Site Analysis and Planning II

Objectives:
To examine the problems, methods, and techniques of site analysis, planning, and design with particular attention to natural systems, land use facilities, physiographic factors, and development programs.

Learning Outcomes:
We are concerned that students develop the knowledge and skills to:

• Read and interpret terrain accurately (e.g., work with topographic maps, delineate drainage systems, assess slopes and soils, and other landscape conditions) for the purposes of site planning and design;
• Understand the dynamic nature of the landscape and characterize key landscape systems, including stormwater, floodplains, climatic conditions, and utility systems, as they relate to the site’s form, function, and capacity to support land use facilities and activities;
• Formulate a site plan/design scheme and articulate criteria to critically evaluate it;

Products:
The course calls for two products: (1) a course journal that includes lecture notes, notes from readings, and selected papers from the literature; (2) a set of drawings from studio assignments, with a presentation at the end of the course on 3 or 4 assignments.

Evaluation:
A midsemester evaluation will be held for studio assignments 1 and 2 in the 6th week the course. A final evaluation will be held at the end of the semester in which each student will discuss with the instructor what he/she has produced over the semester. Informal evaluations can be called for by the student at any time during the semester

Texts:
Marsh, W. 2010. Landscape Planning.(5th ed). Wiley, N.Y. (required)
McHarg, I. 1995. Design with Nature. Wiley, N.Y. (recommended)

Instructor: Will Marsh