Name: Design Codes - An International Comparison
Start: 2025-01-28T12:30:00+00:00
End: 2025-01-28T13:30:00+00:00

Design Codes - An International Comparison

A one hour lunchtime event featuring Rob Cowan and Marcus Wilshere, talking about the lessons from their study of International Design Codes
About this Event

12.30 - Welcome and Introduction
Naike Zambotti - UDG Exec & BPTW

12:35 - Presentations
Marcus Wilshere - The Collaborative City
Rob Cowan

13.10 - Q&A

13:30 - Close

Key points include:

Codes work best within a system: Design codes are more effective when part of a broader system of planning controls, standards, and higher-order plans, as seen in the US, Australia, and New Zealand.
Use of illustrations and diagrams: Simple diagrams make design codes more accessible and usable, as demonstrated in the San Jose design codes.
Context-specific design principles: Codes should be rooted in local context and community input, as shown in Burien and Oman, blending prescriptive rules with more flexible guidance.
Empowering citizens: Design codes can involve communities in the design process, helping ensure the designs are popular and meet local needs, as seen with Vinegar Lane.
Role of design review panels: Design review panels are important for assessing compliance and innovation, especially in systems like those in Australia and New Zealand, where independent panels are heavily involved in the review process.
Learning by doing: Design codes should be treated as living documents that are regularly updated based on outcomes and market changes, encouraging a culture of design quality.
Managing phased development: Some codes help manage complex, phased development with multiple sub-developers, using tools like block or plot data sheets to streamline the process.
Streamlining planning applications: Design codes can expedite simpler planning applications, offering fast-track approval for compliant proposals, as seen in Western Australia’s R Code (Volume 1).
Training for code users: A training program is essential for ensuring those who administer and use design codes are well-prepared, as seen in Abu Dhabi’s street design manual.
Emphasizing landscape in design codes: International case studies highlight the importance of incorporating landscape elements like street planting, with examples from Western Australia’s R-Code focusing on tree canopies and landscaping.