4.2.2 Wall Alignment

A significant aspect of wall design from an aesthetic standpoint is the contrast of the horizontal line with the ground plan and alignment of the wall with other elements near or behind it. The extended form of walls is viewed linearly, with the wall top creating a distinct contrast to background elements. Since walls are viewed with the rest of the world as their background, the appearance of wall elements should be considered carefully:
  • The upper edge of a wall usually contrasts with elements in front of and behind it. This relationship should be considered to avoid visual conflicts with the immediate surroundings comparison.
  • Wall caps that mimic or follow the shape of the background will tend to be less obtrusive (given similar influences of color, etc.) by blending form with the surrounding landscape. The wall top should generally use the entire length to make grade changes if possible.
  • Wall elevation changes (step-downs) should be spaced uniformly, provide a sensible, uniform rhythm, and work well with the material dimensions. Avoid oddly spaced or uneven elevation changes and inconsistent angles or radiuses.
  • Wall caps that incorporate step-downs to make grade changes may contrast well with the smooth flowing lines of adjacent landscapes and backgrounds (See
    Figure 4-11
    ). This highlights the wall by setting it apart from the background, making it an even more dominant visual element; the greater the elevation change in the step-down, the more visually dominant it becomes. However, this same technique may add an element of visual confusion to an urban scene filled with multistory buildings and elevation changes.
Wall Cap Elevation Changes