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To solve for a common goal such that disparate and conflicting parts, intentions, and needs coalesce, in concert with local context, by-laws and values, for results that are safe, highly functional, durable, beautiful, within budget, and on time. If it can be unique and engaging, all the better.
Basic Considerations:
David Bartsch Landscape Architecture conducts thorough site analyses of existing conditions on a site before beginning design. As Landscape Architects we manipulate any aspect of a property and implement large or small structural changes to create a unique environment specific to a client's needs and wishes.
The following issues are fully explored during the Site Analysis and Design phases of a project: |
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Site Orientation, Sun angles, Shading, and Temperature ControlWinter sun and summer shade are assets of any space we inhabit, either inside or outside, to such a degree that we often take their value for granted. Those spaces that can afford summer sun in the morning, shade in the afternoon and full sun all winter will inevitably succeed better than most. Sparks Avenue Roundabout, Nantucket |
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Slopes and Landforms - Hazards and OpportunitiesUse of walls, terraces, slopes, depressions and other landforms will provide visual interest, lasting durability, and a greater range of functions. Awareness of hazards will afford protection through proper planning. On this project we integrated a public park into a 40' change in elevation using earth, catwalks over running water, and linear vegetation. Parc Diderot, Paris La Defense: Atelier Allain Provost. |
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VegetationExisting and proposed vegetation are combined to give color, shade, texture, rhythm, scents, screening, bird and wildlife habitat, wind block, sculptural amenities, and form spaces by their placement. Jardin Noir, Parc Citroen-Cevennes, Paris: Atelier Allain Provost. |
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Water Features and Depth to Water TableThe effects of water can be a great detriment or a wonderful asset to a site’s character. Pools, access to ponds and the ocean, fountains and irrigation enhance any project. Head of the harbor, Nantucket |
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Existing StructuresBuildings, walls, decks, pergolas, arbors and gazebos can be integrated or adjusted to create a harmonious composition of new structures with existing ones, to ensure a project that stands the test of time. BCC Master Plan, 2010 |
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Soil Bearing CapacitySoil classification and depth to bedrock are basic structural considerations for any construction. Soils should be analyzed and categorized for adequate understanding of its capacities for stability, absorption, and change. |
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Prevailing WindsIf taken into account through master planning by a landscape architect, structures and landscape elements can be oriented before they are built to take full advantage of cooling breezes, or to be buffeted and protected from harsh winds. |
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Adjacent Sources of NoiseNoise abatement can be achieved through vegetative filters, consideration of winds, fencing, walls, buildings, earthen berms, and 'white' noise. |
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Wildlife Habitat, Migration PatternsLegal, environmental and cultural issues influence the location of site improvements. In today’s regulatory environment, having the right team of experts on your side can make or break a project. Bio-swale retention basin, B&R 2010 |
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ViewsWe focus on views to be enhanced and those to be obscured. To frame vistas, to block unsavory sights, to provide hints and mystery, to make objects appear further away or closer to the viewer… these are some of the devices we use to improve any project. Organized views provide structure and meaning to the landscape. Medici Fountain, Luxembourg Gardens, Paris, 1630: Marie de Medici |
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Integration of Indoor and Outdoor SpacesWe create spaces defined by your needs. Should spaces be large or small? Intimate or public? Broad and varied or specific in use and aesthetic? Distinction between uses will provide greater interest and will make a property feel larger. Coordination between interiors and outdoors is critical to a strong site composition. Indoor and Outdoor spaces should be integrated. We specialize in translating classic spaces and materials into site-specific proportions and uses. The Cloister at Mont St. Michel, Normandy, France, 11th - 12th c. |
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Sequence and TransitionsPrivate, semiprivate and public spaces should each have their own character. The point where they meet and how they interact should be very clear and well detailed. Both intimate and expansive spaces can contribute to a diverse and captivating property. Borders, gateways, views, and paths provide limited access or an open welcome. Fences, walls, berms, hedges, fabric screens, gutters, steps, and bollards all help to control vehicles and pedestrians, direct views, and stimulate interest and discovery. A well-defined allée or pathway can frame a sculptural element, it can guide transition through to another space, and it can have character of its own. Grande Allee, Central Park, NYC: F.L. Olmsted |
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