DESIGNING ON A HILLSIDE

Creative Design Fundamentals

Ar. Lester
S.Y. 2023-2024 2nd Semester
Space planning on a hillside involves
thoughtful organization of interior and exterior
spaces to maximize functionality, comfort, and
enjoyment while also addressing the unique
challenges posed by the slope.
B A S I C D E S I G N C O N S I D E R AT I O N O N A
SLOPED TERRAIN
• Site
• Building Placement
• Building volumes
• Floor planes
• Level Changes
• Slope
• Cut and Fills
• Vertical Circulation
• Views and Privacy
• Retaining Walls and Landscaping
Site
Begin by conducting a thorough
analysis of the site's topography,
orientation, views, and access
points. Identify areas of level
ground or terraces suitable for
building and outdoor activities.
Site
Begin by conducting a thorough analysis
of the site's topography, orientation, views,
and access points. Identify areas of level
ground or terraces suitable for building
and outdoor activities.
Building P lacement
Position the main living areas and outdoor
spaces to take advantage of the site's
natural features, such as views and sunlight
exposure, while minimizing disturbance to
the existing landscape. Orient the building
to optimize passive solar heating and
cooling strategies.
Level Changes
Embrace the natural slope of the site by designing the house to follow the contours of the land. Incorporate
split-level or multi-story layouts to accommodate changes in elevation, providing visual interest and defining
different zones within the house.
Vertical Circulation
Plan for efficient vertical circulation between different levels of the house, considering factors such as
accessibility, privacy, and connectivity. Locate staircases, ramps, or elevators strategically to facilitate
movement throughout the house while minimizing disruption to the floor plan.
Views and P rivacy:
Arrange interior spaces to
capitalize on views of the
surrounding landscape while
maintaining privacy from
neighboring properties. Position
windows and outdoor living
areas to frame desirable vistas
while screening out unwanted
views.
Retaining Walls and Landscaping
Use retaining walls, terracing,
and landscaping to create level
areas for outdoor activities and
mitigate the effects of erosion on
the slope. Incorporate native
plants and hardscape elements to
enhance the aesthetic appeal of
the outdoor spaces and promote
ecological diversity.
BU I L D I N G VO L U M E S A N D
SPLIT LEVELS
Creative Design Fundamentals
CALCULATING SLOPE USING GIVEN PERCENTAGE

At 20% slope, a site with a depth of 20m will

have a height difference of 6.00m on both ends
of the site
GETTING THE SLOPE USING GIVEN ANGLE

Getting the slope of the site with a given angle

of inclination is easier with the use of drafting
tools.
USING IMAGINARI SECTION PLANE

Using imaginary section plane at certain distance

can help you visualize how to manage the slope,
where to cut and where to fill and where to best
locate your building.
Lecture Material on Design 2 |
Creative Design Fundamentals
Disclaimer|
The author does not claim any ownership of the
copyright to the materials used in this
presentation.

Ar. Lester
S.Y. 2023-2024 2nd Semester