Land Use Bylaw (approved June 30 2020, as amended June 25 2024) — full text

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Town of Wolfville DESIGN GUIDELINES The Town of Wolfville's Municipal Planning Strategy states community priorities that influence the built forms that are enabled in the Town of Wolfville. As a method of Actioning our Community Priorities, the design guidelines articulate the intended built forms within the Town of Wolfville by providing guidance for future development through examples of how new developments can be designed to reflect the guidelines, and priorities of the Town of Wolfville. These guidelines include examples of proven development patterns which include: - A heritage style guide, - Options for innovative design, - Designs which honour existing character and heritage, - Methods of designing additional commercial opportunities beyond our downtown core, - Sustainable building practices to respond to changing climates, and - Developing our community in an equitable manner for the future. ACTIONING OUR COMMUNITY PRIORITIES Part 2 of the Town's Municipal Planning Strategy articulates the following Community Priorities to guide growth and development in the Town EP Economic Prosperity LU Land Use and Design SE Social Equity CA Climate Action Municipal Planning Strategy Community Priorities 2 ---- TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Contents 1.0 Introduction.........................................................................................................................................5 1.1 Design Review Committee..................................................................................................................6 1.2 Application Process.............................................................................................................................7 2.0 Design Principles..................................................................................................................................9 3.0 Design Areas......................................................................................................................................11 3.1 Core Commercial...............................................................................................................................12 3.2 Streetscaping Guidelines...................................................................................................................26 3.3 Core Neighbourhood.........................................................................................................................32 3.4 Neighbourhood.................................................................................................................................37 4.0 Design Review Checklist....................................................................................................................45 5.0 Heritage Architecture Style Guide....................................................................................................47 TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S ---- 3 INTRODUCTION 4 ---- TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S 1.0 Introduction Wolfville takes great pride in its ability to shape its future and quality of life. A sense of continuity in architecture and good design is highly valued by residents and is immediately apparent to visitors. The architectural history of the early Planter buildings remain from the early 1900s, whereas Mi'kmaw and Acadian heritage are not immediately evident in our built forms. Victorian buildings were added during the 19th century, 1920's saw store front architecture and several examples of the art deco and art nouveau styles and accommodated a surge of contemporary design from the post war period to the present. For more detail on these early designs, see the Heritage Style Guide later in this document. While there is respect for the town's Planter heritage through a rich collection of Provincially or Municipally registered buildings, there is nevertheless an eclectic nature to the architecture of the town born of its diverse historical and contemporary influences. The Town of Wolfville Design Guidelines represent an update to Wolfville's Residential Architectural Guidelines (1992) and Downtown Architectural Guidelines (1992) and aid in articulating the vision of the Urban Design areas of the Town's Municipal Planning Strategy. These guidelines are intended to educate and inform new developers on principles of good design by incorporating the existing content from the 1992 document, while adapting to changing best practice as well as reflecting current development and intensification goals. TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Pa r t 1--In t ro d u c t i o n ---- 5 1.1.1 REVIEW PROCESS The Design Review Committee advises Council on architecture and design policy within the Town of Wolfville, in accordance with the Committee Policy and Terms of Reference. In addition to advising Council, the Design Review Committee advises staff on site-plan applications and applications for development agreements within the design areas. Development located within the Core or Neighbourhood Design Guideline Areas, as shown in Part 3 of this document and Schedule C of the Land Use Bylaw are subject to the use of these guidelines to better inform the requirements of the Land Use Bylaw. The Design Review Committee shall utilize the Design Review checklist, information provided by staff, and the Applicant's submission when advising staff and Council on urban design matters. 1.1 Design Review Committee DESIGN CHECKLIST The following checklist shall be considered when an applicant is subject to these guidelines. 4 CHARACTER 4 PEDESTRIAN EXPERIENCE 4 DIVERSITY 4 PATTERNS 4 PUBLIC REALM 4 SUSTAINABILITY & RESILIENCE 6 ---- TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Pa r t 1--In t ro d u c t i o n 1.2 Application Process 1. Pre-application consultation (guidance documents given, forms, etc) 2. Full site plan application is submitted. Development oﬃcer must indicate to the applicant if application is complete within 14 days. 3. Staﬀ review and negotiate a site plan with applicant. Items negociated as set out in the planning documents 4. If appllication meets zoning requirements, the application is APPROVED. - Approval notiﬁcation is posted to properties within 30m, - 14-day appeal period is observed, - Approval is registered on property. 5. If appllication does not meet zoning requirements: Design Review Committee may be asked to review the speciﬁc requirement against the Design Guidelines for approval; or - The proposal may require a Development Agreement process; or - The application may be denied. - The applicant has 7 days to appeal. Site Plan Approval Process X 1.2.1 SITE PLAN For Site Plan Applications in design guidelines areas, The Design Review Committee and relevant design guidelines may be utilized. For development proposals considered by Site Plan the Development Officer may request a submission from the applicant on how the application is responding to the Core Area or Neighbourhood Design Guidelines. 1.2.2 DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENTS For Development Agreement Applications in design guidelines areas, the Design Review Committee and relevant design guidelines shall be utilized as a tool to inform the Staff Report to Council. 1. Pre-application consultation (guidance documents given, forms, etc) 3. Public information meeting 2. Full application is submitted with notiﬁcation as per the Town's public participation program policy. 8. If DA is supported, the application is APPROVED subject to appeal period. 9. If DA is not supported: - The application is denied. Development Agreement Process 4. Design review (if necessary) 5. PAC report and review 6. Committee of the whole 7. Public hearing X See the Municipal Planning Strategy and Land Use By-Law for more information on application processes. TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Pa r t 1--In t ro d u c t i o n ---- 7 DESIGN PRINCIPLES 8 ---- TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Pa r t 1--In t ro d u c t i o n These Design Guidelines are grounded in the following Principles. It is recognized that there are various ways a project may respond to these principles through good, thoughtful design. CHARACTER Clear development patterns and continuous built form within an area allows understanding of how it is organized and how to navigate throughout it. The existing scale and rhythm of buildings and open spaces provide a sense of place that should be respected by a new development. PEDESTRIAN EXPERIENCE Activity in the Town of Wolfville depends on pedestrian scale streets which support comfortable and safe environments for pedestrians in all areas: commercial, neighbourhood, and parkland. DIVERSITY A diverse community includes a range of housing types, land uses and architectural style. New development should reflect local values, history and culture yet also contribute to being a unique eclectic community with distinct features. PATTERNS Street edges of trees or building walls, consistent setbacks and a curated or landscaped public sphere create recurring patterns that lead to more active, vibrant and attractive environments. PUBLIC REALM A quality public realm design creates a safe and vibrant community. Projects should promote public spaces and routes that are attractive, safe, uncluttered and work effectively for all in society. SUSTAINABILITY & RESILIENCE: Sustainable urban design provides greater connectivity for pedestrians, cyclists and public transit users to reduce fossil fuel use and encourages the preservation of existing buildings as a method to retain carbon investment in their creation, reduce energy use and locate new builds in areas of existing services and infrastructure. 2.0 Design Principles TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Pa r t 2--D e si g n Pri n c i pl e s ---- 9 DESIGN AREAS 10 ---- TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Pa r t 2--D e si g n Pri n c i pl e s 3.0 Design Areas DYKELAND ST LOCUST AVE BECKWITH ST WOODMAN RD HARBOURSIDE DR MINAS VIEW DR HORTON AVE (P) BALCOM DR MAIN ST SYLVAN DR ELM AVE AVE GASPEREAU AVE HILLSIDE AVE RIVERVIEW LINDEN AVE KENT AVE CHESTNUT AVE SKYWAY DR SHERWOOD DR WESTWOOD AVE RIGA DR TOYE LANE (P) DALE ST POST RD LAURA MOORE RD BASIN DR ORCHARD AVE PARK ST WALLACE PL F U N D Y D R WINTER ST PRINCE ST WOODLAND DR PROSPECT ST CAPE VIEW DR SUNSET TERR WHI DD E N ROBIE TUFTS DR FRONT ST HURON AVE KINLEY CLOSE IONA RD EVANGELINE CRT KING ST VICTORIA AVE BLOMIDON TERR LITTLE BROOK LANE (P) PLEASANT ST BISHOP AVE OAK AVE SUMMER ST FAIRFIELD ST BAY ST ACADIA ST HIGHLA ND AVE FOWLER ST MAPLE AVE HILLCREST AVE WICKWIRE AVE EARNSCLIFFE AVE CATHERINE CRT (P) ALLINE ST GRANDVIEW DR STIRLING AVE LITTLE RD PERRY BOWLES ST JOHN PRYOR DR DEWITT CLOSE HARRIS PL BORDEN DR BRAEMAR DR CENTRAL AVE LYNWOOD DR STONEYBROOK CRT BLUE HERON CRT KENCREST AVE STARR ST HERBIN ST WRIGHT LANE (P) QUEEN ST COBBLERS CRT BASINVIEW TERR GLOOSCAP TERR SEAVIEW AVE CROWELL DR (P) CARRIAGEWAY OLSEN DR PARKVIEW AVE MAIN ST MARSH HAWK DR CHERRY LANE CHAMBERS CLOSE BIGELOW ST HIGHLAND AVE UNIVERSITY AVE AVE WILLOW AVE HIGHWAY 101 CRT Reservoir Olsen Pond Elderkin Pond Maple Ridge Pond Cornwallis River Sewage Treatment Lagoon MUNICIPALITY OF THE COUNTY OF KINGS MUNICIPALITY OF THE COUNTY OF KINGS · Core Area Boundary Town Boundary Core Commercial Core Neighbourhood Neighbourhood Neighbourhood 100 0 100 50 Metres TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Pa r t 3--D e si g n A re a s ---- 11 3.1.1 CHARACTERISTICS + OPPORTUNITIES - Consistent building wall at street edge; - Ground floor commercial uses; - 1-3.5 storeys in height; - Large windows at street level; - Opportunity for redevelopment, additions, and large-scale buildings; - Opportunity for adaptive reuse; - Pop-up markets and sidewalk cafes; and - Opportunity to create sense of "arrival". 3.1.2 URBAN DESIGN PRIORITIES - Orient buildings to further define the streetscape and reinforce the street wall; - Use inner side yards for patios, informal seating, pedestrian connections and public art; - Provide views and access to the harbour, Dyke-lands, Harvest Moon Trail; - Include commercial uses which animate street-life within the first two floors; - Increase density by including residential uses on the second floor and above; - Extend streetscaping improvements throughout this area; and - Preserve existing structures where possible. 3.1 Core Commercial D Y K E L A N D S T LOCUST AVE HARBOURSIDE DR ELM AVE CENTRAL AVE W A V E LINDEN AVE S T FRONT ST S E A V I E W A V E VICTORIA AVE SUMMER ST ACADIA ST (P) MAIN ST Wolfville Harbour 12 ---- TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Pa r t 3--D e si g n A re a s 3.1.3 BUILDING FRONTAGE AND SETBACKS - New buildings should reflect the local spatial arrangement and separation distances of the existing street wall. - New development should reflect the existing streetwall height, through building height or building stepbacks. - New buildings and major additions should be constructed to the front lot line. - Orient and position buildings to define the streetscape on public streets and internal driveways to assist in creating active pedestrian environments. - Large side yards in the streetscape should be avoided as they can create undesirable gaps within the streetscape. TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Pa r t 3--D e si g n A re a s ---- 13 3.1.4 PARKING LOT LOCATIONS - To preserve a continuous street frontage, the amount of lot frontage occupied by parking should be minimized. - Wherever possible, locate surface parking areas behind buildings and screened from the view of the public realm. - Parking areas should be organized into small bays, rather than large surface lots. - If surface parking must be located at the front of the lot, the parking lot should not occupy more than 30% of the lot frontage. 3.1.5 PARKING LOT ACCESS - Rear lane access to parking amenities is preferred with the number of vehicular entrances held to a minimum. Vehicular access shall be from an alley or mid- block connection on a connecting street. - Curb cuts and vehicular entries should be limited to the minimum width required. - Parking and loading access should be shared where feasible. - Entrances to underground parking should be located behind buildings. - Incorporate direct barrier-free and convenient pedestrian circulation routes within surface parking lots. - Accessible parking spaces should be available in close proximity to barrier- free access ways. Barrier-free and convenient pedestrian circulation routes to parking locations from public sidewalks. Rear lane access to parking amenity with vehicular entrances held to a minimum. Surface parking located behind building and screened from the public realm. 14 ---- TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Pa r t 3--D e si g n A re a s 3.1.6 PARKING LOT SCREENING - Provide a minimum 3m wide landscaped buffer along the entire edge of the parking area for screening. - Design landscaped areas that continuously screen parked vehicles visible from the street through the use of hedges and low level planting. - The landscape buffer and/or screening shall be decorative and support the streets existing character. - Ensure landscape elements are low enough to allow visual surveillance of the parking area. - Where applicable, apply irrigation. Landscape elements should screen parked vehicles while maintaining safe surveillance of the parking area. TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Pa r t 3--D e si g n A re a s ---- 15 3.1.6 REFUSE AND UTILITY AREAS - Service bays, utilities (hydro transformers, utility meters, HVAC equipment, etc) and storage yards should be located at the side or the rear of the building. - Mechanical equipment should be contained within the roof structure. Where this is not possible, the penthouses should contain the equipment and be obscured from public view. - Garbage and recycling bins should be stored internally wherever possible. Any exterior garbage and recycling should be located in the rear or side of the building contained within a garbage enclosure. 3.1.7 FENCING AND NOISE WALLS - In the downtown area fences should be avoided unless used to mask parking and utility areas. If fences are necessary, they should be set back from lot lines so as not to block vision of pedestrians and vehicles. Fences should be limited to 1.75 metres in height to relate to the pedestrian scale. - Noise walls are strongly discouraged. If the noise wall is necessary screen the noise wall with decorative planting. Mechanical equipment screened on roof structure Utility areas and utility access areas are located in the rear of the building 16 ---- TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Pa r t 3--D e si g n A re a s 3.1.8 BUILDING HEIGHT - Building height within Wolfville's Core area shall be no more than 4 stories may be ___ by Development Agreement. - Sites with a change of grade should not be limited as long as the street-facing façade and massing adheres to these guidelines and overall height (see Illustration below, right). - The floor-to- floor height of the ground floor should be 4.5 metres to encourage retail usage at grade. - Common height lines of adjacent structures should be respected so that new construction can blend within the existing streetscape. 3.1.9 BUILDING MASSING - If new development exceeds the height of adjacent buildings, stepbacks will be used for an appropriate transition of scale. - Front façade stepbacks should be a minimum of 3.5 metres and reference the average cornice line of adjacent buildings. - Ensure an appropriate transition of building heights by providing a maximum angular view plane of 45 degrees. Grade changes can result in buildings that are taller on one side than the other. TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Pa r t 3--D e si g n A re a s ---- 17 3.1.10 CORNER BUILDINGS - Use corner building developments to frame existing retail streets using additional height and appropriate setbacks. - Within a corner condition, building massing should address both frontages through expressive architectural features. - Use height variations in portions of the massing to emphasize building entrances and architectural features and create visual cues for site orientation. - Locate and design corner gateway developments to terminate important visual axes. - Incorporate vertical elements, expressive massing and architectural features to accentuate the corner. - On corner sites, respond to the setback pattern and alignment of neighbouring buildings on both streets. - In corner conditions, commercial uses on the ground floor should wrap the corner to provide continuous shop frontage. 18 ---- TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Pa r t 3--D e si g n A re a s 3.1.11 COMMERCIAL GROUND FLOOR TREATMENTS - Ground floor space shall be designed to accommodate retail, professional office, and other uses permitted in the Land Use By-Law. - The primary entrance for each street- level tenant space should be provided from the fronting street. - The tradition of approximately 75% of the wall surface being occupied by windows should be respected for the principle façades at the ground floor level. - Buildings should have a minimum ground floor height of 4.5 metres, measured floor-to- floor from average grade. - For active commercial and retail uses at grade include transparent glazing 0.5 metres above grade and at least 2.5 metres in height. - In corner conditions, where active uses are required, commercial or office uses should wrap the corner. - Avoid minimizing retail views and frontage with large columns and building extrusions. - Ensure retail entrances are located at or near grade. Avoid split level, raised or sunken retail entrances. The primary entrance for each street-level tenant should be provided from the fronting street. Retail entrances should be ﬂush with grade or provide a slope for barrier-free access. TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Pa r t 3--D e si g n A re a s ---- 19 3.1.12 FACADE - Building façades should be designed with a variety of architectural elements including wall planes and roof lines, human scale proportions, large windows and porches/ entryways. - New construction should respect the traditions of first floor base lines, large storefront windows, recessed entries, and vertical window orientation on the second and third floors. - Provide architectural expression and design elements such as cornice lines, window bays, entrances, canopies and fenestration in pattern, scale and proportion that relate to neighbouring buildings and engage the pedestrian realm. - Common height lines of adjacent structures should be respected so that new construction can blend within the existing streetscape. - Long monolithic façades should be avoided with a maximum horizontal width of 7-8 metres wide If the façade exceeds 7-8 meters include a series of bays defined by vertical elements such as changes in materials, building projections, columns or other vertical architectural elements. Include vertical window orientation and architectural expression elements to relate to neighbouring buildings and engage the pedestrian realm. Long monolithic facades ahould be broken up by a series of vertical architectural elements and projections. 20 ---- TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Pa r t 3--D e si g n A re a s 3.1.13 WINDOWS AND DOORS - Window placement, size, material and style should help define architectural style and integrity. - Windows should be recessed from the exterior building envelope. - Ground floor glazing should be transparent and non- reflective. - Above the ground floor glazing should have the minimum reflective coating needed for energy efficiency standards. - New construction should include large storefront windows and recessed store entries. - Barrier-free building entrances should be provided within new construction. - Architectural treatments may include the use of prominent sills, mouldings, ower boxes, soldier courses, and/or shutters. 3.1.14 EXTERIOR FINISHES - Materials should be varied from building to building to help create diversity and reduce scale. - The preference is for use of traditional materials such as wood, brick or stucco. - Vinyl Siding, plastic, plywood, tinted and mirrored glass, and metal siding are strongly discouraged. 3.1.15 COLOUR USE - Colour use should complement colour palettes from adjacent buildings and public spaces. - Where applicable, preferably on architectural features such as window frames, door frames, shutters, cornice and other mouldings, use vibrant colour accents to create visual interest. TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Pa r t 3--D e si g n A re a s ---- 21 3.1.16 BALCONIES - Along commercial/retail street frontages, avoid projecting balconies on the front façade of the building. - Avoid balcony arrangements which increase the visual building mass substantially. - Wrap around balconies are generally discouraged. - Inset or partially inset balcony arrangements which are integrated into the façade of the buildings are preferred. - Minimize visual impact through the use of clear glazing. 22 ---- TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Pa r t 3--D e si g n A re a s 3.1.17 HERITAGE WINDOWS AND DOORS - The original windows and doors should be repaired and enhanced if possible. If they must be replaced, the new windows and doors should replicate the existing configuration and materials used in the original construction. - The proportion of glazing areas in heritage infill should respect the pattern of windows of its neighbouring buildings CORNICES - Cornices and roof lines should be repaired using similar materials to the original structure. - Cornices of neighbouring buildings should be mirrored or referenced in new construction. MATERIALS - Repairs and renovations to existing heritage buildings should use the same or similar materials to the original structure. - Complimentary accent materials include: steel, copper, glass and painted or unpainted wood. - Materials that should be avoided are: stucco, vinyl siding, exterior insulation and highly reflective or tinted glass. - Infill buildings should respect the neighbouring historic material uses by using similar or complimentary materials in construction. - Complimentary accent materials include: steel, copper, glass and painted or unpainted wood. - Historic materials in the Core Commercial Area include: brick, wood detailing, wood siding, and stone. - Materials that should be avoided are: stucco, vinyl siding, exterior insulation and highly reflective or tinted glass. TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Pa r t 3--D e si g n A re a s ---- 23 3.1.18 SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PRACTICES - Buildings should be sited to minimize the destruction of existing vegetation. - Building improvements to the site should minimize the disruption to topography - Preservation or adaptive reuse of existing buildings should be prioritized. - Include greater connectivity for pedestrians, cyclists and public transit users. - Green building technologies and materials are strongly encouraged in new construction - Green roofs, reflective roof surface materials, and trees are encouraged to avoid heat island effects. - Include water catchment and filtration in landscaping elements to improve stormwater collection in the urban center. - Site design should minimize surfaces which are impervious and use porous pavement and landscaped areas to decrease water runoff. - Trees and coniferous shrubs should be provided to adjacent sidewalks, pedestrian walkways and throughout parking areas 3.1.19 BICYCLE FACILITIES - Parking areas for bicycles which do not interfere with pedestrians are preferred. - Place bicycle parking facilities in highly visible areas close to transit stops, building entrances, and major public spaces. - Larger developments should include on-site bicycle parking which should be placed in a highly visible location near the main entrance of the building. - Allocate bicycle storage indoors if applicable 24 ---- TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Pa r t 3--D e si g n A re a s 3.1.20 PEDESTRIAN ACCESS AND WALKWAYS - Barrier-free access from the building entrance to the public sidewalk shall be provided. - Pedestrian amenities such as linkages to parking lots and significant streets, gardens and Main Street are highly encouraged. - New construction should maintain existing pedestrian walkways and linkages in the existing fabric. - When building frontages are set back from the site line, a change in paving should indicate pedestrian friendly and barrier free access to the building entrance. TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Pa r t 3--D e si g n A re a s ---- 25 3.2.1 CHARACTERISTICS + OPPORTUNITIES - Commercial and recreational activity in the core area is dependent on pedestrian scale streets which support business and provides access to all modes of transportation including: - pedestrians, - cyclists, - public transit, and - motorists. - Streetscapes should be designed to make travel safe and comfortable for all users and to encourage environmentally friendly methods of travel. - The Streetscape Design Guidelines are based on general best practices to provide guidance on future streetscape improvements. 3.2 Streetscaping Guidelines 26 ---- TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Pa r t 3--D e si g n A re a s 3.2.2 SIDEWALKS AND CROSSWALKS - Walkability is a key to vibrant and active downtown cores. Streets should facilitate and encourage pedestrian movement and are vital to creating a safe and healthy environment in the core area and throughout Town. - Provide continuous, unobstructed, and barrier-free sidewalks on both sides of a street. - Incorporate traditional paving materials, such as standard concrete, for the majority of the sidewalk surface treatments. Incorporate non-traditional paving material to signify special locations, assist in wayfinding and to denote pedestrian priority routes. - Barrier-free crossings and traffic calming are encouraged where appropriate. - Street crossing should incorporate curb ramps and extend sidewalk materials to indicate a pedestrian friendly zone and encourage traffic calming. - Tree branches should be elevated 2.0 metres above the pedestrian zone. Enhancement Zone Greenscape/Furnishing Zone Pedrestrian Zone Fronting Zone TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Pa r t 3--D e si g n A re a s ---- 27 3.2.3 STREET TREES AND LANDSCAPING - Wherever possible, plant trees along both sides of all streets. Position street trees to avoid conflict with pedestrian and vehicular movement as well as underground utilities. Trees should be placed between the sidewalk and the road. - Screened buffers in the form of low level planting, berms and walls should be used to screen parking and utility areas from the public view. - Where possible select street trees which are native and non-invasive and well suited to urban conditions. - Provide street trees with regular spacing to a continuous street tree canopy. - It is encourage to maximize on-site storm water in filtration, capture and reuse through landscaping elements. - Wherever possible, include permeable or porous paving materials such as joint pavers, pre-cast turf grid units and porous concrete/asphalt. 28 ---- TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Pa r t 3--D e si g n A re a s 3.2.4 STREET FURNITURE - Incorporate site furnishings along pedestrian connections to provide amenities at convenient and comfortable locations. - Select site furnishing which compliment and coincide with the adjacent streetscape elements. 3.2.5 LIGHTING - The intensity and location of light for parking and pedestrian areas should be at the minimum necessary to provide safe and visible spaces. - Ground oriented pedestrian scale lighting along pedestrian walkways is strongly encouraged. - Installing energy efficient pedestrian-scale lighting with shielded fixtures and automatic shut-off devices are preferred. - Warm lighting colours are encouraged. - Coordinate the placement of lighting with landscaping elements to avoid the screening of illumination and shadow effects. - Enhance significant façades and important public elements with accent lighting. - Ensure the height and placement of the lighting standard prevents glare and light spillage into adjacent properties. TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Pa r t 3--D e si g n A re a s ---- 29 3.2.6 STREET RETAILING AND PATIOS - Design and construct patios and outdoor retail displays to be compatible with the surrounding streetscape elements and architectural qualities of surrounding buildings. - Patios and street retailing should not obstruct the sidewalk clearway or vehicular movement. - Maintain barrier-free access for persons with disabilities. - Patio fencing should not exceed 1.6 metres in height. 3.2.7 AWNINGS AND CANOPIES - Incorporate canopies and awnings on building façades and umbrellas within patio spaces to provide protection from inclement weather. - Coordinate pedestrian weather protection with neighbouring buildings shelter and continuous visual patterns. - In general, locate weather protection at the first floor (6 meter maximum) and provide a width of three metres. 30 ---- TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Pa r t 3--D e si g n A re a s 3.2.8 PUBLIC ART - Public art installations can provide orientation, vibrancy, identity, interest and a sense of place for residents and visitors when placed in prominent locations. - Select locations that will best showcase the installation including culturally significant sites, gateway location, public gathering spaces, highly visible locations and significant redevelopment sites. Views to significant public art should be preserved and enhanced within new development and streetscaping. - All mediums of public art should be incorporated into public spaces including sculpture, frieze, murals, canopies, surface treatments and other means of design reinforcement. TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Pa r t 3--D e si g n A re a s ---- 31 3.3.1 CHARACTERISTICS + OPPORTUNITIES - Setbacks are reduced near Walking distance to downtown. - Numerous street trees. - Varying setbacks. - Small or no front yards. - Opportunity for redevelopment and additions. - Heritage Character buildings. - Ideal for future infill development and live/work. 3.3.2 URBAN DESIGN PRIORITIES - Orient and position buildings to further define the streetscape and reinforce the existing street wall. - Porches and verandas to enhance sense of community with "eyes on the street". - Seek opportunities to provide views to the harbour. - Increasing density with smaller lots and more compact development. - Small apartments or row-houses. - Extend streetscaping improvements where infill most likely. 3.3 Core Neighbourhood LOCUST AVE OURSIDE DR RAL E W I L L O W A V E LINDEN AVE S TA R R S T W A L L A C E P L WINTER ST P R O S P E C T S T K I N S E A V IE W A V E VICTORIA AVE BLOMIDON TERR SUMMER ST BAY ST ACADIA ST T O Y E L A N E ( P ) ACADIA ST (P) MAIN ST Styles of Historic Homes in the Core Area 32 ---- TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Pa r t 3--D e si g n A re a s 3.3.3 INFILL - Design infill buildings to be good neighbours by minimizing shade, shadow and overlook onto adjacent properties. - Design buildings for durability and sustainability. - Provide livable spaces for optimum daylight and ventilation, access to ground level private open space, and functional, efficient interiors. - Design outdoor spaces as a valued year round asset. - Create streetscapes that are pedestrian and cyclist friendly, contributing to well connected neighbourhoods. - Maintain a scale of development that is compatible with neighbouring context. TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Pa r t 3--D e si g n A re a s ---- 33 3.3.4 SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PRACTICES - Buildings should be sited to minimize the destruction of existing vegetation. - Building improvements to the site should minimize the disruption to topography. - Preservation or adaptive reuse of existing buildings should be prioritized. - Include greater connectivity for pedestrians, cyclists and public transit users. - Green building technologies and materials are strongly encouraged in new construction. - Green roofs, reflective roof surface materials, and trees are encouraged to avoid heat island effects. - Include water catchment and filtration in landscaping elements to improve stormwater collection in the core area. - Site design should minimize surfaces which are impervious and use porous pavement and landscaped areas to decrease water runoff. - Trees and coniferous shrubs should be provided to adjacent sidewalks, pedestrian walkways and throughout parking areas. 3.3.5 BICYCLE FACILITIES - Parking areas for bicycles shall not interfere with pedestrians. - Place bicycle parking facilities in highly visible areas close to transit stops, building entrances, and public spaces. - Larger developments should include on-site bicycle parking which should be placed in a highly visible location near the main entrance of the building. - Allocating bicycle storage indoors is encouraged. 34 ---- TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Pa r t 3--D e si g n A re a s 3.3.6 PEDESTRIAN ACCESS AND WALKWAYS - Barrier-free access from the building entrance to the public sidewalk shall be provided. - Pedestrian amenities such as linkages to parking lots and significant streets, gardens and Main Street are highly encouraged. - New construction should maintain existing pedestrian walkways and linkages in the existing fabric. - When building frontages are set back from site lines, a change in paving should indicate pedestrian friendly and barrier free access to the building entrance. TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Pa r t 3--D e si g n A re a s ---- 35 3.3.7 LIVE-WORK SPACES - Clear identification of commercial use. - Maintaining existing architecture where possible. - Additions or alterations that create an improved pedestrian experience, such as clear entry areas, outdoor seating, covered entryway. - Responds to existing conditions, including setbacks and landscaping. - Hides waste facilities and mechanical units. 36 ---- TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Pa r t 3--D e si g n A re a s 3.4.1 CHARACTERISTICS + OPPORTUNITIES - Setbacks are reduced near Downtown. - Setbacks are extended near edge of town. - Mix of larger lots and Farm-style homes and small urban homes. - 1-4 storeys in height. - Tree lined streets. - Landscaped front-yards. - Opportunity for infill and addition. - Heritage Character buildings. 3.4.2 URBAN DESIGN PRIORITIES - Orient and position buildings to emphasize park-like setting. - Infill or development in rear yards. - Seek opportunities to provide views to the harbour. - Increasing density and activity near the Core Area. - Maintain existing buildings where possible. 3.4 Neighbourhood Styles of Historic Homes in the Neighborhood Area Cornwallis River Sewage Treatment Lagoon TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Pa r t 3--D e si g n A re a s ---- 37 3.4.3 HOUSE SETBACK LINE FROM STREET - Setbacks for new construction should be similar to neighbouring properties. Corner Lot (house respects adjacent setbacks of both streets) Uniform setbacks along street (house setback is in line with adjacent neighbours) 38 ---- TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Pa r t 3--D e si g n A re a s Staggered setbacks along street (house setback is the average of setbacks of the adjacent houses on either side) Note: in Sub Ares 2, condition 2 does not apply TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Pa r t 3--D e si g n A re a s ---- 39 3.4.4 ACCESS & PARKING - Long-term parking should be located in the centre or rear of the lot. - Driveway widths should be minimized to preserve the street-edge. - Break-up or hide parking areas with vegetation to enhance walkability. 40 ---- TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Pa r t 3--D e si g n A re a s 3.4.5 LANDSCAPE TREATMENT - Front yards should be landscaped. - Consider street-trees and foundation plantings. - Consider regular spacing, such as 7-10 meters. - Use hedges or shrubbery to define street edge. TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Pa r t 3--D e si g n A re a s ---- 41 3.4.6 GARAGES & SHEDS - Ensure the garage does not dominate the pedestrian experience. - Consider how the garage or shed can compliment the home with high quality finishes and quality design - Shelter prefabricated buildings with trees and shrubs. - Consider windows in the attic of the garage or shed, where a loft or second suite can be located. 42 ---- TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Pa r t 3--D e si g n A re a s 3.4.7 WALLS & CORNER LOTS - Consider walls as the first views of your home. - Break up walls with texture and patterns to add diversity. - Place largest windows near street. - Ensure your wall directs and welcomes people to your front door. - Consider views from all sides - including from the rear of your property. TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Pa r t 3--D e si g n A re a s ---- 43 DESIGN REVIEW CHECKLIST 44 ---- TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Pa r t 3--D e si g n A re a s The following checklist shall be considered when an applicant is subject to these guidelines. Example questions/considerations are provided, based on the Design Principals this document is based on. CHARACTER Does the proposed development maintain clear development patterns and continuous built form within the area? Is the existing scale and rhythm of buildings and open spaces respected? PEDESTRIAN EXPERIENCE Will the proposed development improve the pedestrian experience, and safety, of residents and visitors to the Town of Wolfville? DIVERSITY Does this proposed development increase the diversity of housing types, land uses and architectural styles within the Town of Wolfville while reflecting local values and culture? Does the edge on the street show diversity? PATTERNS Will the proposed development maintain or create a pattern of trees or building walls? Does it include a landscaped public sphere? PUBLIC REALM Does the proposed development improve the quality of the public realm and contribute to a safe and vibrant community? SUSTAINABILITY & RESILIENCE: Will this proposed development reduce fossil fuel use and/or contribute to low carbon community outcomes. 4.0 Design Review Checklist 4.0 Design Review Checklist TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Pa r t 4--D e si g n Re v i e w C hec k l i s t ---- 45 HERITAGE ARCHITECTURE ST YLE GUIDE 46 ---- TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Pa r t 4--D e si g n Re v i e w C h ec k l i s t HISTORY OF HERITAGE The Town of Wolfville's heritage buildings and cultural built forms are recognized as a contributor to the unique character of the Town. The work completed for the 1992 Design Guidelines represent a wealth of community interest and knowledge of heritage forms and recognizes the diverse architectural change that occurred in Wolfville, sometimes down to the decade. This style guide is included to educate individuals on the historic built forms frequently found in Wolfville. 5.0 Heritage Architecture Style Guide TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Pa r t 5--H eri tag e A rc h i t ec t ure S t y l e Gui d e ---- 47 EXISTING REGISTERED HERITAGE PROPERTIES 48 ---- TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Pa r t 5--H eri tag e A rc h i t ec t ure S t y l e Gui d e GEORGIAN (1750-1850'S) TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Pa r t 5--H eri tag e A rc h i t ec t ure S t y l e Gui d e ---- 49 GEORGIAN (1750-1850'S) 50 ---- TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Pa r t 5--H eri tag e A rc h i t ec t ure S t y l e Gui d e VICTORIAN GOTHIC (1855 - 1875) TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Pa r t 5--H eri tag e A rc h i t ec t ure S t y l e Gui d e ---- 51 VICTORIAN GOTHIC (1855 - 1875) 52 ---- TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Pa r t 5--H eri tag e A rc h i t ec t ure S t y l e Gui d e CLASSICAL REVIVAL (1880 - 1900) TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Pa r t 5--H eri tag e A rc h i t ec t ure S t y l e Gui d e ---- 53 CLASSIC REVIVAL (1880 - 1900) 54 ---- TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Pa r t 5--H eri tag e A rc h i t ec t ure S t y l e Gui d e MANSARD (1870 - 1885) TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Pa r t 5--H eri tag e A rc h i t ec t ure S t y l e Gui d e ---- 55 QUEEN ANNE REVIVAL (1890 - 1900) 56 ---- TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Pa r t 5--H eri tag e A rc h i t ec t ure S t y l e Gui d e QUEEN ANNE REVIVAL (1890 - 1900) TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Pa r t 5--H eri tag e A rc h i t ec t ure S t y l e Gui d e ---- 57 MODIFIED QUEEN ANNE (1900-1930'S) 58 ---- TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Pa r t 5--H eri tag e A rc h i t ec t ure S t y l e Gui d e MODIFIED QUEEN ANNE (1900-1930'S) TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Pa r t 5--H eri tag e A rc h i t ec t ure S t y l e Gui d e ---- 59 POST WAR (1945 - 1955) 60 ---- TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Pa r t 5--H eri tag e A rc h i t ec t ure S t y l e Gui d e MODIFIED CAPE COD (1950-1970) TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Pa r t 5--H eri tag e A rc h i t ec t ure S t y l e Gui d e ---- 61 MODIFIED CAPE COD (1950-1970) 62 ---- TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Pa r t 5--H eri tag e A rc h i t ec t ure S t y l e Gui d e RANCH STYLE BUNGALOW (1950-1975) TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Pa r t 5--H eri tag e A rc h i t ec t ure S t y l e Gui d e ---- 63 RANCH STYLE BUNGALOW (1950-1975) 64 ---- TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Pa r t 5--H eri tag e A rc h i t ec t ure S t y l e Gui d e MODERN (1970-PRESENT) TOW N O F WO L F V I L L E--D E SI G N GUI D EL I N E S Pa r t 5--H eri tag e A rc h i t ec t ure S t y l e Gui d e ---- 65