Whether studying the visual impacts of new development through a simple massing model, previewing a preliminary design in Google Earth, or developing a set of high quality images, 3D is an extremely useful and versatile tool.

Using 3D is an extremely important part of planning. Considering what a design will look and feel like beyond a 2D plan or a written bylaw is extremely important to consider throughout all stages of the planning process. Allowing others to experience what the essence of the place will be helps to develop a vision and drum excitement about a new place.

Environmental Planning is extremely important today. Considering environmental impacts in the first phases of the project ensures the long-term sustainability of any project. Without a clean, well-functioning environment, social, cultural, and economic factors will be negatively impacted. Peak oil, and climate change are two of the biggest threats, and biggest opportunities that face communities in the future. These drivers are underlying in all of SPD’s decisions, that focus on reducing energy use, and developing ecologically-based solutions.

Selkirk Planning & Design offers a variety of services covering all aspects of regional planning and community design. SPD approaches every project from an Urban Design perspective. Whether developing a sustainability plan, or a site specific design, considering each project from an urban design perspective means considering environment, history & culture, development patterns, and all the other elements that make the community unique. An urban design approach provides the background needed to make informed, locally-based decisions that maintain a sense of place.

An urban design approach includes environmental planning, mapping and analysis to develop a rationale that guides the site planning and visualization phases.

Zoning and Planning are an important aspect of every community plan or development project. Zoning requirements, density, development permit areas, subdivision, and other aspects of planning are important to understand what will make a successful plan or design. Being involved in the development of the City of Revelstoke’s Form-Based Unified Development Bylaw provides SPD with an insight into the bylaw requirements for projects within the City of Revelstoke, as well as a unique knowledge of the development of a Form-Based Bylaw. This new form of zoning is a unique approach to zoning that allows communities to visualize what the community could look like in the future.