Shade Analysis

A transit rider journey starts and ends at the bus stop. For Angelenos, one thing remains constant-SHADE is top priority when waiting for the bus, and safety and comfort are not far behind.

To understand how Angelenos use their bus stops daily, we have undertaken detailed observations, learned through the collection of stories, data, ongoing discussions with bus riders and undertook a detailed shade analysis study. Our findings indicated that various features outside of the bus shelter roof influenced the sun protective effects of shade, including materials, size, shape and position of the shade structure, characteristics of the surrounding area and weather conditions

We did a detailed investigation of how LA's current bus shelters perform when it comes to shade.The takeaway from the analysis is that a typical bus shelter with its roof element does not provide maximum shade all day long/year-round. For our Shade Analysis we created a computerized model of the bus shelter (2 pole and a roof) positioned at the (4) corners of a typical LA intersection (eastbound, westbound, northbound and southbound). In these studies you can clearly see the benefits or not (outcome) of the roof alone. Click below for full Shade Analysis report.

Our Goals when designing

• Provide as much shade as possible for the most amount of time

• Provide equitable shade across Los Angeles

In order to provide shade and comfort all year-round at all orientations the shelters must be designed for flexibility. Vertical panels will need to be mounted strategically where needed. Each design includes and features optimized configurations 'kit of parts' to provide optimum shade throughout the year, despite orientation.

Thank you for using public transportation!