What are the most common site planning and design standards in your region or sector?

1 Zoning and Land Use

Zoning and land use standards regulate the type, size, and density of buildings and activities that can occur on a given site. They aim to balance the needs of different stakeholders, such as residents, businesses, and public authorities, and to prevent conflicts and negative impacts on the environment and the community. Zoning and land use standards vary widely depending on the location, context, and purpose of the site. For example, residential zones may have different requirements for setbacks, height, parking, and open space than commercial or industrial zones. Zoning and land use standards also influence the shape, orientation, and layout of buildings and spaces.

2 Accessibility and Universal Design

Accessibility and universal design standards ensure that buildings and spaces are accessible and usable by people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. They aim to promote inclusion, diversity, and social justice, as well as to enhance the quality of life and well-being of users. Accessibility and universal design standards cover aspects such as ramps, elevators, doors, bathrooms, signage, lighting, and furniture. They also consider the sensory, cognitive, and emotional needs of users, as well as their cultural and personal preferences. Accessibility and universal design standards may vary depending on the region, sector, and user group, but they often follow international principles and best practices.

3 Environmental and Sustainability

Environmental and sustainability standards aim to reduce the environmental impact of buildings and spaces, and to enhance their performance, efficiency, and resilience. They cover aspects such as energy, water, waste, materials, biodiversity, and climate change. They also consider the social and economic aspects of sustainability, such as health, comfort, productivity, and affordability. Environmental and sustainability standards may be mandatory or voluntary, depending on the region, sector, and project type. For example, some countries or cities may have minimum requirements for energy efficiency or renewable energy sources, while some projects may seek certification from green building rating systems such as LEED, BREEAM, or Green Star.

4 Aesthetics and Identity

Aesthetics and identity standards aim to create buildings and spaces that are visually appealing, distinctive, and meaningful. They cover aspects such as style, form, color, texture, proportion, and harmony. They also consider the context, history, culture, and identity of the site and its users. Aesthetics and identity standards may be subjective or objective, depending on the region, sector, and project type. For example, some areas or buildings may have specific architectural guidelines or heritage protection rules, while some projects may have more flexibility or creativity in their design choices.

5 Safety and Security

Safety and security standards aim to protect buildings and spaces from natural or human-made hazards, such as fire, earthquakes, floods, vandalism, or terrorism. They cover aspects such as structural integrity, fire protection, emergency exits, lighting, surveillance, and access control. They also consider the psychological and behavioral aspects of safety and security, such as perception, awareness, and trust. Safety and security standards may be regulated or recommended, depending on the region, sector, and project type. For example, some buildings or spaces may have higher safety and security risks or expectations than others, such as hospitals, schools, or airports.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?