Thesis -Site Study Check List - Architecture

ARC 402: Thesis

Site Study Checklist 1. PHYSICAL FACTORS 2. HISTORICAL / SOCIAL FACTORS 3. REGULATORY FACTORS …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

1. PHYSICAL FACTORS A. Climate  Wind Direction  Maximum, minimum, and average velocities  Special forces (e.g., cyclones, tsunamis) B. Solar orientation  Sun angles  Days of sunlight  Shading of (or from) adjacent structures, natural features, arid vegetation C. Temperature  Ranges of variation (Maximums and minimums) D. Humidity  Ranges of variation (Maximums and minimums) E. Precipitation F. Topography      

Topographic maps and aerial photos Contours and spot elevations Slopes: percentage, aspect, orientation Visual characteristics Potential problem areas during construction: siltation, erosion, etc. Analysis of physical features, including major focal and vantage points and their relationships within, into, and out from the site.

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ARC 402: Thesis

G. Existing access and circulation  Vehicular  Pedestrian H. Vegetation I. Existing water bodies     

Location, size, depth, direction of flow Water quality: clean, polluted, etc. Use: seasonal. year-round Variations: expected water levels, tides, wave action Coastal features

J. Drainage canals:     

Natural and built Pattern and direction Surface drainage Proximity to floodplains Potential areas for impoundments, detention/retention ponds

K. Utilities        

Potable water Electricity Gas Telephone Sanitary sewer service Storm drainage (surface, subsurface) Fire protection Waste removal services

L. Immediate Surroundings    

Neighborhood structures Shading and solar access Noise from streets, emergency services, aircraft, etc. Odors Page 2 of 4

ARC 402: Thesis

 Views and vistas 2. HISTORICAL / SOCIAL FACTORS A. Site History  Former site uses  Hazardous dumping  Landfill B. Present zoning of site and adjacent property C. Adjacent (surrounding) land uses  Present  Probable effects on the development of this site D. Location, type, and size of pertinent community services  Schools and churches  Shopping centers  Parks  Municipal services  Recreational facilities  Banks  Food services  Health services  Access to highways, public transportation E. Social factors  Demography 

Economic standards

 Population (Fixed and Floating)  Education level 3. REGULATORY FACTORS Page 3 of 4

ARC 402: Thesis

A. Zoning Codes  Permitted uses  Accessory structures  Minimum site area requirements  Building height limits  Setback requirements  Plot coverage  Floor area ratio (FAR)  Open space requirements  Street parking requirements  Landscaping requirements  Drainage requirements B. Other Codes and Requirements 1. Historic preservation and landmarks 2. Architectural (design) controls 3. Site-related items in building codes  Parking and access for persons with disabilities  Service and emergency vehicle access and parking

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