Site Considerations
The site is more than just a plot of land. The characteristics of a site often indicates the the basic type of structure that would be best suited. An effort should be made to take full advantage of the site and its resources. The structure should appear to be part of the site and bend with its surroundings.
Within the most important considerations are:
The community
When thinking of the community, ask the following questions:
Is it a planned community?
What are the price ranges of the houses within the community?
Is it a lively community?
Does the community have room to grow?
Does the community has modern structures already?
Does the community have access to public transportation?
Inhabitants
A truly functional structure will represent the life-style and purposes of its inhabitants.
For residential structures, family size would be a major consideration. Ample space should be provided to perform their chosen activities. These activities should not always be thought in relation to specific rooms but with the aim to provide and angaging and welcoming environment letting the structure take the shape that best serve their needs.
Zoning
It is important to investigate the zoning ordinances in the area where the site is located. Buyers and constructors usually fail to explore local building codes. It is possible that these codes are so restrective that the type of structure cannot be built. The cost can also increase due to these code requirements.
Topographical Features
The topography of the site is a primary consideration. Topographical drawings of the site have the potential to describe its slope, contour, size, shape and elevation. Vegetation and soil conditions are indicated in drawings and site analysis. Topographical problems such as lack of water or excesive vegetation might require equipment, which can be expensive and require constant maintenance.
Cost and restrictions
The process should be examined carefully to determine if it takes into consideration needed immprovements. The cost of lot should also take into consideration the amount of frontage it has and whether it is a corner or not. Cost is usually proportional to lenght of frontage and therefore, corner lots are more expensive.
The deed:
Sometimes the deed will show restrictions referring the property. Restrictions may specify:
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Type of landscaping
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Overall Cost
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Style
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Size
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Among others...
Other Considerations
A house or building is a combination of many parts that come together as a whole. A quick survey of representative construction material could provide some guidelines for the designer, such as:
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Plywood - 4' x 8'
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Paneling - 4' x 8'
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Construction Lumber - lenghts of 8', 10', 12', 14', 16'
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Concrete Blocks - modules of 4'
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Among other examples
Some typical guidelines:
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Exterior walls should be modula lenghts (multiples of 4' or 2')
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Exterior rooms with an eye on standard sizes
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Walls should be modular heights (multiples of 4')
