Page 1 - San Marcos, TX Design Manual

A APPENDIX Design Guidelines

Article 1: CD-5D & CD-5 Design Division 2: DEsiGn PRinCiPLEs

guidelines Section A.1.2.1 General Principles applicable to CD-5 and
CD-5D
Division 1: inTRoDUCTion A. Purpose. This section sets forth fundamental principles for

improvements in the districts. These principles are broad
Section A.1.1.1 Purpose
in nature, focusing on qualitative aspects of design. Each
A. The regulations in CD-5 and CD-5D establish the basic improvement project in the districts should help forward the
requirements for building mass and scale. (see Figure 1.1 goals outlined in the Introduction and should also comply with
Design Context Map). These design guidelines supplement the these fundamental design principles:
Character District standards in the following ways:
1. Design for sustainability. Aspects of cultural, economic
1. As advisory information for those who wish to better and environmental sustainability that relate to urban design
understand the intent of the design standards in CD-5 and and compatibility should be woven into new developments
CD-5D. and improvements.

2. As part of design review for the administrative approval 2. Enhance the public realm. At the heart of the districts is
process. an enhanced public realm, including streets, sidewalks and
open spaces. Sidewalks and other pedestrian ways should
3. As part of design review for the alternative compliance be designed to invite their use through thoughtful planning
process when alternatives are applied for. and design. Improvement on private property also should
enhance the public realm.
B. The guidelines within this document focus on allowing for
flexibility in design while also protecting the character of the 3. Enhance the pedestrian experience. Each improvement
district and enhancing its pedestrian-friendly atmosphere. project should contribute to a pedestrian-friendly
The guidelines and the review process through which they environment. This includes defining street edges with
are administered seek to maintain a cohesive, livable place. buildings and spaces that are visually interesting and
Maintaining an attractive pedestrian-oriented environment is attract pedestrian activity. Buildings that convey a sense of
a fundamental concept. In addition, the guidelines serve as human scale and streetscapes that invite walking are keys
educational and planning tools for property owners and their to successful design in the districts. Providing sidewalks
design professionals who seek to make improvements. of sufficient width for circulation and outdoor activities,

C. The design guidelines also provide a basis for making and installing appropriate landscape and streetscape
consistent decisions about the appropriateness of improvement elements are also important.
projects requesting alternative strategies through the City’s 4. Design Excellence. Each new development should
design review process. This includes both administrative express excellence in design. This includes the use of
review as well as Planning and Zoning Commission and City high quality, sustainable materials; utilizing high quality
Council review through the alternative compliance process. construction methods; and paying attention to the details
The design standards in the Land Development Code and the of the project and its design. Thoughtful designs should
City’s adopted building codes have been codified to meet enhance the character of San Marcos, be sensitive to its
the intent of the design guidelines. Projects that meet those surrounding context and create an enjoyable pedestrian
standards and are not requesting exceptions shall be judged to experience.
have met the design guidelines.
Section A.1.2.2 Principles Specifc to Downtown CD-5D

1. Honor the heritage of the City. Buildings, sites and
components of urban infrastructure that have historic

A:2 San Marcos Design Manual