Land Use Analysis

We study land settlement patterns to understand how landscapes and cities have changed in the past and how, given land use regulations, land development practices and market forces, they may evolve in the future. We conduct grant-funded research as well as studies for clients seeking expert testimony.

Vermont Land Settlement Patterns

Photo simulation of 1939 patterns along a highway

Vermont Land Settlement Patterns

Actual photograph of strip development along the same highway.

Vermont Land Settlement Patterns

Invisible framework that shapes development

Vermont Land Settlement Patterns

The hierarchy of public spaces in a 19th century village

Interactive Web Site

Visualizing Density Web Site

Act 250 Expert Testimony

Fragmentation of prime agricultural land after proposed development

Act 250 Expert Testimony

Segregation of uses in a proposed development

Act 250 Expert Testimony

Criterion 9L: Is it Strip Development? Walkable areas within a compact urban center.

Act 250 Expert Testimony

Criterion 9L: Is it Strip Development? Walkable areas in a sprawl location.

SELECTEd projects

Vermont Land Settlement Patterns Illustration of the contrast between traditional and contemporary forms Graham Foundation for Advanced Studies in the Arts

Visualizing Density Catalog and Web Site Exploration of how perceptions of density are shaped by urban design Client: Lincoln Institute for Land Policy

Act 250 Criterion 9L Independent review of a development project under state land use regulation limiting commercial strip development Client: State of Vermont Natural Resources Board

Act 250 Exit 4 Expert testimony on a proposed development project affecting prime agricultural land Client: Vermont Natural Resources Council

Interstate Interchange Design Guidelines Scenic Inventory and buildout scenarios for development around Vermont's 48 interstate interchanges Client: Vermont Department of Housing and Community Affairs