d4.1 COOPERATING with TOPOGRAPHY
Harmonizing with the topographical conditions on a site does have an attractive romantic facet to it. It also has a serious practical problem solving side. Fighting topography is riddled with complications and cost.
d4.2 APPROACH AWARENESS
The approach to a home site from a perimeter position often has choices. Outlined are a handful of specific considerations.
d4.3 DRAINAGE
Water, where it is not wanted, is maybe the biggest and most costly homeowner headache of all time. Problems all start with poor water management on site. Fortunately it can be managed.
d4.4 RESPONDING to VIEWS
Responding to views hopefully involves capturing the grand vista. It also may include blocking views, managing views, and even creating your own views.
d4.5 USING the SUN
Understanding the basics of the way we revolve around the sun and how that creates a predictable ‘path’ is a first step. Only then is considering the many design options based on sun orientation is possible.
d4.6 USING the SUN – PASSIVE SOLAR
Passive solar is one of those design options. It is potent concept, but has a set of rules – and must deal with mother natures moods.
d4.7 USING the SUN – ACTIVE SOLAR
This more predictable yet potent sun based design option refers to photovoltaic energy capture. This adventure is more technology based, and has its own specific sets of rules and conditions.
d4.8 VEGETATION
Vegetation on site, from anything considered ground cover, to any majestic trees, need to be either carefully managed, and or carefully replaced. It all has an aesthetic and practical job to perform.
d4.9 CONSIDERING IT ALL …
Considering all these site factors and how they interplay with the home design is a little intimidating. If one breaks these down one at a time, digests the situation, and can prioritize outcomes, the better decisions will rise to the top.