Site Design

Klepper, Hahn & Hyatt has a variety of design capabilities that allow us to serve clients with diverse backgrounds and needs. Our project experience encompasses almost every conceivable type of venue within Central New York. Just as Architects design interior elements of the buildings we live in and enjoy, Landscape Architects design exterior environmental elements we experience. Our site design experience includes the following sectors and services:

Whatever your site design need, we can assist you with planning, approval, design, construction review and project closeout items. Our decades of design experience will help your projects stay within budget and on time.

Site Analysis and Evaluation

Every site is different, even two sites which are adjacent to one another. A thorough analysis must be done to determine not just what is seen, but that which is unseen, such as bedrock elevation or underground utilities, for example. The following items are reviewed and evaluated:

Feasibility Studies

A preliminary study is often required to determine and document a project's viability. The components of the determination are usually based on projected costs, duration of construction, zoning/code requirements or environmental impacts. The results can vary depending on the scope and magnitude of the project. Feasibility studies can span a broad range, such as:

The results of this study are used by the client to decide whether or not to proceed with the project. If the project is feasible and approved, Klepper, Hahn & Hyatt is well equipped with necessary information to produce contract documents.

Hydrology Studies/Design

An important aspect of site design is analyzing hydrology. When construction add impervious materials to a drainage area, it changes the intensity of storm flows. This increase in stormwater velocity during even an average rainfall can cause flooding, stream scouring, erosion problems and soil loss. Hydrology studies are done for large scale sites, such as campuses, as well as one-acre home sites. The intent is to design elements for the proposed construction that reduce the peak flows to what they were prior to construction. Some studies are done to evaluate existing sites that have drainage problems and design ways to control the storm runoff and provide good water quality. These control items can be:

Each hydrology study examines the project site’s assets and problems, while creating a design solution that best fits the site and meets both the owner’s needs and local, state and/or federal guidelines.

Planning Board Review Process

Many projects have design features that require approvals from local planning agencies. We have considerable experience with planning board review, which facilitates the approval process for our clients. Design items that must be considered are:

When preparing for your next project, factor in the possibility of a planning board review. Allow for a three- to six-month review process. If you are not sure of a project’s requirements, we can review the site needs and make recommendations to help guide you.