Physical Environment

This physical environment group focuses on a number of topics. First of all, we study the Transportation Networks of the site from the regional standpoint to the local context figuring out different traffic corridors for different modes and their potential volumes. This is then followed by a Figure-Ground Analysis of LoDo that points out developed and under-developed/ developing areas. Next we look at underground utilities based on the DUS Existing Utilities map (Dec, 2005). Storm water is our major focus and we also identify its requirements, according to Denver Storm Drainage Master Plan, in Acre ft in terms of 5 year storm, 10 year storm and 100 year storm in order to avoid flooding in the area. We also pay attention to a storm-water study previously conducted by another Studio class from UCD.

After that Complementary Parks and Open Space, Water features, Flower gardens and their associated activities especially in the one mile radius are pointed out. The important aspect here is to see what is already available and how effective its use is and most importantly how to develop it farther. In addition, character of different buildings in the area is described. This is to look at different architectural context in the surrounding areas in three time frames: historical, modern and future. We also turn our attention to Views focusing on the site and looking from different view angles to test the view effect of the two new public plazas using our concept models (See Fig.1).



Fig.1. View Study- DUS Eastern views with out the two plazas

We spend a considerable amount of time on climate, wind and sunshade. The climate and wind will also affect different activities that the plazas will hold. Our sunshade study is carried out by Sketchup capability based on summer and winter solstices at different times of the day (See Fig.2).



Fig.2. DUS -Summer Solstice – 5pm – Sunshade study

We also study the topography, bicycle access, symmetry, flow and material of the area and the site. The overall feeling that we have for the exterior site is too much asphalt with close to no vegetation. The materials inside of the historic building are also considered as well as the future materials of the whole site. In terms of connectivity, we focus on the master plan update in December 2007. The latest plan shows that light rail is at grade a long the CML while the bus element is underground connecting the light rail piece with the now at grade commuter rail. Pedestrians can crossover the at grade commuter rail tracts on the 18th street and no vehicular traffic from Wynkoop to Wewatta. Automobiles, mall shuttle and pedestrians can move through 16th Street from Wynkoop to Chesnut. In addition, the downtown circulator goes underground at 18th street and circulates the bus tunnel.
Furthermore, we look at scale of the site and its requirements, also space syntax and site measurements. We consider different circulation modes below grade, at grade and at deck level.  Finally, we look at different case studies to compare and contrast this DUS site to other existing developments. We look at Santa Ana Plaza in Madrid, Mallory Square in Florida and Pioneer Courthouse Square.