ARE_Sustainability_Site_Survey Flashcards
(25 cards)
What is the difference between Exam 3 and the Planning & Design Exam regarding sustainability?
Exam 3 focuses on exploring a wide range of sustainable options, while Planning & Design emphasizes narrowing down to options that directly impact design.
What is the importance of goal-setting in sustainable design?
Goals guide the selection of sustainable strategies that align with project and community values.
How can projects support walkability and community sustainability?
By locating near transit, increasing pedestrian windows, adding storefronts, and maintaining compact density.
How does compact development help sustainability?
It reduces the need for extended infrastructure, preserves open space, and encourages active lifestyles.
Why is water efficiency a critical sustainability goal?
It addresses both stormwater management and the responsible use of potable water.
What are porous pavers and how do they support sustainability?
They allow rainwater to infiltrate into the ground, reducing runoff and stress on storm systems.
What is the role of green roofs in water management?
They retain rainwater, reduce runoff, and support plant growth while cooling the roof.
Why are bioswales and retention ponds valuable?
They manage stormwater by collecting and slowly releasing it back into the soil or infrastructure.
What are sustainable water reuse strategies?
Using cisterns, drip irrigation, and reusing rainwater for non-potable needs.
What distinguishes passive from active energy strategies?
Passive strategies use building orientation, ventilation, and materials to regulate climate; active strategies generate energy (e.g., photovoltaics).
Why might passive cooling be preferred in some climates?
It reduces energy use by relying on cross-ventilation and natural breezes instead of AC.
How does the aspirational aspect of sustainability influence design?
It motivates visible commitments to sustainability, like wind turbines or recycled materials, even if not cost-effective.
What determines which sustainable strategies are used?
Client goals, context, cost-benefit analysis, city incentives, and maintenance capabilities.
What is the purpose of a plot of survey?
To legally describe site boundaries, existing conditions, and improvements.
When is topographic information needed in a survey?
When elevation changes impact site access, ramps, or drainage.
What is a covenant and how does it impact design?
A private agreement attached to land deeds that governs design rules like materials, setbacks, and appearance.
What is an easement?
A legal right to use part of a property for a specific purpose, such as utilities or access, which affects design.
Do easements override zoning setbacks?
Not directly, but easements may be more restrictive and must be considered alongside zoning.
How do covenants affect material choices?
They can mandate or prohibit certain materials, limiting design freedom.
What types of structures are commonly allowed in front yard covenants?
Driveways, fences, guardhouses, or parking may be allowed if they don’t block the intended visual or functional purpose.
What are examples of common easements?
Utility lines, driveways, drainage paths, and view corridors.
How are setbacks and covenants shown differently on surveys?
Setbacks are zoning rules typically added by architects; covenants are private rules included in the survey.
What is the impact of easements on site drainage?
They reserve space for future or current water flow paths and prohibit building obstructions.
What should designers verify before building near or across an easement?
Whether it’s legally permitted for specific uses like parking, fencing, or accessory structures.
