Perspective drawing

Site plan

Site analysis

Brief
One way to understand a building is to carry out a site analysis. Look at the site plan and identify the constraints – things like the site boundary, existing buildings, slopes or other natural features.

Try to identify the opportunities which affect the site – things like views out of the site, views into the site, direction (where is south and the sunlight?), amenities such as the park, access to transport and shops. All these issues affect the way a building will look in practical ways. Balconies usually face south, and living spaces are best located there too. Generally, houses should have smaller windows looking to the north to help conserve energy.

Using drawings
Use the perspective drawing of the development to locate the individual buildings on the site plan.
• Analyse the plan as you did the site.
• Why are the higher buildings on Greendyke Street? Why is the building at the end of the tapered court the shape it is?
• Is there an advantage to the terraced housing being located facing onto the semi-private court rather than onto Greendyke Street?
• Identify the various housing types – blocks of flats, terraced houses, and pavilion houses. How do these differ from other types of housing in your own environment, in terms of location, materials, roofs or views?
• Sketch, photograph and discuss the buildings you find interesting in your own neighbourhood.