Urban planning projects — especially in long-range planning — often come with a high level of uncertainty. Getting the visualization of uncertainty right will be an essential key to effective decision-making in urban planning processes. What is currently missing are best practices on how to visualize uncertain urban planning projects in 3D.
In this article, we are exploring different 3D visualization techniques in the context of urban planning. The techniques are discussed regarding intended or unintended impacts on the perception of urban planning projects by stakeholders.
Realistic visualizations
- static renderings
- dynamic 3D scenes
Schematic visualizations
- sketchy edges
- color
- floor plates vs. building volumes
- transparency
- wireframes
Are you interested to learn more, explore the different 3D visualization interactively, and contribute to best practices?
When visualizing zoning changes, I like to use a large transparent block for the yard setbacks and height limit then show a couple scenarios of buildings inside that that block that conform to the lot coverage and FAR ratio. I find this helps people understand how each part of the bylaw works and shows that there are multiple options for the property to develop.
Hi Gregory, thanks for your feedback. I agree that showing the zoning changes together with a potential development taking into consideration FAR & coverage helps to communicate what is allowed vs. what is actually feasible.
Have you experimented with other visual elements besides transparency? E.g. sketchy edges for building blocks?