URDANETA CITY UNIVERSITY

College of Engineering and Architecture

DEPARTMENT OF ARCHITECTURE

SYLLABUS IN PLANNING1

I. Course Title : Planning 1 (Site Planning and Landscape Architecture)

II. Course Description : The artistic and functional arrangement of buildings, open spaces, service
areas, circulation and other external areas; techniques in the enhancement and design
of exterior environments.

III. Course Credit : 3 units (3 Lecture hours per week)

IV. Pre-requisite : 3rd year standing

V. Course General Objectives :

The student will be able to:

Cognitive:
1) explain the art of site planning & landscape architecture, exposition on their principles and
methods of construction
2) describe the ecological, social, psychological, aesthetic, and functional basis of site
planning and landscape design
3) relate the social issues & implications of site planning
4) relate history and planning theories to ecology and sustainable development
5) translate the user’s needs with technology based solutions to functional and aesthetically
appealing spaces.
6) compose and illustrate architectural concepts & principles from a given problem

Psychomotor:
1) design and develop plans and details as per requirements.
2) use various presentation techniques appealing and easily interpreted in the professional
environment.
3) display effective communication skills.
4) apply current architectural trends with the solutions and presentations.

Affective:
1) complete the requirements and display interest and acceptance on the challenges posted by a
multi-tasking activity.
2) participate and cooperate effectively amongst the groups of people with diverse
background.
3) recognize the importance in abiding the building laws and policies by applying them in his/her
design.
4) demonstrate the value of sharing one’s ideas to improve others’ design approach and
concepts.
5) show humility in accepting his/her mistakes in the expected output.
6) demonstrate willingness to improve in his/her work.
VI. Course Outline (Content)
A. SITE PLANNING IN HISTORY
 Historical References
 Environmental Ethics
 The Site Planning Process
B. ENVIRONMENTAL INVENTORY AND ASSESSMENT
 Mapping: The Method of Inventory
 Geology and Soils
 Vegetation
 Hydrology
 Climate and Site

PRELIMINARY EXAMINATION

C. THE SITE IN CHANGE

 Earthworks: Shaping the Site
 Grading
 Retaining Walls
 Topography and Surveys
 Storm Water Management and Erosion Control
D. STREETSCAPE AND SITE IMPROVEMENTS
 Streets and Roads
 Parking
 Pedestrian and Bicycle Circulation
 The Building and Energy
 Land Use Controls

MIDTERM EXAMINATION

E. LANDSCAPE CHARACTER
 The Natural Landscape
 The Built Environment
F. LANDSCAPE PLANTING
 Purpose of Landscape Planting
 Process of Landscape Planting
 Guidelines in Landscape Planting
G. VISIBLE LANDSCAPE
 The View
 The Vista
 The Axis
 The Symmetrical Plan
 The Asymmetrical Plan
 Visual Resource Management
H. THE REGIONAL LANDSCAPE
 Regional Form
 Open-space Frame
 Greenways and Blueways
 Regional Planning
I. THE PLANNED ENVIRONMENT
 Philosophic Orientation
 A New Planning Order

FINAL EXAMINATION
VII. Course Requirements
1) 3 Quizzes
2) 3 Research Papers
3) 3 Projects
4) 3 Major Examinations

VIII. Grading System (Lecture)

Class Standing (Quizzes, Research Papers &

Projects) – 60% TOTAL (100%)
Major Exams (Prelim, Midterm, and Final
Examination) – 40%

Passing Raw Score (75%) – LECTURE subject

IX. TEXT/REFERENCES

 Booth, Norman K.: Basic Elements of Landscape Architectural Design

 Brooks, Gene R. Site Planning: Environment, Process, and Development, 1988
 De Chiara & Koppelman: Site Planning Standards
 CW Harris/Dines, Nicholas T. & Brown, Kyle D. Time-Saver Standards for Landscape
Architecture, 2001
  Lagro, James A. Site Analysis: linking program and concept in land planning and design, 2001
 Minson, Albe E. : Construction Design for Landscape Architects
 Russ, Thomas H.: Site Planning and Design Handbook, 2001
 Root, James B.: Fundamentals of Landscaping and Site Planning
 Simonds, John Ormsbee. Landscape Architecture
 Steiner, Frederick The living landscape: an ecological approach to landscape planning, 2000

Magazines/Subscriptions

Architecture Asia/Futurarc
Architectural Digest
Architectural Record Bluprint

URDANETA CITY UNIVERSITY

COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND ARCHITECTURE
ARCHITECTURE DEPT.
PLANNING - 01
AR. RAYMUND S. DULLA, UAP, MMENP
LECTURE 01 : (NOTES)

I. Site Planning: Definition and Significance

A. Definition of Site Planning
1. Site Planning in General:
 Site planning is a multidisciplinary approach that involves the systematic organization of physical and
cultural elements on a piece of land to achieve a specific purpose or set of objectives.
 It encompasses a wide range of considerations, including spatial relationships, environmental impact,
cultural context, and sustainability.
2. Components of Site Planning:
 Site planning involves analyzing and understanding the characteristics of a site, considering its
topography, climate, vegetation, and existing infrastructure.
 It includes the design of outdoor spaces, placement of buildings, infrastructure, and the overall
organization of the site to create a functional, aesthetically pleasing, and sustainable environment.

B. Significance of Site Planning

1. Holistic Approach:
 Site planning takes a holistic approach, considering not only the physical attributes of the site but also its
cultural, historical, and environmental context.
 It involves a balance between human needs, natural elements, and the existing built environment.
2. Optimizing Land Use:
 Efficient use of available space is a key goal in site planning. It involves maximizing the functionality
and usability of the land while minimizing environmental impact.
3. Environmental Sustainability:
 Sustainable site planning focuses on minimizing the ecological footprint of developments. It includes
strategies for energy efficiency, water conservation, green space integration, and the use of eco-friendly
materials.
4. Cultural and Aesthetic Considerations:
 Site planning considers the cultural and historical context of a location. It aims to preserve and integrate
elements that contribute to the identity and character of the site.
 Aesthetic considerations are essential to create visually pleasing and harmonious environments.
5. Community Engagement:
 Successful site planning involves engaging with the local community. Understanding the needs,
preferences, and cultural values of the community ensures that the design is responsive and reflective of
the local context.

SITE PLANNING IN PD 1096 & RA9266

The National Building Code of the Philippines (PD 1096) does not explicitly provide a standalone definition for "site
planning." Instead, the code includes various provisions and requirements related to site development, planning,
and design. Site planning, in the context of the National Building Code of the Philippines, encompasses a range of
considerations aimed at achieving a harmonious, safe, and functional built environment. Here are key aspects
related to site planning as outlined in the National Building Code:
Zoning and Land Use (Chapter 2, Section 301):
The code specifies the classification of land uses and zoning regulations, emphasizing the orderly development of
urban and rural areas.
Site planning must align with zoning provisions to ensure that structures are appropriately located based on the
designated land use.

Location of Structures (Chapter 3, Section 401):

This section provides requirements for the location of structures on a lot, including setback distances from property
lines and public ways.
Site planning involves determining the proper placement of buildings on a property to comply with these setback
requirements.

Architectural Character and Aesthetics (Chapter 3, Section 401):

The code encourages site planning that considers architectural character, aesthetics, and the preservation of scenic
views.
Design elements should contribute to the visual quality of the environment, promoting a well-planned and
aesthetically pleasing community.

Open Spaces and Courts (Chapter 4, Section 402):

Requirements for open spaces, courts, and yards are outlined to ensure adequate light, ventilation, and open areas
around structures.
Site planning involves allocating spaces for landscaping, open courtyards, and other outdoor elements to enhance the
quality of the environment.

Parking and Loading Spaces (Chapter 8, Section 803):

The code specifies requirements for parking and loading spaces based on the type and use of structures.
Site planning includes the provision of adequate parking facilities, considering the size and nature of the
development.

Utilities and Services (Chapter 10, Section 1004):

Site planning involves the proper location and provision of utilities such as water supply, sewage, and drainage
systems.
Compliance with utility standards ensures the functionality and safety of the development.

Environmental Impact Assessment (Chapter 9, Section 902):

While the National Building Code does not explicitly mandate Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA), other laws
in the Philippines (e.g., PD 1586) require assessments for projects that may have environmental impacts.
Site planning, in compliance with these laws, may include considerations for environmental preservation and
sustainability.
Site Planning in the Context of RA 9266:

Professional Duties (Section 20):

RA 9266 outlines the general duties of architects, which include the preparation and management of
comprehensive plans involving the arrangement of physical components in the environment.
Architects are responsible for site planning that considers the functionality, safety, and aesthetics of the built
environment.

Site Analysis and Evaluation (Section 21):

Architects are tasked with conducting a comprehensive site analysis and evaluation, taking into account
various factors such as topography, climate, and existing structures.
The analysis forms the basis for informed decisions in the site planning process.

Integration of Environmentally Sustainable Designs (Section 23):

The Act emphasizes the integration of environmentally sustainable designs in architectural practice.
 Site planning, as part of this process, involves considerations for environmental impact and sustainability.

Client Consultation and Collaboration (Section 26):

Architects are required to consult with the client and other professionals involved in the project, ensuring
that the site planning aligns with the client's needs, preferences, and legal requirements.

Compliance with Laws and Regulations (Section 28):

Architects must ensure that their work, including site planning, complies with relevant laws, codes, and
regulations.
This includes adherence to zoning ordinances, environmental impact assessment requirements, and other
legal considerations.

While RA 9266 does not provide a standalone definition of site planning, it establishes a framework for
architects to engage in comprehensive planning that inherently involves considerations related to site
planning. Architects, guided by the provisions of RA 9266, play a vital role in the systematic
organization and arrangement of physical elements on a site to meet the needs of clients, adhere to legal
standards, and contribute to the overall quality of the built environment.

II. Historical References in Site Planning

A. Pre-Colonial Influences:
1. Indigenous communities had a profound understanding of their local environments, resulting in
settlements that were harmoniously integrated with nature.
2. Traditional houses like the Bahay Kubo reflected sustainable design principles, with raised structures
for ventilation, thatched roofs, and open layouts.
B. Colonial and Post-Colonial Periods:
1. Spanish colonial towns, exemplified by Intramuros in Manila, followed planned urban layouts with
central plazas, gridiron street patterns, and prominent religious structures.
2. The American period introduced changes in urban planning, including the adoption of gridiron street
patterns in some areas.

C. Post-Independence and Modernization:

1. Rapid urbanization post-independence led to challenges in site planning, with some developments
neglecting historical, cultural, and environmental considerations.
2. Contemporary trends aim to integrate modern architecture with sustainable and culturally sensitive
site planning practices.

III. Environmental Ethics in Site Planning

A. Cultural and Environmental Connection:
1. Traditional sites with cultural significance were often treated with reverence, emphasizing the
interconnectedness between culture and the environment.
2. Preservation of natural features, sacred landscapes, and sustainable practices were integral to
indigenous environmental ethics.
B. Sustainable Practices in Site Planning:
1. Traditional designs leveraged natural elements for ventilation, lighting, and water management.
2. Contemporary site planning embraces eco-friendly solutions, focusing on energy-efficient
technologies, water conservation, and the integration of green spaces.
C. Challenges and Opportunities:
1. Rapid urbanization and industrialization posed threats to environmental sustainability.
2. Site planning provides opportunities for architects and planners to integrate sustainable and eco-friendly
solutions, balancing modernization with cultural and environmental sensitivity.
IV. The Site Planning Process
A. Understanding the Site:
1. Importance of analyzing local topography, climate, and existing conditions.
2. Adaptation of designs to suit the natural environment and cultural context.
 B. Site Analysis and Assessment:
1. Ecological impact assessments evaluate the environmental impact of construction projects.
2. Cultural and historical assessments consider the significance of the site and its surroundings.
C. Community Engagement:
1. Involving the local community in the planning process.
2. Gathering input for culturally sensitive and community-supported designs.
D. Sustainable Design Principles:
1. Integrating energy-efficient technologies into site planning.
2. Incorporating green spaces, preserving existing vegetation, and promoting sustainable construction
practices.
V. Conclusion
A. Summary:
1. Site planning is a holistic and multidisciplinary approach that involves the organized arrangement of
physical and cultural elements on a piece of land.
2. It encompasses historical, environmental, and ethical considerations to create functional, sustainable, and
culturally sensitive environments.

B. Future Considerations:
1. Innovations in sustainable site planning, exploring new technologies and strategies.
2. Education and awareness initiatives to promote the integration of historical, environmental, and ethical
considerations in future designs.

C. Discussion:
 Open the floor for questions and discussions, encouraging participants to share insights on site planning practices,
challenges, and opportunities, particularly in the context of the Philippines.