b. Compatible Infill, Additions & Renovations

Style

  • Infill can be a strict or contemporary interpretation of the architectural styles listed in the Downtown and Uptown Districts.
  • Infill development should focus on creating a cohesive, urban pedestrian-oriented environment.
  • Architectural detailing should accentuate the ground floor and emphasize the main entrance for the pedestrian.
  • Certain iconic locations should allow for more abstract interpretations of or departures from existing architectural styles.

Massing & Siting

  • Block sizes should be adequately small to encourage pedestrian activity.
  • Shallow to no setbacks
  • 3 to 5 story buildings with a few taller mixed-use buildings.
  • A single building should interpret a single architectural style. Service should be screened from view from the street.
  • The ground floor should have at least 18’ clear height to accommodate a range of uses.
  • Mixed use buildings should have a continuous horizontal band between the ground floor and second floor for the placement of ground floor signage.
  • Th e retail bulkhead should be 18 to 35 feet above grade to allow for ground floor signage.

Materials

  • Construction materials should be high quality and durable. Such materials should withstand most degradation from water, moisture, light, natural disasters, and other site and climate conditions. Strategies for product selection and construction techniques can be found in the LEED for Homes. Many of these strategies are applicable beyond residential uses.

Business Area

Businesses with Cars on the Street - Photo by La Citta Vitta

Photo by La Citta Vitta

Smart Car Dealership - Photo by Bergstrom

Photo by Bergstrom

  • Existing buildings that are renovated should attempt to incorporate design elements that encourage a walkable environment:
    • Eliminate parking between the building and the street to create pedestrian space.  Parking on the side and rear of the building can be retained.
    • The newly created plaza should include special paving to clearly demarcate  pedestrian and automobile areas.  Tables and chairs can be placed in this area.
    • Storefronts should be upgraded to accentuate visibility to both pedestrians and motorists.
    • Street trees and planting should be placed along the sidewalk to provide shade for pedestrians.

Storefront Existing Conditions

Existing Conditions

After storefront renovations, addition of street trees and landscaping, and development of a plaza.

After storefront renovations, addition of street trees and landscaping, and development of a plaza.