A client once complained: “We pay $15,000 for a ‘Master Plan Update’ and all we get are pretty pictures of things we can’t afford to build!”
Master planning is a process whereby organizations make sure the use of their buildings and site aligns with their strategic goals. It is a tool for reassuring constituencies that their capital assets are being utilized fully and effectively.
Too often, however, architects focus on creating an aesthetic vision for a campus and don’t give their client the long-term data needed to make sound, present-day decisions. Other times the strategic vision is not fully in focus yet the client needs to move ahead with the first phase of development confident that they are not precluding future possibilities. In these situations we recommend “The 60 Minute Master Plan.”
In about 60 minutes (and without spending $15,000) your architect should be able to lead you through the following considerations:
1. Environmental Issues
- Natural Features –What streams, wetlands, woods, animal habitats, etc. should be protected and featured?
- Topography – Are there slopes on which it is too steep to build or too expensive to grade for roads and parking?
- Sun and Wind – Which direction should buildings be oriented for natural ventilation, day-lighting and/ or solar energy?
- Soils – Are there areas of soil that will not support building or will not drain properly? Are there hazardous substances buried on the site?
- Drainage – How can disruption of natural drainage patterns be minimized? Where should storm water management and treatment areas be placed?
2. Regulatory and Legal
- What the zoning restrictions are on uses and density of development?
- How much parking is required if the site is built to maximum density?
- Are there easements?
- Is this property subject to design reviews by governmental or civic groups?
3. Utilities
- Is there sufficient electrical power, water and sanitary waste capacity to support the maximum allowable density?
- If the property does not have public utilities, does the local government have plans to bring them to the site?
- Can utilities around the perimeter of the property to maintain interior open space?
4. Circulation
- How can vehicular circulation and parking areas on the site be minimized?
- Are adequate provisions made for safe pedestrian and bicycle circulation?
- Is the site accessible to public transportation?
5. Building Design
- Can buildings be clustered to minimize disturbed areas?
- Are initial phases of development located close to existing site entry points to keep future options open?
Consideration of these basic issues can help you avoid most planning mistakes. Blue Ridge Architects can help you chart a plan of development that assures the highest and best long term use and provide sound data for near-term decisions. For more information, contact us at info@blueridgearchitects.com
