SLOPE AND MAPS

Written Report for course Planning 1

Prepared for:

Ar./EnP. Gerelson Ray R. Bernardino, UAP, PIEP,

MSCM, CIPM

Prepared by:

Tyron E. Custodio

Arch 3A / 2120174

February 02, 2024

Second Semester A.Y. 2023 - 2024

TABLE OF CONTENTS:

I. INTRODUCTION ……………………………………………………………………1
II. BODY …………………………………………………………………………..……2
A. Site Planning – Design Process……………………………………….…….2
1. Kevin Lynch’s Site Planning- Design Process ………….………….…3

1.1 Defining the Problem………………………………………………..4

1.2 Programming and the analysis of site and user……….…………4
1.3 Schematic design and the preliminary cost estimate…………….4
1.4 Developed design and detailed costing……………………………5
1.5 Contract documents……………………………………...…………..5
1.6 Bidding and contracting………………………………….…………..5
1.7 Construction……………………………………………...…...………6
1.8 Occupation and management……………………………………....6

2. John Simond’s Planning-Design Process………………………………7

2.1 Problem Definition………………………………….……………..7

2.2 Research……………………………………………………...……7

2.3 Site/User Program……………………………………….………..8

2.4 Schematic………………………………………………….………8

2.5 Contract Documents…………………………………………..….8

2.6 Inspection/Evaluation………………………………………….….9

III. CONCLUSION ………………………………………………………..……………9

IV. RECOMMENDATION ……………………………………………….….…………9
V. REFERENCES ……………………………………………………….……………10
LIST OF FIGURES:
Figure 1 : Kevin Lynch’s site planning/design process…………………….3
Figure 2. John Sigmunds planning – design process……...………………7

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I. INTRODUCTION

The art and science of site planning emerge as key orchestrators in the
intricate tapestry of urban development, shaping our cities' physical, social, and
environmental fabric. As humanity approaches the threshold of rapid urbanization,
the need to foster sustainable, resilient, and harmonious urban landscapes becomes
increasingly urgent. Amidst this dynamic landscape, this study sets out to unravel the
complexities of site planning, revealing its profound effects on the built environment
and human experience. This unprecedented demographic shift brings forth a myriad
of challenges and opportunities, compelling planners, architects, and policymakers to
reconceptualize urban spaces as dynamic, adaptive entities. Within this context, site
planning emerges as a linchpin, embodying the nexus between vision and execution,
theory and practice. Site planning transcends mere physical design; it encompasses
a holistic understanding of the interplay between land use, infrastructure,
environmental stewardship, and community engagement. From the macro-scale
delineation of urban growth boundaries to the micro-scale choreography of public
spaces, every decision reverberates across the urban landscape, leaving an indelible
mark on its inhabitants and ecosystems. Through meticulous analysis and synthesis,
this research endeavors to delineate the multifaceted dimensions of site planning,
encapsulating its inherent complexities and latent potentials.

In the Philippines, site planning is crucial due to rapid urbanization, a growing

population, and vulnerability to natural disasters like typhoons and earthquakes.
Efficient planning is essential for managing growth, optimizing land use, and
enhancing disaster preparedness to save lives. It also preserves green spaces,
protects biodiversity, and balances urbanization with environmental conservation.
Additionally, site planning ensures access to amenities and affordable housing for all
residents, promoting social equity. Furthermore, it safeguards cultural heritage by
integrating heritage conservation into development plans. For example, Intramuros
(meaning “inside the walls”) is seen as the chief precedent of Philippine-European
urban experimentation as it is the first walled city in the Philippines, with a centralized
urban model, displaying a public square at its center. This historic walled area within
Manila showcases Spanish colonial architecture and urban planning. Preserving its
heritage while accommodating modern needs requires careful site planning and
conservation efforts (Osorio & Argenberg, n.d.). Site planning in the Philippines

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 addresses urban growth, disaster resilience, environmental sustainability, social
equity, and cultural preservation.

Understanding site planning is essential for architecture students as it

enables us to integrate contextual factors such as topography, climate, and culture
into their designs, fostering sustainability, user experience, and regulatory
compliance. By analyzing site constraints and opportunities, architects can innovate
and create designs that respond creatively to their surroundings while ensuring
project success through functional and aesthetically pleasing solutions that
harmonize with the environment.

II. BODY

A. Site Planning – Design Process

Site planning includes the arrangement of buildings, roadways, utilities,

landscape elements, topography, water features, and vegetation to achieve
the desired site. In urban planning, site planning is done by city planners to
develop a clear plan/design of what the city planners want for a community.
Also, according to Lynch & Hack, Site planning is the art of arranging
structures on the land and shaping the spaces between, an art linked to ar-
chitecture, engineering, landscape architecture, and city planning. Site plans
locate objects and activities in space and time. These plans may concern a
small cluster of houses, a single building and its grounds, or something as
extensive as a small community built in a single operation.

Several architects and professionals employ their unique systematic

approaches to achieve desired outcomes. However, Kevin Lynch and John
Simond introduced distinct stages or steps to effectively implement projects.

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1. Kevin Lynch’s Site Planning- Design Process

Lynch outlines eight stages of site planning – the first one being
defining the problem which includes analysis of the given brief and
requirements. The second one being the programming and analysis of the
relation between site and user which gives the idea of how the site can be
dealt with. Stage three, four, five and six includes schematic design
solutions, cost estimation, preparation of contract documents and the
process of bidding and contracting. The last two stages comprise of the
construction of the building according to the site and followed by occupation
and management of building and spaces (Digital Blue Foam).

Figure 1 : Kevin Lynch’s site planning/design process

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1.1 Defining the Problem

The essence of project work lies in addressing the underlying problem,

guiding us in determining what needs to be addressed through our
creation. It is intricately connected to the objectives and requirements
outlined by the use case. As problem-solving hinges on a clear
understanding of the issue at hand, the initial step in any design process
must involve defining the problem. This phase commences upon a
potential client's inquiry for a quote. It commences with a dialogue aimed
at enabling the researcher to grasp the client's needs and operational
methods comprehensively. They strive to gather extensive insights into
the client's business objectives, website goals, target market, audience,
financial constraints, among other pertinent aspects.

1.2 Programming and the analysis of site and user

In this framework, programming is characterized as the act of

delineating a problem. It involves establishing criteria and hierarchies to
guide the design of various elements such as spaces, buildings, facilities,
or physical environments. As programming inherently revolves around
problem-solving, it extends beyond pre-design studies to encompass
issues where the final product itself is the focal point, such as feasibility
or master planning studies. This set of criteria ought to encompass all
anticipated features or functional necessities of the facility, along with
subjective aspects like aesthetic goals, which should inform subsequent
decision-making or synthesis processes.

1.3 Schematic design and the preliminary cost estimate

The initial stage, known as schematic design, involves an architect

meeting with the client to discuss the project's requirements and goals.
Typically, the architect starts by creating rough sketches that depict the
fundamental concepts of the design, encompassing spatial relationships
and the client's basic preferences regarding scale and forms. Additionally,
preliminary research into regulatory requirements is conducted at this
stage. Initial cost estimates are also calculated based on the project's
overall size and complexity. Schematic Design often entails the creation
of rough drawings, including site plans, floor plans, elevations, and
illustrative sketches or computer renderings, among other elements.
Examples of design and floor plan layouts are examined during this
phase.

Subsequently, a cost estimate is usually prepared once the initial layouts

of the project are completed, if not earlier. This estimate is derived from
detailed calculations of quantities of basic construction materials, such as
drywall, flooring, ceilings, and lighting, depicted in the preliminary
drawings. It serves as a rough approximation to quickly assess the
project's financial considerations before obtaining approval. Such
estimates are formulated based on the rates of similar projects and
practical knowledge accumulated from various sources.

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 This process allows authorities to evaluate the scheme's financial
viability and make informed decisions prior to approval.

1.4 Developed design and detailed costing

The outcomes of the schematic design phase are advanced in

the design development stage, where the design is refined and detailed.
Finalizing the design and specifying materials, window and door
placements, and overall structural particulars constitute this phase.
Design development typically involves producing a more comprehensive
site plan, along with floor plans, elevations, and section drawings
complete with precise dimensions. Moreover, detailed costing involves
meticulously examining the quantities, rates, and expenses associated
with all necessary items for the project's successful execution. This
comprehensive costing represents the most precise and reliable estimate
achievable.

A detailed estimate is accompanied by:

 Report,

 Specifications,

 Detailed drawings showing plans,

 Design data and calculations and,

 Basis of rates adopted in the estimate.

Such a detailed estimate is prepared for technical sanction,

administrative approval, and also for the execution of a contract with the
contractor.

1.5 Contract documents

Once both the architect and client are content with the drawings
generated during the design development phase, they can proceed to the
construction documents. This stage involves producing significantly more
detailed drawings that will serve as the blueprint for the construction of
the project. These drawings typically encompass specifications for
construction materials and intricate construction details.

Subsequently, the architects distribute the construction documents to

contractors for pricing and bidding purposes, as well as to the building
department to obtain the necessary permit approvals.

In larger projects, there may be a bidding or negotiation phase, along

with construction phase services. While these components are typically
not utilized in smaller home projects, they play a crucial role in larger
residential, commercial, and industrial projects.

1.6 Bidding and contracting

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 Projects can be discovered, obtained, and initiated through various
means. Some originate internally, stemming from a business opportunity
recognized by the company itself, which could be utilized for profit or
other purposes.

Projects can be found, acquired, and launched using diverse methods.

Some originate internally, emerging from a business opportunity identified
by the company, which could be leveraged for profit or other objectives.

Contract bidding can be profitable, yet individuals unfamiliar with its

structure and procedures may perceive it as perplexing. Thankfully, it
follows a defined beginning and end, and adhering to these steps will
facilitate comprehension of the transition from one stage to the next.

1.7 Construction

While most of the architect's work is typically concluded before

construction commences, their ongoing presence during the construction
phase is paramount. They regularly visit the construction site to address
queries from the builder and tackle potential issues before they escalate.
Depending on the project's complexity and your requirements, these site
visits may occur on a weekly or monthly basis, ensuring close monitoring
to align with your expectations for the final outcome. As certain decisions
inevitably arise or require adjustments on-site, the architect's swift
collaboration with the contractor is essential in averting costly delays and
change orders.

During the Construction Administration phase, the architect serves

as an advisor to the owner. They document progress through
photographs and field reports during site visits, ensuring adherence to
agreed-upon materials and workmanship standards, while also verifying
that contractor billings accurately reflect completed work. Additionally,
they assist the client in compiling a final Punch List at project completion
to ensure satisfaction with all aspects of the work.

1.8 Occupation and management

In architecture, a post-occupancy evaluation involves assessing

the functionality and comfort of a building after occupants have lived in it
for a period. Typically, most companies wait at least six months post-
construction to conduct these assessments, though some may delay for a
year or more. Architects employ metrics to evaluate the building once the
assessment process starts:

 Energy and water use

 Waste generation

 Air temperature, humidity, and other environmental conditions

 Sound level

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  Artificial and natural lighting levels

 Overall aesthetics (including wall color and how comfortable the

furniture is)

 User satisfaction

 Wayfinding

 Workflows (especially in the case of office buildings, hospitals, or

civic spaces)

2. John Simond’s Planning-Design Process

According to John Simond, there are SIX DESIGN PHASES in architectural

services: (1) Problem Definition, (2) Research, (3) Site/User Program, (4)
Schematic, (5) Contract Documents, and (6) Inspection/Evaluation.
Regardless of the type or size of the project, these phases are a breakdown
of

how an architect defines their design services and their role in the design
process. The six phases of design are also a way for architects to categorize
their work so that it is easier to understand for everyone. Understanding
design phases can assist in explaining what architects do and how a project
is organized.

Figure 2. John Sigmunds planning - design process

2.1 Problem Definition

The architectural project is guided by the underlying problem it aims to

address, delineating what requires resolution through the resultant
creation. This problem is intricately linked to the goals and requisites
outlined by the project's use case. Therefore, the initial step in any design
endeavor necessitates a thorough definition of the problem, as effective
solutions can only emerge from a clear understanding of its nature. This

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 crucial phase typically commences when a prospective client initiates
contact to request a quote.

During this phase, the architect engages with the client to gain insights
into the property in question, any existing structures, and the client's
envisioned outcomes for the prospective structure. Whenever feasible, an
on-site analysis conducted in person yields the most precise information
applicable across all project types.

2.2 Research

Every design project necessitates thorough research as its

starting point. This can take various forms, such as client meetings, site
analyses, or desktop studies delving into the site's history. Regardless of
the approach, activities like data collection, client consultations, and site
visits lay the groundwork for shaping the initial design concept. The
primary objective of this early design stage is to gather data that unveils
the challenges inherent in the task at hand, with the research process
continuing to unfold throughout the architecture design journey.

Conducting a comprehensive site analysis is instrumental in grasping

the site's context, constraints, advantages, and issues. This process
enables the designer to focus on devising solutions tailored to address
these challenges.

2.3 Site/User Program

Before starting any design work, it's important to know if building

on the site is possible. Your client will want this assurance. An in-depth
site analysis, also known as a context analysis, helps determine if
development is financially possible and sets guidelines for creating the
best design that fits the site's physical and environmental features. This
analysis considers factors like site location, size, land shape, zoning laws,
traffic, and weather conditions. It's also crucial to think about any future
changes nearby, such as road modifications, shifts in culture, or new
construction projects, as they can affect the analysis.

2.4 Schematic

Think of this as the first sketch stage. It usually takes up about 15% of the
architect's time and fees for the whole project. During this phase, the
architect and the client chat about the project and any must-haves from
the client. The architect digs into research and checks out the property,
looking at any rules or codes that might affect the plan. This is when they
start figuring out where everything will go inside the building, based on a
list of spaces the client wants. The architect decides on the size, spot,
and how all the spaces relate to each other. The main goal of this phase,
called Schematic Design, is to figure out the basic shape and size of the
building using some simple plans.

The schematic phase is when we determine the overall appearance and

functionality of the building. This stage involves plenty of sketching and
modeling, along with several meetings with the client, and it acts as the
blueprint for the entire project. Once the basic design is presented and

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 the architect provides the client with drawings, they both agree in writing
to move on to the next phase of the design process.

2.5 Contract Documents

At this stage, the client and architect will have reached an agreement
on the final design and will be focused on preparing the necessary
drawings, notes, and technical specifications required for bidding,
construction, and permit applications. After completing the Design
Development phase, you might question whether more drawing work is
truly necessary. However, it's important to understand that different
drawings serve specific purposes. This phase is often what comes to
mind when one thinks of an architect's role. The Construction Documents
Phase is the most extensive stage for the architect, typically occupying
around 40% of their time and fees, although this can vary slightly
depending on the project. During this phase, the architect and engineers
will finalize all technical drawings and engineering, including detailing.

2.6 Inspection/Evaluation

The last part of our services, called Construction Observation or

construction administration, takes up around 20% of the architect's time
and fees for a project. Even though it's the longest phase, it doesn't make
up most of the architect's work. Architects usually don't oversee
construction on most projects. Instead, we'll visit the site regularly to
check on progress and make sure the contractor is sticking to the plans
based on the architectural design. If needed, we can also review the
contractor's monthly invoices to confirm how much work has been
completed.

We'll be here to help if there are any questions or if you need more
info. Often, during this phase, the architect might be asked to do extra
work because of questions that come up or changes needed to handle
unexpected things on the site.

III. Conclusion

This paper talks about what site planning and design process mean in
construction and the steps involved. It's really important to follow these steps carefully in
architectural and building stuff because they help us understand everything better.
Going through each stage and process in an organized way helps us see the project
clearly and might even lead to some cool and unique designs for buildings. Knowing
what each stage is all about can also help readers and pros get why it's all important.
How people make the most out of each stage and process in finishing the project also
shows how important it is. This research is like a solid base to think about when we're
designing buildings and looking at all the different things that affect the design process.

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IV. Recommendation
Based on the findings of the study, the researcher came up with the following
recommendations:
 The researcher proposes that analysis greatly assists in identifying factors
that influence the design process. Applying these principles and analyses can
significantly streamline and improve the design process.
 The researcher suggests that aspiring architects should consider these
processes and analyses as essential aspects of their profession in designing,
aiming to achieve satisfaction for both parties involved.

References

Osorio, J., & Argenberg, V. (n.d.). The Intramuros District in Manila,

Philippines: Spanish Renaissance Urbanism in Asia. a global renaissance.
Retrieved February 9, 2024, from https://theglobalrenaissance.blog/spanish-
colonial-period-in-the-philippines/

Lynch, K., & Hack, G. (1984). Site planning. MIT Press.

(n.d.). Retrieved from Digital Blue Foam:

https://www.digitalbluefoam.com/questions-answer/what-are-the-stages-of-
site-planning

Dutta, A. J. (2023, January 21). Book Review: Site Planning By Kevin Lynch.
Urban Design lab. Retrieved February 9, 2024, from
https://urbandesignlab.in/book-review-site-planning-kevin-lynch/

Anonymous (2018). Architectural Site Analysis

Frisco (2015). Understanding the Architects Design Phases: Schematic

Design;

Design Development; Construction Documents

Karp (1969). Architectural Programming: Problem Definition and its

relationtoDesign Process

Mishra (2020). Construction Site Planning

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