In reviewing an application, the Planning Commission shall determine, based on submitted materials, whether the proposed architecture follows or exemplifies any one or a combination of the following architectural styles:
Colonial Greek Revival Dutch Colonial Victorian French Colonial Italianate Georgian Second Empire Federal/Adamesque Chateauesque Jeffersonian/Roman Revival Homestead Richardsonian Romanesque Queen Anne American Foursquare Craftsman Tudor Bungalow |
These styles are considered consistent with existing architecture in the Village, and depict the objectives of the Comprehensive Plan. So also must the Commission consider the "tout ensemble," or the totality of an architecturally or historically unique area.
In reviewing an application, the Planning Commission shall also consider the following:
(a) Height. The height of the building shall be measured at the ridge line or the parapet. All new construction should be within ten percent (10%) of the average height of the existing structures on the block face, unless the structures are of a potential landmark character, or the Planning Commission finds that it is not in the best interest of the community that a common height be maintained.
(b) Building Massing. In evaluating building massing, such characteristics as the building width, height, surrounding setbacks and style shall be considered in relationship to all other structures on the block face. This relationship between buildings should allow for consistency of style, size and density in each given neighborhood area.
(c) Roof Shape. Roof shape is particularly significant in low buildings or buildings which will be seen from a distance or from above. Roof forms and materials may relate to surrounding buildings. Tall building roof shapes should be evaluated from the logical point or points from where they would be viewed rather than from a straight elevation.
(d) Materials and Texture. Materials and texture are particularly important in terms of their relationship to surrounding buildings and the use of natural materials should be encouraged. Brick color from actual samples should be evaluated. In many cases, through the skillful use of color, significant compatibility with the surrounding environment can be developed.
(e) Use of Details. In evaluating building details, the primary concern is for appropriateness to the scale and overall design concept of the building and its environment. Building details may attempt to recall the spirit of an earlier period detailing in contemporary application. If the applicant chooses to reproduce historic details, such as colonial window treatment, etc., it becomes important that some historical authenticity is maintained. In older structures, detailing may be highlighted through painting.
(f) Use of Live Plant Material. Planting materials should be evaluated on their use for accentuating and highlighting the architectural details of screening undesirable areas such as vacant lots, parking and mechanical equipment (e.g. air conditioning units, generators, dumpsters, etc.). Planting and landscaping are particularly important where parking lots are utilized. Larger parking lots (over fifteen cars) should be broken up by interior landscaping, preferably at the ends of parking aisles. Where year-round screening is required, evergreen planting is appropriate.
(g) Use of Landscape Design. Other elements of exterior design, such as walls, become a part of the building and tie it to adjoining structures or give it additional character. Lighting is particularly important, both from the standpoint of providing light to the pedestrian as well as affecting the view of the building in the evening hours. Lighting shall be screened from any potential of shining directly into pedestrians' or auto drivers' eyes. When appropriate, the applicant should provide a lighting plan as seen at night, or a photometric plan. Downlighting shall be used unless preempted by other rules or regulations.
(h) Enhancement of Pedestrian Environment. Where possible, elements which can contribute to the quality of the pedestrian environment and other public amenities should be promoted. Included among these may be benches, water fountains, seating areas, arcades, awnings or canopies. Increasing the quality of the pedestrian environment is one of the major themes of this Zoning Ordinance. Improving circulation and developing new pedestrian routes, such as mid-block connections, are particularly desirable.
(i) Signage. As regulated by the sign regulations, signage will be most significant in communicating the character of the building. Signage should be discreet and minimal. Signs oriented to the pedestrian should be small in scale; those oriented toward automobile traffic may be larger. Color should be subdued, and where appropriate, the architectural character of the sign should be consistent with that of the building. Signs flush on the building face are in many cases preferable to projecting signs.
(j) Other elements necessary to determine appropriateness of the proposed changes.
(Ord. 03-2023. Passed 1-18-23.)