Why is it important to accurately model the land features of your project site with a toposurface?
It is important because homes are just part of a larger ecosystem and the surroundings play a huge role in how a home should be orientated in order to capture the most light and have amazing views. Modeling the surroundings gives us a better sense of how the home will interact with the larger world and contribute to society. Mountains and rivers can also play a role in how the floor plan is designed.
When designing a project...
I believe the building should adapt to the terrain. Our natural environments are in dire need of protection, and for so long humans have burned down forests and destroyed hills to meet their settlement’s needs. Changing the surface of land in order to make it grassland or farmland results in the loss of natural nutrients, and displaces wild animals. The relocation of wild animals leads to the spread of disease and does not allow the land to soak up as much heat to combat climate change. Therefore, buildings should leverage the land’s unique natural properties and serve as a useful addition rather than a detraction.
Why do stairs follow specific proportions with a set relationship between the tread length and riser height?
Stairs follow a set relationship because a human has a distinct way of walking that allows for maximum comfort. When they are too steep, an elder may have trouble exerting enough force to get them onto the next step. Similarly, the tread length cannot be too thin or else a person’s foot will not fit and they will slip off the stairs. A longer tread would require more space so it is not desirable.