The master plan is a refinement or modification of the preliminary design that is drawn more precisely and with greater detail. For example, plant materials are usually drawn as generalized masses on the preliminary plan, whereas they are shown as individual plants within masses on the master plan. Also, the exact species of plant materials are likely to be specified on the master plan, whereas only general terms identify plants on the preliminary design. In addition, the form and outline of structural elements such as pavement areas, walls, and steps are apt to be drawn with more exactness in the master plan (Figure 4-8).
One key feature of the master plan is material composition. Material composition studies and develops the patterns on such structural elements as pavements, walls, and fences. Whereas the preliminary plan often identifies the general material of a given design element, the master plan goes further to study and show more detailed pattern. Chapter 12 discusses the various characteristics and activities of the master plan in greater depth.
As stated earlier in this chapter, research/preparation and design are the two phases of the design process addressed most comprehensively in this book. However, the design process doesn’t stop with these two phases. There are a number of other phases essential in completing a project in a professional manner. These other phases are outlined in the following sections.
