Site and Environmental Analysis

Question 1

What physical factors influence site planning?

Answer 1

• climate (prevailing winds, solar orientation)
• topography (contours, drainage)
• geotechnical or soil information
• environmental hazards
• immediate surroundings (neighbouring structures, shading and solar access, noise, views)
• site servicing
• road and pedestrian access

Question 2

What cultural factors influence site planning?

Answer 2

• site history (former users, landfill, hazardous material)
• adjacent land use

Question 3

What regulatory factors influence site planning?

Answer 3

• legal description (boundary survey, easements, rights-of-way)
• permitted uses
• heights and size requirements
• setbacks, lot coverage
• open space requirements
• parking requirements
• accessibility requirements
• architectural controls/ design guidelines
• environmental remediation requirements

Question 4

What urban design guidelines/processes influence the design of a building?

Answer 4

• official plans
• zoning by-laws
• site plan control
• urban design guidelines

Question 5

What are the 3 phases in an Environmental Site Assessment after engaging a consultant?

Answer 5

ESA Phase 1: identify if on-site analysis is warranted. (review surveys, land uses, historic maps)

ESA Phase 2: procure on site analysis (site drilling and lab analysis of contaminants)

ESA Phase 3: confirm pollutants and outline required site remediation

Question 6

What are some strategies for addressing environmental issues during the evaluation of a site?

Answer 6

• erosion control (minimize disturbance, conserve vegetation, provide long-term soil stabilization)
• building form (small footprint, avoid sensitive areas and natural features, use pre-disturbed sites, green roof)
• sensitive landscape design (accommodate rain, minimize maintenance, coordinate with local environmental strategies)

Question 7

What is the purpose of a Site Analysis?

Answer 7

Studying contextual forces can influence how we might situate a building, layout and orient its spaces, shape and articulate its enclosure, and establish its relationship to the landscape.

Question 8

Given a site, how do you determine the site design options?

Answer 8

1. Get a survey and draw the property line.
2. Apply zoning (set-backs, easements)
3. Engage consultants for detailed analysis of existing conditions (soil, stormwater management requirements, landscape design requirements, services, site circulation requirements)
4. Estimate are of building required.

Question 9

What is a Subsurface Investigation?

Answer 9

A Geotechnical Engineer performs a Subsurface Investigation excavating and testing soil to determine the soil structure:
- shear resistance
- compressive strength
- water content
- permeability
- anticipated differential settlement