The Architectural Board of Review (ABR) shall review the proposed building design and materials prior to Planning Commission review of the preliminary site plan. The Architectural Board of Review shall provide its recommendation on such elements to Planning Commission for their consideration. The following architectural and building material standards shall be considered when reviewing an application for development. Developer may present alternative options. Planning Commission reserves the right to accept or make other recommendations.
(a) All C-1 developments should maximize the use of natural building materials on the exterior such as brick, stone, wood, cultured stone, or architectural metal panels. The Planning Commission shall reserve the right to regulate building materials on each final site development plan on a case-by-case basis.
(b) All buildings within the district shall be designed with four-sided architecture when visible from a public or private street or from an adjacent property.
(c) Vinyl siding and exposed smooth face CMU (concrete masonry unit) block is prohibited as an exterior building material on all building elevations visible from a private or public street unless specifically approved by Planning Commission.
(d) The use of glass block for windows is not permitted.
(e) All non-residential elevations visible from a public or private street or adjacent property shall include decorative features such as cornices, pilasters, contrasting horizontal bands, and other architectural elements. Building recesses and protrusions are strongly encouraged on larger buildings to break long uninterrupted building walls.
(f) All non-residential building elevations visible from public or private streets shall include window openings at regular intervals. The main front elevations of a building should include at least 50% transparency at the pedestrian level, 15 feet in height or the height of the building. Whichever is less, unless otherwise approved by Planning Commission.
(g) No building or addition constructed in a C-1 District shall be designed with or modeled after franchise or formula based architecture, unless the Planning Commission determine that the franchise architecture is consistent with the intent of the district guidelines, does not create visual inconsistencies with surrounding areas or structures, and will enhance the character and business climate of the area.
(h) Loading docks, service entries, and back-of-house areas shall be located on building facades that do not face a public or private street. When this is not feasible, they shall be designed in a manner that blends in or complements the building materials and design and shall be screened from view with landscaping fencing and/or walls.
(i) All roof mounted mechanical equipment shall be screened from view from all adjacent properties and public and private streets using durable, opaque, and compatible materials.
(Ord. 61-2019. Passed 6-10-19.)