Design Review Program
Applicant's Toolbox: Design Guidelines

Multifamily and Commercial Buildings | Downtown Development | Neighborhood-Specific Design Guidelines

Design Review Guidelines for Multifamily and Commercial Buildings

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Guideline A-5: Respect for Adjacent Sites
Buildings should respect adjacent properties by being located on their sites to minimize disruption of the privacy and outdoor activities of residents in adjacent buildings.


Explanation and Examples
One consideration is the views from upper stories of new buildings into adjacent houses or yards, especially in less intensive zones. This problem can be addressed in several ways.

  • Reduce the number of windows and decks on the proposed building overlooking the neighbors.
  • Step back the upper floors or increase the side or rear setback so that window areas are farther from the property line.
  • Take advantage of site design which might reduce impacts, for example by using adjacent ground floor area for an entry court.
  • Minimize windows to living spaces which might infringe on the privacy of adjacent residents, but consider comfort of residents in the new building.
  • Stagger windows to not align with adjacent windows.

  
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A-4 Human Activity		 next>
A-6 Transition Between
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Last Updated: December 24, 2004