5.3 Visual Zones, Map

Visual Zone Map

Visual zones are areas within the installation that include similar visual characteristics.  Visual characteristics define the "look and feel" of an area together with the dominant features that define its image.  Typical visual characteristics include unique buildings, vehicular and pedestrian corridors, natural features, and spatial relationships.

The goal of the IDG is to develop a pallet of attitudes (the overall look and feel, ambiance, or mood of the area and the facilities in the area), elements (the parts and pieces that make up the facility), and materials that are responsive to the environment and coordinate with the existing atmosphere of the zone.  These materials and elements can then evolve into a cohesive, efficient, and purposeful visual zone as they are applied to existing buildings, additions, and new construction throughout the area.

Each visual zone contains a functional analysis of the area that includes a description of the visual character, a visual analysis map, assets, liabilities, and recommendations for each zone.  The visual analysis maps graphically illustrate the features and constraints that affect the visual character of the zone.

The assets and liabilities for each zone are determined by the following question:

• Does the area meet the installation visual goals and objectives, design principles and visual elements in relationship to the six design components described in Sections 7 through 12 of this Installation Design Guide?

Recommendations are then made to correct the liabilities or enhance the assets.  These recommendations are used to generate projects that are listed in Section 6, Improvement Projects.

The visual zones that have been established closely relate to the Land Use Map.  Each visual zone contains some or all of the facilities listed in the visual theme categories see the chart for further information.

Visual Themes & Zones