Recently, I wrote a blog post on the EVstudio website that discussed the philosophy in designing a streetscape. The blog post was titled “The Urban Streetscape Process.” In writing it, I wanted to emphasize the importance of designing in context. This includes not only the architectural aspects of the streetscape, but historical elements and of course as it fits the climate conditions of the streetscape. The climate conditions are not only looked at on the macro scale, with temperature, wind, etc. considered but also on the micro-climate of a streetscape. The variables of the automobile and the use of sand and salt in colder climates are crucial elements to the success of a streetscape. The following is a related excerpt from the blog post:
We measure the success of the streetscape by the success of the uses alongside the streetscape. The avant-garde streetscape is one that you will not see from EVstudio. The avant-garde, or Peacock Streetscape, is a distraction and can be a potential detriment to the adjacent uses. Context sensitivity is crucial. It is our experience that when the function of the streetscape is the top priority, the constraints of the utilitarian needs often become tremendous opportunities for great design.
The elements of the Main Street Garage Streetscape in Downtown Pueblo are context-based and are not intended to be a Peacock Streetscape. Photo courtesy of John Olson.