Site Planning

Start on the right foot

Site planning

At its core, site planning determines how a construction project will be situated on a given plot of land. It ensures the optimal arrangement of buildings, parking areas, landscapes, utilities, and other site-specific features. Conducted during the preconstruction phase, it sets the tone for the entire project, ensuring that it stays on the right trajectory. 

What does site planning entail?

Site planning encompasses the entire property or plot of land where the project will be located. 

Think of it as a detailed roadmap that plots out the arrangement of buildings, landscapes, utilities, and more on a chosen piece of land. This goes beyond spatial considerations. It involves discussing accessibility requirements, gauging environmental impact, and ensuring strict compliance with local regulations. 

By having a strong planning foundation in place, projects can anticipate and tackle potential challenges to save time and money, streamline workflows, and foster seamless coordination between architects, contractors, and other stakeholders. 

Key elements of site planning

Site Analysis

 A deep dive into the plot of land, understanding its nuances, opportunities, and limitations. Consider constraints, such as existing structures or easements, and evaluate conditions from topography to soil types.

Accessibility & Circulation

The site must cater to both pedestrians and vehicles, while also blending with broader public transportation networks. This includes crafting logical entry and exit points. 

Utilities & Infrastructure

It’s important to map out existing connections, such as water and electricity, and to plan ahead for future utility needs. 

Landscaping & Environment

This means incorporating the natural beauty of green and adopting eco-friendly designs and practices. 

Zoning & Regulatory Compliance

Adherence to local zoning laws and securing all requisite permits ensure the project remains compliant with legal frameworks. 

Tools & techniques

Today’s site planners are armed with an arsenal of sophisticated tools and techniques. Digital platforms like GIS (Geographical Information Systems) allow for in-depth mapping and analysis of site characteristics. BIM (Building Information Modeling) revolutionizes construction visualization with its 3D capabilities. Drones offer a fresh perspective, providing aerial imagery and real-time site data, while stakeholder workshops champion a collaborative approach, valuing insights from every involved party. 

Latest news & trends

Industry insights

Google Unveils First Look At Its Plans For Chicago’s Thompson Center
By Ryan Wangman for BizNow Google released new renderings and details...
Plan For World’s Largest Data Center Hub Approved After 27-Hour Hearing
By Dan Rabb for BizNow Lawmakers in Prince William County, Virginia, have...
Whitestone Rejects Stockholder Proposal To Sell Or Liquidate Company
By Dees Stribling for BizNow Retail REIT Whitestone rejected a recent proposal by...
Beverly Hills Could See 17-Story Project Thanks to CA ‘Builder’s Remedy’ Rule
The provision allows projects to bypass local zoning rules if...
The Ace Hotel DTLA Will Cease Operations In Early 2024
By Bianca Barragán for Biznow The Ace Hotel DTLA will...

We turn your vision

into a reality

Let SCG handle the complexities of your project, from site evaluation to design and construction.

Hero Contact
Construction Project Management
We're Proud to Announce That We're

No. 307

on the Annual Inc. 5000 List!