Architecture Site Planning and Urban Design

Question 1

What is a setback in site planning?

Accepted Answer

The required minimum distance between a building and a property line or street right-of-way

Answer

A setback is the minimum required distance between a building or structure and a property line, street, or other feature, as specified by zoning regulations.

Question 2

What is floor area ratio (FAR)?

Accepted Answer

The ratio of total building floor area to the site area, controlling overall development density

Answer

Floor Area Ratio (FAR) is the total building floor area divided by the lot area; a higher FAR means more building density is allowed on the site.

Question 3

What is site drainage and why is it important in architectural site planning?

Accepted Answer

Managing stormwater runoff through grading and drainage infrastructure to prevent flooding and erosion

Answer

Site drainage manages stormwater through careful grading, swales, inlets, and underground systems to prevent flooding, erosion, and water infiltration into buildings.

Question 4

In urban design, what is the 'five-minute walk' or quarter-mile radius concept?

Accepted Answer

A walkability planning principle defining comfortable pedestrian distance to transit or amenities

Answer

The quarter-mile (approximately 5-minute walk) radius is a foundational walkability concept in urban design, representing the comfortable maximum walking distance to transit stops and daily amenities.

Question 5

What is a topographic survey used for in site design?

Accepted Answer

Mapping existing ground elevations to understand site contours and inform grading design

Answer

A topographic survey maps existing ground elevations and contours, providing essential data for site grading, drainage design, and building placement.

Architecture Practice Test

Architecture Practice Test

Architecture Site Planning and Urban Design