HomeMy WebLinkAboutITEM IV-BArUBURN AGENDA BILL APPROVAL FORM
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Agenda Subject: Multi-family and tvlixed-Use Design Standards
Date: July 6, 2010
Department. Planning and
Attachments: Multi-family and
Budget Impact: NIA
Development
Mixed-Use Design Standards
Administrative Recommendation: Adopt the latestversion of the Multi-family and Mixed-Use Design
Standards
Background Summary:
At the Committee's June 14, 2010 meeting. staff was directed to arnencithe administrative section of the
Design Standards as well as include a requirement that on all large multifamily and mixed-use
developments a site circulation plan be submitted. Staff has since added new language in the
administrative section which now gives the Planning Directorthe ability to grant relief from a standard(s) if
a site is found to be challenging to build on or if greater design has been provided (page 2) and under the
Access, Circulation, and Parking section for Large Multi-family projects and Mixed-U se projects a new
standard for submitting a site circulation plan has been added (page 16, and 28)
Staff was also asked to re-examine the set of design standards tied to sustainability. This request was
initiated after staff received input from the first development proposal to be reviewed against the interim
standards and where the applicant had questions on how to best satisfy standards related to green site
design, green building, and green operations. In an attemptto see if the standards could be clarified or if
a better means to implement them was available, staff researched other local jurisdictions to determine if
similar design standards (of sustainability) are being appied to new multi-family and mixed-use
developments. Unfortunately staff did not come across examples of where these types of standards are
being imposed. Instead, staff found instances where local jurisdictions used financial incentives or had
expeditious processing for projects that sought a LEED certification rating. In light of this information,
staff recommends the current sustainabiliry standards should not be disregarded as local governments
are well positioned to promote green building practices in private commercial and residential development
through their land use planning and building regulations.
- for discussion purposes only
It is understood that many of the sustainabiliry standards may be difficult to show in project plans,
particularly those that are more operational in nature. It is the recommendation of staff that a future
applicant or project proponent provide staff with a letter of response as part of the application materials
for Design Review informing how they intend to satisfy the set of design standards related to
sustainabiliry. This letter of response should state which standard, after choosing one from each
category, will be incorporated into the project and the means in which the standard will be met. Some of
the ways in which the standards could be met are through constructi on notes added to the building plans,
providing staff with cut out sheets of building materials and/or equipment and their specifications, and if
other similar projects are owned or managed by the project proponent how efficiencies are achieved
there. Staff does not want to make the process more cumbersome than it needs to be but rather work
closely with applicants on satisfying the standards so that they (and the city) can obtain buildings and site
that minimizes environmental impacts while improving performance
AUBURN * MOKE 1HAN YOU IMAGINED
Agenda Subject: Multi-family and Mixed-Use Design Standards Date: July 6, 2010
Reviewed by Council &
Committees:
Reviewed by Departments & Divisions:
❑ArtsCommission
COUNCIL COMMITTEES:
❑ Building
❑ M&O
❑ Airport
❑ Finance
❑ Cemetery
❑ Mayor
❑ Hearing Examiner
❑ Municipal Sent.
❑ Finance
❑ Parks
❑ Human Services
® Planning & CD
❑ Fire
ID Planning
❑ Park Board
❑ Public Works
❑ Legal
❑ Police
❑ Planning Comm.
❑ Other
❑ Public Works
❑ Human Resources
Information Services
Aclion:
Comm ittee Approval:
❑Yes QJo
Council Approval:
❑Yes QJo
Call for Public Hearing
!
Referred to
Until
Tabled
Until
Councilmember. Norm
an
Staff: Chamberlain
Meeting Date: 7112110
Item Number.
Multi-Family & Mixed-Use Developments
Design Standards
ADOPTED JULY 12, 2010
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F'rai ion Date. 7112/10
MULTI-FAMILY 8 MIXED-USE DESIGN STANDARDS
Please note: Pictures and graphics presented in this document are for non commercial, informational,
and reference purposes onlV. They should not be construed bV users of this document as a form of
regulation and are onlV intended to guide users in understanding the standards contained herein.
Multi-Family and Mixed-Use Design Standards i
City of Auburn, Washington
July 2010
MULTI-FAMILY & MIXED-USE DESIGN STANDARDS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION
1
DEFINITIONS
3
CHAPTER 1: SMALL MULTI-FAMILY DEVELOPMENT
6
A multi-family building comprised of three orfour dwelling units i.e triplex or fourplex building
A. Architecture
6
1. Roofs and Rooflines
6
2. Facades
6
Front Facade
Other Facades
3. Entryways and Garages
7
CHAPTER 2: LARGE MULTI-FAMILY DEVELOPMENT
9
A multi-family building compri sed of five of more dwelling units ora multi-family developm ent with
more than two buildings
A. Architecture
9
1. Roofs and Rooflines
9
2. Facades
9
Building Massing and Form
Articulation
3. Entryways
11
B. Site Planning
12
4. Building Siting and Orientation
12
Courtyards
Traditional Street System
5. Neighborhood Context
14
6. Access, Circulation and Parking
14
Access
Circulation
Parking
Parking Structures
Service Areas and Fencing
17
Trash and Service Areas
Fencing and Screening
C. Common Space
18
8. Defensible Space (Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design - CPTED)
18
9. Signage
18
Multi-Family and Mixed-Use Design Standards
City of Auburn, Washington
June,2009
MULTI-FAMILY 8 MIXED-USE DESIGN STANDARDS
CHAPTER 3: MIXED-USE DEVELOPMENT
19
A. Architecture
19
1. Roofs and Rooflines
19
2. Fagades
20
Building Massing and Form
Articulation
Materials
Ground Flour Details
3. Entryways 23
B. Site Planning 24
4. Building Siting and Orientation 24
Mix of Land Uses
Compact Development
General
5. Neighborhood context
25
6. Access, Circulation and Parking
26
Access
Circulation
Parking
Parking Structures
Bike Parking
Service Areas and Fencing
30
Trash and Service Areas
Fencing and Screening
C. Common Space
32
8. Multi-use space(s)
32
9. Defensible Space (CPTED)
33
10. Signage
33
Chapter4: ALLDEVELOPMENT
35
A. Architecture
1. Green Building
35
2. Mechanical Equipment Screening
35
Ground Mounted Equipment
Rooftop Mechanical Equipment
B. Site Design
3. Green Site Design
38
38
Multi-Family and Mixed-U se Design Standards iii
City of Auburn, Washington
July 2010
MULTI-FAMILY 8 MIXED-USE DESIGN STANDARDS
C. Common Space 40
4. Landscaping 40
5. Lighting 41
Multi-Family and Mixed-Use Design Standards iv
City of Auburn, Washington
July 2010
MULTI-FAMILY & MIXED-USE DESIGN STANDARDS
Architecture
Site Planning
Common Space
Small Multifamily
Roofs and Rooflines
Referto ACC 18.07.030 -
- Roof form
Residential Zone Development
N
- Roof line
Standards
NA
Q
Fagades
E
- Front Facade
°
0
Other Facades
Entryways and Garages
Large Multifamily
Roof and Rooflines
Building Siting and Orientation
Defensible Space )CPTED)
- Room Form
- Roof line
Neighborhood Context
Signage
w
o
Fagades
Access. Circulation. & Parking
a.
- Building massing and
o
Form
Service Areas and Fencing
- Articulation
- Trash and Service Areas
- Fence and Screening
Entryways
Mixed-Use
Roof and Rooflines
Building Siting and Orientation
Plazas and Courtyards
- Roof Form
- Mix of Lard Uses
- Roof line
- Compact Development
Defensible Space (CPTED)
40
- General
Facade
Signage
- Building massing and
Neighborhood Context
9L
Form
S
- Articulation
Access. Circulation.& Parking
- Ground floor details
Service Areas and Fencing
Entryways
- Trash and Service Areas
- Fence and Screening
All Development
Mechanical Equipment
Screening
Green Site Design
Landscaping
w
- Ground Mounted
c
Equipment
Lighting
£
- Rooftop Mechanical
0
Equipment
0
Green Building
Multi-Family and Mixed-Use Design Standards V
City of Auburn, Washington
July 2010
MULTI-FAMILY 8 MIXED-USE DESIGN STANDARDS
Purpose
The design standards contained in this document are intended to be consistent with and implement the
policies of the Comprehensive Plan. The purposes of these design review standards are to:
• Foster good decision-making for multi-family and mixed-use development in architectural and site design
within the context of the community's built and natural character, scale and diversity;
• Promote the scale of buildings, the configuration of open space, and parking areas for multi-family and
mixed-use developmentto safely and comfortably accommodate pedestrian and other non-motorized
activities;
• Discourage placement of multi-family and mixed-use complexes around large expanses of paved
vehicular circulation and parking without providing adequate places for recreational and activities;
• Discourage monotony in building design and in the arrangement of multi-family and mixed-use
complexes, while promoting harm cry among distinct building identities;
• Mitigate, through design and site planning measures, the visual impact of large building facades,
particularly those which have high public visibility (these standards encourage creative use of materials,
architectural design, and landscape features so as to reduce the actual and perceived scale and bulk of
multi-family and mixed-use structures); and
• Achieve a more sustainable envi ronment through the promotion of environmentally conscious site design,
building design, construction practices and operational methods.
Applicability
• The following development activities, including all related site improvements, are subject to the design
standards pursuant to the provisions of ACC 18.31.200.Multi-family Development inclusive of triplexes
and fourplexes in all zoning districts in the City where permitted outright or as a conditional use and not
otherwise addressed through the City's infilI design standards;
• Mixed-Use Residential Development. Mixed-use development containing residential living units in all
zoning districts in the Citywhere permitted outright or as a conditional use; and
• Retirement Apartments, Congregate Living Facilities and Senior Housing Complexes in all zoning districts
in the City where permitted outright or as a conditional use.
Exemptions
The Multi-Family and Mixed-Use Development Standards are not applicable where other design standards
and guidelines are approved by the City Council including but not limited to the Downtown Urban Center
Design Standards, the Auburn Junction Design Guidelines, and Lakeland Hills South Architectural Design
Guidelines, orwhere an applicant has voluntarily agreed to complywith the City's infill design standards or
flexible development design standards.
The following activities, as determined by the Planning Director, shall be exemptfrom the provisions of the
Design Standards
• Any building activitythat does not require a building permit; or
• Interior construction work which does not alter the exterior of the structure; or
Multi-Family and Mixed-U se Design Standards 1
City of Auburn, Washington
June,2009
MULTI-FAMILY 8 MIXED-USE DESIGN STANDARDS
Normal or routine building and site maintenancelrepair that is exempt from permit requirements including
the repair or maintenance of structural members unless it changes the appearance of the building or site
that was previously approved under these standards; or
Interior alterations that do not alter the exterior appearance of a structure or modify an existing site
condition; or
Site and exterior alterations that do not cumulatively exceed 10 percent of the assessed valuation of the
building or land perthe most recent county records; or
Building additions that are less than 10 percent of the existing floor area of the existing building. Any
cumulative floor area increase from the adoption date of the ordinance establishing these design
standards that totals more than 10 percent shall not be exempt unless the Planning Director determines
compliance with these standards would be unfeasible and/or unreasonable.
Administration
The "City of Auburn Multi-Family & Mixed-use Design Standards" is adopted by reference in Section
18.31.190 (Multi-Family Development & Mixed-Use Development Design Standards and Procedures) of the
Auburn City Code. A copy of the Design Standards shall be maintained by the City Clerk. This document
contains standards for development of the built environmentpertaining to multi-family and mixed-use
development in applicable City zoning districts. The Planning Director or designee has the authority to apply
the standards to specific development proposals. The Planning Director or designee also has the authorityto
vary from these standards if the development provides equivalent design or approximate dimensions or if
there are unique site design considerations that in the Director's determination warrant a deviation. These
standards may be amended upon approval by the Planning and Community Development Committee of the
Auburn City Council.
Multi-Family and Mixed-U se Design Standards 2
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July 2010
MULTI-FAMILY R MIXED-USE DESIGN STANDARDS
DEFINrfIUNS
The following terms are used to describe certain elements of site design and building architecture and are
generally defined as stated. Terms used in the Design Standards but not defined here shall have the same
rneaning as that contained in the Auburn Comprehensive Plan or Zoning Ordinance.
active play area An area no smaller than 12 feet by 12 feet containing recreational facilities such
as children's play area, basketball court or volleyball court, or other facility that
promotes outdoor sports.
articulation
Variation in depth of the building plane, roof, materials and/or height of a
structure that breaks up a plain, monotonous area and creates patterns of light.
balance
An aspect of rhythm achieved by matching different symmetrical and
asymmetrical elements which when perceived as a whole display harmony or
equilibrium.
balustrade
Arow of balusters or co lumns top ped by a rail, serv ing as an open parapet, as
along the edge of a balcony, terrace, bridge, staircase, or the eaves of a
building.
bay window
Acompartment projecting outward from the wall of a building and containing a
window or windows.
berm
Amound or wall of earth that may be landscaped to create a screen or barrier.
bikeway
Aterm that encompasses bicycle lanes, bicycle paths, and bicycle routes.
bollard
A raised planter; a type of light standard; or, a structure that prohibits vehicle
access to a pathway or other area.
buffet buffering
The act of softening or mitigating the effects of one use on another. Usually
achieved by a combination of distance, landscaping or physical barriers.
character
Special physical features of a structure orarea that set it apart from its
surroundings and contribute to its individuality.
C011111111
Avertical shaft or pillarthat supports, or appearsto support, a load.
compatible
Projectsthat give the appearance of existing togetherwithout conflict with
respectto site, architecture and landscaping design.
cornice
Adecorative horizontal member ortop course that crowns a wall or architectural
composition
courtyard
An area wholly or partly surrounded bywalls or buildings
design
To create,fashion, and arrange elementsor details. The creation and execution
of aesthetic and functional elements.
eaves
The lower border of a roof that overhangsthe wall.
emphasis
The use of different elements, features and patterns, including landscaping, to
call attention to a feature or place such a s a building entrance or focal point.
facade
The exterior face of a building which is given special architectural treatment.
fascia
Aflat board with a vertical face that forms the trim along the edge of a flat roof,
or along the eaves of a pitched roof. The rain gutter is often mounted to it.
Multi-Family and Mixed-U se Design Standards 3
City of Aubum, Washington
July 2010
MULTI-FAMILY R MIXED-USE DESIGN STANDARDS
fenestration
The arrangement and design of windows and doors in a building.
footprint
The outline of a building at all of those points where it meets the ground.
frontage
The area on apiece of property that lies adjacent to the street; the area
between the street and the main entrance to the building; the front facade of a
building where the main entrance is located.
gable
The portion of an end wall or truss of a building enclosed by the sloping ends of
a pitched or gable roof. In the case of a pitched roof this takes the form of an
isosceles triangle that forms the entire end, or the upper half of the end, of a
gable roof.
gable roof
Adouble sloping roof that creates a gable at each end.
hip roof
A roof having four uniformly pitched sides.
landscaping
The planting oftrees, shrubs and groundcovers that have been suitably
designed, selected, installed and maintained so as to permanently enhance a
site or roadway.
large multi-family
Amulti-family building comprised offive of more dwelling units or a multi-family
developmentwith more than two buildings.
louver
An opening provided with one or more slanted fixed or movable finsto allow
flow of air but to exclude rain or sun.
mansard roof
Aroof with two slopes on each side,the lower slope being much steeper.
marquee
Aroof- like structure made of solid materials, projecting over an entrance to a
building and connected to the wall with no columnar support. The front of the
marquee is often hung from chains or rods extending out from the face of the
building.
minonry
Wall construction of materials such as stone, brick, adobe and concrete
mass massing
The physical bulk orvolume of a building. In architectural terms, a single-mass
building is a single geometricform such as a rectangle or square, and may
include a simple roof form with no variation in the roof line. "Massing" refers to
variation in the mass and may involve multiple massesjoined together.
mixed-use
Asingle unified developmentthat incorporatesthe planned integration oftwo or
development
more different land uses consisting of some combination of office, light
industrial, hotel, retail, entertainment, public uses, and residential uses. Mixed-
use development may be vertically oriented in one or more buildings, or
geographically distributed on a development site. When geographically
distributed,the different uses may be constructed concurrently or in separate
phases, and should incorporate common and/or complimentary features and/or
elements such as pedestrian walkways, access driveways, parking areas,
architectural themes, or other techniques that provide integration between uses
on the site.
modulation -
Ameasured and proportioned inflection or setback in a building'sface.
building
modulation -
Architectural techniques and elements used that can add interestto a blank
facade
wall. It includes such things as using different types of windows and
incorporating decorative features like tile or trim work.
palette
In building architecture,the set of colorsto be used on a particular building or
group of buildings. In landscape architecture, the set of planting materials to be
Multi-Family and Mixed-U se Design Standards 4
City of Aubum, Washington
July 2010
MULTI-FAMILY R MIXED-USE DESIGN STANDARDS
used in the landscape design.
parapet
The part of a wall that rises above the edge of the roof.
pattern
The arrangement of building materials orfeatures into a pattern designed to add
texture, scale, balance and/or character to a building.
pedestrian s cale
The relating of the structures in the built environment to the size of a person.
pitch
The angle of a roof pitch, usually expressed as a ratio of units of vertical
distance to 12 units of horizontal distance. For example, 8/12 means eight units
of vertical rise to every 12 units of horizontal run.
proportion
The relationship between elements taken as a whole or in comparison to each
other. Often expressed as a ratio.
public nadti-space
a "public plaza" "village green", "pedestrian-oriented space(s)", "parkway", "trail
corridor", "garden area", or other types of common space
roof-mounted
Heating and air conditioning units, or other mechanical equipment mounted on
equipment
the roof of a building.
scale
The measurement of the relationship between objects. Usually expressed in
terms of a building or element possessing human or pedestrian proportions.
Also refers to the relationship between different architectural elements of a
building and their relationship to the building itself
sculpture
Athree-dimensional artwork created by shaping hard or plastic material,
commonly stone (either rock or marble), metal, or wood.
setbacks
The depth of an area along the entire width of a pa rceIwithin which no building
or structures may be permitted except as required for public utilities.
small multi-family
Amulti-family building comprised of three or four dwelling units i.e triplex or
fourplex building
soil amendments
Elements added to the soil, such as compost, peat moss, or fertilizer, to
improve its capacity to support plant life.
stteetscape
The appearance achieved along an arterial or collector street from
implementation of a comprehensive, unified landscape plan requiring similar
landscape components and elements between adjacent parcels.
texture
The surface characteristics of the exterior facade of a building created through
the use of similar or differing materials and patterns usually expressed in terms
of softness, smoothness or roughness.
tiletilework
Aflat or curved piece of fired clay, stone, or concrete usually used for roofs,
floors or walls and as an ornamental element.
trellis
Aframe or latticework used as a screen or as a support for climbing plants to
create a screen.
urban design
The practice of giving form, beauty and function to an area or citythrough the
establishment of guidelines that express a concern for the location, mass, and
design of various urban components.
view corridor
The line of sight with respect to height, width, and distance of an observer.
Multi-Family and Mixed-U se Design Standards 5
City of Aubum, Washington
July 2010
MULTI-FAMILY R MIXED-USE DESIGN STANDARDS
CHAPTER 1: SMALL MULTI-FAMILY DEVELOPMENT
TRIPLEX OR FOURPLEX BUILDING
A. ARCHITECTURE
1.1 Roof and Rooflines
Objective: Create variety in the design, scale and visibility of roofs and rooflines
1.1.1 Flat roof lines roust include parapet walls as a design feature or a distinct eave and cornice
line.
1.1.2 All other roofl Ines shall have variation in the ridgeline by employing one or more of the following
techniques:
1. roof hips
2. sloped offsets
3. other similar building design features
Flat roof Adh cornice line variation in roofline
1.2 Facades
Objective: To provide for architectural relief and variety on all sides of triplex and fourplex buildings.
Front Fagade
1.2.1 In order to establish architectural relief and variety which is consistent with and complimentary
to the scale of single-family houses, at least three of the following architectural design features listed
below shall be utilized on the front facade:
1. Modulating building facade with vertical intervals no wider than 24 feet with at least a two-foot
offset between each interval;
2. Provide extensions to the building, through angled facets, bay windows, covered entrances,
or other similar features projecting out from the front facade at least two feet (subject to
zoning code setbacks and allowable projections within required setbacks);
Multi-Family and Mixed-U se Design Standards 6
City of Auburn, Washington
July 2010
MULTI-FAMILY R MIXED-USE DESIGN STANDARDS
Between stories of a building, a horizontal change in materials separated by continuous
horizontal trim bands, or a recess or projection of at least two feet (option only applies to
multistory buildings);
Garage doors and front entry doors facing different directions than the doors of the abutting
unit(s) in such a manner as to create disti nctiveness between units;
An architectural feature such as but not limited to:
a. decorative moldings
b. shutters
c. dormers
d. chimneys
e. balconies
f. covered porches, verandas
1.2.2 Between a modulated building facade interval, as defined in 1.2.1, one or more of the following
techniques shall be used:
1. a change in materials
2. a change in siding types
3. or a grouping of trees located within the niche or recess between projecting facade intervals
or, in lieu of a required modulating interval, a stand of trees no farther than 20 feet from that
portion of the facade where modulation shall be required. Groupings of trees may consist of
existing vegetation with new trees added to enhance the planting
Other Facades (side and rear)
1.2.3 In order to avoid blank walls on all sides of a triplex orfourplex at least one of the treatments
utilized on the front fagade must be utilized on the side and rear facades.
1.3 Entrvwavs and Garaaes
Objective: To encourage an attractive sfreefscape, enfryways, and higher quality development.
1.3.1 Entrances to separate units which are visible to the street shall include at least one of the
following entrance features:
1. Porches protected by a roof overhang or canopy, that has a visual differentiation from the
roof ease;
Multi-Family and Mixed-Use Design Standards 7
City of Auburn, Washington
July 2010
MULTI-FAMILY R MIXED-USE DESIGN STANDARDS
2. Differentiation among front entry designs by such means as variation in porch roof designs,
column and balustrade designs, balconies, courtyard designs (e.g., courtyard walls, gates,
paving and/or landscaping), door designs (in conjunction with other variation techniques).
1.3.2 Orient homes to the street by utilizing floor plans which de-emphasize garage fronts as the
most prominent architectural feature of the dwelling front. Priority should be placed on the relationship
of the rooms of the house or outdoor spaces to the street rather than the relationship of the garage to
the street.
1.3.3 Where no other option is feasible for structures with garages placed forward of the living portion
of the dwellings, window openings on the front fagade shall be provided, not including openings into
the garage, equal to no less than one-half (50 percent) of the surface area of the garage doors.
Example of Windove Greater Than 50% of Garage Door Porches protected by roof overhangs
Surface Area
Multi-Family and Mixed-U se Design Standards 8
City of Auburn, Washington
July 2010
MULTI-FAMILY R MIXED-USE DESIGN STANDARDS
CHAPTER 2: LARGE MULTI-FAMILY DEVELOPMENT
A. ARCHITECTURE
2.1 Roof and Rooflines
Objective: To create variety in the design, scale and visibility of roots and rooflines.
2.1.1 Flat roof lines must include parapet walls as a design feature or a distinct eave and cornice
line.
2.1.2 All other rooflines shall have variation in the ridgeline by employing one or more of the following
techniques:
1. roof hips
2. sloped offsets
3. other similar building design features
Multi-familydevelopment Wh a variation in roofline Flet roof Qh off-sets
2.2 Facades
Objective: To create a sense of human scale and to break down the bulk of larger buildings based on
the design concepts that follow.
Building Massing and Form
2.2.1 Multifamily buildings with 12 or fewer units per building shall include two or more of the
following architectural design features:
a. Modulating building facade with vertical intervals no wider than 24 feet with at least a two-foot
offset between each interval;
b. Provide extensions to the building, through angled facets, bay windows, covered enhances,
or other similar features projecting out from the front facade at least two feet (subject to
zoning code setbacks and allowable projections within required setbacks);
c. Include a recess or projection of at least two feet between stories of a building;
Multi-Family and Mixed-U se Design Standards 9
City of Auburn, Washington
July 2010
MULTI-FAMILY R MIXED-USE DESIGN STANDARDS
d. Provide relief to the top floor of buildings containing rnore than three stories through atop
floor setback of five feet or greater or provide exterior, usable, spaces every 24 feet.
2.2.2 Multi-family buildings with 13 - 24 units per building shall include three or more of the
architectural design features listed in 2.2.1.
2.2.3 Multi-family buildings with over 25 units per buildng shall include all of the architectural design
features listed in 2.2.1.
Multi-familydevelopment viith modulating building facades Multi-familydevelopment viith eMensions to the building
Articulation
2.3.4 Multifamily buildings with 12 or fewer units per building shall include two or more of the
following architectural design features:
a. Awnings or canopies above or window boxes below windows or the use of decorative trim
around windows (or combination thereof) along an entire story or building interval grouping to
distinguish one section of a building from another;
b. Variation in the number of stories between intervals of the building;
c. Variation in materials between horizontal or vertical building intervals;
d. An architectural feature such as but not limited to:
1. decorative moldings
2. shutters
3. dormers
4. chimneys
5. balconies
2.4.5 Multi-family buildings with 13 - 24 units per building shall include three or more of the
architectural design features listed in 2.3.4.
2.4.6 Multi-family buildings with over 25 units per bur Icing shall include all of the architectural design
features listed in 2.3.4.
2.4.7 Multiple buildings on a single site shall demonstrate design varietyfrom one another. Variety in
designs may be achieved by variation in each building's footprint, rooflines, facade modulation, and
window arrangement. Color and materials may also be varied.
Multi-Family and Mixed-U se Design Standards 10
City of Auburn, Washington
July 2010
MULTI-FAMILY R MIXED-USE DESIGN STANDARDS
Example of Building Articulation for MutliFam ily Development The balconies in this project create visual interest
2.3 Entryways
Objective: To encourage an attractive streetscape, entryways, and higher quality mu9i4amiiy
development.
2.3.1 In order to provide for an attractive entryway at least two of the following entrance features
shall be included in the project design:
1. Porches protected by a roof overhang or canopy,
2. Wall material within the entrywaythat is different and distinct from the material of the front
facade;
3. Varied color scheme of the entry space walls;
4. Varied exterior entry door styles and lighting for each entry;
5. Trim detailing around the exterior entry doors and windows;
6. Differentiation among front entry designs by such means as variation in porch roof designs,
column and balustrade designs, entry court designs (e.g., courtyard walls, gates, paving and
landscaping), door designs and (in conjunction with other variation techniques) door colors.
Multi-Family and Mixed-Use Design Standards 11
City of Auburn, Washington
July 2010
MULTI-FAMILY R MIXED-USE DESIGN STANDARDS
CHAPTER 2: LARGE MULTI-FAMILY DEVELOPMENT
B. SITE PLANNING
2.4 Building Siting and Orientation
objective: To ensure that buiklhgs relate appropriately to surrounding developments and streets and
create a cohesive visual identity for the neighborhood and attractive street scene; to establish a
sense of community for a neighborhood by providing opportunities for people to gather.
Courtyards (when incorporated)
2.4.1 The size of the courtyard space, or series of courtyard spaces, shall be no smaller than 30
percent of required common open space pursuant to the applicable zoning district regulation. A
portion of the courtyard space, not to exceed 40 percent of the total, may be private open space.
2.4.2 The width of the courtyard space shall be equivalent to the minimum average height of on-site
buildings adjacent to the courtyard. Curvilinear design of courtyards is encouraged. The courtyard
space may be secured with fences and gates.
2.4.3 Courtyards shall have the form of an enclosure through one or more of the following
techniques:
1. walls of one or more buildings
2. a continuous row of plants
3. low walls
4. berms
5. natural earth forms steeper than 40 percent grade and higherthan 10 feet
2.4.4 Pedestrian amenities are to be provided in the courtyard space: Consider incorporating the
following amenities:
1. permanent outdoor seating (for every six dwelling units there should be 12 feet of bench or
ledge of permanent outdoor seating)
2. permanent outdoor sculpture
3. active play area. (active play areas are to be no smaller than 144 sq. ft. in size.) If no other
active play areas around found within the development, one must be placed in the courtyard
space
2.4.5 The landscaped space shall be at least 10 percent of the space enclosed by the courtyard and
may include the following planting materials:
1. Shrubs with spacing to be based on the mature spread of the selected plant species;
2. Trees (deciduous or evergreen), at least one per 500 square feet of required courtyard area.
Trees should be at least six feet tall at planting for evergreen trees and have a minimum
caliper of two inches for deciduous trees;
3. Ground cover, sufficient to cover within a three-year period 75 percent of landscape area not
otherwise covered with shrubs or lawn.
Multi-Family and Mixed-U se Design Standards 12
City of Auburn, Washington
July 2010
MULTI-FAMILY R MIXED-USE DESIGN STANDARDS
2.4.6 Alternate planting materials, spacing, location, and quantities, may be approved by the
Planning Director following the submittal of a landscape plan prepared by a registered landscape
architect of the state of Washington.
71
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Overluuking th _IpaCe
Traditional Street System (when organized along)
2.4.7 Dwelling units are encouraged to have their entrance and front facade oriented to the traditional
street system.
2.4.8 Public or private streets or interior drive aisles upon which the dwelling units are oriented shall
not exceed 500 feet in length forthe purpose of breaking up the scale of the development pattern. For
purposes of this standard, breaks maybe accommodated by one or more of the following techniques:
1. pedestrian walkways
2. building story elevation changes
3. vehicle drive aisles
2.4.9 Multi-family dwellings that have garages which can be accessed directly from the street or
interior drive aisle shall have a building facade containing a total window area (excluding window
openings into the garage) that is at least 50 percent of the total area of any garage door openings on
the same facade.
2.4.10 For dwelling units oriented to the street, at least one window or door from a primary room (i.e.,
kitchen or living room) of each dwelling unit mustface the street.
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Illustration of dAelling units organized along traditional street
system
Multi-Family and Mixed-Use Design Standards 13
City of Auburn, Washington
July 2010
MULTI-FAMILY R MIXED-USE DESIGN STANDARDS
Objective: To provide a transition between higher density residential and lower density residential
development.
2.5.1 A minimum of one of the following design features shall be selected in the design of multi-
family (buildings that immediately abut or are across the street from a single-family zoning district) in
order to provide a transition in scale and intensity and to maintain a level of privacy:
1. Orientation of the narrowest end of building toward the abutting or adjacent single family
zoning district. The horizontal length of the facade which is parallel to and oriented to the
boundary of the single-family zoning district shall not exceed 40 feet in width;
2. Provision of a 15-foot wide landscaped buffer consisting of continuous row of trees and a six-
foot tall wood opaque fence, masonry wall or vegetative screen or a native growth protection
easement with a minimum width of 25 feet along the boundary between the multi-family
project and the abutting single-family zoning district.
2.5.2 Multi-family buildings shall maintain a setback of 25 feet along all property lines abutting any
single-family (RC, R 1, R5, R7) zoning district.
2.5.3 Multi-family buildings within 50 feet of any single-family zoning district shall not exceed two
stories unless the exterior walls and roof of the third story are stepped back a minimum of 10 feet
from the second floor exterior walls that face the single-family zoning district.
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Example of Multi-Family Development Adjacent to SingleF am ily Development
2.6 Access. Circulation and Parkina
Objective: To create pedestrian-scale development that facilitates pedestrian access to
developments connect uses to the street; decrease the distance between adjacent developments
draw users onto a site; create walkable blocks of a human scale; and facilitate mare pedestrian
friendly design.
2.6.1 Common driveways between users on the same or abutting properties shall be required
wherever possible.
2.6.2 All curb cuts shall be as narrow as safety allows in order to reduce the distance a pedestrian
must cross.
Multi-Family and Mixed-U se Design Standards 14
City of Auburn, Washington
July 2010
MULTI-FAMILY R MIXED-USE DESIGN STANDARDS
Cirou/atinr
2.6.3 The auto circulation system and parking shall be designed as an extension of the public street
system through the use of continuous sidewalks, landscaping consistent with public streets, utilization
of the street elevation, the use of parallel parking and the use of driveways and circulation drives as
mid-block connections.
2.6.4 Parking lots and developments shall be divided into blocks with perimeters of eight hundred to
two thousand feet (two hundred to five hundred feet per side). Blocks can be defined by auto
circulation drives and the placement of buildings on the site.
Parking
2.6.5 Carports shall not exceed 72 feet in length.
2.6.6 For parking areas with over 20 stalls, sidewalks ordesignated pedestrian paths/routes shall be
provided from parking areas to residential units. The paths/routes shall be visibly marked with
stri pping or differentiated pavement.
2.6.7 Parking stalls shall not be located nor positioned to cause headlights to shine into windows of
residential units.
2.6.8 Parking lots shall be located behind and to the side of buildings and shall not be placed on the
comer of two streets.
Parking Structures
2.6.9 Structured parking garages with street frontages greater than 50 linear feet shall varythe
building line and/or create offsetting walls, awnings, arcades, modulated wall textures, climbing
landscaping materials and other features that visually reduce the scale of the wall.
2.6.10 Structured parking garages with facades greater than one hundred feet in length, measured
horizontally, shall incorporate wall plane projections or recesses having a depth of least three percent
of the length of the facade and extending at least twerty percent of the length of the facade. No
uninterrupted length of any facade shall exceed one hundred horizontal feet. The facades should also
incorporate one or more of the following:
1. awnings
2. arcades
3. modulated wall textures
4. climbing landscaping materials
5. other features that visually reduce the scale of the wall.
2.6.11 The ground floor of parking structures shall integrate awnings, overhangs or other rain
protection features when abutting pedestrian amenities. The minimum depth of such features is five
feet, with a vertical clearance of between eight and twelve feet. Such features may extend up to four
feet into the public right-of-way if such extension can be safely accommodated. Extensions further
into the right-of-way will require Planning Director approval after consultation with the City Engineer.
Multi-Family and Mixed-U se Design Standards 15
City of Auburn, Washington
July 2010
MULTI-FAMILY R MIXED-USE DESIGN STANDARDS
When located in the public right-of-way, the applicant shall obtain a right-of-way permit from the City
of Auburn.
2.6.12 Ground floor structured parking facades not facing streets shall have at least 50 percent of the
total wall area in windowed or open surfaces or permanent architectural features that break up the
monotony of large blank walls orfacades, or a combination of windowed or open surfaces and
permanent architectural features.
2.6.13 Upper levels of structured parking should be screened or treated architecturally by two or
more of the following:
1. Planting limited to portions of the parking structure, not the entire structure.
2. Louvers
3. Expanded metal panels
4. Decorative metal grills
5. Spandrel (opaque) glass
6. An element, as approved by the Planning Director, which meets the intent of this section.
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Example of an internal drive isle vf1h landscaping Example of a parking lot located behind a building
Site Circulation Plan
2.6.14 In orderto foster safety and convenience among users of a development a site circulation
plan shall be submitted with any large Multifamily development proposal. The site circulation plan
shall focus on the following three areas:
1. Site connectabilitV between buildings, uses, and activity areas
2. Off-site connectabilitV to surrounding uses; and
3. Access considerations for vehicles, pedestrians, and bicycles
When considering pedestrians the site circulation plan shall include safe pedestrian access from
parking areas to buildings on the site; safe pedestrian access from buildings on the site to public
sidewalks; and safe pedestrian access from buildings on the site to adioining land uses, including
residential neighborhoods to which there may not be directvehicular connections. When considering
vehicles the site circulation plan shall consider access lanes for parking, fire and emergency access
lanes. connections to adioinino development other than sinale-familv dwellings. drivewavs. and other
access points to the public street system
Multi-Family and Mixed-U se Design Standards 16
City of Auburn, Washington
July 2010
MULTI-FAMILY R MIXED-USE DESIGN STANDARDS
2.7 Service Areas and Fencing
Objective: To minimize the negative visual impacts of trash and recycling centers in a multi-family
development.
Trash (incl. Recycling) and Service Areas
2.7.1 Accessory buildings shall use similar building materials and -where roofed -roofing materials
and roof forms as those used on the primary residential structures.
2.7.2 Trash and recycling receptacles shall be visually screened from streets and adjacent properties
by: (1) substantial sight-obscuring landscaping which will achieve a height of at least six feet within
three years of planting; or (2) an enclosure constructed building of the similar siding materials used
on the primary residential structures.
2.7.3 If building materials are discontinued or otherwise ulavailable, an alternate material that
closely resembles the original material maybe used upon the approval of the Planning Director.
Fencing
2.7.4 The maximum height of free-standing walls, fences, or hedges along public streets or
sidewalks shall be approximately 3 feet unless a taller masonry wall is required bythe Cityto mitigate
significant noise impacts.
2.7.5 The maximum height of any decorative wall or fence which allows visibility, such as a wrought
iron or split rail fences, shall be 6 feet.
2.7.6 Chain link fences, barbed wire, razor wire, elect
Examples of Treatment of Mufti Fam ily TrashRecycling Air conditioner units screened behind landscaping and
Receptacles screen walls
Multi-Family and Mixed-Use Design Standards 17
City of Auburn, Washington
July 2010
MULTI-FAMILY R MIXED-USE DESIGN STANDARDS
CHAPTER 2: LARGE MULTI-FAMILY DEVELOPMENT
C. COMMON SPACE
Objective: Require minimum standards to reduce the rate of crime associated with persons and
property.
2.8.1 Building entryways shall be oriented to be visible from other buildings, apartments, and houses.
2.8.2 Screening (landscaping, fences, and screen walls) shall not block visibility and make two-way
surveillance difficult.
2.8.3 Lighting for trails and bike paths shall be provided at an appropriate scale and have appropriate
spacing to avoid creation of dark spots or insufficiently lighted areas.
2.8.4 Over-illumination and glare shall be avoided where pedestrians and vehicles meet to minimize
pedestrian vehicle conflicts.
2.9 Signage
Objective: To provide signs that are attractive and strengthen the pedestrian realm.
2.9.1 Building and site addressing shall complywith applicable City addressing policies. A lighted
directory sign that shows building and apartment numbers shall be placed at each project entrance to
direct visitors to their desired destination.
2.9.2 For developments of 50 units or greater, way-finding signs shall be installed throughout the
development to assist pedestrians and vehicles in navigating throughout the development.
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Exainrile?it lighting teamd along an internal p Ir3ri an r1atn E>tiMn t a dog ➢n inn sign
Multi-Family and Mixed-Use Design Standards 18
City of Auburn, Washington
July 2010
MULTI-FAMILY R MIXED-USE DESIGN STANDARDS
CHAPTER 3: MIXED-USED DEVELOPMENT
A. ARCHITECTURE
3.1 Roof and Rooflines
Objective: To create variety in the design, scale, and visibility of roots and roofJines.
3.1.1 Roofs shall have no less than two of the following features:
Parapets concealing flat roofs and rooftop equpment such as HVAC units from public view.
The average height of such parapets shal I not exceed fifteen percent of the height of the
supporting wall. Such parapets shall feature three-dimensional cornice treatment; Parapets
may extend above the maximum allowed heightof the underlying zoning district but no more
than 10 percent and with administrative approval bythe Planning Director if they are
constructed for the primary purpose of screening rooftop mechanical equipment;
Overhanging eaves, extending no less than three feet past the supporting walls;
Sloping roofs that do not exceed the average height of the supporting walls, with an average
slope greater than or equal to one foot of vertical rise for every three feet of horizontal nun
and less than or equal to one foot of vertical rise for every one foot of horizontal nun;
Three or more roof slope planes.
3.1.2 Mixed-use building rooflines visible from a public street, open space, or public parking area
shall be varied by emphasizing dormers, stepped roofs, gables, prominent cornice or fascia, or a
broken or articulated roofline. The width of any continuous flatroofline shall extend no more than 100
feet without modulation. Modulation should consist of either.
1. A change in elevation of the visible roofline of at least 4 feet if the particular roof segment is
less than 50 feet wide and at least 8 feet if the particular roof segment is greaterthan 50 feet
in length;
2. A sloped or gabled roofline segment of at least 20 feet in width and no less than 4 feet
vertical in 12 feet horizontal;
3. A combination of the above.
3.1.3 The City may reduce these requirements where other treatments are successfully used to meet
the intent of the standards.
Multi-Family and Mixed-U se Design Standards 19
City of Auburn, Washington
July 2010
MULTI-FAMILY R MIXED-USE DESIGN STANDARDS
Objective: To ensure that all building facades that can be viewed from a public street are articulated
to add visual interest, distinctiveness, and human scale.
Building Massing and Form
3.2.1 Building facades shall be designed to a human scale for aesthetic appeal and pedestrian
comfort.
3.2.2 Buildings with street frontages greater than 50 linear feet shall vary the building line and/or
create offsetting walls, awnings, arcades, modulated wall textures, climbing landscaping materials
and other features that visually reduce the scale of the wall.
3.2.4 Buildings above 30 feet in height shall distinguish a "building base" at ground level using
articulation and materials such as stone, masonry, or decorative concrete.
3.2.5 One step above the building base or "middle" of the building shall be distinguished by a change
in materials or color, windows, balconies, step backs or signage.
3.2.6 The "top" of the building shall emphasize a distinct profile or outline with elements such as a
projecting parapet, cornice, upper level setback or pitched roof line.
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Articulation
3.2.7 The ground floors of building facades facing streets shall have at least 50 percent of the total
ground floor wall area in clear vision glass, pedestrian enaances or open shops, with no reflective
surface or film permitted.
3.2.8 Other building facades not facing streets shall have at least 50 percent of the total wall area in
permeable (clearvision) surfaces or permanent architectural features that breakup the monotony of
large blank walls or facades, or a combination of permeable surfaces and permanent architectural
features.
Multi-Family and Mixed-Use Design Standards 20
City of Auburn, Washington
July 2010
MULTI-FAMILY R MIXED-USE DESIGN STANDARDS
3.2.9 Buildings shall integrate awnings, overhangs or other rain protection features when abutting
pedestrian amenities. The minimum depth of such features isfive (5), with a vertical clearance of
between eight and twelve feet. Such features may extend up to four feet into the public right-of-way if
such extension can be safely accommodated. When located in the public right-of-way, the applicant
shall obtain a right-of-way perm it from the City of Auburn.
3.2.10 Ground floor facades that face public streets shall have arcades, display windows, entry
areas, awnings or other such features along no less than fifty percent of their horizontal length.
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into a mix-use project
Materials
3.2.11 Predominant exterior building materials shall consist of high quality building materials that
include, but are not limited to, brick, wood, sandstone, glass, metal, and/or other native stone and
tinted/textured concrete masonry units.
3.2.12 Exterior building materials shall not include smooth-faced concrete block, tilt-up concrete
panels, or prefabricated steel panels, unless said construction materials are sided or covered with
veneer consisting of acceptable materials as listed above, or are used in conjunction with other
acceptable building materials approved by the City.
3.2.13 If metal siding is used, it shall not be the predominant material and shall have visible corner
moldings and trim and incorporate masonry or other similar durable/permanent material near the
ground level (first 2 feet above sidewalk or ground level).
3.2.14 When used for the facade of any building, concrete blocks shall be split, rock- or ground-faced
and limited to 30 percent of the facade area. The City may allow a higher percentage through the use
of a specialized textures and/or colors used effectively with other building materials and details in a
way that meets the Intent of the standards.
3.2.15 Concrete block walls should be enhanced with integral color, textured blocks and colored
mortar, decorative bond pattern and/or incorporate other masonry materials.
Multi-Family and Mixed-U se Design Standards 21
City of Auburn, Washington
July 2010
MULTI-FAMILY R MIXED-USE DESIGN STANDARDS
A development with glass as the predominant building A developmentthat incorporates several different building
material materials
Ground Floor Details
3.2.16 All primary building pedestrian entrances and storefront windows shall face onto the primary
street serving the site. If the site has multiple street frontages, the more pedestrian-oriented street
shall take precedence.
3.2.17 Street-oriented fagades of mixed-use buildings shall be designed to be pedestrian-friendly
through the inclusion of at least four of the following elements:
1. Projecting window
2. Pedestrian scale signs
3. Canopies
4. Plinths for columns
5. Containers for seasonal plantings
6. Ornamental tilework
Medallions
8. Belt courses
9. Lighting or hanging baskets supported by ornamental brackets
10. An element, as approved bythe City, which meets the intent of this section
3.2.18 Canopies and awnings shall be provided along all fagades that are adjacent to public streets.
Canopies and awnings are encouraged along any private streets or interior pedestrian pathways.
3.2.19 The minimum depth of any canopy or awning adjacent to a public street shall be four (4) feet.
The vertical dimension between the underside of the canopy or awning and the sidewalk shall be at
least eight (8) feet and no more than 12 feet.
3.2.20 Provide canopies and awnings such as shed or marquee style, except that bowed awnings
may be used over arched windows. "Bubble" awnings and backlit awnings with translucent materials
are not permitted.
Multi-Family and Mixed-U se Design Standards 22
City of Auburn, Washington
July 2010
MULTI-FAMILY R MIXED-USE DESIGN STANDARDS
A building viith pedestrian entrances and storefront wridows Abuilding containing aAningsneM to a public street
facing the primary street
Objective: To ensure that entrances are easily identifiable and accessible from streets and sidewalks
3.3.1 Main building entrances should be oriented to where there is amain street presence, typically
the property line abutting the primary street, rather than to a parking lot.
3.3.2 Locate primary entrances so that they are visible from the public right-of-way. The entryshould
be marked by architecturally prominent elements such as canopies, ornamental lighting fixtures
and/orfixed seating that offer visual prominence and a sense of safety.
Multi-Family and Mixed-Use Design Standards 23
City of Auburn, Washington
July 2010
MULTI-FAMILY R MIXED-USE DESIGN STANDARDS
CHAPTER 3: MIXED-USED DEVELOPMENT
B. SITE PLANNING
3.4 Building Siting and Orientation
Objective: To promote land uses that are mixed on-site or are mixed in combination with adjacent
uses; the combining of land uses should promote easy access among stores and services by
pedestrians. Create compact development through creative site and building design that maximizes
use of property, establishes a sense of place and creates linkages with surrounding development.
Mix of Land Uses
3.4.1 A project shall have a "mixed-use" orientation comprised of a combination of residential and
commercial/industrial/civic uses either arranged vertically (in multiple stories of buildings) or
horizontally (adjacent to one another).
3.4.2 A mixed-use project shall be designed in such a waythat it is well integrated with adjacent land
uses by being within a comfortable walking distance (112 mile) of each other and that are connected
to each other with direct, convenient and attractive sidewalks and/or pathways.
Compact Development
3.4.3 The site layout shall be compact incorporating efficient use of the land.
3.4.4 The site layout shall cluster buildings on the site to promote linked trips. Clustering shall occur
through attachment of buildings, orientation to adjacent street corners, or are close together such that
a pedestrian need not walk across an expansive amount of parking and driveway area, or one
double-loaded row of parking (not inclusive of sidewalks, pathways, landscaping, plazas, and other
pedestrian facilities).
3.4.5 The site layout should consider the siting and design of alternative vehicle support facilities i.e.
charging stations and accommodation of parking areas for shared or cooperative automobile parking.
General
3.4.6 Buildings shall be located as close as possible to the public street and sidewalk, preferably at
the sidewalk line or the minimum required buffer, and in all instances shall complywith maximum
building setback requirements of the zoning district. Where there is more than one public street
abutting the site, the Director shall determine which street shall have preference based on its access
classification, pedestrian use, transit use, and presence of on-street parking.
3.4.7 Buildings on corner lots shall be located on the street cornerwith building frontage on both
streets, with primary entrances oriented toward the intersection. If no buildings are located at street
comers, pedestrian plazas and amenities shall provide afocus forthe area.
Multi-Family and Mixed-Use Design Standards 24
City of Auburn, Washington
July 2010
MULTI-FAMILY R MIXED-USE DESIGN STANDARDS
3.5 Neighborhood Context
nr'~;arr,+F: ~ o ensure ti~~n ~;~,v Sias aegmenf tt~ cnaracf~ arm cosign of existbx~ dederoprnen`.
3.5.1 The location of site uses shall be coordinated with adjoining properties to avoid creating
nuisances such as noise, light intrusion and traffic impacts, particularly when development is adjacent
to sensitive uses such as residential development.
Compatibility
3.5.2 Commercial development should be compatible with surounding land uses from both a
functional and aesthetic standpoint.
3.5.3 Buildings shall be compatible with the height, massing, setback, and design character of
surrounding uses. New development should contribute to the visual quality and cohesiveness of its
setting but need not imitate or mimic adjacent development.
Adjacent Views
3.5.4 Commercial development should not create unattractive views from neighboring uses by
orienting blank building walls toward neighbors. Any visible building walls should incorporate
architectural elements to create visual interest.
3.5.5 New streets should be designed in a mannerthat reflects the predominant street scale, pattern,
and block size of the surrounding established neighborhood.
3.5.6 Placement of a building on a lot and the siting of additions should reflect the prevailing pattern
of the established neighborhood.
3.5.7 New infill developments should be compatible with the existing on-site relationships of the
surrounding established neighborhood such as front fagade orientation, scale of front entries, and
prevailing front and side yard setback areas.
3.5.8 Steps should betaken in the siting and design of infill developments and additions to minimize
adverse effects of the proposed development on the light, air, and privacy of existing adjacent
properties in light of the fact that new development within an established neighborhood setting, by its
very nature, may result in areal or perceived loss of privacy for existing residents.
Multi-Family and Mixed-Use Design Standards 25
City of Auburn, Washington
July 2010
MULTI-FAMILY R MIXED-USE DESIGN STANDARDS
3.5.9 New development should be compatible in scale and heightin orderto blend with neighboring
structures, and not overwhelm them with disproportionate size.
3.6 Access. Circulation. and Parking
Objective: To createpec?stnan-scale development that facilitates pedestrian access to
developments; connect uses to the street; decrease the distance between adjacent developments;
draw users onto a site; create walkable blocks of a human scale; and facilitate mare pedestrian-
friendly design.
3.6.1 Common driveways between users on the same or abating properties shall be required
wherever possible.
3.6.2 Driveway curb cuts onto public streets shall be limited to the fewest access points.
3.6.3 All curb cuts shall be as narrow as safety allows in order to reduce the distance a pedestrian
roust cross.
3.6.4 Auto circulation system and parking shall be designed as an extension of the public street
system through the use of continuous sidewalks, landscaping consistentwith public streets, utilization
of the street elevation, the use of parallel parking and the use of driveways and circulation drives as
mid-block connections.
3.6.5 Pedestrian linkages shall be designed with developmentto connect to the public infrastructure.
Linkages shall be a continuation of the public infrastructure to reduce dead-end paths and encourage
users to directly access the development. Consideration shall be given to off-site destinations in the
design of the on-site pedestrian system.
3.6.6 Pedestrian circulation routes shall be composed of treated surfaces, such as scored, brushed,
stamped and colored concrete and brick pavers, in order to differentiate the pedestrian system from
the vehicular system. Where pedestrian routes cross driveways or vehicular access aisles, a
Multi-Family and Mixed-U se Design Standards 26
City of Auburn, Washington
July 2010
MULTI-FAMILY R MIXED-USE DESIGN STANDARDS
continuous raised crossing composed of a different paving material shall be provided. Pedestrian
circulation routes shall be a minimum of five (5) feet in width.
3.6.7 When multiple buildings are proposed, pedestrian connections not less than five (5) feet wide
shall be provided through parking lots to building entrances, sidewalks and/or transit stops.
3.6.8 Pedestrian connections should be clearly defined by at least two of the following:
1. Six (6) inch vertical curb in combination with a raised walkway
2. Textured paving, including across vehicular lanes, such as stamped, or scored concrete
3. Bollards
4. Trellis
5. Continuous landscape area at least three (3) feet wide and at least on one side of the
walkway
6. Pedestrian-scale lighting to aid in way-finding
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Opening between street facing buildings and shared parking
area behind the buildings.
Parking
3.6.9 Parking shall be located over, under, behind or to the side of buildings. Parking structures are
strongly encouraged.
3.6.10 All parking lots shall meet the design and construction standards of ACC 18.52 unless
modified herein.
3.6.11 Parking lots shall provide areas for compact vehicles, motorcycles, and shared or cooperative
vehicle parking.
Example of a dearly delineated pedestrian pathway
Multi-Family and Mixed-Use Design Standards 27
City of Auburn, Washington
July 2010
MULTI-FAMILY R MIXED-USE DESIGN STANDARDS
Site Circulation Plan
3.6.12 In orderto foster safety and convenience among users of a development a site circulation
plan shall be submitted with any Mixed-Use development proposal. The site circulation plan shall
focus on the following three areas:
1. Site connectability between buildings, uses, and activity areas
2. Off-site connectability to surrounding uses: and
3. Access considerations forvehicles. pedestrians, and bicycles
When considering pedestrians the site circulation plan shall include safe pedestrian access from
parking areas to buildings on the site: safe pedestrian access from buildings on the site to public
sidewalks: and safe pedestrian access from buildings onthe site to adjoining land uses, including
residential neighborhoods to which there mad not be di rect vehicular connections. When considering
vehicles the site circulation plan shall consider access lanes for parking, fire and emergency access
lanes, connections to adjoining development other than single-family dwellings, driveways, and other
access points to the public street system.
Parking Structures
3.6.13 Structured parking garages with street frontages greater than 50 linear feet shall varythe
building line and/or create offsetting walls, awnings, arcades, modulated wall textures, and other
features that visually reduce the scale of the wall.
3.6.14 Structured parking garages with facades greater than one hundred feet in length, measured
horizontally, shall incorporate wall plane projections having a depth of least three percent of the
length of the facade and extending at least twenty percent of the length of the facade. No
uninterrupted length of any facade shall exceed one hundred horizontal feet. The facades should also
incorporate one or more of the following:
1. awnings
2+ arcades
3+ modulated wall textures
4+ other features that visually reduce the scale of the wall
3.6.15 The ground fl oor of parking structures shall integrate awnings, overhangs or other rain
protection features when abutting pedestrian amenities. The minimum depth of such features is five
feet, with a vertical clearance of between eight and twelve feet. Such features may extend up to four
feet into the public right-of-way if such extension can be safely accommodated. Extensions further
into the right-of-way will require Planning Director approval after consultation with the City Engineer.
When located in the public right-of-way, the applicant shall obtain a right-of-way permit from the City
of Auburn.
3.6.16 Ground floor structured parking facades not facing streets shall have at least 50 percent of the
total wall area in windowed or open surfaces or permanent architectural features that break up the
monotony of large blank walls orfacades, or a combination of windowed or open surfaces and
permanent architectural features.
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MULTI-FAMILY R MIXED-USE DESIGN STANDARDS
3.6.17 Upper levels of structured parking shall be screened ortreated architecturally by two or more
of the following:
1. Louvers
2. Expanded metal panels
3. Decorative metal grills
4. Spandrel (opaque) glass
5. An element or technique, as approved bythe City, which meets the intent of this section
3.6.18 Lighting fixtures within garages shall be screened from view from the street and shall have
appropriate light cut-offs.
3.6.19 In orderto provide a safer environment, parking structure illumination should be designed to a
maximum uniformity ratio (proportion of average to minimum illumination) of4:1.
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The ground floor of this parking garage incorporates awnings
3.6.20 The location of and access to bicycle parking areas shall be in accordance with the following:
1. Bicycle parking areas shall be designed so as to be visible from the street, be convenient to
cyclists, provide sufficient security from theft and damage, and to interact as harmoniously as
possible with other forms of transportation;
2. Outdoor bicycle parking areas shall be lighted to red-ice the potential for crime;
3. Outdoor bicycle parking areas shall be located no farther than fifty feet from primary building
entrances, and their location and design shall assure that bicycle parking does not obstruct
vehicle parking or pedestrian accessways;
4. Outdoor bicycle parking areas shall include a bicycle rack for the secure placement of
bicycles;
5. Outdoor bicycle parking areas including bicycle racks shall be located so as to avoid conflict
with pedestrian movement and access walks as required by the Building Code, the
Americans with Disabilities Act, and other applicable state and federal policies and
guidelines;
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City of Auburn, Washington
July 2010
MULTI-FAMILY R MIXED-USE DESIGN STANDARDS
6. Covered bicycle parking areas are encouraged. Roof extensions, overhangs, awnings,
arcades, carports or enclosures should be considered when creating covered areas.
3.6.21 Bike racks provided pursuant to this section shall meet the following provisions.
1. Bicycle racks provided for required bicycle parking facilities shall ensure that bicycles maybe
securely locked to the racks without undue inconvenience;
2. Bicycle parking facilities shall offer security in the form of either a lockable enclosure in which
a bicycle can be stored or a stationary object such as a bicycle rack upon which a bicycle can
be securely locked by the means of the frame. The frame shall be supported so that the
bicycle cannot be pushed or fall to one side in a manner that will damage the bicycle's
wheels;
3. Bicycle parking racks, shelters or lockers shall be securely anchored to the ground or to a
structure;
4. Bicycle parking spaces shall be a minimum of two and one-half feet wide by six feet long, and
provide a vertical clearance of seven feet. A minimum five-foot wide access aisle shall be
provided and maintained between or beside each row of bicycle parking;
5. Each bicycle parking space shall be accessible without moving another bicycle;
6. Bicycle parking spaces shall not be rented or leased;
Areas set aside for required bicycle parking shall be clearly reserved for bicycle parking only.
3.6.22 Bicycle parking areas shall be paved and surfaced in accordance with the following
requirement: Outdoor bicycle parking areas shall be surfaced with hard-surfacing material. This
surface shall conform with all requirements pertaining to stormwater drainage and control and shall
be maintainers in -auud and 7ire condition at all times.
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3.7 Service Areas and Fencina
Objective: To screen fresh storage, loading, and service areas from public view
Trash (incl. Recycling) and Service Areas
3.7.1 Trash and service areas shall be placed awayfrom streets.
Multi-Family and Mixed-U se Design Standards 30
City of Auburn, Washington
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MULTI-FAMILY R MIXED-USE DESIGN STANDARDS
3.7.2 All service, loading and trash collecti on areas shall be screened by a combination of masonry
walls and planting, with similar character to the design of the building it serves.
3.7.3 Loading and service areas shall not face any residential areas and shall not be visible from any
residenti al area, unless the planning director determinesthere is no other feasible location at which
time he or she shall determine the appropriate efforts needed to buffer impacts to residential areas.
3.7.4 Service elements shall be located and designed to minimize the impacts on the pedestrian
environment and adjacent uses. Service elements should generally be concentrated and located
where they are accessible to service vehicles and convenient for tenant use.
Fencing
3.7.5 The maximum height of free-standing walls, fences, or hedges along public streets or
sidewalks shall be approximately 3 feet unless a taller masonry wall is required bythe Cityto mitigate
significant noise impacts.
3.7.6 The maximum height of any decorative wall or fence which allows visibility, such as a wrought
iron or split rail fences, shall be 6 feet.
3.7.7 Chain link fences, barbed wire, razor wire, electric and other dangerous fences are prohibited.
3.7.8 Developments shall avoid configurations that have usesthat backup against a street. Where
unavoidable, fences between a street and any use shall be limited to 3-112 feet in height.
3.7.9 Temporary fencing associated with events maybe permitted upon review and approval bythe
Planning Director, Building Official, and other city staff as appropriate.
Example of decorative fence enclosing a patio area
Multi-Family and Mixed-Use Design Standards 31
City of Auburn, Washington
July 2010
MULTI-FAMILY R MIXED-USE DESIGN STANDARDS
CHAPTER 3: Mixed-Use Development
C. COMMON SPACE
3.8 Common SDate-Multi-usesDaceilsl
Objective: To provide a variety of accessible and inviting pedesfran-oriented areas to attract
shoppers to commercial areas and enrich the pedestrian environment.
3.8.1 All developments shall incorporate a public multi-use space (see definition). This could include
a single space or, for larger developments, a variety of spaces. Specifically, applicants must
successfully demonstrate how the proposed publicly accessible multi-use space meets all of the
following criteria:
1. Is are centralized and accessible. All applicable multi-use spaces shall be physically and
visually accessible from the adjacent street or major internal pedestrian route. Multi-use
spaces shall be in centralized locations that nearby residents, workers, and/or shoppers can
use - rather than simply left-over or undevelopable space in locations where very little
pedestrian traff ic is anticipated. Locations integrated with transit stops, for instance, would be
encouraged, as there is likely to be pedestrian traffi c in the area. At least 50 percent of the
multi-use space shall be at street level.
2. Is are inviting. Inviting multi-use spaces feature amenities and activities that encourage
pedestrians to use and explore the space. It could be a fountain, sculpture, children's play
area, dog nun, or special landscaping element. A multi-use space should receive ample
sunlight-particularly at noon-have design elements that lend the space a "human scale
including planter boxes and other landscaping elements, benches and other seating areas,
and pedestrian-scaled lighting.
3.8.2 At least 10 percent of the multi-use space shall be planted with trees and other vegetation.
3.8.3 Multi-use spaces shall include adequate lighting, allow for penetration of sunlight, and provide
seating in the form of low walls, benches and/ortables and chairs.
3.8.4 Accessory site features such as, waste receptacles, street furniture and movable planters shall
be of compatible design to the main 0 tilriinq Herded by the multi-use space.
Amuti-use space located in a centralized location that Ain ufli-use :dace %Ah design elementsihat are
nearby residents, v~orkers, and/or shoppers can use human scale
Multi-Family and Mixed-Use Design Standards 32
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MULTI-FAMILY R MIXED-USE DESIGN STANDARDS
3.9 Defensive Spate CPTED)
Objective: The site design, buildings, signs, landscaping, parking and other elements should provide
a safe environment for customers, employees, occupants, and adjacent properties.
3.9.1 Consider incorporating Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) principles
within the development such as:
a. Natural surveillance -which occurs when parks or plazas are open to view by the public
and neighbors. For example, a plaza that features residential units with windows looking
down on space means that the space has good "eyes" on the park or plaza;
b. Lighting that reflects the intended hours of operation;
c. Landscaping and fencing. Avoid configurations that create dangerous hiding spaces and
minimize views;
d. Entrances should be prominent, well lit, and highly visible from inside and outside of the
space;
e. Maintenance. Open spaces shall utilize durable materials thatwill last and require
minimal maintenance costs. Walls, where necessary, shall be designed and treated to
deter graffiti. Use and maintain landscape materials that reduce maintenance cost and
maintain visibility, where desired.
Objective: To encourage interesting, creative and unique approaches to the design of signage.
Provide signs that activate and strengthen the pedestrian realm.
3.10.1 Signs should be highly graphic inform, expressive and individualized. Signs should convey
the product or service offered by the business in a bold, graphic form.
3.10.2 If a projecting sign is designed by a graphic design professional and includes a non-verbal,
three-dimensional symbol that succinctly conveys the nature of the business and constitutes a
dominant proportion of the overall design, the sign may be allowed to exceed the maximum area
otherwise allowed by 50%.
3.10.3 Neon maybe used as artwork or as graphic symbols that portray the nature of the business,
provided that no written words shall be allowed, the site is not located within a residentially zoned
area or the site is not located within 500 feet of existing residential land uses.
Ground Signs
3.10.4 All freestanding signs shall be ground (monument) signs no higher than ten (10) feet.
3.10.5 The area around the base of any ground sign shall be planted with shrubs and seasonal
flowers.
3.10.6 Pole signs are not permitted
Pedestrian Orientation
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July 2010
MULTI-FAMILY R MIXED-USE DESIGN STANDARDS
3.10.7 Signs shall be primarily oriented to pedestrians, rather than people in vehicles. The following
types of signs shall be permitted:
1. Blade signs (projecting over sidewalk)
2. Window signs (painted on glass or hung behind glass)
3. Logo signs (symbols, shapes)
4. Wall signs over entrance
5. Monument signs
3.10.8 Signs shall be evaluated with respect to size, sale, relationship to other signs, function,
location and otherfactors.
Multi-Family and Mixed-U se Design Standards 34
City of Auburn, Washington
July 2010
MULTI-FAMILY R MIXED-USE DESIGN STANDARDS
CHAPTER 4: ALL DEVELOPMENT
A. ARCHITECTURE
Objective: To promote sustainable design practices to dncrease energy efficiency and consetvation
and improve individual and collective health and safety.
4.1.1 Projects shall incorporate one or more of the following sustainable building design practices:
1. Limit overshadowing by adjacent buildings and trees to ensure no more than a 5% loss of
useful total solar gain. Preferably existing trees should not be sacrificed to this end;
2. Implementa construction recycling program approved bythe City of Auburn Building Division
for construction, demolition and deconstruction projects that achieves a 90% landfill
diversion rate;
3. Design buildings in accordance with the guidelines and practices of US Green Building
Council LEED or Master Builders Association Built Green programs;
4. Buildings and structures are constructed with approximately 10% post-consumer
contentfrecycled materials;
5. Provide an assessment of project's carbon footprint prepared by a qualified consultant
defined as an individual orfirm with specialized knowledge or expertise in the assessment of
greenhouse gas and carbon impacts of development.
4.1.2 Projects shall incorporate one or more of the following sustainable indoor environmental quality
practices:
1. Create quality Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) through good design, construction, and
operating and maintenance practices;
2. Prevent airborne bacteria, mold, and otherfungi through heating, ventilating, air-conditioning
(HVAC) system designs that are effective at controlling indoor humidity, and building
envelope design that prevents the intrusion of moisture;
3. Avoid the use of materials high in pollutants, such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) or
toxins;
4. Assure acoustic privacy and comfort through the use of sound absorbing material and
equipment isolation;
5. Create a high performance luminous environment through the careful integration of natural
and artificial light sources.
4.2 Mechanical Equipment Screening
Objective: To provide safe and aesthetic screening of mechanical equipment that is installed on the
ground or on the roots of buildings and structures.
Ground Mounted Equipment
4.2.1 Ground mounted mechanical and utility equipment shall be located outside of sight triangles in
order to avoid obscuring vision at intersections.
Multi-Family and Mixed-Use Design Standards 35
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July 2010
MULTI-FAMILY R MIXED-USE DESIGN STANDARDS
4.2.2 As much as practicable, ground mounted mechanical and utility equipment shall be located out
of view of public rights-of-way, customer entrances, and other public areas. In those instances where
it is not practicable, the Planning Director may approve a location in view of public rights-of-way,
customer entrances and other public areas, following consultation with the City Engineer, as
applicable.
4.2.3 Ground mounted mechanical and utility equipment located within view of customer entrances
or public rights-of-way shall be integrated into the overall site design, the architectural design of the
building, and screened from public view using one of the following techniques:
1. Decorative wall, fence or enclosure that is constructed of materials that are compatible with
the overall architectural design of the development and of a height that is not less than the
height of the equipment to be screened; or
2. Landscaping that is of sufficient height at maturity and opacity to effectively soften and screen
the equipment, and that is integrated into the overall landscaping plan. Ensure that plants and
other screening mechanisms do not block access to a fire hydrant. A five (5) foot setback
shall be maintained to each side of all fire hydrants. Access to the front of the hydrant shall
be completely unobstructed.
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Illustration of ground mounted equipm ent that is screened b
landscaping
Rootop Mechanical EgUpmenf
4.2.4 Rooftop mechanical systems that are visible from the public right-of-way, residential land uses,
public parking areas, and adjacent properties shall be screened from view. For purposes of these
standards, mechanical and utility equipment includes, but is not limited to transformers, air
conditioning units, heating and soft water tanks, television antennas/satellite dishes, security
apparatus, and electric and gas meters. Mechanical and utility equipment does not include solar
panels.
4.2.5 Roof mounted equipment shall be an integral part of the building's overall architectural design
and shall be screened completely from view from abutting and adjacent public rights-of-way, abutting
and adjacent residential land uses, abutting and adjacent public buildings and uses (i.e. city
government buildings, schools, libraries) and abutting and adjacent public parking areas.
4.2.6 Roof mounted equipment shall be neutral earth toned colors that have a matte finish and that
are compatble with the primary building fagade. Any portions of roof mounted equipment that cannot
Multi-Family and Mixed-U se Design Standards 36
City of Auburn, Washington
July 2010
MULTI-FAMILY R MIXED-USE DESIGN STANDARDS
be screened is to match the color of the roof. In no case shall rooftop mechanical equipment be
galvanized, shiny, white or off-white, or other light colors that can be observed from a distance.
4.2.7 Rooftops mechanical equipment shall be screened by one otthe following methods:
1. Clerestory Roofs or Parapets
I. Where individual equipment is provided, a continuous parapet screen shall be provided.
if. Parapet walls shall be constructed to the same height as the mechanical equipment to
insure effective screening. Parapets may extend above the maximum allowed height of
the underlying zoning district but no more than 10 percent and with administrative
approval by the Planning Director.
Illustration of a parapet Yell that Wil screen rootop equipment Screening of equipment through roof design
2. Concealment within Roof Wells
3. Screening with Landscaped Decks or Terraces
I. As an alternate to the provision of rooftop screen parapets or enclosure of mechanical
equipment within roof wells, rooftops of buildings may include landscaped decks or
terraces designed in such away that mechanical equipment is completely screened by
year round landscaping or permanent structural materials associated with decks or
terraces.
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Illustration of a roof Aells concealing mechanical equipment Example of t,uildin l rth-~ lanei~ ,p i i~~ ksthat an ~?reen
mechanical equipm Brit
Multi-Family and Mixed-Use Design Standards 37
City of Auburn, Washington
July 2010
MULTI-FAMILY R MIXED-USE DESIGN STANDARDS
CHAPTER 4: ALL DEVELOPMENT
B. SITE PLANNING
Objective: To promote sustainable design practices to dncrease energy efficiency and conservation
and improve individual and collective health and safety.
4.3.1 Projects shall incorporate one or more of the following sustainable site design practices:
1. Construction and use of hydrologically rough on-site landscape that slow storm flows and
design features that slows storm flows and increases the amount of time storm flows stay on
the site;
2. Use of native and drought resistant vegetation;
3. Minimal excavation foundations composed of driven piles and a connector at or above grade
to reduce soil excavation and compaction;
4. Construction and use of pervious pavement composed of concrete or asphalt or pavers or
grid systems filled with grass or gravel;
5. Soil amendments to areas disturbed during the construction process;
6. Retention and incorporation of existing topographic site features that slow, store and infiltrate
stormwater;
Other sustainable development methods proposed by the applicant that the Planning Director
or designee determine are appropriate to the site and type of developmentthat have been
substantiated by appropriate written and plan documentation.
Projects shall use one or more of the following environmentally preferable practices:
Evaluate the environmental preferability of products using the cradle-to-grave, life-cycle
assessment (LCA) approach;
Maximize the recycled content of all new materials, especially from a post-consumer
perspective;
Specify materials harvested on a sustained yield basis such as lumber from certified forests;
Encourage the use of recyclable assemblies and products that can be easily "de-constructed"
at the end of their useful lives;
Limit construction debris, encourage the separation of waste streams, and encourage
recycling during the construction process;
Eliminate the use of materials that pollute or are toxic during their manufacture, use, or reuse;
Give preference to locally produced products and other products with low embodied energy
content.
Projects shall optimize energy use with one or more of the following:
1. Reduce heating, cooling, and lighting loads through climate-responsive design and
conservation practices;
2. Employ renewable energy sources such as daylighting, passive solar heating, photovoltaics,
and geothermal;
3. Specify efficient HVAC and lighting systems that consider part-load conditions and utility
interface requirements;
Multi-Family and Mixed-Use Design Standards 38
City of Auburn, Washington
July 2010
MULTI-FAMILY R MIXED-USE DESIGN STANDARDS
4. Optimize building performance by employing energy modeling programs and optimize system
control strategies by using occupancy sensors and air quality alarms;
5. Monitor project performance through a policy of commissioning, metering, and annual
reporting.
Projects shall use one or more of the following operational and maintenance practices:
Train building occupants, facilities managers, and maintenance staff in sustainable design
principles and methods;
Purchase cleaning products and supplies that are resource-efficient and non-toxic;
Use automated monitors and controls for energy, water, waste, temperature, moisture, and
ventilation;
Reduce waste through source reduction and recycling to eliminate disposal off-site.
Implement an energy efficiency management and performance monitoring system using the
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy's Energy Star
Portfolio Manager free on-line tool (or other similartracking system);
For buildings with a forced-air heating system, have a professional inspect the system before
the onset of winterto ensure that the system is working efficiently;
Turn on and inspect irrigation system each spring to check for leaks and/or clogs;
Use a nature-based approach for landscaping maintenance;
Encourage employees to use alternative transportation for commuting.
Multi-Family and Mixed-U se Design Standards 39
City of Auburn, Washington
July 2010
MULTI-FAMILY R MIXED-USE DESIGN STANDARDS
CHAPTER 4: ALL DEVELOPMENT
C. COMMON SPACE
4.4 Landscaping
Objective: To encourage the use of attractive and drought tolerant plant materials native to the
coastal regions of the Pacific Northwest, to encourage attractive landscaping that reinforces the
architectural and site planning concepts in response to site conditions and contexts, and to promote
tree retention and the protection of existing native vegetation.
4.4.1 Landscaping shall be designed and installed to encourage human interaction.
4.4.2 The size and spacing of landscape elements shall be consistent with the size of the project and
should relate to any identifiable streetscape.
4.4.3 Landscaping shall provide variety and interest and improve the aesthetic quality of a project, in
addition to providing a functional purpose.
4.4.4 Landscaping shall be coordinated with all site utility elements such as power lines,
transformers, meter boxes, backflow preventers, and fire protection devices to effectively diminish the
impact of such elements on the character of the site.
4.4.5 Multifamily development abutting a residential zoning district shall use landscaping to help
screen uses and reduce impacts as follows:
1. A solid screen of evergreen trees or shrubs along the entire length of the property line;
2. A solid screen of evergreen trees and shrubs planted on an earthen berm an average of
three feet high along its midline;
3. A combination of trees or shrubs and fencing where the amount of fence does not exceed 50
percent of the lineal distance of the side to be buffered as well as other plant materials,
planted so that the ground will be covered within three years.
4.4.6 All new plantings shall be of a type which will thrive amid existing vegetation without killing or
overtaking it. Incompatible plants which require different planting environments or microclimates shall
not be mixed. Haphazard mixture of textures, colors and plant types shall be avoided as well as
invasive and nuisance plants.
4.4.7 Planting areas with nursery stock or transplanted vegetation shall include an automatic
mechanical irrigation system designed forfull coverage of the planting area, unless the City approves
the use of drought resistant landscaping which require little or no supplemental irrigation.
4.4.8 Significant views and vistas from public rights-of-way shall be considered when determining
placement of vegetation. While it is not the intent to avoid all trees in the foreground of a view,
consideration shall be given to the expected height of tree and how they might be located to "frame"
the view.
4.4.9 Retention of other existing vegetation for landscaping is strongly encouraged; however, it shall
be equal to or better than available nursery stock.
Multi-Family and Mixed-U se Design Standards 40
City of Auburn, Washington
July 2010
MULTI-FAMILY R MIXED-USE DESIGN STANDARDS
Objective: To ensure that exterior site fighting contributes to the character of the site such as
accentuating architectural features (e.g., building entrances) and does not disturb adjacent
development while creating a safe walking environment
4.5.1 All site lighting shall be shielded from producing off-site glare, either through exterior shields or
through optical design inside the fixture, so that the direction of the light is downward.
4.5.2 The maximum height allowed for parking lot lighting is 24 feet. The maximum height along
pedestrian walkways is 16 feet.
4.5.3 Site lighting should be appropriate to create adequate visibility at night, evenly distributed to
increase security, and coordinated with adjacent landscaping to avoid casting long shadows.
4.5.4 Incorporate electrical service into lighting fixtures for seasonal ornamental lighting.
4.5.5 Lighting fixtures within structured parking garages should be screened from view from the
street.
4.5.6 In orderto provide a safer environment, parking structure illumination should be designed to a
maximum uniformity ratio (proportion of average to minimum illumination) of4:1.
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Multi-Family and Mixed-Use Design Standards 41
City of Auburn, Washington
July 2010