TABLE OF CONTENTS Conceptual design represents the initial effort of describing alternative plans that satisfy the development program goals and objectives in light of the previously identified site characteristics. It requires full recognition of the client program components, initial site assessment, site context, and planning and regulatory controls.
Sketches, functional diagrams, or concept plans illustrate a framework for the given development program. They diagram the potential distribution of land uses and major circulation requirements. The effort melds all pertinent comprehensive or master planning information with site-specific considerations to illustrate how the site might best be developed. For large-scale development, this initial cut at the design effort is often accomplished in what are termed blob or bubble diagrams. The intent is focused less on sophisticated graphic technique and more on fostering dialogue, a preliminary review and assessment, and confirmation of design direction among the design team participants. Concept plans are reviewed in the context of their preliminary implications on infrastructure requirements and environmental impacts as well as economic, functional, and political feasibility. This phase, similar to the more subjective assessment included in the initial feasibility and site analysis steps, moves from the review of general intent to actual physical diagramming of use arrangements. This level of conceptualization is generally completed prior to the investment of resources and time, resolving more detailed levels of design.
Given there are generally multiple solutions for the design of any one site, it is...
