February eNewsletter

3D: The Missing Link in Design Communication

BY KEVIN WILKE-NADLER

When you choose a profession that is related to the planning and design of the built environment, you are taught to design primarily in a two-dimensional format. Master plans, site plans, and construction drawings communicate the design efficiently so it can be interpreted by members of the technical team and ultimately used by a contractor to build the project. But this standard process is missing a critical link that helps us communicate our designs effectively to clients, stakeholders, and members of the community – many of whom have not received formal training in how to read 2D plans and drawings. Our industry took a giant leap forward when it began embracing digital 3D graphics, and has advanced even more in recent years as working in 3D has become an integral part of the design process.

Surprise City Council Approves RVi PAD Rezoning and Pre-Plat Plan for Rancho Vista

Earlier in February, RVi received unanimous approval from the City of Surprise City Council on the PAD Rezoning and Pre-Plat for the Rancho Vista community. Rancho Vista is an up-and-coming single-family development located within an active, growing area in Surprise, Arizona.

Connectivity is a key focus in Rancho Vista, as the development features an extensive trail and open space system. Featuring perimeter and internal open spaces, several local community amenity areas, and setback sidewalks, the design works to encourage walking and pedestrian connectivity within the development.

Encouraging the Ongoing Sustainability of our Urban Landscape

BY JULIE MASTERVICH

As globalization increases year after year, dispatching commodities across the globe, vegetation and wildlife also end up being inadvertently transferred from place to place. Naturally, this leads to foreign species being introduced into our local ecosystems. For the most part, it is unlikely the new plants or animals will thrive in their new environment, but sometimes they begin to overtake the natural order and ultimately disrupt it. As the great Dr. Ian Malcolm once said, "Life, uh, finds a way".

In Other News