2.3 Analyze Contextual Data Flashcards
What are contextual factors that should be considered when siting a building in a site (or program for that matter?)
Terrain
Climate
Proximity to nearby streets and buildingss
Sustainable and livable neighborhoods bring what elements together in close proximity?
Residential
Commercial
Civic Uses
Outdoor Recreation
Human scaled streetscapes are typically enclosed by buildings that are _ stories in height
2-4
If the buildings are taller, higher stories may be __ from the street edges
Recessed or stepped back
Important in the design of buildings in downtown commercial districts, neighborhood centers, and other similar streetscapes intended for pedestrians. Specifically important for the building’s first story
Transperency
How does context play an important role when siting a building?
-Urban vs. rural setting: What may be appropriate in one might not suit the other
-Neighborhood design guidelines: Does this fit the overall visual continuity of the area?
Exceptions could be if it is meant to be an iconic building.
Principles for siting buildings in rural and suburban settings include
- Reuse previously disturbed sites (grey, brownfields) to minimize site-clearing and natural habitats
- Preserve existing vegetation (in turn, provides energy-conserving shade and wind protection)
- Take advantage of natural site features
- Maximize benefits for building and site occupants (thermal comfort, aesthetic views)
- Orient building with the long side on the east west axis to allow for the greatest winter solar gains and minimize cooling loads from excessive solar heat gain
- Minimize stormwater runoff and mitigate erosiion to reduce topsoil loss and protect surface water quality
- In colder climates, locate driveways, parking, entrances and loading docks on the south side of the building to minimize snow and ice build up
Design guidelines typically seek to ensure that new development is responsive to site and context and also enhances the character of the community and neighborhood
Form Based Development Code