(A) Storefront construction. Ground-floor storefronts should have a minimum of 60% transparent space (windows).
(B) Side walls. Blank, solid end walls or side walls visible from public view are discouraged. If the walls are necessary (based on interior design), the structure wall shall receive some form of articulation or “add-on” elements such as awnings, cornice bands, murals, etc.
(C) Facade. The facade appearance of adjacent structures shall be considered in the design of new buildings to avoid clashes in architectural style and materials.
(D) Roofline. The roofline of buildings shall be considered as an important element in the overall building design. Decorative embellishments at the roofline such as cornices, or changes in height, material, color or shape are encouraged.
(E) Canopies and awnings.
(1) Canopies and awnings shall respect the character and style of the structure on which they are located, particularly in the material, color and size.
(2) Canopies shall be sized so that they do not obscure significant architectural features or cover transom windows above the canopy.
(3) The minimum clearance of a canopy or awning (including any attached hanging signs) shall be eight feet from the lowest point to the sidewalk.
(F) Doors and windows.
(1) The design and location of doors and windows shall consider the architectural character of the surrounding area. The use of simple wood and glass doors and windows is encouraged. Where aluminum is used, a dark anodized or baked enamel finish shall be used.
(2) Clear glass should be used on ground floor windows to promote window shopping, visual displays and pedestrian activity. Tinted glass allowing a minimum 50% light transmission will be considered only for use in second floor windows and above on an individual case basis. The use of reflective glass is prohibited.
(3) Storefront windows should be as large as possible while maintaining height standards for bulkheads. Maximum bulkhead height for new construction shall be 42 inches, and minimum bulkhead height shall be 24 inches. Bulkheads should be accented with decorative tile, finished stone or other distinctive material.
(4) Replacement windows must always fill the entire opening and duplicate original patterns.
(5) Window patterns in new buildings shall respect existing window patterns where a distinctive rhythm has been established.
(G) Lighting.
(1) All exterior lighting fixtures shall be designed as part of the overall architectural theme. Fixtures, standards and all exposed accessories shall be harmonious with the building design, the lighting design of adjacent public spaces and the overall visual environment of the downtown.
(2) Night lighting of buildings shall be selective and focused; exterior lighting of entire building faces is generally not desirable. Lighting should highlight entrances, dramatize special architectural features, keynote repeated features and use the play of light and shadow to articulate the facade.
(3) Entrances of buildings and parking areas shall be well illuminated to enhance safety, identification and convenience.
(4) Recessed building entry ways should be illuminated by down lights.
(1995 Code, § 10.108.050) (Ord. 00-1854, passed - -2000)