contextual_design Flashcards
(28 cards)
What is the importance of project context in architecture?
It influences design decisions, affects how the building fits into its surroundings, and can align with current or future neighborhood conditions.
When should a design defer to future context instead of current context?
When the area is undergoing significant change and the project aims to align with future developments.
What is adaptive reuse in the context of architecture?
A design strategy that reuses existing structures, deeply engaging with the current context.
What does TOD stand for and what does it imply?
Transit-Oriented Design; it implies designing projects that align with and enhance public transit systems.
How does context influence building entry locations?
Designers place entries near transit access points to support transit-oriented goals and pedestrian flow.
What is meant by scale and massing in contextual design?
The size, height, and volume of buildings relative to neighboring structures and their spacing.
What does ‘neighborhood continuity’ refer to?
Maintaining visual and experiential flow through design elements like storefronts, door placement, and rhythm.
How should parking relate to context?
It should be placed to reinforce street continuity, not disrupt pedestrian-friendly frontages.
What is the danger of placing parking entries too close to intersections?
It can confuse drivers and lead to accidents due to unexpected entry points.
How do local street types affect design?
Design must respond differently to arterial, collector, local, and alley streets in terms of access, visibility, and scale.
How does cultural context influence design?
It informs material choices, design traditions, and fitting in with local aesthetics and values.
Why is it risky to ignore context in exam scenarios?
NCARB expects deference to context unless explicitly told to prioritize a future condition or contrast.
What role do behavioral expectations play in design?
They guide intuitive navigation, wayfinding, and the perception of building function and access.
Who introduced terms like nodes, paths, and edges?
Kevin Lynch, to describe how people perceive and navigate urban environments.
What is the significance of clear wayfinding?
It ensures users know how to approach, enter, and move through a building without confusion.
What is a swale and why is it used?
A shallow ditch that redirects water around buildings to prevent flooding and erosion.
What is meant by cut and fill?
Balancing excavation (cut) and soil placement (fill) to shape topography without importing/exporting soil.
How steep can a slope be before erosion or safety becomes an issue?
Above 30-40% slope, soil erosion risk increases and walkability decreases.
What slope is considered the minimum for drainage?
1% slope is minimum; 2% is ideal for movement and avoiding ponding.
What is the difference between accessible ramp and accessible walk?
Accessible ramps have slopes between 1:20 and 1:12; accessible walks are under 1:20 and don’t require handrails.
How should a walkway be designed to handle stormwater?
Slope it sideways (crown or angle) to direct water to swales, avoiding pooling and freezing hazards.
What is a berm and how can it be used in design?
A raised landform used to deflect water, block views, or prevent headlights from shining into windows.
Why is it important not to alter site drainage patterns?
To avoid legal liability and ensure sustainable, predictable site performance.
How does microclimate affect design?
Impacts wind, sun, shadows, and comfort levels, guiding building orientation and outdoor usability.
