Blythewood_Design_Guidelines_01

Client:
Town of Blythewood
Project Status:
Completed in 2008
Project Overview:
• Neighborhood Planning Guidelines
• Site planing guidelines
• Building design guidelines
• Landscape design guidelines
Recognition:
2010 South Carolina Planning Association Award for Outstanding Planning Project for a Small Jurisdiction
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TOWN OF BLYTHEWOOD DESIGN GUIDELINES

Blythewood, South Carolina

Blythewood is a historic village located 20 miles north of Columbia, South Carolina, that lies in the path of development along I-77. The town is known for its rural character and rich equestrian history, both of which could be lost in the absence of a vision for the future. In 2008, TSW worked with the town and local stakeholders to develop a Master Plan and a set of supporting Design Guidelines to guide growth and ensure proactive tools to respond to development pressure, rather than just react to it. Many of the principles of the Design Guidelines are being incorporated into a zoning overlay district that will require appropriate design in Blythewood’s downtown.

The Design Guidelines form a concise handbook that allows decision makers to understand the principles behind good design in order to prevent private and public investment that contradicts Blythewood’s vision for its future. The Guidelines are divided into four primary sections: neighborhood planning, site planning, building design, and landscape design.

Neighborhood planning guidelines focus on open space and farmland preservation through clustered growth. A planning process is outlined that allows for new development to focus on preserving natural areas, increasing connectivity, and creating usable public spaces.

Site planning guidelines focus on public space and street design, building siting, parking, signage, fencing, and other elements. The goal is to promote human-scale, walkable development patterns that respect historic precedents in the region.

Building design guidelines, inspired by local traditions, do not attempt to dictate a particular architectural style, but help decision makers identify building elements that are not appropriate for the town. Specific guidelines are provided on desirable façades, materials, windows, porches, and entrances.

Landscape design guidelines focus on sustainability. They encourage appropriate public space design and native tree plantings


Blythewood Design Guidelines