The journey to the destination
In the last chapter, several key concepts to be applied to the design of recreation sites, facilities and artefacts were considered. The need to reflect the character of the setting, to contrast and avoid urban qualities and therefore to use an appropriate and site-specific range of materials and finishes was emphasized. This concern for the setting and the experience that it helps to invoke was balanced with a concern for the needs of the visitors. The sequence of actions, decisions, impressions and feelings that actually constitute the experience of a visit are influenced by the setting, the facilities, the information and the ambience present in the visited destination. From this it is an easy and logical step to unite the needs of the setting and the needs of the visitors, and to look in detail at the layout, design and maintenance of the site facilities normally provided for each stage of a visit. Periodic monitoring of visitor reactions to facilities provided or charged is also important.
This chapter and the following 11 will cover all aspects of a typical day out in the outdoors. This day out will follow a similar pattern to the one described in the previous chapter. For reasons outlined in the introduction, sheets detailing or specifying standard items will not be provided. Instead, the main considerations and examples of what to do and what not to do will be demonstrated.
