Location:
Generally in courtyards between buildings, also at the perimeter of Assembly and Active zones.
Passive zones can have a variety of surfaces and functions. Landscape treatments can provide shade and improve thermal comfort within buildings, identify entrances to buildings, frame views, or restrict access where required. The landscape treatment should locate suitable surfaces and plant material to support the intended function(s) of the passive zone.
| Criteria | Considerations |
|---|---|
| Microclimate | Avoid wind tunnels, overshadowing, heat and glare from paved surfaces |
| Context | Consider relationships of zone to surrounding buildings - thermal comfort, noise, function, views. |
| Biodiversity Recovery | Low opportunity due to limited space and proximity to buildings. If appropriate, incorporate locally native plants to promote the identity of the area. |
| Pedestrian movement | Allow paved access to desire lines and main circulation routes. |
| Shade | Provide summer shade to seating areas. Ensure selected or existing species do not drop branches, excess leaves or fruit. |
| Winter solar access | Ensure planting allows sufficient natural light to buildings. |
| Furniture | Seating may be required. |
| Water | Sufficient hosecocks required for irrigation. |
| Erosion | Medium potential along desire lines and edges of paving. |
| Surface finish | Relate surface material to function. Areas where students will gather may require paving. Planting to suit and/ or ameliorate the micro-climate. |
| Solar glare | Bright reflective surfaces to be avoided. |
| Allergenic plants | Low allergenic species required as zone is high use. |
| Stormwater | Avoid ponding. Consider using planting beds and turf to assist collection and infiltration. |
| Lighting | Refer Schools Facilities Standards. |
| Signage | Not required. |
| Maintenance | Medium level required as this zone is a high use area. |
