Key Aspects of a Form-Based Code
As part of the on-going Land Development Ordinance Project, the City of New Braunfels is considering incorporating form-based code elements into the regulations for the downtown area (see map below).
A form-based code is an approach to zoning that prioritizes the physical form and design of the built environment, rather than focusing on separation of uses into zones, as a traditional code (including New Braunfels' current regulations) does. By focusing on the physical characteristics of the built environment, form-based codes aim to create more vibrant, walkable, and aesthetically harmonious communities.
Such an approach can be particularly useful in areas like Downtown New
Braunfels, where there is a desire to preserve the Downtown’s unique character, while allowing for redevelopment that is respectful to the existing context.
Braunfels, where there is a desire to preserve the Downtown’s unique character, while allowing for redevelopment that is respectful to the existing context.
Key aspects of a form-based code include a document rich in illustration, to demonstrate desired aspects of design, and show how buildings relate to each other and the public spaces around them. There is typically an emphasis on the following characteristics of the built environment:
• Building Form Standards - regulations that can shape the massing, height, setbacks, and overall size of buildings, as well as how the buildings should interact with the street and adjacent public spaces.
• Public Space Design - regulations that shape the quality of public spaces such as sidewalks, streetscapes and plaza, with a particular emphasis on prioritizing a walkable environment.
• Building Placement & Design - form-based codes often have guidelines to help promote building siting or location and materials and design details for new developments that are compatible to the existing context.