While at Good City Company, Kevin Gardiner led the preparation of Objective Design Standards (ODS) or one-to-four-unit residential developments, and to update objective design standards for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU) and multi-family and mixed-use development. The Design Standards are intended to streamline the design review process and enhance production by providing clear and consistent expectations of high-quality design to architects, developers, and the City’s decision makers.

Piedmont is renowned for its distinct physical and architectural character. The standards are intended to guide new development so that it is compatible with the city’s varied architectural styles, mature landscaping, and a strong sense of scale, while supporting the City’s housing goals.

Results

• The standards provide compliance with state housing laws by providing clear, objective and enforceable design requirements to facilitate streamlined review of eligible housing projects.

• The standards provide clear language and graphic illustrations so that residents, property owners, and developers understand the types of design, articulation, and massing to be expected in Piedmont neighborhoods.

• Public engagement included two open houses, pop-ups at community festivals, and an online survey. The standards were developed with input from a subcommittee of the Planning Commission.