(A) This section includes guidelines for development and standards of design to be incorporated into the site plan. Other sections of this code include requirements specific to zoning districts that should also be shown on a site plan for development.
(B) (1) Architectural styles shall be respectful and compatible with the unique location of this community as a gateway to the south rim of the Grand Canyon. Architectural building forms should express sensitivity to this unique environmental setting, while respecting the indigenous cultures. The goal is for designs which contribute to the character and quality
of the built environment while in harmony with the natural environment.
(2) Examples of undesirable designs include whimsical architecture which have no relationship to the surrounding natural, cultural or historical environment. Modernist architecture which clashes with the natural environment is also undesirable.
(C) Scale and mass of developments should be compatible with the natural environment in which the community is located and not dominate over it. Architectural features which serve to break up the massive appearance of a structure should be utilized. These features can include variation in roof forms, the use of dormers, covered walkways and patios. All features should be in proportion to the building. All sides of a structure shall receive design considerations. In some cases, it may be deemed more appropriate and desirable to use smaller buildings which are clustered rather than a single massive structure.
(D) External building materials should be predominantly those that fit the natural landscape, such as native stone, logs, wood, broken faced block, exposed aggregate concrete and stucco. The use of other materials such as synthetic or reprocessed stone and wood may be considered, but will require that information be provided regarding manufacturing specifications, product samples and examples of where the product has previously been utilized.
(E) Earthtone colors that blend with local soils and vegetation are highly desirable. Various shades of browns and tans, subtle greens, as well as sandstone and limestone are encouraged. Bright colors such as oranges, limes, aqua blue and white, which call undue attention to the buildings, are discouraged. Color schemes should be coordinated to complement the architectural style and mass of the buildings.
(F) Roofs must meet the color requirements of the building. Aluminum, white or reflective roofs are not acceptable. Screening of mechanical equipment is encouraged to maintain desirable aesthetic quality from street level or from adjacent structures.
(G) The use of materials and colors to enhance the building design and break up the monotony of massive structures is encouraged.
(H) Sufficient setbacks providing access to light, air, landscaping and views shall be incorporated into site design. The 50-foot right-of-way flanking Highway 64 shall be fully landscaped in conjunction with all new development and redevelopment. If this area is abandoned by ADOT in the future, it shall remain as a landscape buffer/transition zone between the highway and commercial businesses. The use of this transition zone for meeting some parking requirements may be appropriate, but preferably not within the 30 feet closest to the highway.
(I) Vehicle and pedestrian ways shall be clearly delineated to prevent congestion and conflicts. Service vehicle and delivery areas shall be located such that they are screened from view and don’t interrupt the flow of traffic.
(J) Parking lots shall be designed to include adequate landscaping within the periphery and interior to break up the impermeable surface coverage. Methods for achieving this include the use of landscape islands within the parking lot, clustering parking spaces into islands rather than long rows and utilizing a variety of landscape materials, including a mix of vegetation types and sizes, and decorative fencing.
(K) Where bus and RV traffic is anticipated, site design should take into consideration the maneuverability constraints, parking and passenger unloading needs associated with these vehicles.
(L) Orientation of buildings on the site should be “user-friendly”. Components which will be considered for meeting this standard include entrances which are well marked and located with a logical relationship to the parking area, pedestrian walks from parking areas to businesses and outdoor areas for the public to sit and rest.
(M) Signs with highly reflective surfaces or bright metal shall not be permitted.
(N) The use of lighting as an attention-getting device which is not related to an approved sign or for architectural illumination shall not be permitted.
(O) Signs shall utilize and emphasize the same materials specified in these design standards and guidelines for buildings. Signs and the color of signs shall be compatible and consistent with the architectural style of the building or portion thereof to which it relates.
(P) Outdoor light poles and fixtures should be compatible to the architectural styles of the development.
(Q) Lighting should be designed to fit the development; poles should not be higher or lighting more extensive than is necessary.
(R) (1) Parking lot light standards should only be as high as required to accomplish the necessary illumination while being in scale with the surrounding landscape and structures.
(2) For example, light poles should be 25 to 30 feet in areas where existing tree stands effectively camouflage the poles; lower standards would be more appropriate in open areas.
(S) Light fixtures illuminating pedestrian walks or plazas should not exceed 12 to 15 feet in height in order to be appropriately scaled to the pedestrian and still out of reach of vandals.
(T) Low level bollard type light fixtures should be considered where they can be effective without becoming too dominant in the landscape.
(U) The use of these guidelines in designing development plans shall not be interpreted as discouraging or prohibiting designs which are environmentally sensitive. Developments which incorporate energy conservation measures, water reuse and material recycling are strongly encouraged.
(Ord. 2012-04, passed 12-5-2012)