent commercial property could be originate in several different ways—most often,
restricted ➢ They are planned within a suburban layout and built
➢ Access to residential streets is allowed expressly for that purpose; occasionally, they fill gaps
➢ All crossings are controlled by traffic signals in a grid system between arterial roads.
➢ Typical speed limit is 35 mph ➢ Urban planners often consider such roads when laying
➢ Major intersections should be separated by at least out new areas of development, as branch sections of
800’-0” utilities such as trunk sewers and water mains can be
➢ built through the same corridor
➢ The roads that connects the town to a state highway or
a national highway is termed as arterial road. It passes LOCAL ACCESS STREETS
within the city limits and carries great masses of traffic ➢ Provide access to low intensity uses fronting on them.
between different parts of the town. ➢ They carry low traffic flows
➢ The arterial road includes ring roads, by-pass roads, ➢ Such streets consist of loops and cul-de-sacs or
etc, and they allow free movement of fast traffic at combination of the two
higher speeds. ➢ Unrestricted curbside parking
➢ hese roads are also kept clean of all
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➢ Unlimited Pedestrian use ➢ Security can be achieved through clear sight lines and
well-lit pathways
PEDESTRIAN CIRCULATION
➢ Pedestrian circulation requires attention to function as
➢ The word pedestrian comes from the Latin ped, aesthetics. Sometimes the efforts of the designer to
meaning foot. In urban planning, the term has define spaces by changing their elevation is counter to
expanded to include all those who move along unimpaired access to all site elements. Steps should
sidewalks at a walking or running pace, including those be grouped to improve their visibility. Changing the
in wheelchairs and scooters. color or texture of the steps also increases visibility.
➢ As a mode it is a trip completed on foot. The height of the step risers should be uniform along
➢ However, anyone travelling by public transport is a their length. Step risers shorter than 5 inches or higher
pedestrian for some part of their trip. than 7 inches will be uncomfortable for some users
➢ People interchanging between public transport modes
or services.
➢ Those Travelling by car if they park away from their
destination.
➢ Those visiting pedestrian environments such as
shopping centers, parks, events etc.
➢ Pedestrians require designed spaces with trees,
plants, water, interesting paving, street furniture, and
interesting things to look at such as art, store displays
and other people. This richness is rare in urban and
especially suburban development.
➢ The area covered by a person is approximately 0.090
sqm
➢ This is based on a shoulder breadth (width) of 24” and PUBLIC TRANSIT
a body depth of 18” (adult male) ➢ All urban transportation is public; automobiles operate
➢ To move about easily in a crowd and not be touched, on public streets, as do buses. Most rail transit systems
1.20 sqm is required. less area tends to impede and commuter systems are also publicly own.
movement Therefore; the term “individual” and “collective” in
➢ At 0.6sqm or less, pedestrians move in groups rather reference to transportation systems are considered
than individually public systems because the recourses such as the
➢ At 0.090 sqm or less, movement is extremely difficult road and/or track on which they run are public but the
and body contact may occur actual automobile is not, nor the space in which it is
➢ Walking involves balance, timing, and sight parked.
➢ The minimum size of public walkways should be 1.8 ➢ No collective transit system can be operated efficiently
meters since this permit two wheelchairs to pass below a population density of 30 persons per acre.
(wheelchairs have a turning radius of slightly less than Such a requirement is necessary for the proper
3 feet). operation of such a system.
➢ Sidewalks should be no less than 1.80meters wide
➢ Outlying developments should coordinate their
➢ Collector walkways, handling larger numbers of people
population densities with rail and bus transit systems
should be no less than 1.8m – 3.0m wide to establish and make use of these resources
➢ Because pedestrian movement follows the path of efficiently. This is currently happening in today’s
least resistance, it is quite common to see footpaths developments which was not the case before.
worn into the turf on a college campus. Paving these ➢ PUBLIC TRANSIT TYPES
footpaths is an old and practical technique o Walking walking speed varies from 2.5 to 4.5
➢ To provide safety, pedestrian-vehicular separation is miles per hour. The maximum distance that
desirable, this can be achieved by grade-separation most people will walk to a destination is ¼ to
walkways above or below streets ½ mile

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o Local Bus is useful for trips in medium oOrganizing vehicular and pedestrian
density areas. Buses travel at an average of circulation
15 to 30 miles per hour. People are willing to o Designing visual form and material concepts
spend up to a ½ hour for most urban travel, o Readjusting the existing landforms by design
whatever the mode grading
o Express bus is useful for trips between o Providing proper drainage
medium density areas and at specially o Developing the construction detail necessary
planned and convenient stops/terminals to carry out the project
between high density areas. These travel at ➢ Need and Objective of Site Development
an average of 40 to 60 miles per hour o A design which is site specific and responds
o Rail rapid transit is useful for trips between to the unique conditions of each place
medium density areas, high density areas o Development which integrate into and
and for short trips within high density areas. harmonizes with the existing landscape
These usually travel between 40-70 miles per o Outdoor space which respond to orientation,
hour views, and microclimate
o Monorail is a one-rail system but most in fact o The use of sustainable materials and
have several rails. These have the indigenous vegetation.
disadvantage of only being above ground ➢ Process
which may not be possible in central city
areas. A truly useful rail rapid transit system
should be capable of being above, below or
at ground level and thus fully adaptable to the
area it serves
SUSTAINABLE DESIGN ENCOURAGES TOD
➢ (transit-oriented design) development to encourage
the use of public transit and give the people of housing,
commercial, and institutional developments more
options for transportation. This allows property owners ➢ Identification of site and its preparation
to save energy, invest more in their properties and o Above the site
spend less money on private vehicle. o On the site
o Below the site
SITE DEVELOPMENT

➢ Site planning is the organization of the external

physical environment to accommodate human
behavior site planning is the organization of an area of
land to fit a program for its development which is
efficient, expresses the character of the site and
provides attractive spaces to use. It involves the
organization of land use, zoning, access, circulation,
privacy, security, shelter, land drainage and other
factors.

➢ Scope of Work of Site Development

o Selecting and analyzing sites ZONING, SITE PLANNING AND DESIGN

o Forming land use plans

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➢ Zoning addresses where—or in what zone—you can ELEMENTS OF SITE PLANNING AND DESIGN
or cannot build. Zoning keeps buildings of similar use
and occupation in the same zone, while separating
buildings of different uses. Zoning looks at issues
such as land use, public health and overcrowding and
tries to determine how we can make improvements. It
is important to note that zoning doesn’t actually build
anything. It clarifies the limits and guides what can be
built in a zone.
➢ Zoning separates land into parcels. Groups of parcels
make up a zone

CONSIDERATIONS IN DESIGNING YOUR SITE

• Street patterns
• Street section
• Scale and the hierarchy/form/space
• Land use
• Typologies
• Neighborhood relationships, formal street
LAND USE CONSIDERATION variation
➢ Development • Perspective relationships, views
➢ Transportation • Natural and manmade spaces
➢ Activities and • Movement and circulation within and around the
site
➢ Growth
• Vehicle vs. pedestrian activities
➢ Layout and form…
• Access to the site/within the site
➢ The overall layout of a site (e.g., the placement
and form of its buildings, infrastructures, and • Public spaces vs. private spaces
amenities) is the starting point for development of
the site. • Open space

LAYERS OF SITE PLANNING AND DESIGN • History

• Climate – sun angles and sun shadows
• Negative and positive spaces – we move through
negative spaces and dwell in positive spaces

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other sensitive resources that are valued and
unique to a given community.
SITE INVENTORY o Utilize sites that are better able to absorb
development, such as sites with existing
infrastructure, transportation connections,
and community amenities.
o Allow natural landforms to guide lot design by
utilizing topography to create a variety of lot
shapes, pad locations, and building setbacks
that better blend with the environment and
surrounding.
o Avoid and preserve site less capable of
handling development, such as ridgelines
steep slopes, floodways / floodplains, and
sensitive resource areas.
➢ Identity and emulate the existing rural, Semi-rural or
village development patterns and architectural styles
when designing a residential development
o Buffer smaller lots with larger lots, greater
setbacks, landscaping, agricultural areas,
and/or natural topography.
o Design the site layout and building locations
around a cohesive vegetation framework and
in a manner consistent with the size, bulk, and
scale of existing buildings in the vicinity.
o Provide the lowest amount of interface
between proposed residential development
and agricultural lands and open space to
ensure that sensitive and unique resources
are sufficiently buffered and preserved.
WHY IS LOT DESIGN A CRITICAL COMPONENT?
➢ Designing new residential lots to be compatible with
ISSUES AND CONCEPTS FOR RESIDENTIAL existing development patterns enhances and
DEVELOPMENT maintains a cohesive community appearance and
• Spatial transformation of land in planned way character.
• Designing a compatible residential development ➢ Preserving open space areas may promote active and
• Critical components of lot design passive recreational activities which enhance public
• Safe and interconnected roadways health.
• Trail and pathway connectivity DESIGNING RESIDENTIAL LOTS THAT ARE COMPATIBLE
• Residential layout: development control plan WITH EXISTING RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT IN THE
➢ Designing a residential project that integrates with the SURROUNDING COMMUNITY:
surrounding community and avoids sensitive and ➢ In new subdivisions, setbacks should vary to create
unique resources: visual interest. However, if there is an established
o Avoid and preserve steep slopes, ridgelines, setback pattern in the area, new development should
floodplains, prime agricultural lands, sensitive be setback like the average of existing setbacks on
biological resources, natural drainage adjacent properties.
courses, rock outcroppings, wetlands, and

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➢ Lot lines should maintain a linear configuration without
unnecessary jogs and turns to the maximum extent
WHY TRAIL AND PATHWAY CONNECTIVITY
possible.
➢ Enhance compatibility of residential development with ➢ Trail and pathway networks enhance the overall quality
existing and future agricultural operations using buffers of life, provides health benefits, improve safety, reduce
and setbacks. traffic congestion, and decrease parking demand in a
➢ Encourage the incorporation of agriculture into new community.
residential development, where appropriate, and buffer ➢ Designing trails and pathways in a manner compatible
residences from agricultural uses with setbacks, open with neighboring land uses protects privacy, reduces
spaces, and landscaping. public safety concerns, provides buffers between open
➢ Respect privacy in the placement of the main space, and developed areas, and enhances the visual
residence, accessory buildings, and exterior lighting. character of the community.
➢ Provide for adequate on-site parking that minimizes ➢ Establishing and maintaining a trail system helps in
the visual impacts of parked vehicles and allows for retaining the rural nature and character of a community
quick exit in the event of natural disaster.
➢ Design lot lines to assure that adequate areas for ELEMENTS OF RESIDENTIAL SITE DEVELOPMENT
usable private open space for each home can be ➢ DENSITY
used and easily accessed. o To promote a low-density residential
DESIGNING A SAFE AND INTERCONNECTED environment and provide for lots of sufficient
CIRCULATION SYSTEM THAT COMPLIMENTS AND size to satisfy user requirements.
IMPROVES UPON EXISTING ROADWAYS IN THE AREA: o Performance Criteria
▪ Lots are to be of sufficient area to
➢ Align and construct roadways to be consistent with allow for the siting of a dwelling and
the existing rural, semi-rural, or village character of ancillary buildings including
the community. Generally, rural areas have provisions for private open space,
curvilinear roadways and urban areas have grid-like vehicle access and parking and to
street patterns. permit solar access.
➢ Align streets to conform to existing land contours and ▪ Lot sizes are required to enable
minimize grading to avoid disturbing significant dwellings and driveways to be sited
natural features. to protect natural or cultural
➢ Design a continuous network that facilitates multiple features, and respond to site
routes of travel and enables vehicles to avoid areas constraints including topography,
when roads are congested or closed due to bush land, soil erosion, drainage,
emergencies, such as earthquakes. and other hazard risk.
➢ Streets should be linked to abutting networks and, in ➢ ALLOTMENT LAYOUT
situations where future development is likely to occur o To promote allotments of varying sizes which
on a neighboring site, provisions should be made to provide pleasant streetscapes, maximize
enable future connectivity. energy efficiency, satisfy user requirements,
➢ Access points to public streets should be limited to and mitigate environmental impacts.
minimize interference from local traffic as it accesses o Performance Criteria
Mobility Element and other heavily travelled roads. ▪ Create pleasant streetscapes and
➢ Design interconnected roads in residential areas to encourage a variety of housing
promote cycling and walking. types.
▪ Lots should be configured to
account for significant natural
landscape elements or constraints
and mitigate environmental impact.
▪ Lots should be designed to respect
site constraints such as topography,
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drainage, soil landscapes, flora, complement the existing or likely
fauna and bushfire hazard. future streetscape.
▪ Lots should be configured to provide ▪ Building envelopes on corner
convenient access to public open allotments should provide a
space areas and community transition between existing
facilities. dwellings and likely location of future
▪ Lots should be orientated to dwellings.
maximize solar access. ▪ Setbacks for existing dwellings and
▪ Lot layout and pedestrian networks proposed building envelopes should
should be configured to enhance allow for off streetcar parking and
personal safety and minimize landscaping.
potential for crime. ▪ Future development may be
➢ ALLOTMENT DESIGN permitted to encroach within the
o Provide useable allotments which provide setback area where it complements
pleasant streetscapes, maximize energy the streetscape and does not
efficiency, and mitigate environmental compromise the amenity of adjacent
impacts properties.
o Performance Criteria ▪ Setbacks should improve the
▪ Lots should maintain an appropriate amenity of future dwelling houses
shape to accommodate a dwelling adjacent to major roads and provide
and associated development. for possible road widening, and
▪ Lots and building envelopes should landscaping measures where
be designed to maximize solar necessary.
access to dwellings and future ➢ SOLAR ACCESS
private open space areas. o To provide reasonable solar access to
▪ Lot design should minimize impacts proposed building envelopes and to open
on the natural environment. spaces around proposed building envelopes.
Significant landscape features ➢ PRIVATE OPEN SPACE
should be incorporated as an o To provide private open space which meets
integral part of the subdivision. existing and future user requirements for
▪ Lots should be designed to promote outdoor activities and use.
the development of energy-efficient o Performance Criteria
housing. ▪ Private open space areas should be
▪ Allotments with north/south of dimensions to suit the projected
orientation may be narrower and requirements of both existing and
longer to take advantage of solar future dwelling house occupants and
access potential. to accommodate both outdoor
▪ Allotments with an east/west recreation needs as well as
orientation may be wider and shorter providing space for service
to ensure that sufficient solar access functions such as clothes drying and
opportunities are achieved on site. domestic storage.
➢ SETBACK ▪ Location of private open space
o To provide setbacks from existing dwellings should take account of outlook,
and proposed building envelopes. natural features of the site and
o Performance Criteria neighboring buildings or open
▪ Front setbacks for proposed building space.
envelopes should be consistent with ▪ Part of the private open space
adjacent development and should be capable of enabling an
extension of the function of existing
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and future dwelling houses for (particularly those containing natural
relaxation, dining, entertainment, vegetation) so that, where possible,
recreation, and children's play, and these features can be kept in a
be directly accessible from the natural state.
dwelling house. ▪ Natural drainage lines and
▪ Private open space areas should be Watercourses: watercourses should
in areas which receive sunlight all be retained
year round. ▪ Soil landscapes & dispersibility:
➢ LANDSCAPE Development should minimize site
o To preserve significant trees, groups of trees disturbance and incorporate
and trees that add to the environmental controls and techniques to control
character of the area or natural vegetation. To erosion, stabilize the soil surface
provide attractive landscapes which reinforce and improve water quality prior to its
the function of a street and enhance the discharge to drainage lines, natural
amenity of the area. watercourses, or the natural
o Performance Criteria environment.
▪ Retention of landscaped areas and ▪ Bush land, Plant Communities,
significant vegetation should be Fauna Habitat: Significant flora and
considered as a component of the fauna species, communities and
site planning process. ecological communities should be
▪ Lot layout and building envelope preserved. Development should be
design should maximize designed to retain existing bush land
the number of trees retained on the and fauna habitats, including
site. identifiable corridors and linkages.
o Prescriptive Measures ➢ DRAINAGE
▪ Where existing dwelling houses are o To control the flow of water into the natural
retained on proposed lots, a drainage system and mitigate impacts from
minimum of 45% of the site should storm water runoff.
be landscaped, exclusive of building o Performance Criteria
or driveway areas. ▪ Drainage systems should be
➢ LAND SENSITIVITY designed to ensure safety and
o Development compatible with land capability minimize the likelihood of storm
and that minimizes adverse impacts on the water inundation of habitable floor
environment. areas.
o Performance Criteria o Prescriptive Measures
▪ General: Development should be ▪ For small lot subdivision, an
designed to respect site constraints appropriate storm water flow
such as topography, drainage, soil management system should be
landscapes, flora, and fauna. established to reduce the velocity of
Disturbance to existing natural storm water discharge.
vegetation and landforms, ▪ On-site storm water and drainage
watercourses, wetlands, and control should be designed for the
overland flow paths should be 20-year ARI (Average Recurrence
minimized. Interval) storm
▪ Topography: Development should ➢ URBAN STREAM
be sited on the area of land o To retain and enhance the natural functions
presenting the least topographic of for the betterment of the quality of life of the
constraints. Development should be people, and the improvement and protection
sited away from steep slopes of the environment.

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oPerformance Criteria ▪ Road widths should reflect the role
▪ Urban watercourses should be and function of the road in the road
retained or restored to their natural hierarchy.
condition. ▪ Roads should be designed to ensure
▪ Watercourses should be integrated adequate site distances.
into the urban design of the ▪ Roads should be designed to
proposal, and not be compromised provide efficient access while
by design. reducing speed to safe levels.
▪ The multiple use of watercourses is ▪ Roads should be designed to allow
encouraged. The uses may include on-streetcar parking.
recreation, water detention, habitat, ▪ Roads in new residential subdivision
visual feature, water quality areas should be designed to provide
improvement. for safe, convenient, and efficient
▪ The overland flow path of flood bus routes and the needs of
waters should not be impeded. cyclists/pedestrians.
▪ Buildings, fences, and other ➢ ACCESS WAY DESIGN
structures should be set back from o To ensure vehicular access to all lots within
watercourses to protect riverine the subdivision is simple, safe, direct and
vegetation, aquatic ecosystems, creates a pleasant environment.
bank stability, and minimize the risk o Performance Criteria
of inundation of the structure ▪ Access way widths should reflect its
➢ SOIL AND WATER MANAGEMENT function and volume of use.
o Prescriptive Measures ▪ Access way design should provide
▪ Development proposals where the safe and efficient entrance/exit to
area of disturbance is 2500m2 or individual lots.
greater should be accompanied by a ▪ Access way design should
Soil and Water Management Plan minimize the impact upon the
(SWMP) (written document and site amenity of existing and future
diagrams), prepared by a suitably dwellings.
qualified person(s), that clearly ▪ Access ways should be
identifies constraints of soil erosion, landscaped and treated to reduce
sediment pollution and storm water the visual and environmental impact
pollution. of hard paved areas.
▪ Development should minimize ▪ Access ways should be located
earthworks (cut and fill) in areas of to maximize solar access
steep slopes and ridge top sites. living and open space areas of
▪ Soil and water management existing and future dwellings.
measures should be designed for ➢ UTILITY SERVICES
the 5-year ARI storm event. o To provide public utilities in a safe efficient
▪ Council should be notified 48 hours and cost-effective manner and reduce
(2 working days) prior to the constraints on landscaping within road
commencement of site works to reserves.
arrange inspection of control o Performance Criteria
measures. ▪ Subdivision should have adequate
➢ ROAD DESIGN provision of services and not impact
o To ensure vehicular access is simple, safe, on the environment.
direct, and pleasant environment. ▪ The design and provision of public
o Performance Criteria utilities should conform to the cost-

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effective criteria of the relevant and vehicular access to and on-site
servicing authorities. should be detailed on the site plan.
▪ Compatible public utility services ▪ Design of Subdivision: Ecologically
should be provided in common sustainable, second hand and
trenching wherever practical to recycled building materials should
minimize construction costs, soil be considered for use in
erosion and land allocation for construction. Subdivision design
underground services. should minimize cut and fill.
➢ WASTE MINIMIZATION AND MANAGEMENT ▪ Construction Works: In consenting
o To avoid, reduce, re-use, recycle and (as a to any application, best practice
last resort) dispose of waste in an project management and
environmentally responsible manner. appropriate work practices should
o To ensure appropriate waste minimization be utilized
and management techniques are used for
demolition of buildings and the design and LANDSCAPE DESIGN
construction of subdivisions. PRINCIPLES OF LANDSCAPE DESIGN
o To ensure waste collection points are of
appropriate size and location FOCALIZATION
o Performance Criteria
▪ Waste should be minimized by ➢ Focalization is created as a visual break in the
avoiding, recycling demolition and sequence and flow of the landscape.
construction waste. ➢ The focal point is the point or area of the landscape
▪ Excavated material, demolition and that attracts the viewer’s eyes.
builder’s waste should be re-used, ➢ The visual break captures the attention of the viewer
recycled, or disposed of to landfill and draws it to the focal point.
sites approved by the Environment ➢ Without a point or area on which to focus, the viewer’s
Protection Authority. eyes become lost and confused throughout the
▪ Waste disposal collection points landscape.
should not compromise the amenity ➢ As a designer, create an accent or focal point that is
of adjacent properties in terms of strong and effective.
noise, odor, and aesthetic impact. ➢ Do not incorporate too many focal points into the
▪ Developments should incorporate landscape. Otherwise, their effect will be lost. Use the
convenient access for was70te design elements (line, form, texture, and color) to move
collection. the viewer’s eyes through the landscape to the place
▪ Waste Management Plan: A waste of the focal point.
management plan and details of on- PROPORTION AND SCALE
site waste management facilities
should be submitted with the ➢ Proportion is the relationship that exists among the
development application. components of a landscape. It also describes the
▪ Demolition of Buildings: Waste relationship between the components of the landscape
Management Plan should be and the landscape as a whole.
submitted for the demolition of ➢ Proportion involves the size relationships between and
buildings and residential subdivision among the components making up the landscape.
involving 6 or more lots. The method ➢ Proportion describes the mathematical relationships
of recovery and site layout should be among the dimensions of space and site components
planned to maximize materials making up an area.
recovery. An on-site sorting and ➢ These mathematical relationships are totally separate
storage area for demolition waste from human perception dimensions.In a sense,
proportion is like a ratio. For example, corner plantings

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next to a house that are two- thirds the distance from ➢ competitiveness and a lack of integration within a
the ground to the eave are proportional to the house. design.
The height of the corner plantings is ➢ To establish unity in a design, stay simple and
proportional to the height of the eave. minimize differences.
➢ Scale is the human perception of the size of space and ➢ Always remember to simplify diversity and reduce
form related to the human dimension. Scale is relative the number of differences between the
to the perception of the viewer. For a large two-story components in the landscape
house, corner plantings that are proportional to the
REPETITION AND SEQUENCE
house may appear out of scale to the viewer
➢ Repetition involves repeating or using an element
Note: A design is in proper proportion and scale when
more than once throughout a design.
a pleasing relationship exists among and between
➢ It helps establish and add order and unity to a design.
each component and the design as a whole.
➢ Repetition provides a common feature throughout the
BALANCE design that pulls the design together.
➢ Rhythm and sequence describe the dynamic unity or
➢ Balance is a design principle defined in terms of the related, orderly movement that implies continuity.
weight. ➢ They are the apparent flow of lines, textures, and
➢ It is the equalization of visual weight from one colors that express a feeling of
area of a landscape composition to another ➢ motion rather than confusion.
➢ Two distinctly different types of balance exist in ➢ Order and repetition help establish rhythm and
landscape design: sequence in a design. Rhythm and sequence
o Symmetrical balance characterize continuity and connection from one part of
o Asymmetrical balance the design to another part.
ORDER AND UNITY ➢ They group the components together, drawing the
design together. This keeps the viewer’s eyes busy
➢ Order and unity are emotional and visual reactions and allows them to follow easier through the design.
to the overall structure and organization of the ➢ Rhythm and sequence lead the viewer’s eyes easily
design elements. and smoothly along a deliberate, dominant, and visual
➢ The designer blends the design elements and the path.
design detail decisions of materials with the ➢ The viewer’s eyes move back and forth with a feeling
➢ existing site conditions to establish order and of smooth motion between
unity. ➢ the components of the site and the focal point.
➢ The concept created by order and unity is carried ➢ As a designer, accomplish rhythm and sequence in a
out throughout the design. design by repeating one or more of the elements such
➢ Order is the overall organization and structure of a as line (creating a pattern), form, texture, and color. In
design. It is the basic scheme or “skeleton” of the addition, build on the other design principles to create
design. rhythm and sequence in a design.
➢ Order is created and carried out through the
composition.Examples of order in a design may be INTERCONNECTION
symmetrical versus asymmetrical balance or a ➢ Interconnection is a design principle for producing unity
formal versus naturalistic arrangement. in the design.
➢ Unity is the harmonious relationship among all ➢ Various components in the design are physically linked
elements and characteristics of a design. together.
➢ A unified design is homogeneous and congruous. ➢ Repetition helps in establishing interconnection.
A design lacking unity appears disorderly and ➢ A designer may incorporate interconnection into the
haphazard. entire design or into only a small space within the
➢ Too many components and materials and the design.
complex use of the elements create

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IMPORTANCE OF LANDSCAPE DESIGN appearance of an outdoor space
considerably.
➢ Landscape designers use these principles of design to o In a building, a room 15 feet square may feel
create landscape designs that are both functional and quite comfortable, while an outdoor space of
aesthetically pleasing. the same size may feel very small.
➢ OUTDOOR ROOMS o In addition to the earth, rock and water, the
o Creating “Rooms” throughout the Landscape landscape designer uses:
▪ Provides a welcoming atmosphere ▪ Trees
▪ encourages movement ▪ Shrubs
▪ Defines special use areas ▪ Ground cover
▪ Allows for family privacy ▪ Plants
▪ Public area – “front yard” o Because trees and plants require many years
▪ Family living area – “back yard” to mature, the planner must exercise great
▪ Service Area – utilitarian space care in preserving existing vegetation.
▪ Private Living Area – frequently a o Planting is often the first item to be eliminated
quiet when budget problems appear. Much care
▪ spot located off the Master Bedroom should be taken, therefore, to retain existing
➢ PUBLIC AREA plants and trees in the total landscape plan.
o Puts home in attractive setting Identifies the o In the selection and placement of plants, the
point of entry designer must consider such criteria as:
o Provides access to the entry. ▪ Suitability
➢ FAMILY LIVING AREA ▪ Visual effect
o Links homes to yard for social occasions ▪ Future growth patterns
Usually the largest area where most activities ▪ Spacing
take place Sun and wind orientation for ▪ Overall pattern
maximum usage o Plant material can be used effectively in
o Thoughtful design created for individual landscaping to reduce the effects of climate
families results in: extremes:
▪ Greater use of entire home space o Indigenous plant materials provide the
▪ A personalized statement of family designer with numerous choices of vegetation
values to influence the climate within the project
▪ Improvement and increased home area.
value o Vegetation may absorb as much as 90
LANDSCAPE DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS percent of the light energy which falls upon
it.
➢ Landscaping completes, links, and harmonizes the o It can reduce wind speed to less than 10
connections between buildings, open spaces and percent.
natural features, and human beings. o It can reduce daytime temperatures by as
o The landscape design must consider much as 15 degrees.
▪ Climate
INTELLIGENT PLANTING AND LANDSCAPE DESIGN CAN
▪ Light
REDUCE THE EFFECTS OF CLIMATE IN THE FOLLOWING
▪ Weather
WAYS:
▪ Orientation
▪ Scale ➢ elligent planting and landscape design can reduce the
▪ Program effects of climate in the following ways:
o Bright light sharpens or emphasizes details. ➢ Trees may be used to screen winds
Shadows define surfaces. Twilight creates ➢ Conifers are more suited to control winter winds than
unifying composition. Weather changes the deciduous trees

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➢ Trees can be used to direct wind flow, and to increase relationship between natural processes and human
ventilation in desired areas activity.
➢ Vegetation, particularly needle‐leafed trees, capture • Use a collaborative and ethical approach.
moisture, reduce fog, and thus increase the amount of Encourage direct and open communication among
sunlight reaching the ground. colleagues, clients, manufacturers, and users to link
➢ Deciduous trees screen out direct sunlight in the long-term sustainability with ethical responsibility.
• Maintain integrity in leadership and research.
summer while allowing it to pass in the winter.
Implement transparent and participatory leadership,
➢ Planted areas are cooler during hot days and have less develop research with technical rigor, and
heat loss during the night. Indigenous vegetation is communicate new findings in a clear, consistent, and
usually less costly, has a higher survival rate, and will timely manner.
required less maintenance. • Foster environmental stewardship. In all aspects of
land development and management, foster an ethic of
CONCEPTS AND PRINCIPLES OF GREEN environmental stewardship—an understanding that
ARCHITECTURE AS APPLIED IN SITE PLANNING AND responsible management of healthy ecosystems
LANDSCAPE DESIGN improves the quality of life for present and future
generations.
ELEMENTS OF GREEN ARCHITECTURE
PRINCIPLES OF GREEN ARCHITECTURE ➢ Green development encompasses a range of design,
construction, and operational approaches that reduce
• Do no harm. Make no changes to the site that will
the environmental impacts of development and
degrade the surrounding environment. Promote
promote human health, well-being, and productivity.
projects on sites where previous disturbance or
Variously called sustainable design, green
development presents an opportunity to regenerate
architecture, restorative design, or ecodesign, these
ecosystem services through sustainable design.
approaches share the following elements:
• Precautionary principle. Be cautious in making
decisions that could create risk to human and •Use of regionally available, sustainably
environmental health. Some actions can cause harvested, low impact, and reused/recycled
irreversible damage. Examine the full range materials
alternatives—including no action—and be open to • Design sensitivity to energy use, the
contributions from all affected parties. incorporation of energy conservation, and
• Design with nature and culture. Create and implant renewable energy generation
designs that are responsive to economic, • Water conservation
environmental, and cultural conditions with respect to • Waste minimization
the local, regional, and global context. • Incorporation of natural light, appropriate
• Use a decision-making hierarchy of preservation, ventilation, and human scales
conservation, and regeneration. Maximize and • Design and construction techniques that
mimic the benefits of ecosystem services by evaluate and minimize environmental
preserving existing environmental features, conserving impacts
resources in a sustainable manner, and regenerating • Site development practices that minimize and
lost or damaged ecosystem services. mitigate impacts
• Provide regenerative systems as intergenerational LEED GREEN BUILDING RATING SYSTEM
equity. Provide future generations with a sustainable ➢ Sustainable site concerns include the following:
environment supported by regenerative systems and
endowed with regenerative resources. • Landscaping for energy efficiency
• Support a living process. Continuously reevaluate • Rethinking grounds maintenance to eliminate
assumptions and values and adapt to demographic toxins
and environmental change. • Reducing water consumption through design,
• Use a systems thinking approach. Understand and plant selection, and maintenance practices
value the relationships in an ecosystem and use an • Being aware of site specific concerns (e.g., soil
approach that reflects and sustains ecosystems limitations)
services; reestablish the integral and essential • Accommodating access, possibly including public
transportation

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• Using site features to contribute to building ➢ The reduction in use of new materials creates a
performance corresponding reduction in embodied energy (energy
• Locating buildings with regard to solar and used in the production of materials).
seasonal influence
• Maximizing local energy alternatives ➢ Often sustainable architects attempt to reuse materials
CHOICE OF MATERIALS to serve new needs in order to avoid unnecessary
• Durability - Durable materials usually require less expenses. Architectural salvage and reclaimed
maintenance over a longer service life. materials are used when appropriate.
• Less maintenance - Materials that require less IMPERVIOUS SURFACES
maintenance or maintenance that has a lower ➢ Increasing the imperviousness of a site can have a
environmental impact. tremendous effect on the water cycle. Impervious
• Local production - Locally produced products require surfaces limit groundwater recharge, increase pollutant
less transportation energy and produce less pollution. loads and runoff, and create a heat island effect.
• Recycled - Using recycled materials reduces solid
waste, eliminates the energy of manufacturing, and ➢ It is important to limit the impervious areas on site to a
reduces the impact on natural resources. minimum. Doing so often improves the aesthetic
• Designers should seek durable, locally produced, low- appeal of a site, reduces the environmental impact,
maintenance products with low embodied energy and saves money.
ratings.
STORMWATER MANAGEMENT
PROVISIONS FOR ONSITE POWER GENERATION
➢ Stormwater runoff is one of the most significant
➢ Onsite generation of renewable energy through solar
environmental impacts of a developed site, but it also
power, wind power, hydro power, or biomass can
provides one of the greatest opportunities for
significantly reduce the environmental impact of the
sustainable design. Steps can and should be taken to
building. There should be provisions of spaces where
maintain the pre-development hydrology or even to
these can be set up in the site.
improve it.
➢ Solar Panels - Active solar devices such as
➢ THE FF. CAN HELP:
photovoltaic solar panels help to provide sustainable
o Raingarden - A rain garden is basically a
electricity for any use. Electrical output of a solar panel
plant pond, that is, a garden bed planted with
is dependent on orientation, efficiency, latitude, and
special deep-rooted species. The garden
climate—solar gain varies even at the same latitude.
captures the water and, when properly
Typical efficiencies for commercially available PV designed, drains it into the soil within a day.
panels range from 4% to 28%. The low efficiency of o Wetlands - Wetlands are areas where water
certain photovoltaic panels can significantly affect the covers the soil, or is present either at or near
payback period of their installation. the surface of the soil all year or for varying
➢ Wind Turbines - The use of wind turbines in energy periods of time during the year, including
production requires the consideration of many during the growing season.
factors. In considering costs, small wind systems are o Bioswales - Bioswales are categorized by
generally more expensive than larger wind turbines the type of vegetation used:
relative to the amount of energy they produce. Wind ▪ Grassed swales are planted with
turbines begin operating when winds reach 8 mph, turfgrass that is mowed. These
achieve energy production capacity at speeds of 32-37 provide a more manicured look, but
mph, and they should be shut off to avoid damage at have been demonstrated as less
speeds exceeding 55 mph. The efficiency of the wind effective in slowing stormwater
turbine depends much upon the wind conditions at the runoff than swales with taller plants.
building site. For these reasons, for wind turbines to be ▪ Vegetated bioswales can be planted
at all efficient, they must be installed at locations that with ornamental grasses, shrubs,
are known to receive a constant amount of wind (with perennials, or a combination of
average wind speeds of more than 15 mph), rather these. Mulch or stone are used to
than locations that receive wind sporadically. protect soils in areas not covered by
turfgrass. Larger stone can also be
RECYCLED MATERIALS used to break up concentrated flows
of water and reduce velocity.

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▪ Xeriscape, or low water use, swales ➢ Scope of its development,
are useful in areas with hot summers ➢ The quality of its materials
or dry conditions. Most bioswales ➢ and the limitations imposed by the
are designed to be dry except just project budget
after rain events.
▪ Wet swales function similarly to
▪ Scope quality and cost can never be fixed. There
stormwater wetlands.
LANDSCAPE DESIGN should always be leeway for adjustment. One or
• Limit potable water use to native species, place two should always remain variable. Ex. If both
landscape areas to receive runoff, and use captured scope and quality are rigidly defined in the
rainwater. program, then budget must remain flexible.
• Shade large hardscapes. ▪ Initial installation cost is most apparent during the
• Shade buildings in summer and allow sunlight in during development of a project.
winter. ▪ Maintenance costs may have a greater impact on
• Place and design landscape areas to filter and clean the total cost over the life of the project. This
stormwater. requires estimating initial cost and the cost to
• Site raingardens in parking areas.
maintain or replace the material or system over a
• Dig bioretention, rather than retention, ponds.
BEYOND MATERIALS
period, and compare one system against another
➢ Sustainability concerns go beyond the selection of SCOPE, QUALITY, AND COST
materials. The layout of a site, the types and character Aspects of site work would include:
of groundcover, and the management of the various ➢ Demolition of existing buildings, site
landscape functions are also critical issues. improvements, and natural features such as
trees, rock outcroppings, etc., to make
➢ Begin to consider issues for site and community design
room for new development.
that go beyond mitigating the impacts of site
disturbance and the disruption of environmental ➢ Earthwork, including cut, fill, compaction, etc., to
services. prepare a site for buildings, roads, and other
improvements.
COST FACTORS
➢ Foundations, considering the effect of soil
SITE DEVELOPMENT COST conditions and topography on the cost of
➢ An architect usually strives to produce the best footings.
architectural solution for the least amount of
money. Consequently, decisions made during the ➢ Utilities, including the installation of new services
design phase must consider not only the aesthetic as well as the excavation of existing lines to
qualities, but also its initial expense and provide the necessary service to a site.
maintenance cost throughout its useful life. ➢ Paved roads and walkways
➢ To be successful, the architect must: evaluate ➢ Landscaping
alternative site development schemes select the ➢ Lighting to illuminate roads, walks, paved areas,
best solution estimate various options and parking areas, and recreational areas.
compare costs and their impact on the total project ➢ Site furniture, including benches or other seating,
budget plant containers and sports equipment
➢ The architect should be familiar with materials, INITIAL COST
systems, and construction operations. ➢ Site construction costs are influenced by the cost of
➢ The architect must evaluate and prioritize labor and materials, the efficiency of the contractor to
materials and systems and select those that are managing the project and the technology utilized to
most responsive to the specific needs of the accomplish the work.
program. ➢ Two factors that affect site development costs:
The design of a site, no matter how large or how small, is
affected by the:

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o Characteristics of the site (soil conditions, • Pay more upfront= better quality/ more
topography, anything existing…) durable material, less cost over the lifecycle of the
material.
o The design of its development (efficiency,
scope, quality…) ➢ • Pay less upfront less quality=less durable more
➢ Unfavorable site conditions such as a high-water frequent replacement which equals more cost over the
table, problems of access, poor soils or steep slopes lifecycle of the material.
may result in excessive site development costs. ABILITY TO MAKE COMPARATIVE COST CHOICES IS
NOTE: THE LESS WORK REQUIRED IN PREPARING A SITE CRITICAL:
FOR A BUILDING, LEAST AMOUNT OF COST Ex. The installation of a poured concrete paving slab
THE IDEAL SITUATION FOR SITE DEVELOPMENT WOULD over buried utility lines that require frequent
INCLUDE maintenance is less cost effective/efficient than placing
these utilities in a concrete trench with removable
➢ A site that neither steeply sloped not completely flat concrete covers, for easy access.
➢ A site with good natural soil, capable of supporting
normal building loads, free of organic materials, un‐ A concrete slab would have to be demolished and
compacted fill, or rock within a few feet of the surface. repaved every time maintenance was required
➢ A site that has favorable natural drainage. meaning more unnecessary costs, whereas a
removable concrete cover would save that re‐
➢ A site with a regular geometric shape and be served by
occurring expense.
the required utilities located close to its property lines. COST CONTROL
➢ The architect should incorporate site improvements
that enhance the environment and select materials and ➢ Cost‐effective design utilizes a logical approach to
systems that create an aesthetically pleasing, low‐ siting buildings and other improvements, resulting in an
maintenance, well‐ balanced design efficient physical organization of the site. For
example:
LONG-RANGE COST
o Locate buildings along gentle sloping terrain;
➢ Evaluating alternative materials and systems must avoid steeply sloping land.
include a comparison of maintenance costs as well as - Minimizes cost of grading
initial installation costs. and excavation for footings…
➢ Initial installation costs represent a fraction of the - Minimizes the use of retaining
entire cost of a project over the period of its useful life. walls, roads, utility runs …
➢ Value analysis is a systematic method of obtaining - Avoids unconventional building
optimum value for every dollar spent, considering all footings.
project expenditures, including construction, - Provides ease of access.
maintenance, operation, and replacement. o Locate buildings where positive natural
Ex. A durable paving material may be more drainage exists.
appropriate where heavy use is anticipated ▪ Avoids redirecting surface flow by
then less expensive paving, which must be excessive regarding
resurfaced at more frequent intervals. Heavy ▪ Avoids installation of expensive
duty paving for roads may cost 50 percent storm drainage systems
more than light duty asphalt paving; however,
▪ Do not locate buildings at the bottom
if it lasts twice as long before requiring
replacement, it will be 25 percent more cost of the hill; otherwise, expensive
effective for each life cycle of the material. methods of water interception would
be required to avoid flooding.
Summary: o Arrange vehicular circulation systems to
follow contours (parallel) on the site rather
than to oppose them (perpendicular)

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▪ Minimizes costs of earthwork, o Uses shading from trees (mature deciduous
construction of banks, berms, and trees). Place buildings north of them.
retaining walls. o Avoid locating improvements over rock, organic soil, or
▪ A long meandering approach road areas of highwater table. To minimize costly
that follows the contours of the site excavation and foundation problems.
is less costly and more efficient than o Avoids the need to use blasting
a short road cutting straight through o Avoids water intrusion and heaving issues
the site because of earthwork o Coordinate the location of new with existing facilities
required for the latter option. including buildings, roads, walks, and other
improvements in the development of a site design
concept.
o Avoids costly unnecessary demolition and
replacement of existing improvements.
o Try to use existing utilities and roads to
minimize replacement.
o Demolition costs should be included in the
project development budget.
o Select appropriate finish material for the site
improvements, including paving of roads, walks,
plazas, play courts, etc. retaining walls, planter walls,
seating, and other site furniture. Using the example
from before:
o Ex. A durable paving material may be more
appropriate where heavy use is anticipated
then less expensive paving, which must be
resurfaced at more frequent intervals. Heavy
duty paving for roads may cost 50 percent
more than light duty asphalt paving; however,
if it lasts twice as long before requiring
replacement, it will be 25 percent more cost
effective for each life cycle of the material.
Summary:
o Locate paved parking lots on relatively level ground,
▪ Pay more upfront=better quality/
rather than sloping ground.
more durable material, less cost
o Avoids excessive reshaping of the land
terracing, steps, and ramps to connect the over the lifecycle of the material.
various levels, and complex storm drainage ▪ Pay less upfront= less quality/ less
systems. durable more frequent replacement
o Locate building so they relate to the new and existing which equals more cost over the
utility systems. lifecycle of the material.
o To minimize utility runs o Ex. The installation of a poured concrete
o Minimize excavation and trenching for service paving slab over buried utility lines that
runs require frequent maintenance is less cost
o Amentias not requirement utilities such as effective/efficient than placing these utilities in
tennis courts can be located further from the a concrete trench with removable concrete
utilities. covers, for easy access.
o Locate site improvements to utilize existing vegetation ▪ A concrete slab would have to be
o Avoids removal of trees, and plants and their demolished and repaved every time
replacement with costly new landscaping. maintenance was required meaning
more unnecessary costs, whereas a

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removable concrete cover would
save that re‐occurring expense.
o Select indigenous plant material for landscaping.
o For all reasons stated previously: local plants
will last longer, require less maintenance and
less replacement.
o Select site lighting systems in consideration of capital
costs, energy costs and replacement lamp and labor
costs:
o For same reasons stated above:
o Use comparative analysis to determine the
best lifecycle option, initial cost option,
maintenance and replacement.

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