Site Analysis

Site Selection and Analysis | Architectural Thesis

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Site Analysis for Construction

Site Analysis is very important before we initiate our construction. Detailed study of site and its surroundings will help justify our design proposal. Detailed study of the site and surrounding areas of the site helps in designing the project efficiently.

Site Selection

A site is selected on the basis of the demand of the construction

An already existing site is taken, is analyzed and the kind of project to be proposed on that particular site is decided.

An empty site to be analyzed for construction
An empty site to be analyzed for construction

New Trend: Environmental Friendly or Green Building Construction

When analyzing the site, we also have to consider the impact of the structure on the surrounding environment. If the proposed structure would have any negative impact on the environment. In one of our earlier articles, we have discussed “Site selection” and “Site Analysis” with respect to the environmental impact.

Check it out:

Selection of a suitable site | Environmental Sustainability

Site Analysis and Development

Here are some of the steps to be followed for Site Analysis:

Google Maps

Locate your site on the google maps.

It will give you an idea of the:

Site contours

The connectivity to the main road and other sub roads

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Guide to Site Documentation and Site Analysis

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Site Documentation and Analysis | Green Infrastructure Design

Involve connectivities (Airport, Bus stop, study of roads, road widening, Bus service, train service etc)

Site and surroundings

Three important aspects are to be considered while analysing the surroundings of the site.

  1. Zoning (Agricultural, Industrial, residential, commercial , recreational etc)
  2. Neighbourhood Analysis
  3. Natural elements present in the site surroundings (Vegetation, rocks, river etc)

Analysis of Services in and around site

  1. Electricity lines
  2. Drainage lines
  3. Telephone lines
  4. Cable lines
  5. Postal services

Contour Analysis is very important for efficient site planning. Contour Analysis helps in determining the slope of the site which proves to be an important factor for site planning.

Recording the flora fauna, soil subsoil, underground water, above ground

Important requirements to be incorporated while site planning | Green Infrastructure

Active, Semi-active and Passive features are to be listed out which we can incorporate into our design.

We have already discussed various Passive and Active features regarding Green Architecture. All these features have to be studied, analysed on site if they exist and then should be incorporated into your design.

Design and allocation of Active and Passive features is an important part of Zoning.

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Site Analysis and Development | Principles of Green Architecture

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Site Analysis and Site Development | Siting and Structure Design Efficiency

Site Analysis is followed by Site Development. Site Development can be efficient only if the Site Analysis is done correctly and accurately.

In our earlier article, we discussed the first part of “The Siting and Structure Design Efficiency” that is “Selection of a suitable site“. In this article, we will discuss how Site Analysis and Site Development (in other words “Site planning“) help in achieving the goal for a sustainable environment.

Site in Pochampalli
Site in Pochampalli

Site Analysis

Once we are done with the selection of the Building site, get the entire survey of the site. The topography of the site and the natural features present on the site are to be studied.

A better and efficient way of utilizing the site’s natural elements have to be figured out.

For examples, the existing landscaping which would include tall or shady trees or bushes can be efficiently merged with the building design to serve a purpose.

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Site Planning for Architecture Students | A Complete Beginner’s Guide

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An Ultimate Guide to Site Planning for Architecture Students, Design Enthusiasts as well as Architects

Site Planning: An Essential Guide for Architecture Students

P.S: Article updated on 29th March 2025

Site planning is one of the most crucial—yet often underestimated—aspects of architectural design. Before a single brick is laid or a line is drawn on a blueprint, the site must be understood, respected, and shaped. For architecture students, learning how to analyse and plan a site is fundamental. It bridges the gap between theoretical design and practical implementation, grounding creative vision in the real-world complexities of land, nature, and human use.

What is Site Planning?

At its core, site planning is the process of arranging buildings and structures on a piece of land, along with shaping the open spaces between them. It is an art as much as it is a science, blending architectural creativity with urban planning logic. A site plan doesn’t just tell you where things go—it tells a story of space, movement, interaction, and context.

Whether the site involves a single house, a group of buildings, or an entire neighbourhood, a well-thought-out site plan ensures the environment enhances, rather than limits, the design. Good site planning considers environmental, cultural, and infrastructural factors to produce a plan that is contextually appropriate, functional, and aesthetically pleasing.

Before and after Site Planning

The Importance of Site Planning in Architecture

For architecture students, understanding site planning is not just a box to tick. It is a foundational skill that will influence every project they work on. It affects:

  • Building orientation and solar access
  • Integration with the natural landscape
  • Accessibility and movement
  • Energy efficiency and sustainability
  • Quality of life for occupants and users

Ignoring site factors can lead to designs that are uncomfortable, inefficient, or even unbuildable. Conversely, designs that grow organically from the site often feel more harmonious and enduring.

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