Design Guidelines

The design guidelines in this chapter set out the design approach, quality and materials which are recommended for all scales of future development of Ladyfield. They summarise the ‘DNA’ of future development as outlined in the chapters previous.

5.0 Design Guidelines

5.1 Architectural Guidelines

5.2 Landscape Design Guidelines

5.1 Architectural Guidelines

A series of guidelines for the architectural approach have been developed, to apply across the masterplan and should provide a coherence to the three character areas. These design guidelines set the standard of design and quality for all scales of future development. In general, future proposals should accord with the guidance laid out in this section. However, final layouts and materials will be fully defined as part of the detailed planning design stages.

Height and Differentiation

Residential buildings can use height to create differentiation and a varied townscape.

Gateways and Thresholds

Building ‘accents’ should be provided at key gateways and junctions. These can create markers, or identify important moments across the masterplan that help with wayfinding.

Roofscape and Setbacks

The roofscape should be utilised to contribute to the townscape of the development, creating interest and variety in form.

Connection to the Environment

A variety of amenity spaces should be provided to offer residents many opportunities to connect to the natural environment.

Natural Light

Buildings should be designed to optimise natural light, capture solar gain and minimise overshadowing to external spaces. Consideration should be given to how internal spaces are orientated to take advantage of the sun path through the day.

Entrances

Entrances should be designed to be recognisable elements that enhance the streetscape and create a welcoming sense of arrival.

Flexibility

Dwellings should have an integral flexibility about how they can be utilised by different households or at different stages of life

Fabric First

Buildings should be designed with a fabric first approach to minimise energy demand

Robust and Natural Materials

A palette of materials should be developed that provides coherence across the character areas. Mixing materials with complimentary tones and contrasting textures is to be promoted.

A Sense of Craft

A sense of craft should be expressed in the finer detailing and facade composition to create rich and visually interesting buildings.

Sustainability and Locality

The embodied energy, sustainability and environmental performance of materials selected should be considered, along with optimising locality and the circular economy.

The Crichton Heritage Consideration should be given to reflect the local heritage through the material palette and approach to forming façades such as incorporating relief and depth.