Current big box store prototypes can be replicated easily by keeping the same building systems and repeating them exactly on similar sites. This is going to change as the sites become more urban, where real estate is limited and site dimensions vary. These urban sites are typically smaller and have unique shapes, and are often surrounded by roads and other buildings. Instead of replicating the same building for different sites, I have created a book of guidelines that describe the different building systems that can be used in creating new varying shape and size buildings. Whie this is a different type of solution than repeating a building, it can also be simple and economical.
Guidelines for Adapting Prototype to Specific Sites:
1) The building shape should be derived from the site shape using 90 degree angles.
2) The building should step back at the entrance, creating an exterior space in front.
3) Design a structural column grid based off of the parking garage beneath retail levels.
4) Design vestibule structures independently.
5) Use three building types: parking garage, retail building, and vestibules.
7) Use escalators for interior vertical circulation.
8 ) Break up the interior spaces with pathways, breaking up the longest distances when possible.
9) Use a linear material for the pathways to elongate the paths and their directionality.
10) End the pathways with windows to visually break up the space create penetrating views.
11) Build windows in walls where parking garage and building meet.
14) Use a simple perlin system based off of the shelving system.
15) Keep all mechanical systems visible.
16) Use a non-bearing wall system, exterior panelized system, and interior semi-transparent system.
