Site Analysis
Site Analysis
Site Analysis
2. SITE ANALYSIS CHECKLIST. Create a checklist of factors being
considered in the process of Site Analysis. Checklist shall be arranges in
a chronological manner where the site analysis process can be
systematically administered.
01 - General
Geographic location
Site boundary
Entrance locations and types
Site security
Existing buildings
02 - Neighbouring buildings
Distances
Heights
Uses
Vernacular
Site lines
Rights to light
Legal restrictions
Noise levels
03 - Legal Restrictions
Conservation areas
Covenants and easements
Rights of way
SSSI ( Site of Special Scientific Interest)
Listings (Grade II, II*, I)
TPO's (Tree preservation orders)
Previous planning permissions and applications
04 - Access
Public routes
Private routes
Vehicle access
Pedestrian access
Existing circulation routes within
05 - Typography
Levels
Gradients
Key features/restrictions
Exposure
06 - Views
Sun paths
Solar gains
Shading
08 - Wind patterns
Prevailing direction
Shelter
Exposure
09 - Public Transport Links
Bus's
Train's
Taxi's
010 - Trees and vegetation
Protected species
Protected zones
Impacts
012 - Site restrictions
Visibility
Light
Views
Neighbours
Pollution
Flooding
Land slides
013 - Features
Areas to expose/use
Areas to improve
Areas to hide
014 - Hazards
A. Geographic Factors
I. Soil
The different types of soil present are analysed. Soil decides the stability
of land, foundation, suitability, excavation, erosion, drainage, and plant
growth(as the top soil is essential for good plant growth). The bearing
capacity of soil is an important factor to be considered while locating
buildings
Ii. Topography
The form of land is called its topography. This is the most important
factor to be analysed. Geology and the slow process of natural erosion
(soil being worn away because of wind or water) are responsible for
landforms and slopes. A topographic survey will reveal the badly
drained areas and natural drainage channels. It will be also reveal places
that have good views and parts of the site that are visible or hidden from
any selected point outside the site. The slopes will decide the roads and
paths; a steep slope will increase building costs.
Iii. Vegetation
B. Climatic Factors
I. Sun
Ii. Wind
Wind direction, frequency and speed will influence the building design
including weather tightness detailing, building entry locations, window
size and placement, roof and wall cladding selection, bracing
requirements, and provision of shelter for outdoor spaces.
Iii. Precipitation
Iv. Temperature
Sun and therefore heat is one of the most important climate components
because the generally used indicator of climatic comfort is air
temperature and relative humidity. Sun is the most important energy
source in lighting and heating forms and surfaces in architecture
C. Sensory Factors
This addresses the visual, audible and tactile aspects of the site, such as
views, noise, and so on. These again should be considered in time
frames and a positive or negative factor can be attributed to the
condition.
I. Views
Ii. Sound
D. Regulatory Factors
In terms of the built environment, the term 'access' refers to the means or
ability to approach and/or enter a place, site, etc. Vehicle and pedestrian
movements in, through and around the site. Consider the timing of these
movements, and duration of heavier patterns. Future traffic and road
developments should also be considered.
I. Pedestrian Access
Wherever possible, provide clear, direct and safe access throughout the
building and the site, including major entries, lobbies, communal
outdoor space, parking areas and public streets.