Landscape Architect Cheat Sheet: How to Write a Shelter Spec
A clear shelter specification reduces ambiguity, keeps bids comparable, and prevents change orders caused by missing assumptions. This cheat sheet is designed for landscape architects writing a park shelter spec for tender packages and for municipalities that want a clean, defensible procurement document.
Table of Contents
- What a good shelter spec should accomplish
- Shelter spec checklist (specifier-friendly)
- Common spec mistakes to avoid
- How Westplay supports specifiers
- Request spec support here
What a good shelter spec should accomplish
A strong pavilion specification should:
- Define the shelter type and performance intent
- Make pricing comparable across bidders
- Reduce coordination gaps (foundations, access, installation)
- Clarify what is included vs excluded
Shelter spec checklist (specifier-friendly)
1) Shelter type + roof style
- Shelter type (hip, gable, cantilever, multi-sided)
- Intended use (picnic, spectator, outdoor classroom)
- Roof style intent and aesthetic notes (if required)
2) Footprint + layout intent
- Approximate footprint (L x W) and clear height intent
- Post layout intent (coordinate with circulation and table plan)
- Clearance requirements for accessible routes and furnishings
3) Materials + finishes
- Frame material and finish intent
- Roof material and finish/colour intent
- Corrosion resistance expectations (site-dependent)
4) Performance + compliance (high level)
- General exposure notes (open field, coastal, etc.)
- Any owner standards or performance expectations
(Engineering and final requirements should be confirmed for the specific project and location.)
5) Documentation requirements
To support coordination and approvals, request: – Spec sheet for the selected shelter model(s) – DWG files or layout drawings (as applicable) – Installation requirements and foundation coordination notes.
6) Scope clarity: whats included
Define who is responsible for:
- Foundations and civil/site prep
- Delivery and staging
- Installation and inspections
- Site restoration and cleanup
7) Options and alternates (if you want flexibility)
If you want a tender that allows value engineering without re-design:
- Specify acceptable alternates (roof style, footprint range)
- Identify must-have vs nice-to-have features
Common spec mistakes to avoid
- Specifying a shelter without defining footprint, post layout intent, or documentation
- Leaving foundations and installation scope unclear
- Missing add-ons that affect layout (tables, benches, lighting)
How Westplay supports specifiers
Westplay supports landscape architects and municipalities with:
- Shelter model recommendations aligned to use case and footprint
- Spec-sheet and drawing intent support (including DWG where applicable)
- Coordination guidance for access, foundations, and installation scope
