i

“From Landscape to Design: Integrating Site

Selection, Analysis, and Planning for Sustainable
Development”

In Partial fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Bachelor of Science in

Architecture

Research Methods for Architecture

Prepared by:

Romero, John Kenneth B.

ARCH3C

Submitted to:

Ar. Gerelson Ray R. Bernardino

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Introduction………………………………………………………………...…………………1

Site Planning / Design Process…………………………………………………………..…

2

Eight-Stage Site Planning Cycle……………………………………………………………2

Six-phase Planning - Design Process……………………………………….

……………..2

Research and Analysis Phases…………………………………………………….

……….3

Program Development ………………………………………………………………………

3

Design Phase………………………………………………………………………………...3

Formation of Housing Project ………………………………………………………………

3

Site Analysis
………………………………………………………………………………….4

Goals of Site Analysis

……………………………………………………………………….4

Elements of Site Analysis ………………………….

………………………………………..4

Site Selection Checklist

……………………………………………………………………..6

Site Reconnaissance Checklist (surrounding areas)

…………………………………….6

Site Reconnaissance Checklist (the site)

………………………………………………….7

Data Requirements and Possible Sources

………………………………………………..8

Site Plan Conclusions

……………………………………………………………………...11
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References
………………………………………………………………………………….12
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INTRODUCTION

The research project topic is site planning and the application of the process
to a specific site. The site planning process is a valuable method of analyzing the
various aspects of a site and the community in which the site is located. The
information obtained through the process is used for decision making during the
formulation of designs. The research will provide an insight to the unique
characteristics of the site and community for the site planner and client. The next
chapter outlines the steps in the site planning process and discusses the importance
of each step. The process defines the problem and identifies the purpose of the
development. Site specific information and community characteristics are collected
for evaluation. Site specific information is used to evaluate several factors such as
climate, topography, existing land features, structures, vegetation and soils. The
community characteristics which are collected address the profile of a potential user
as well as housing stock already available. This information is analyzed and put
together to develop a site program. From the program site designs are developed.
More than one design is prepared as alternatives. Evaluation of the alternatives to
determine the advantages and disadvantages of each.

Site plans are instrumental to the design of any commercial or

residential construction project for structure, concrete, and improvement
placement. Particularly when it comes to design work, it is typically necessary
to complete boundary and topographic surveys as well as utility locating for a
site plan for the project. A site plan is almost always required for planning and
development applications. Every municipality has its unique requirements for the plan
review and approval process – the planning department will review a site plan to
ensure it adheres to all applicable ordinances and development standards. The site
plan serves as a common operating picture and project roadmap for the development
team. Capturing all major earthwork, site engineering, and construction elements on
a single plan helps keep the efforts of the engineers, architects, general contractors,
and developers aligned. It also is a critical tool to help with project budgeting. As a
site is laid out graphically, engineering and construction requirements are identified,
enabling a developer to better predict and plan for costs ahead of time.
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SITE PLANNING / DESIGN PROCESS

Planning and design occur as a process, by which we mean that they follow a
logical sequence of actions or events that must be carried out to arrive at a viable
solution. It is a multi-disciplinary problem -solving operation often involving architects,
landscape architects and engineers, and frequently may require input from physical
scientist as well to address environment issues. It requires a logical objective for
some steps, but also allows room for subjective design interpretation at others.

There are several notable models from which we can draw to understand the
basic components of the site planning and design process. Kevin Lynch outlines an
eight-stage site planning cycle that includes:

1. Defining the problem

2. Programming and the analysis of site and

user

3. Schematic design and the preliminary cost

estimate

4. Developed design and detailed costing

5. Contract documents

6. Bidding and contracting

7. Construction

8. Occupation and management

John Simonds outlines a six-phase planning-design process that applies to

architecture, landscape architecture, and engineering, this process is organized as
follows:

1. Commission

2. Research

3. Analysis

4. Synthesis

5. Construction

6. Operation
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There are many variations on these models. They differ essentially in the breakdown
of component phases and some, such as Simonds, extend the process to include
preliminary contractual agreement and post-construction operations.

1. Research and Analysis Phases:

In this process, the designer can use this general goal statement plus the
identification of the site to begin collecting information relevant to the site and the
surroundings area and compiling it in a form in which it can be mapped. This data is
then analyzed in terms of its implications for development of the site for stated
purpose.

2. Program Development:

The development of the program is the bridging step between the analysis
and the synthesis or design phases.

3. Design Phase

a. Conceptual Design

Conceptual design begins with functional diagram in which we explore the

relationships of program elements and activities. This is first done as 'ideal' or non-
site related diagrams to establish the best abstract relationships among the various
components of the project program. This is essentially a diagrammatic exploration in
which the designer may move through a series of alternative arrangements until
he/she achieves a solution which maximizes the positive relationships and minimizes
the number of conflicts.

b. Site Plan / Master Plan

Presuming that the project is to go forward, the designer refines the development
of the preliminary plan, giving precise form, dimension and indication of materials to
the proposed elements. In other words, he/she precisely locates buildings and paved
surfaces, delineates ground forms and planted areas, and indicates necessary
utilities.

FORMATION OF HOUSING PROJECT

The housing projects are formulated undo the following five categories:

1. Detached / individual house

2. Semidetached houses (Twin houses)

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3. Row / Line houses

4. Flats / Apartments

5. Skyscrapers / High rise building

SITE ANALYSIS

Site analysis is an inventory completed as a preparatory step to site planning,

a form of urban planning which involves research, analysis, and synthesis. It primarily
deals with basic data as it relates to a specific site. The topic itself branches into the
boundaries of architecture, landscape, engineering, real estate development,
economics, and urban planning disciplines. Site analysis is an element in site
planning and design.

“Kevin A. Lynch, an urban planner developed an eight-cycle step process of

site design, in which the second step is site analysis.”

GOALS OF SITE ANALYSIS

To achieve a successful design, site analysis is a must & should be done

carefully Site Analysis involves taking an inventory of site elements and analyzing
these factors relative to the client’s needs & aims Gather relevant information about
the properties of the site, from topography to climate to wind pattern and vegetation
Analyze these features and incorporate them into the design.

ELEMENTS OF SITE ANALYSIS

Numerous elements go into a given site analysis. These elements include

location, neighborhood context, site and zoning, legal elements, natural physical
features, man-made features, circulation, utilities, sensory, human and cultural, and
climate components. The following elements typically are considered in most sites:

Location: The site should be related to 1major streets or landmarks

previously existing. Aerial photographs help in this assessment stage. There should
be documentation of distances and time from major places. This should be
completed by either driving or walking the distance first-hand.

Neighbourhood context: Zoning of the neighbourhood is important and

information of this type can typically be found at the municipal planning department of
the site. Numerous issues at this stage require direct observation. Features of this
sort include architectural patterns, street immediate surroundings of the site. The
reaction of the surrounding buildings towards the site and people moving around
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should be analysed. Other important components of the neighbourhood context

include an analysis of existing paths (pedestrian, cyclist, and vehicle), landmark and
nodes. Landmarks are distinctive sites that provide wayfinding for people in the area,
and which define the character of a neighbourhood. Nodes are key public gathering
palces that encourage people to linger and socialize.

Size and zoning: Site boundaries can be located by either verifying the
dimensions physically or contacting the country tax assessor's office. Zoning
classifications, set-backs, height restrictions, allowable site coverage, uses, and
parking requirements are obtained zoning classifications from a zoning map, which
can be located from the city planning department.

Infrastructure, social, and political boundaries.

Legal : Typical legal information can be obtained from the dead to the property,
The deed is held by the owner of the title insurance such as the property description,
present ownership, and the governmental jurisdiction the site is located in, and the
city or county.

Natural physical features: Most of this information will be derived from the
topographic features on the site. A contour map of this magnitude can be
located from the survey engineer. Drainage problems as well as existing natural
features of trees, ground texture, and soil conditions on the site should be directly
observed.

Man made features: Features located on the site such as buildings, walls, fences,
patios, plazas, bus stop shelters should be noted. The site and location of such
features should be directly measured, Documentation of existing historical districts
should be made, some of which may already have reports completed. Locating this
information can be done through the municipal planning department for the site.

Circulation: the uses of streets, roads, alleys, sidewalks, and plazas are
important in this inventory step. It is not necessarily an analysis of these circulation
gateways.

Utilities: Information for utilities concerning the site can be found through the
utility departments and companies in the local area. Generally this company has a
print of the drawing of this information needed. Information in this print includes the
location of all utilities and their locations around or on the site itself.
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Sensory: Much of the sensory information collected will be done through

firsthand experience. This type of information is obtained from sketching and
photographs (sometimes aerial photographs). Direct observation of other sensory
elements of noise, odors, smoke, and pollutant areas must also be completed.

SITE SELECTION CHECKLIST

• Livability of site – types of buildings, density of development

• Costs – land costs, development costs, building costs, utility costs

• Maintenance and operating costs – utility costs, grounds maintenance, taxes

• Marketability

• Appearance and general character – kinds of building, design of exteriors,

condition of buildings, grounds and streets

SITE RECONNAISSANCE CHECKLIST (Surrounding Areas)

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SITE RECONNAISSANCE CHECKLIST (The Site)

Accessibility Determines the appeal of the

development to the market. Identifies
- distance from major commercial what strategies will have to be in order
centers, schools, health facilities, and to improve the sites to other major areas
recreational facilities undertaken accessibility
- presence of public transport modes
and distance from public transport stops
- distance from major roads, highways
road width, configuration, and conditions
at major site access points
Topography Indicates the amount of site preparation

- general level of the land
- portions with steep slopes, natural
drainageways, water bodies, etc.
Soil Slope & Conditions
- type of soil
- stability of the site (through interview
with residents within the vicinity)
Landscape/Vegetation
- location type/specie and size (trunk)
Existing Structures
- type of construction, size, location
- use and conditions
Vista
- interesting views afforded by
surrounding areas (mountains, water
bodies, open spaces, etc.)
Informal Settlers
- type of structures
- approximate number of families
DATA REQUIREMENTS AND POSSIBLE SOURCES
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works and suitable foundation system
Determines if the site is suitable for the
development and if yes, what foundation
and utility systems are appropriate
Actual soil-bearing capacity must be
determined through subsurface surveys
(e.g. boring tests)
Identifies what plants will be required to
be relocated or removed from the site
Presents opportunities to match site
planning and design with actual site
conditions to optimize site potentials
Identifies areas that need to be dem
olished or that can be reused
Identifies interesting views which can
effectively affect the orientation and
configuration of the development
Determines possible project
implementation problems
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Whether you’re a student in the studio or working at a design firm, there’s one thing
everyone can agree on: What’s on the site is crucial when it comes to the design of a
building. That’s why a lot of time, thought, and money goes into conducting a site
analysis before the conceptual phase of design even begins.

The following elements of your site all influence the final design of a building:

 Topography
 Vegetation
 Infrastructure
 Existing buildings
 Weather
 Culture

Once a thorough site analysis has been conducted, the concept with a site plan
showing existing and proposed conditions will be presented.

Other than a North Arrow and Scale Bar, here are ten of the main items you must
include on your site plan once the site analysis is complete.
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1. Property Lines

Including the property lines on your development site plan is one of the most
important elements. In a way, it sets the stage for your design. You can have the
most innovative or beautiful building, but you can’t encroach on an owner’s adjacent
property. If you do, you’ll be in for extra time conducting more surveys and more
drawings. At worst, you could find yourself with a lawsuit.

2. Distance Between Buildings and Property Lines

Understanding your site goes beyond staying inside your own property lines.
Surrounding infrastructure and buildings play an important role in shaping your
design. Make sure to include all those dimensions on your plan because issues like
the following are determined by what goes on around the site:

 Building height
 Zoning
 Building usage
 Fire hazards

3. Existing and Proposed Conditions

For city officials and plan reviewers to grasp the full scope of your design, you’ll want
to present both existing and proposed conditions, including fence lines and especially
all utility lines. It also lets you know if other city officials such as inspectors need to be
present throughout the construction of your building.

4. Easements

Easements are needed anytime you need to cross or maintain an element of your
design that will exist on an adjacent property. For example, if you need a pipe run
and it crosses the corner of another property, you need an easement to have the
legal right to cross that corner and maintain that portion of the pipe. You can show
easements graphically or with text, but there needs to be no question that an
easement exists.

5. Construction Limits and Lay Down Areas

This shows the areas of the property where construction takes place. It also will
delineate the area located on or near the site where the construction-related
supplies, storage, equipment parking, and partial assembly takes place.
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6. Driveways

From the driveway width to the curb cut dimensions, there are many code
requirements governing the design of access onto your site. Make sure you know the
rules and then include all dimensions on your site plan.

7. Parking

Parking is a huge issue when it comes to planning a site, especially in a commercial

setting or a dense downtown environment. A lot of time, thought, and research goes
into determining an adequate amount of parking, so make sure to include parking
diagrams equipped with the following items in your site plan:

 Dimensions
 Flow of traffic
 Accessible parking spaces
 Signage

8. Surrounding Streets and Ground Sign Locations

Understanding how traffic flows through and around your site is crucial. Showing the
surrounding streets—whether they’re main arteries, avenues, or dead ends—will help
illustrate the impact your design will have on the traffic around the site. It also
provides a context for your building.

Ground sign locations will tell the whole story of your site. When you draw your
streets, include:

 Stop signs
 Traffic lights
 Highway signs
 Etc.

9. Fire Hydrants

Not only is access to the site important for occupants, but it’s also necessary for
emergency personnel. There are codes governing the distance your building will
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need to be from fire hydrants, depending on the type of construction. If you’re doing a
renovation, oftentimes this won’t be needed. However, new construction always
needs to have fire hydrants included on the development site plan that you are
submitting to the city.

10. Landscaped Areas

Landscaping is not only used for aesthetics, but oftentimes it’s part of a fragile
ecosystem that must be preserved. Or it’s designed to help preserve the surrounding
ecosystem. Make sure to put in existing and proposed landscaping, including erosion
and runoff controls.

Site Plan Conclusions

When you’re putting together a development site plan, try to think of it as telling the
story of the site and building. For plan reviewers to understand your design, you must
tell the whole story. Oftentimes, more is better when it comes to the site plan. Leave
no room for interpretation.

REFERENCES

https://primumnilnocerefiles.files.wordpress.com/2017/06/april-9-site-
planning.pdf

https://www.brainkart.com/article/Site-Planning-And-Design-Process_3935/

https://www.slideshare.net/ShubhranshuUpadhyay/site-planning-30658085#4

https://gharpedia.com/blog/12-major-things-considered-while-selecting-site/

https://www.unacast.com/post/site-selection-analysis
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https://www.pluralsight.com/blog/architecture/10-things-make-sure-include-
site-plan

https://digitalcommons.uri.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?
article=1735&context=theses

https://mcsteen.com/the-importance-of-a-site-plan/

https://urbandesignlab.in/book-review-site-planning-kevin-lynch/

https://www.re-thinkingthefuture.com/rtf-architectural-reviews/a4037-book-in-
focus-the-theory-of-a-good-city-form-by-kevin-lynch/