10-17-1: PURPOSE:

The Village of Lake Bluff Planned Residential Development (PRD) standards and procedures in this Article are constructed to bring about development in keeping with the unique natural and built environments of the Village. These regulations advance development that is distinctive and attractive, but respectful, complementary, and additive to the Village and nearby properties. This is accomplished, in part, by sharing an understanding of the community, its expectations for development, and how those expectations can be met. This Chapter also defines the regulations and standards by which PRD applications are evaluated and the process for review of such requests.

PRDs are special uses, subject to the standards and criteria of Section 10-2C-3.E of this Title, as well as the requirements of this Chapter. Within a PRD, the traditional use, bulk, space, and yard regulations may be modified pursuant to the standards and procedures set forth in Section 10-17-7 of this Title. Through the flexibility of a PRD, the Village seeks to achieve the following objectives as appropriate and applicable for a particular proposed development, among other objectives that are in the interest of the Village and its residents:

A.   Reflects the Village’s general character with a development that:

1.   Creates a distinctive place in Lake Bluff, that is clearly part of the overall community;

2.   Creates a neighborhood, and not just an isolated subdivision;

3.   Is at a scale that is inviting and comfortable to residents and visitors;

4.   Provides a mix of housing types that may include not just single-family dwellings, but also townhomes, two-family dwellings, multiple-unit dwellings; and

5.   Has the highest quality site designs and building materials.

B.   Incorporates existing physical site characteristics and infrastructure that support resident quality of life and:

1.   Connects pedestrians and bicyclists to nearby developments, recreational opportunities, and activities in a safe, appealing and efficient manner;

2.   Is harmonious with the community, tailored for Lake Bluff, and not generic;

3.   Reflects the Village’s unique small-town character;

4.   Is internally consistent (but not monotonous in design) in terms of layout, landscape, rhythm of streets and structures, and building materials so as to create a sense of place enjoyed by residents and visitors;

5.   Applies the flexibility of the PRD for creative and imaginative design that is not always possible under the conventional zoning regulations;

6.   Provides for timeless architecture, landscape, and site plan. Developments can be modern and distinctive in character, but should not be unusual, confusing, or unfamiliar so as to become obsolete as times and design preferences change;

7.   Presents a variety of home styles and sizes;

8.   Preserves the natural scenic qualities of open space in the Village; and

9.   Is respectful and reflective of the development’s immediate neighboring uses, surroundings and frontages.

C.   Incorporates the natural and built design elements that make the Village special and include:

1.   Safe and attractive paths and connections that allow individuals of all ages and abilities to access adjacent areas;

2.   Tree protection, new trees, wooded areas, and open spaces;

3.   Attractive, robust, and naturally presented landscaping;

4.   A variety of architectural styles and home sizes that have thoughtful design treatment given to all facades;

5.   Efficient roadway and utility design;

6.   Respect for historic preservation, where applicable; and

7.   A multi-generational place that is safe and encourages social interactions.

SECTION 10-17-1
ILLUSTRATION #1
Examples of Unique and Innovative Design
Consistent With Village Character

SECTION 10-17-1
ILLUSTRATION #2
Example Site Plan Concepts Reflecting PRD Purpose Statements

(Ord. 2022-30, 10-24-2022; amd. Ord. 2022-38, 12-12-2022)