Mitigating Visual Impact in Urban Environments
Ascot Digital Signage
Ascot | Brisbane | Queensland | Australia
project team
Developer| Odna
balancing urban form with natural aesthetics
Illuminated signage is becoming increasingly common in our suburbs, adding another layer to the urban infrastructure that shapes our streetscapes and view corridors. These elements play a significant role in defining the visual character of our communities.
As Landscape Architects, we are deeply invested in the aesthetics and identity of our neighbourhoods. Our goal is to create and preserve spaces that harmoniously integrate architectural built form with a strong, thriving natural environment.
With the growing presence of hard surfaces in urban areas, visual impact must be carefully considered. Successful design ensures our environments remain inviting, dynamic, and connected to nature – rather than becoming cold, rigid, and unwelcoming spaces.
nature and character of ‘built form’
The digital signage integrates with the surrounding commercial property, reflecting the character of its environment while introducing a unique visual element – illumination during specific operating hours. While the built form of the signage is compatible with the surrounding area, the visual impact of its illumination required careful consideration.
A viewshed, or the visible area from a specific location, is an important factor in this design. Mature vegetation along Sandgate Road helps mitigate the visual impact of the built form along the corridor. The presence of large, mature trees on several private properties further reduces the impact of these structures.
Vegetation plays a crucial role in softening harsh views and minimizing glare or reflection from the hard surfaces of built structures. Additionally, it provides shade and helps reduce heat, thereby improving pedestrian comfort and the overall environmental quality.
To address the potential visual impact of the signage, mitigation strategies were recommended to the Local Authority.
assessment
The assessment of predicted visual impact significance on neighbouring residents included:
Receiver’s Location
The Receivers Location (Distance of View)
Duration of Visual Impact
The duration of the effect (short/medium/long term, permanent/temporary)
Visual Absorption Capability
The landscape’s ability to absorb physical changes without transformation in its visual character and quality.
Magnitude of Change
The Magnitude of Change of the landscape.
Mitigation Proposals
The predicted success of mitigation proposals to any Viewshed.