Site plan #2&3: create a layout
Goal: Create a site layout positioning activities in the space using reasonably precise measurements.
By this time, you’ve committed to trying to present in a particular site. Whether your event is indoors or outdoors, you now need to figure out where things actually go, to avoid chaos, keep people safe, and fit activities into the space you’re in.
If you’re working in an indoor space, the site managers may have a layout for you to plan your activities. Outdoor spaces sometimes have them, and sometimes they don't. Depending on your activity, they might also not be precise enough.
Permits for many public spaces require you to share a site layout. We hope to build a library of more accurate site measurements; please share your site layouts with us at collective@makejusticenormal.org!
Drawing a site layout
You don’t need a perfect drawing. You do need something accurate enough so that you (and others) can understand what happens where. A simple site layout shows:
where activities happen
how people move through the space
what takes up physical room
what needs extra care (noise, access, congestion)
Step 1: basic measurements
With a notebook and pencil, draw out a simple layout during a site visit. (Check if an existing site layout already exists before you do this.) If needed, you can buy a measuring wheel. If drawing is stressful, print a google map view instead. You could also print the site plan we share above to work from.
Measure important distances, widths and lengths where activities could take place, entrances and exits where equipment needs to get through (You can also estimate by pacing if needed.)
Mark fixed elements you can’t move (trees, poles, benches, hydrants, curbs)
Mark obstructions that could affect the activity, like speed bumps
Note areas that need to be kept entirely clear or have a clear pathway, like driveways
Clarify how emergency vehicles would move through or into the space.
Step 2: Basic dynamics
Mark addresses or activities that could be most affected by use of the space, like small businesses, street vendors, schools, community groups organizing their small businesses. Who is here now? At what times? Who seems comfortable here? Who doesn’t?
Mark where people naturally stop, gather, or pass through.
Mark where informal activities frequently take place, like where street vendors usually set up. (The goal is to not displace others just because a permit might let you.)
Note any dynamics.
Step 3: Your activities
On your layout, place your activities (performances, installations, tents) as best you can, recognizing things might change at this stage. Keep everything above in mind.
How much space does this physically take?
How will it relate to activities and people already here?
Does it need quiet, power, shade, or visibility?
Does it block movement or draw crowds?
Step 4: Scan, take a picture, or transfer it to digital
We usually start with a drawing and end with a google slide that starts a production book including many other things. That way, you can keep on editing it at home, share it with others for comments. A digital layout also allows you to keep returning to the space with new events.
Practical tips
Do the site visit and layout at the same time
Draft a rough agenda while you’re there
Bring someone with you! It’s easier to notice things together
Do light outreach on-site: introduce yourself, say you’re planning something
Invite collaborators or artists to walk the site with you if helpful
