A good master plan lays down the armature for any proposed multi-building development and is particularly important where there are inherent functional, circulation and site planning complexities. The master plan enables strategic decisions about building and element locations to be made yet provides for flexibility and changes of direction as development proceeds.
Beca Architects have developed a simple three stage methodology which has previously provided good outcomes for our clients. They are:
- Gathering information - the study and analysis of relevant data about the site, existing buildings and infrastructure, topographical issues and planning constraints.
- Consultation – intensive discussion with key stakeholders to identify prevailing philosophies, wish lists, ideas, conflicts and patterns which will inform the actual master plan.
- The Master plan – the development of concept options which identify and respond to the inputs from the preceding stages. Once the master plan is completed it becomes a living document which can (and should) be periodically updated to incorporate new directions or circumstances.