Parking Lot Design

Abstract

A parking lot also known as a car lot, is a cleared area that is intended for parking vehicles. Usually, the term refers to a dedicated area that has been provided with a durable or semidurable surface. In most countries where cars are the dominant mode of transportation, parking lots are a feature of every city and suburban area. Shopping malls, sports stadiums, mega churches and similar venues often feature parking lots of immense area..The parking lot is the first - and the last part of a building complex to be viewed by the user. It is the gateway through which all customers, visitors, and employees pass. This first impression is very important to the overall feeling and atmosphere conveyed to the user. Developers want their new facilities to be attractive, well designed, and functional. Though many hours are spent on producing aesthetically pleasing building designs, the same design consideration for the parking area is often overlooked. Pavements in parking areas that are initially under-designed can experience excessive maintenance problems and a shortened service life. When properly designed and constructed, parking areas can be an attractive part of the facility that is also safe, and most important, usable to the maximum degree. In addition, parking areas should be designed for low maintenance costs and easy modification for changes in use patterns.