1. Composition

The basic rules of composition can be applied to any design including façades, buildings, neighbourhoods and whole cities. Good, clear compositions make the environment easier to understand, in other words, more legible. When buildings are legible, the place as a whole becomes more inviting and feels safer.

A building becomes legible when people can guess where the entrance is and what happens behind its walls.

As we perceive things differently from further away, textures and detailed patterns are often a good way to add interest to buildings for pedestrians passing by whilst keeping a more calmed tone for those who see it from the distance.

Design Criteria

1.1 All new components (extensions, porches, roofs, windows, etc.) respect the character and architectural style of the house and the street.

1.2 All new components (extensions, porches, roofs, windows, etc.) sit nicely and without conflicting with the architectural style and features (such as bay windows, porches, etc.) of the existing house.