Design the site and houses together Print


Design​ Chec​klist​​

  1. The building and the layout of the terraced development shows an understanding of the context of the street and wider neighbourhood – both now and in the future
  2. The development supports and improves route, street and open space connections
  3. The proposal explores opportunities to incorporate Māori cultural values in the function and the design of the building and landscaping

It is important to understand the context of a site, because one of the key drivers ​for the site design of terraced housing developments should be the surrounding built environment. Th​is includes the movement network, urban structure, the form of the buildings and spaces, and the expectations of the community.
A comprehensive analysis will ensure that no opportunities are missed.

Better Design Practice

Built form

Critically analyse the existing and historical development patterns, including architectural detail, to determine whether there are appropriate cues or narratives for the new development (Whakapapa). 

Ensure that the main bulk of the development is located to integrate with open spaces, views and outlook. 

Maintain the amenity of existing developments. In some instances this can be achieved by using buffers (vegetation or fencing) between different sites. 

Avoid long, monotonous terraced blocks as these can have a negative impact on the attractiveness of an area and lead to unused, unloved locations within a city.

Movement framework

Use the development to enhance the legibility of the streets and adjacent public routes and spaces.​
  • Reinforce existing movement patterns that work well, such as pedestrian desire lines, cycleways, and direct and convenient vehicle routes. 
  • Laneways created as part of terraced developments need to have clear visibility from the main street, and separated vehicle and pedestrian spaces. These should connect safely to existing paths and movement networks.
  • To enhance the legibility of the street and the public realm, the terraced development should have a distinctive form that addresses the street. ​​

Use and activity

In larger developments, provide the types of open space that will benefit future residents the most, such as childrens’ play facilities. Connect to other types of open space where possible, and avoid creating similar open spaces to those that already exist.

Community

Provide a mix of tenure and type of housing within each redevelopment area to meet the housing needs of the community. 

Design the development to capitalise on important views from the site, and also views or connections (Tohu) from the wider neighbourhood onto the site. Engage mana whenua at the beginning of the project for guidance on how to appropriately respond to Whakapapa and Tohu.
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