:: The Blurst of Times ::

:: 2.03.2005 ::

Some Thoughts on Downtown Buffering and Interface Zones. Or: What I Think About in My Free Time.

Incremental Transition

Implies that there is some sort of transect - a progression of density or form as one moves through the urban area.

The buffer can be based on set geographic boundaries - allow streets to divide areas of density / height / form.

The buffer can be based on the proportions of adjacent building properties - at any point within the buffer, density / height / form limits are based on the existing or proposed buildings surrounding the site.

No matter what boundaries are formed - urban core, buffer edges, single family development, etc - there must be ways to shift the boundaries to accommodate growth.


Purpose of the Interface Zone

Provide amenities that would not be found (due to height / density / form restrictions) in the urban core or in residential development.

Provide a transition from one area to another. Avoid uncomfortable and abrupt changes in character and texture of urban space.

Create paths that link spaces of different use. Draw the visitor from one area to the next with a seamless progression of form and use.


Aspects of Interface Zone

Approach - If we regard the downtown area as a destination, then the surrounding area is the approach. Is it a straight shot into downtown? Will the path curve? Can the both destination and path be clearly visible? Just the destination? Just the path? Will there be hidden approaches and path options?

Entrance - If the destination is the downtown area and the buffer zone is the approach, then at some point there will be an entrance. Will it be subtle or pronouncing? Will it mark a departure from the surrounding character or blend seamlessly?

Visual Hierarchy - Architectural dominance, way-finding, increased character of the urban setting, and increase density potential and commercial opportunity.

Transect - How the character of the urban spaces gradually change as one moves closer to the urban core. Every aspect of development has the potential to speak toward the level of urban-ness in a space. The gradual and progressive nature of the transect will allow for seamless development. Characteristics - streetscape, frontage, entry and access, facade, etc.

Open space - as the buffer becomes more urban, the placement and character of green sapce will also change to be more fitting of the urban setting.

Vehicular Circulation - the given character of the urban core is of greater density - more people in less space. Less space means that vehicles become more cumbersome to use and store in this area. The primary circulation routes will progress with the urban transition to become more pedestrian oriented and of a smaller scale. Street width and scale of buildings to street width. A possible ideal use for the interface zone transition is a place to leave the car when entering the downtown and pick it up on the way out - it’s like a coat check for your Volvo.


Key Points

Growth will occur. How can it be handled by the urban core and surrounding buffer area? One of two ways:

1. Establish a geographically set urban core and buffer area. Essentially, the Boulder approach were they have frozen the city limits. Thus, the only way to grow is up. As growth needs to occur, increase maximum building heights / forms / FAR’s / density in each region. With horizontal limits frozen, vertical limits must be allowed to grow.

2. Establish an optimum density / height in the urban core. Allow the core area to spread as growth demands, gradually expanding the urban core area into areas previously reserved for the interface zone. Also allow the interface area to expand outward in order to maintain the buffer between the urban core and areas of less density.

:: Freddy F. at 1:01 AM [+] ::

Comments:

My philosophy has always been, Build Up. Not out.

Not sure how many people agree with that, but I like the idea.

# posted by  Stephanie : 8:47 AM

 

That is a great thing that you can share your wealth vocabulary and expand our breadth of urban design. It is even greater the way you spend your time; watching great movies with and learning something from much that you do. Your getting closer to action. Can you hear the bullets yet?

# posted by  Polaris : 10:21 PM

 

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