GENERAL DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
DG 1110-3-112 May 1979
3-3 SITE DEVELOPMENT (cont'd)
rule of thumb, the maximum recommended coverage of the site by the building is 40 percent. Optimum
coverage is generally considered to be about 30 percent. Allowances for future expansion should also
be considered.
(2) Soil Characteristics and Drainage. The organic composition and drainage characteristics of the
soil is important to the design of building foundations and the economy of construction, as well as to
the landscaping of the site. The drainage characteristics and compressive bearing strength of the soil
are critical in foundation design and must be determined in accordance with TM 5-818-1, Procedures
for Foundation Design of Buildings and other Structures. The determination of soil drainage
characteristics will also include assessing the effects of the proposed building and its adjacent paved
areas on the ground water level. Overlot grading must be established to provide positive drainage of
the entire site away from the building and outside facilities. Grading should be designed for optimum
preservation for existing ground forms and drainage patterns.
(3) Vegetation and Tree Coverage. Existing vegetation and trees should be preserved in their
natural setting to the greatest extent possible consistent with functional requirements. This can help
reduce the environmental affects of wind and sun, as well as the requirement for landscape planting
and temporary erosion controls.
(4) Climatic Conditions. Skillful utilization of natural environmental controls can significantly
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increase building utility and efficiency.
(a) Wind. Structures affect air movement. They block or divert winds or channel them through
narrow openings. Normally, the entrance should face away from the prevailing winds, or should be
shielded by vegetation or part of the building. Features should be placed on the site so as to control
wind-blown trash or snow, and aid in dispersal of emissions (smoke, fumes, dust).
(b) Sun. Solar controls should be planned to help achieve maximum energy savings. External
shading devices are the most effective means of solar shading. Deciduous trees can provide shade in
summer and penetration of sunlight in the winter.
(5) Exterior Utilities. Utility support systems must be carefully analyzed with respect to location,
connection into the building and subsequent operation and maintenance. Utility areas, such as for
transformers, utility connections, etc., shall be screened by use of plantings, land forms, or
architectural screens to blend with the surroundings.
(6) Relationship to Other Buildings. The ACES Center will have been located during the planning
process so as to establish some relationship to other community-type facilities. Subsequently, the site
must be arranged to develop the relationship between the ACES Center and any existing spaces being
used as well as the main library and service facilities such as the exchange, commissary, etc.
3-3
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