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A. Overall Design. The exterior of each non-single-family building shall be designed so as to have a visually distinct base, main section and roofline, to provide visual references to the scale of the building, and to help the building fit in with its context, in accordance with the following:

1. The base may comprise the foundation itself; the nonstructural use of materials such as brick, stone or textured concrete which convey an impression of permanence and support; or a contrast in materials or colors between the base and the main section.

2. The main section shall incorporate architectural features and detailing to create visual interest. In addition to the requirements of BMC 12.14.200 and 12.14.210, such features and detailing may include but are not limited to windows, columns, pilasters, belt courses, brackets, arches, decorative molding, quoins and similar architectural devices. Any architectural decoration shall be part of a unified design.

3. The design of the roof shall employ at least one of the following:

a. A gable, gambrel or hipped roof;

b. A broken or articulated roofline;

c. A prominent cornice or fascia that defines and emphasizes the top of the building;

d. Any other roof element that emphasizes a building’s unifying architectural concept and helps it to fit in with its context.

Examples of how these regulations apply are illustrated in Figures 12.14-9, 12.14-10 and 12.14-11.

Fig. 12.14-9

Fig. 12.14-10

Fig. 12.14-11

B. Pedestrian Entries. The building design shall clearly define and emphasize the pedestrian entries. Any primary pedestrian entry to a building shall be designed so as to be visually predominant over parking lot driveways or garage entrances. Pedestrian entries shall be emphasized by one or more of the following methods:

1. Landscaping the entry and approach to the entry in a manner which is consistent with and extends the building design theme;

2. Incorporating a formal entry;

3. Utilizing modulation to emphasize by indentation or protrusion the portion of the building containing the entry;

4. Incorporating a porte-cochere or other cover providing weather protection for the entry.

Examples of how these regulations apply are illustrated in Figure 12.14-12.

Fig. 12.14-12

C. Exterior Building Materials. Building exteriors shall be constructed of durable and easily maintainable materials, to enhance the overall appearance, community character and long-term economic vitality of the area in which the building is located. The use of various types of materials in exterior building design shall be in accordance with the following:

1. Metal siding shall have visible corner moldings and trim, and a matte finish;

2. Mirrored glass is allowed only in the LI zone and above the street level story in the OP, NB, CB and GC zones;

3. Concrete walls shall be enhanced by texturing, coloring with paint or an admixture, or by incorporating embossed or sculpted surfaces, mosaics or artwork.

D. Screening of Roof-Mounted Mechanical Devices. Mechanical devices, such as exhaust fans, vents, air conditioning units, heating equipment, electrical devices, mechanical, electrical and other equipment located on the roof of any structure shall be screened to avoid unsightly roof appearance as viewed from surrounding property, including hillsides. The design of the screening shall be incorporated as an integral part of the overall building design. Screening materials shall be consistent with subsection C of this section. Roof-mounted solar or wind equipment is exempt from screening requirements, provided the installation is consistent with BMC 12.14.250(D). (Ord. 2107 § 2 (Exh. B), 2012; Ord. 1815 § 1, 2000; Ord. 1798 § 1, 2000. Formerly 12.14.200).