Building Design Standards 5.1 Purpose And Intent
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5. Building Design Standards
5.1. Purpose And Intent The purpose of establishing supplementary requirements for development is to ensure that the physical characteristics of proposed development are compatible with the context of the surrounding areas and to preserve the unique visual character and streetscapes of Wake Forest. These requirements strike a balance between creativity and innovation on one hand while avoiding obtrusive, incongruous structures on the other. Wake Forest strongly encourages architectural styles that build upon and promote the existing historic character of the town and supports the view that inspiring, well-maintained, and harmonious development is in the best economic development interests of all residents and businesses. 5.2. Applicability And Administration The provisions outlined in this chapter shall apply throughout the jurisdiction of this code, regardless of the underlying zoning district provisions and shall apply to all development, including renovations, remodelings, face lifts, repainting, and additions to existing structures. The notable exception may be any Planned Unit Development District, which is intended to create its own building design standards, so long as they are of equal or greater quality to the standards set forth in this section herein. The building type standards only apply to those buildings which are specified for the various zoning districts in this chapter. 5.2.1. Adopted Plan Guidelines, Historic Standards, or Overlay Districts to Take Precedence Where specific architectural elements are required as part of an adopted plan or associated with local historic standards, or design standards required by a Character Preservation Overlay District, these shall take precedence over the building design requirements of this chapter. In the case of a contributing building to a National Register Historic District, the Secretary of Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation will be used as a guideline for exterior work. 5.2.2. Applicability of Standards The provisions in this chapter shall apply to all new structures and expansions to existing structures in accordance with the following:
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New Structures: All standards apply.
B. Expansions of Less Than 50% of Floor Area: Standards apply to expansion area only and those areas necessary to visually tie the new to the old. C. Expansions of 50% or Greater in Floor Area: All standards apply to facades visible from the public right-of-way as well as the expansion area and those areas necessary to visually tie the new to the old. D. Exterior Changes to Existing Structures: All standards apply to those areas and elements of the façade being modified. 5.2.3. Modification of Standards/Design Exceptions A. Other Laws and Regulations: The Administrator may make modifications to the standards in this section upon the written request of the applicant if the standard(s) in question conflicts with other requirements by law, as long as the proposal is in compliance with the Purpose and Intent above. B. Materials: If materials are proposed that are not listed in the required materials sections, the Administrator may determine their allowability upon reviewing the proposed manner of usage and if they meet the Purpose and Intent of this Chapter. C. Administrative Alternative: Modifications to standards of this Chapter may be granted by the Administrator when the applicant proposes an alternative design and
Town of Wake Forest Unified Development Ordinance – July 19, 2022
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