Site Analysis - A Tool for Landscape Planning
Recognizing Opportunities and Constraints on a Home Garden Property
Sep 3, 2009
Before performing a site analysis, a homeowner should create a base map of his property, and inventory its existing features. These site features create opportunities (that the homeowner may be able to exploit), or constraints (which need to be worked around or addressed).
A homeowner can design a garden off-the-cuff, but a design solution based around a site inventory and analysis will result in a more considered result. The site analysis will uncover problems and potentials based on existing site conditions. It's a useful tool that, in conjunction with the design program, can help a homeowner create a final design that takes into account the unique aspects of his property.
Locating the Site's Existing Features for Garden Design
Just by living on the property for a while, a homeowner will start to realize that there are some things that can be improved on, need to be fixed, or replaced outright. Other elements will add to the site, and may enhance or increase property values and personal enjoyment if improved.
Working through the site analysis exercise prior to design or construction ensures that the property owner investigates and evaluates every opportunity and constraint on his property and considers how they might impact the final design solution.
Every site analysis starts with an inventory of conditions existing on the site at the present time. The homeowner should have a base map with the property boundaries and the house shown. He then walks the property and notes the existing features, using a measuring tape to get accurate dimensions. All features should be sketched on the base map, with appropriate labels. Photographs can help in the evaluation of site elements.
Performing the Site Analysis is Critical for Landscape Planning
To perform the site analysis, tape a piece of tracing paper over the site inventory map. Have any photos and notes taken when the site was walked available for referral. Then start asking questions.
- is this inventory element important?
- If so, does it offer an opportunity or is it a constraint?
- If an opportunity, how might it be best used?
- If a constraint, what needs to be done to negate its impact?
The homeowner should think through these questions and answer them on the site analysis map using clear notes or abstract graphic symbols. While inventory notes are factual statements, analysis notes should include action words and verbs like screen, save, remove, etc.
These evaluations are the pieces of the puzzle that the final design solution will solve.
Site Analysis Examples
- retain existing red maple and incorporate into final design
- screen HVAC units at side of house
- create a wind buffer at the north west corner of the property
- maintain views to the lake and enhance with vegetative frames
- replace lawn on steep slopes with ground cover
- should add shade at western end of house to give protection from afternoon sun
- need formal space for greeting guests and orienting them to front door
The results of the site analysis are recommendations of actions that could be considered when developing the homeowner's design program. It can help the homeowner come up with garden ideas unique to the site and, ultimately, an appropriate design solution for the property.
Sources:
- Residential Landscape Architecture - Design Process for the Private Residence; Booth, Norman K. and Hiss, James E.; 1991 Prentice-Hall, Inc.
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