Weston Middle School
Technology/Engineering Course Materials
Buildings do not exist in isolation, but as part of a larger environment, both natural and man-made.
Major issues affecting property value include location, location, and location-- Weston is valuable because it maintains a rural ambiance yet is 15 minutes from Boston by the Mass Turnpike.
Natural factors affecting buildings include sun( south side gets more sunlight), wind, trees
Man-made issues include other buildings- how does the new structure relate to the surrounding buildings?
Good urban/suburban neighborhood design has buildings which vary, but within limits of height, setback, style.
In 19th century, houses all had porches or front stoops- were oriented towards the street.
In late 20th and 21st century, houses are oriented towards the back.
Use Google Earth to examine neighborhoods:
Architects use site models to express how a neighborhood will look.
Activity: Construct a site model of a neighbood or development using foam blocks, etc.- draw street, house locations, compass.