APPROVED 17 Avenue SW Urban Design Strategy

APPROVED 17 Avenue SW urban design strategy

calgary.ca/centrecity | call 3-1-1

APPROVED 17 Avenue SW urban design strategy

calgary.ca/centrecity | call 3-1-1 PUBLISHING INFORMATION

TITLE: 17 AVENUE SW URBAN DESIGN STRATEGY

AUTHOR: LAND USE PLANNING & POLICY PLANNING, DEVELOPMENT & ASSESSMENT

STATUS: APPROVED 2008 MARCH 10

PRINTING DATE: 2008 MARCH

ADDITIONAL COPIES: THE CITY OF CALGARY RECORDS & INFORMATION MANAGEMENT (RIM) P.O. BOX 2100, STN “M”, #8115 CALGARY, ALBERTA T2P 2M5

PHONE: (403) 268-5333 or Call 3-1-1 FAX: (403) 268-4615 WEB: www.calgary.ca/centrecity TABLE OF CONTENTS

Table of Contents Acknowledgment ...... ii 7.0 Case Studies ...... 37 1.0 Background...... 1 7.1 East Precinct Context: ...... 38 2.0 Role of The Strategy ...... 2 Case Study 1: Stampede Entrance ...... 38 3.0 Stakeholder Engagement ...... 3 Case Study 2: Rouleauville Park ...... 40 4.0 Local Character Discussion ...... 4 7.2 Central Precinct ...... 42 4.1. The East Precinct ...... 6 Case Study 3: Tomkins Park ...... 42 4.2 The Central Precinct ...... 8 7.3 West Precinct ...... 44 4.3 The West Precinct ...... 10 Case Study 4: 11 Street S.W. Intersection 44 5.0 Uses...... 12 8.0 Implementation...... 46 5.1 Uses & Use Sizes ...... 12 6.0 Public Realm Guidelines ...... 13 6.1 Pedestrian Realm Guidelines ...... 14 6.1.1 “Build to” Incentive ...... 15 6.1.2 Pedestrian Realm Scenarios ...... 15 6.2 Built Form Guidelines ...... 30

MARCH 2008 APPROVED i Acknowledgment

The City wishes to acknowledge the contributors of Sturgess Architecture in the stakeholder engagement and analysis components of this Strategy. Section 7.0 Case Studies is the product of Sturgess Architecture.

ii APPROVED APPROVED 17 AVENUE SW URBAN DESIGN STRATEGY 1.0 BACKGROUND

1.0 Background

Once a boundary to the city in the early 1900’s, 17 Avenue SW including on-street parking, appropriate plantings and an has always been an important artery in Calgary. It marks the animated and safe pedestrian environment. The pedestrian intersection of the CPR established downtown grid with the realm, especially the interface zone must accommodate a alignment of the greater city grid. It is the original surveyor’s full range of activities from retail to patios. High streets are correction line with the confluence of the two grids occurring characterized by: at the centre of the avenue at Tomkins Park. s Upgraded sidewalks; Today, 17 Avenue SW is often viewed by many Calgarians as s Public art; one of the City’s most vital and thriving thoroughfares. The s Pedestrian scaled street lighting; avenue is a medley of mixed-use commercial, residential and office in varying building forms providing fluctuating degrees s Single tree boulevards; and quality of public realm. As mentioned in the Beltline Area s Pedestrian scaled built form; and, Redevelopment Plan (ARP), public realm can be defined as s Enhanced street furniture. “special places, linkages, interfaces and the building form which are fundamental to the creation of a functional, visually The Strategy provides urban design guidelines for this attractive and safe public realm”. portion of 17 Avenue SW. The guidelines aim to preserve the unique personalities of different sections of the avenue, The study area is comprised of both the north and south sides while providing a cohesive and consistent guideline for future of a sixteen block stretch between MacLeod Trail SE to 14 development along the whole avenue. The guidelines will Street SW. There currently exists a need within this portion address: of 17 Avenue SW to define and identify the character of the avenue so that it can be preserved and enhanced through s Pedestrian oriented development; future development. s Building massing and scale; and

This avenue has been identiﬁed by the Centre City Plan as a s Interfaces between public and private realm. High Street, typically found in areas with historic character or high-density retail areas with a high concentration of pedestrian movement. High streets represent a model of the traditional main street with mixed use, medium to high-density developments, and provide ﬂexible transportation alternatives

MARCH 2008 APPROVED 1 2.0 ROLE OF THE STRATEGY

2.0 Role of The Strategy

The 17 Avenue SW Urban Design Strategy is a non-statutory s Lower Mount Royal ARP; and, document that provides guidelines for development and s The Beltline ARP. makes recommendations for future action. It addresses the interaction and relationship between buildings, landscape, The Strategy will be used in addition to these documents to road right of ways and public spaces to encourage livability guide design for new development. Other applicable plans and vitality along the avenue. There are four communities include: which are represented along the thoroughfare. s The Centre City Plan These communities are: This plan is non-statutory in nature, but does contain ideas, actions and projects that relate to the avenue. s Mission: 1 St. SE to 4 St. SW on the south side of 17 Avenue; Currently there is no uniﬁed strategy for the 17 Avenue SW corridor to address urban design ideas and guidelines for s Cliff Bungalow: 4 St. SW and College Lane SW on the south side of 17 Avenue SW; sidewalks, streetscapes, public spaces, and built form along both sides of the avenue. The Strategy is sensitive to the s Lower Mount Royal: College Lane SW and 14 St SW on character of the avenue and surrounding neighbourhoods. It the south side of 17 Avenue SW; and, strives to maintain a high quality of urban design and built s Beltline: Macleod Trail SE and 1 St SE on the south side form similar to the character of the avenue that Calgarians of 17 Avenue SW and between Macleod Trail SE and 14 have come to expect. St SW on the north side of 17 Avenue SW. Each of the communities has an Area Redevelopment Plan (ARP) that guides land use and development for the area. Applicable ARP’s include:

s Mission ARP; s Cliff Bungalow ARP;

2 APPROVED APPROVED 17 AVENUE SW URBAN DESIGN STRATEGY 3.0 STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT

3.0 Stakeholder Engagement

Comprehensive consultation with stakeholders ensured development expected within the area in terms of use, that public opinion and values were taken into account in density and design. Each of these ARP’s were informed by the creation of these guidelines. Stakeholders from the the 17 Avenue SW engagement input. Also, the new Land above mentioned communities, as well as local Business Use Bylaw 1P2007 has created new districts for commercial Revitalization Zones were consulted through two public corridors that apply to 17 Avenue SW. These new districts have open houses held on September 20th 2005, and October incorporated provisions that address some of the concerns 25th, 2005. The intent of these open houses was to gather raised through the earlier 2005 engagement process. With information on issues relating to developments along the these pieces now in place, The Strategy brings them together avenue. These open houses identified a number of design in a unified vision for the 17 Avenue SW corridor. aspects such as: s Building typology; s Building character; s Urban edges; s Building interface s Building massing; and, s The quality of the public realm. A stakeholder presentation was held to review the ideas prior to the final open house held at the beginning of January, 2006.

Between 2005 and 2007, significant work was completed on the Centre City Plan which identified street and road typologies vital to the development of 17 Avenue SW. Work on this plan also included significant stakeholder engagement and discussed the vision for 17 Avenue SW along with the rest of the Centre City. Additionally, new ARP’s were approved for Mission and Beltline, which have further clarified the future

MARCH 2008 APPROVED 3 4.0 LOCAL CHARACTER DISCUSSION

4.0 Local Character Discussion The local context of an area includes a variety of physical MAP 1: Study Area aspects which are visible and tangible; such as elements W pertaining to the built form, redevelopment opportunities, 14 STS and open space patterns. The Beltline ARP deﬁnes character areas as: “areas that are identiﬁable as having special or 14 AV SW unique qualities that are different from neighbouring areas within the community”. Using this thinking, the avenue can 15 AV SW

be differentiated into three different precincts, each with its W

S W

S W T

S S T

S T 2

1 S own unique character, personality and potential. 1

0 16 AV SW 1 The ﬁrst precinct is located between MacLeod Trail SE and 16 AV SW

2 Street SW (the East Precinct), the second precinct from 2 17 AV SW 17 AV SSWW Street SW to 9th Street SW (The Central Precinct), and the third precinct between 9th Street SW and 14 Street SW (the West Precinct). 9A ST SW ST 9A

CAMERON AV SW

T BAGOT AV SW 10 ST SW 10 ST

4 ROYAL AV SW

1 Legend 10A STSW 11 STSW 14 ST SW 14 ST 12 ST SW 12 ST

Ownership ParcelsSW 13 ST COLBORNE CR SW Buildings 1:10,500

4 APPROVED APPROVED 17 AVENUE SW URBAN DESIGN STRATEGY 4.0 LOCAL CHARACTER DISCUSSION

4 T

S E

S 2

13 AV S T W 1

1 13 AV SW 13 AV SW 13 AV SE

S E p

T 14 T AV SW N

C 14 A E V SW L

14 AV SW A 14 AV SE M

15 AV SW

W S 15 AV S SW

T W

S T S

S 15 AV SW 9 S T W 15 AV 8 SE S

T S

7 S

6 S

17 AV SWSW 17 AV SWSW 17 AV SWSW 17 AV SE

18 AV SW 18 AV SE 18 AV SW 18 AV SW 18 AV SE

T S

R 9 STSW S

8 STSW T

A D

19 AV SW L 19 AV SW C 19 AV SW A

W COLLEGE LN LN SW COLLEGE

4 5 STSW 5A STSW5A 20 AV SW ROYAL AV SW 20 AV SW 9 STSW 7 STSW 1

HOPE ST SW ST HOPE S X:\149_...\GIS\mxd\lett....mxdT S

MARCH 2008 APPROVED 5 4.0 LOCAL CHARACTER DISCUSSION

4.1. The East Precinct

S D

T O

S E

L T

1 T

S CCL

1 E

C 1 215 AV SW 3 4 5 6 15 AV SE

16 17 AV SW 17 AV SE

W 18 AV SW S 7 8 9 10 1811AV S12E 13 14 15 17

E S

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

6 APPROVED APPROVED 17 AVENUE SW URBAN DESIGN STRATEGY 4.0 LOCAL CHARACTER DISCUSSION

Built Form 13. Many “dead” spaces

3. Inconsistent front setbacks & street 17. Varying sidewalk width wall 4. Single purpose buildings (mainly auto Linkages 8 9 10 related) 16. Bound by Light Rail Transit (LRT) 5. Low quality architecture lines & a pedestrian ramp 6. Variety of building forms ranging 16. No ground level access points mainly from one to two storey for either pedestrians or vehicles buildings through to Stampede Park 9. Encourages automotive trafﬁc 14. Very little transparency at the Special Places 11 12 13 pedestrian level 7. Rouleauville Park/St Mary’s 15. Heritage Conversions Building Interface 1. Minimal interaction with the space 2. Overhead power-lines dominating sidewalk 14 15 16 8. Large signage encroaching into the public realm for each individual use 10. Front parking lots 11. Automotive specialty and repair dominate the node in terms of use 12. Uneven pavement & deteriorating sidewalk quality 17

MARCH 2008 APPROVED 7 4.0 LOCAL CHARACTER DISCUSSION

4.2 The Central Precinct

14A4 AV SW

W S

155AA T V SW S

S 15 AV SW 2

5 W

S S 1 2 3 4 5 6

T T 15 AV SW S

T W

S S

16 AV SW 8 T W

S S

4 17 AV SW 17 AV SW 17 AV SW

gendend 18 AV W SW

OwnershipOwnership P Parcelsarcels S

ResidentialResidential 18 7AV SW 8 9 10 L 11 12 13 14 15 16

ResidentialResidential GaragesGarages andand DecksDecks S

CommercialCommercial S

5 W

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

8 APPROVED APPROVED 17 AVENUE SW URBAN DESIGN STRATEGY 4.0 LOCAL CHARACTER DISCUSSION

Built Form 13. On-street parking begins at 2 St SW, 2. Mainly retail and restaurants with some intermittent ofﬁce use. 14. Avenue becomes more textured 2. Pedestrian oriented 15. Some parking at the front of buildings at east end of precinct 8 9 10 2. Building height ranging mainly from 1-3 storeys. 2. Presence of an urban edge scaled Linkages for human use rather than vehicular 1. Connections to 4 St SW & 8th St use. SW 4. Patio setbacks range from 1.5–3.0 metres from the back of curb. Special Places 11 12 13 5. Setbacks ranging from 3.0-6.0 1. Western Canada High School metres from the back of curb to the 3. Heritage Building building front. 8. The Devenish building 6. At-grade, individually accessed uses 10. Tomkins Park 11. Some buildings/sites are not 16. Public Art currently pedestrian oriented

Building Interface 14 15 16 5. More continuous building frontage 7. Narrow pedestrian right of ways at speciﬁc spots 9. Improved lighting standards, 9. Banners for signage 12. Improved pavement materials

MARCH 2008 APPROVED 9 4.0 LOCAL CHARACTER DISCUSSION

4.3 The West Precinct

W 16A6 AV SW S

1 2 3 4 5 6 S 16 AV SW

17 AV SW 17 AV SW

W W W

S S S

T T W

S S

W W S

3 3

S S T

1 1

7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 T 16 T S

S S 4

141 ST SW A A

0 9

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

10 APPROVED APPROVED 17 AVENUE SW URBAN DESIGN STRATEGY 4.0 LOCAL CHARACTER DISCUSSION

Built Form 11. Pedestrian oriented spaces

1. Some lot access driveways 14. Most redevelopment consistent with older setbacks 2. Trees spaced every 10.0- 20.0 metres 8 9 10 3. Inconsistent building frontage Linkages 6. Surface parking lots 7. 14 Street SW, 11th St SW 6. Various forms of street furniture located between back of curb and Special Places building front 8. Heritage building 9. Building setbacks ranging from 3.0-10.0 metres 11 12 13 13. Some vacant sites 15. Higher densities for residential 16. Intermittent historic lamp posts

Building Interface 2. Big display windows – transparent to pedestrian 14 15 16 4. Large, auto-oriented signage 5. Larger storefronts 9. Automotive oriented spaces 10. New retail developments

MARCH 2008 APPROVED 11 5.0 USES

5.0 Uses General

One of the main character defining elements of 17 Avenue SW is the variety of uses and the spacing between uses at the street level. The new C-COR-1 District of Land Use Bylaw 1P2007 ensures that street level uses remain small in size (a maximum of 465 square metres) and that they are predominantly retail and service oriented. For example, offices and medical clinics are not allowed on the ground floor and large floor area uses are to be located above or below street level. These rules are entirely consistent with the overall vision for 17 Avenue SW.

5.1 Uses & Use Sizes

In addition to the Bylaw rules, another level of guideline is needed to preserve the ﬁne-grain, retail character of the Central Precinct.

In general, financial institutions will be strongly discouraged at street level. Where permitted, the maximum storefront width fronting 17 Avenue SW should be no greater than 7.5 metres. This will encourage the inclusion of small “liner shops” to mask the main financial institution floor space, thereby preserving a fine-grain of shops and an active street level.

12 APPROVED APPROVED 17 AVENUE SW URBAN DESIGN STRATEGY 6.0 PUBLIC REALM GUIDELINE

6.0 Public Realm Guidelines

Much of the character of the avenue derives from the lacking an overall sense of place and identity. These guidelines organization and character of the public realm generated will help to unify the avenue while building on the existing from the overall spatial conﬁguration and details of speciﬁc physical characteristics of the individual precincts. elements. Since the existing boundaries of the public realm are inconsistent along the length of the Avenue, the area is

Gradual changes of setbacks are in direct co-relation with building type, building height and use at grade (retail, hospitality, office, service) 17th AVENUE PUBLIC REALM — INTRODUCTION

Public realm realm consists consists of threeof three main mainelements: elements linkages, - Linkages,places and builtPlaces form, and where Built each Form, has different where functions,each of thoseopportunities have anddifferent constraints. functions, In high density opportunities urban envi- andronments, constraints they are .found In high in a densityvariety of urban relationships environ- and Continuous, unified setbacks without dramatic depth changes, fine grain ment all of them are in endless variety of rela- vertical orientation of facades and fenestration and active interface (edges) configurations. Careful manipulation of these elements provide physical and cognitive setup for successful urban pedestrian tionships that can be used for the creation of experience functional,to create a unifiedbut also urban beautiful, environment experiential is achieved urban with environment.urban design guidelines. Careful manipulation of those relationships is achieved with urban design toolsContinuity , one of of built which form is (building urban designor street guidelines. wall) is essential for the creation of a high quality urban environment, Continuity of Built form (building or street wall) especially for the High Street typology of 17 Avenue SW. is essential for the creation of a high quality urbanContinuous environment, cornice lines, unifiedespecially setbacks in withoutthe High dra- Variety of streetscape situations can be harmonized and unified with the Streetmatic depth Typology changes, of height 17th and Avenue. massing ofContinuous the building provision of limited number of building setbacks, space for trees, public art, base and activities and design of the street wall at street patios and street furniture. cornice lines, unified setbacks without dramatic depthlevel provide changes, the physical height andand cognitive massing environment of the base for anda successful activities public and realm. design of street wall at street level provide the physical and cognitive environment for successful public realm. Treatment of the pedestrian realm /built form interface

Treatmentis related to ofland Pedestrian use, building realm typology, /Interface building design height, isactivities in direct at-grade, correlation and location to ofland access use, points. building Con- typology,ﬂicting situations building can height, be harmonized activities and at uniﬁed grade, with and the locationprovision ofof spaceaccess for points.trees, public Variety art, ofattractive conflicting store- situationsfronts and street can lights.be harmonized and unified with the provision of space for trees, public art, attractive storefronts and street lights.

MARCH 2008 APPROVED 13 6.0 PUBLIC REALM GUIDELINE

6.1 Pedestrian Realm Guidelines East Precinct

The existing built condition with respect to curb location, property lines, sidewalk dimensions and building setbacks North Side: is inconsistent along the length of the study area. Property A minimum building setback of 9.0 metres and patio setback lines are typically located 3.0 metres from the back of the of 4.5 metres from the back of curb. curb creating the predominant sidewalk condition. In some This wider pedestrian realm is encouraged on the north side cases, commercial buildings are built right to the edge of their for the following reasons: property lines in order to create a strong built retail edge, and in other instances, they are set back from this line. Other s it is achievable given that all sites can and likely will be buildings have been constructed 5.0 metres back from their redeveloped over time; property line in order to allow for the 5.182 metres bylawed s it allows for greatest sun exposure; and setback requirement in place when 17 Avenue SW was s it helps offset the higher densities and taller buildings conceived to become a major vehicular thoroughfare. Lastly, allowed in this location. there are some buildings whose property lines are located as far back as 8.0 to 10.0 metres from the curb. South Side: A minimum building or patio setback of 4.5 metres from the back of curb. In order to unify the pedestrian realm of the Avenue over the long term and to ensure a comfortable width to allow safe pedestrian circulation and a full range of urban “street life” Central and West Precincts activities, the following dimensions shall be achieved with new development or redevelopment: Both Sides: A minimum building or patio setback of 4.5 metres from the back of curb.

14 APPROVED APPROVED 17 AVENUE SW URBAN DESIGN STRATEGY 6.0 PUBLIC REALM GUIDELINE

6.1.1 “Build to” Incentive 6.1.2 Pedestrian Realm Scenarios

Over time, existing development that has been set back from The following pages present a variety of scenarios that the street due to the previous bylawed setback is encouraged illustrate in greater detail how these guidelines will be to “build to” these dimensions. As an incentive, new ﬂoor implemented depending on the site speciﬁc context. Each area created for this reason may be exempt from any parking drawing also shows the maximum building setbacks for each requirement. scenario.

17th AVENUE TYPICAL CROSS-SECTION

MARCH 2008 APPROVED 15 6.0 PUBLIC REALM GUIDELINE

PEDESTRIAN REALM - ZONES LEGEND

4 SIDEWALK ZONE 1 ( unobstructed path )

BOULEVARD ZONE 2 ( urban forestry, urban furniture, streetlights, 2 Public transit stops, signage, public art)

N I

A 7 6 INTERFACE ZONE M 3

O ( hardscape / landscape

D treatment, patios, Sea- C I sonal retail activities, tem- L

B porary signage ) U P CURB 4 1 URBAN BRAILLE TAC- 5 TILE GUIDE

TREES 6 5 PUBLIC ART ELEMENTS 7

N BUILDING WALL I

A 8 ( retail / office / residen- M 3 tial / public art interface) O 6 D E T A V I PROPERTY LINE R

P 8

16 APPROVED APPROVED 17 AVENUE SW URBAN DESIGN STRATEGY 6.0 PUBLIC REALM GUIDELINE

17th AVENUE CALGARY URBAN BRAILLE SYSTEM 1 5 LEGEND 3 2 SIDEWALK 1 4 1 1 CROSSWALKS 2 2

2 3 VEHICULAR REALM ( Traffic lanes )

INTERSECTION 4 3 BUILDING WALL 5 ( retail / office / residential / public art interface)

SIDEWALK 4 4 2 3 1 DIRECTION TILE 30 cm Sidewalk Direction Tile—basic prefabricated element, gives sense of direction on unobstructed path INTERSECTION 2 NODE TILE Basic prefabricated element-Informs about possible direction change

EDGE WARNING TILE 3 (curb ramp)-basic prefabricated element that warns user about change from pedestrian to vehicular realm

4 CROSSWALK DIRECTION TILE basic prefabricated element that guides user about change from pedestrian to vehicular realm

MARCH 2008 APPROVED 17 6.0 PUBLIC REALM GUIDELINE

17th AVENUE URBAN EDGE STANDARD, TYPE 1

PARALLEL PARKING LEGEND SIDEWALK ZONE 4 1 ( unobstructed path ) BOULEVARD ZONE 2 ( urban trees and furniture, streetlights, m Public Transit stops, signage, wayfinding,

6 0 7 public art)

5 2 6

1 INTERFACE ZONE 3 N

I ( hardscape / landscape treatment, patios,

A seasonal retail activities, temporary signage

O outside of bus shelter zones )

L CURB

B 4

UR 5 BAN BRAILLE TACTILE GUIDE cm 5 1

1 TR 6 EES (public domain)

LO 7 CATION FOR PUBLIC ART

M BUILDING WALL

O m 8 ( retail / office / residential / public art

c D Leveled with sidewalk and ground floor

0 interface)

A 3

P PROPERTY LINE

P STOREFRONT UNDERGROUND GARAGE LINE

BUILDING OVERHANG: Max.. 1.5 m 8 from building storefront face

18 APPROVED APPROVED 17 AVENUE SW URBAN DESIGN STRATEGY 6.0 PUBLIC REALM GUIDELINE

17th AVENUE URBAN EDGE STANDARD, TYPE 1

LEGEND SIDEWALK ZONE 1 ( unobstructed path )

BOULEVARD ZONE 2 ( urban trees and furniture, streetlights, Public Transit stops, signage, wayfinding, public art)

INTERFACE ZONE 3 ( hardscape / landscape treatment, patios, seasonal retail activities, temporary signage outside of bus shelter zones )

6 CURB 6 4

URBAN BRAILLE TACTILE GUIDE 5

TREES (public domain) 6

LOCATION FOR URBAN FURNITURE & 7 PUBLIC ART

BUILDING WALL 8 8 8 ( retail / office / residential / public art interface) 7 5 7 5 4 2 1 3 4 2 1 3 PROPERTY LINE

UNDERGROUND GARAGE LINE

BUILDING OVERHANG: Max.. 1.5 m from building storefront face ALTERNATIVE 1 ALTERNATIVE 2

MARCH 2008 APPROVED 19 6.0 PUBLIC REALM GUIDELINE

PARALLEL PARKING 17th AVENUE URBAN EDGE STANDARD, TYPE 2 4

LEGEND m

c SIDEWALK ZONE

0 7 6 6 1 ( unobstructed path ) 5 2 1 BOULEVARD ZONE

N 2

I ( urban trees and furniture, streetlights, A Public Transit stops, signage, wayfinding, M

O public art) D C I

L INTERFACE ZONE

B 3

U ( hardscape / landscape treatment, patios,

P seasonal retail activities, temporary signage outside of bus shelter zones )

cm 5

1 0 CURB 5

1 4

URBAN BRAILLE TACTILE GUIDE 5

TREES (public domain)

6 m

c Leveled with sidewalk and ground floor 0 LOCATION FOR STREET FURNITURE & 5 3 7

1 PUBLIC ART N I A

M SEASONAL PATIO O 8 D E T A

V BUILDING WALL I

R Transparent fence 9

( retail / office / residential / public art P P m 8 c 0 8 1

PROPERTY LINE 8 UNDERGROUND GARAGE LINE STOREFRONT BUILDING OVERHANG: Max.. 1.8 m from building storefront face

20 APPROVED APPROVED 17 AVENUE SW URBAN DESIGN STRATEGY 6.0 PUBLIC REALM GUIDELINE

17th AVENUE URBAN EDGE STANDARD, TYPE 2

LEGEND SIDEWALK ZONE 1 ( unobstructed path )

BOULEVARD ZONE 2 ( urban trees and furniture, streetlights, Public Transit stops, signage, wayfinding, public art)

INTERFACE ZONE 3 ( hardscape / landscape treatment, patios, seasonal retail activities, temporary signage outside of bus shelter zones ) 6 6 CURB 4

URBAN BRAILLE TACTILE GUIDE 5

TREES (public domain) 8 8 6

LOCATION FOR STREET FURNITURE 7 & PUBLIC ART

8 LOCATION FOR STREET FURNITURE & PUBLIC ART 7 5 7 5 SEASONAL PATIO 4 2 1 3 4 2 1 3 9

PROPERTY LINE

UNDERGROUND GARAGE:Min. setback 0.15 ALTERNATIVE 1 ALTERNATIVE 2 BUILDING OVERHANG: Max. 1.5 m from build ing face

MARCH 2008 APPROVED 21 6.0 PUBLIC REALM GUIDELINE

PARALLEL PARKING 17th AVENUE 4 URBAN EDGE STANDARD, TYPE 3

m LEGEND

6 c 6 0 2 SIDEWALK ZONE 5 1 1 ( unobstructed path )

N I A BOULEVARD ZONE M

O 2 ( urban trees and furniture, streetlights,

D Public Transit stops, signage, wayfinding, C I public art) L B U P INTERFACE ZONE

cm 3 ( hardscape / landscape treatment, patios, 0 5 1 5 seasonal retail activities, temporary signage 1 outside of bus shelter zones )

CURB 4

URBAN BRAILLE TACTILE GUIDE 5 m c 0

ST5 OREFRONT Leveled with sidewalk and ground floor TREES (public domain)

1 6

N TREES (private domain) I

A 7 UNDERGROUND GARAGE LINE if min. 1.5 m SOIL DEPTH PROVIDED M O

D RESTAURANT PATIO

E 8 T (Large) A

V 7 I 7 3 7 R BUILDING WALL P

P 9 ( retail / office / residential / public art interface) m

c 8 0 5 4 PROPERTY LINE

m Min. vertical clearance under UNDERGROUND GARAGE:Min. setback 0.15 m c

0 building overhang 7.5 m 5 9 1 BUILDING OVERHANG: Max. 1.5 m from building face STOREFRONT

22 APPROVED APPROVED 17 AVENUE SW URBAN DESIGN STRATEGY 6.0 PUBLIC REALM GUIDELINE

17th AVENUE URBAN EDGE STANDARD, TYPE 3

LEGEND SIDEWALK ZONE 1 ( unobstructed path )

BOULEVARD ZONE 2 ( urban trees and furniture, streetlights, Public Transit stops, signage, wayfinding, public art)

INTERFACE ZONE 3 ( hardscape / landscape treatment, patios, 6 7 seasonal retail activities, temporary signage outside of bus shelter zones )

CURB 4

URBAN BRAILLE TACTILE GUIDE 5

9 TREES (public domain) 6

TREES (private domain) 7

8 LOCATION FOR STREET FURNITURE & PUBLIC ART SEASONAL PATIO 9 8 5

8 4 2 1 3 PROPERTY LINE

UNDERGROUND 6 GARAGE:Min. setback

BUILDING OVERHANG: Max. 1.5 m from building face

MARCH 2008 APPROVED 23 6.0 PUBLIC REALM GUIDELINE

1 17th AVENUE URBAN EDGE STANDARD, TYPE 4

m c

3 2 0 3 5 LEGEND 1

CURB N I 1 A M O URBAN FURNITURE & D

C 2

I PUBLIC ART LOCATION L B U P TREES (Public domain)

4 m 3 c 0

5 URBAN BRAILLE TACTILE GUIDE 1 4

5 TREES (private domain)

Leveled with sidewalk and ground floor m TREE PLANTER c 6 0 Max.120 cm above the grade 5

1 (columnar trees only)

UPPER LEVEL: PATIO / RETAIL

7 LOWER LEVEL: RETAIL+LIVE / WORK N

I A m M c BUILDING WALL 0 O 8 5 5 6 ( retail / office / residential / public art D 1 E

interface) T A m V I c R 0 P 5 P 4

c PROPERTY LINE

0 7 0

3 UNDERGROUND GARAGE LINE

BUILDING OVERHANG: Max.. 4.5 m 8 from building storefront face

STOREFRONT

24 APPROVED APPROVED 17 AVENUE SW URBAN DESIGN STRATEGY 6.0 PUBLIC REALM GUIDELINE

17th AVENUE URBAN EDGE STANDARD, TYPE 4

3 3 3

7 8 7 8 7 8 5 5 5

6 6 6 4 4 4

1 2 1 2 1 2

LEGEND

CURB TREES (private domain) 1 5 PROPERTY LINE

TREE PLANTER UNDERGROUND GARAGE LINE 2 URBAN FURNITURE & 6 Max.120 cm above the grade (columnar trees only) PUBLIC ART LOCATION BUILDING OVERHANG: Max.. 4.5 m TREES (Public domain) 3 7 UPPER LEVEL: PATIO / RETAIL from building storefront face LOWER LEVEL: RETAIL+LIVE / WORK URBAN BRAILLE TACTILE GUIDE 4 BUILDING WALL 8 ( retail / office / residential / public art interface)

MARCH 2008 APPROVED 25 6.0 PUBLIC REALM GUIDELINE

1 17th AVENUE URBAN EDGE STANDARD, TYPE 5

m c

3 0 2 5 3 LEGEND 1 CURB

N 1 I A M

O URBAN FURNITURE &

D 2 PUBLIC ART LOCATION C I L B U P 4 3 TREES (Public domain) cm 0

5 URBAN BRAILLE TACTILE GUIDE 1 4

5 TREES (Private domain)

c PLANTER WITH COLUMNAR OR 0 6 5 OTHER DECORATIVE TREES

1 Leveled with sidewalk and ground floor COLONNADE: EXTENDED SIDEWALK + 7 PATIO+RETAIL+LIVE/WORK COURTYARD

BUILDING WALL

m N c I 8 ( retail / office / residential / public art A 5 0 6 interface) 5 M 1 O D E T

A PROPERTY LINE V I

m P UNDERGROUND GARAGE LINE P m c c 7 0 0 5 0 4 BUILDING OVERHANG: Max.. 4.5 m 3 COLONNADE / ARCADE from building storefront face

STOREFRONT

26 APPROVED APPROVED 17 AVENUE SW URBAN DESIGN STRATEGY 6.0 PUBLIC REALM GUIDELINE

17th AVENUE URBAN EDGE STANDARD, TYPE 5

LEGEND CURB 1

URBAN FURNITURE & 2 PUBLIC ART LOCATION

3 TREES (Public domain)

4 URBAN BRAILLE TACTILE GUIDE 3 5

5 TREES (Private domain)

6 PLANTER WITH COLUMNAR OR OTHER DECORATIVE TREES

7 COLONNADE: EXTENDED SIDEWALK + 7 PATIO+RETAIL+LIVE/WORK COURTYARD 8 BUILDING WALL 8 ( retail / office / residential / public art interface) 6 PROPERTY LINE

4 UNDERGROUND GARAGE LINE

1 2 BUILDING OVERHANG: Max.. 4.5 m from building storefront face

MARCH 2008 APPROVED 27 6.0 PUBLIC REALM GUIDELINE

28 APPROVED APPROVED 17 AVENUE SW URBAN DESIGN STRATEGY 6.0 PUBLIC REALM GUIDELINE

Urban Edge Standards by Precinct

Determining which urban edge standard is used for a particular site will depend on where the site is located. This table illustrates the preferred urban edge standard by precinct.

PRECINCTS East Central West TYPE 1 sss TYPE 2 -- ss TYPE 3 s* -- -- TYPE 4 s s* s* TYPE 5 s -- --

* Preferred on North side

MARCH 2008 APPROVED 29 6.0 PUBLIC REALM GUIDELINE

6.2 Built Form Guidelines

The term “context” involves the consideration of buildings as entrances, storefronts, signage, etc. All these elements beyond a particular site’s immediate neighbours. An directly influence the perception of “human scale” and our evaluation of existing sites along 17 Avenue should always experience of the urban environment. A building or block include massing, scale, height, proportions of fenestration, along 17 Avenue SW may continue a certain streetscape nature and quality of materials used, textures and colours. rhythm through various aspects of its structure or shape and placement of its openings. New infill development may One of the most important elements in urban design is rhythm establish new points of symmetry and balance and may – an orderly alternation of primary, secondary and tertiary strengthen existing patterns or stimulate the establishment of 17th AVENUE elements of a building, block or precinct. When moving along new built form patterns. The following guidelines are intended BUILT FORM GUIDELINES the street as a pedestrian, one subconsciously experiences to facilitate change, acknowledge the best existing patterns a rhythm of building mass to building openings. There is and suggest the best solutions for future low, medium and INFILL also a rhythmic relationship between tertiary elements such high density infill projects.

13 13

14 14

7 5 11 8 11 11 5

8 3 9 9 14 3 9 9 6 2 4 10 1 10

30 APPROVED APPROVED 17 AVENUE SW URBAN DESIGN STRATEGY 6.0 PUBLIC REALM GUIDELINE

1 Building edges that are oriented toward a public right-of-way should be 11 Facades shall be highly articulated and incorporate vertically oriented lined with uses that create activity and provide natural surveillance. fenestration and other applicable architectural elements that suggest a rhythm of narrower business frontages. As a guideline, a business 2 Canopies or other architectural features that are integrated with the frontage width of 7.5 m is considered to be a useful benchmark. overall building design should be provided to protect pedestrians from inclement weather. 12 New developments are encouraged to consider provision of below- grade uses that can be accessed directly from the sidewalk. 3 The base of the building should be designed to create a human scaled street wall and establish a strong visual rhythm. 13 All rooftops, including podiums of taller buildings are encouraged to incorporate landscape amenities or green roofs in order to achieve 4 New infill development shall avoid the creation of blank building living, aesthetic and environmental benefits. facades. Facades shall be pedestrian scaled, create visual interest and use fully transparent glass. 14 The base of infill buildings should be capped with strong cornice lines or similar contemporary architectural features that maintain the street 5 There should be strongly defined transition between the base and continuity of existing buildings. the body of a building through the use of setbacks, materials or other applicable architectural treatments such as cornices, canopies, or trellises.

6 Body materials may differ from base materials, but compatibility and transition between materials should be considered and the rhythm of the lower ﬂoors should be respected. Building elements in this zone may have a “lighter” appearance with more glazing than used at the base.

7 Special consideration should be given to the excessive use of dark coloured reﬂective glass and textures in order to prevent negative light reﬂection impacts on surrounding properties.

8 Fully or partially recessed balconies, regardless of size, are preferred over “tacked on” balconies, especially on higher ﬂoors.

9 Weather protection features that are integral to the architectural design of the building are encouraged along street with commercial activities where retail and ofﬁce spaces are located on lower portions of the building, or where the public might congregate, such as transit stops.

10 Street front elevations shall be highly transparent and allow for unobstructed pedestrian views directly into the business for minimum of two-thirds of the façade length.

MARCH 2008 APPROVED 31 6.0 PUBLIC REALM GUIDELINE

17th AVENUE STREETSCAPE PRINCIPLES

15 CENTRAL & WESTERN PRECINCTS

6 15

7 1 SIDEWALK ZONE ( unobstructed path )

15 BOULEVARD ZONE 1 2 ( urban forestry, urban furniture, streetlights, Public transit stops, signage, public art) 9 10 10 3 INTERFACE ZONE ( hardscape / landscape 15 treatment, patios, Seasonal retail activities, temporary signage ) 8 8 6 4 CALGARY URBAN BRAILLE

TREES (Public domain) 5 11 11 15 TREES (Private domain) 7 6 6 4 SMALL PATIO 7 5 5 14 LARGE PATIO 4 8

11 PORTICO / GATEWAY / ARTISTIC 12 9 10 3 TRANSPARENT SCREEN 14 9 10 PUBLIC ART 3

11 URBAN FURNITURE 1 2

2 13

32 APPROVED APPROVED 17 AVENUE SW URBAN DESIGN STRATEGY 6.0 PUBLIC REALM GUIDELINE

1 Building edges that are oriented toward a public right-of-way street with commercial activities where retail and ofﬁce should be lined with uses that create activity and provide spaces are located on lower portions of the building, or where natural surveillance. the public might congregate, such as transit stops.

2 Canopies or other architectural features that are integrated 10 Street front elevations shall be highly transparent and allow with the overall building design should be provided to protect for unobstructed pedestrian views directly into the business pedestrians from inclement weather. for minimum of two-thirds of the façade length.

3 The base of the building should be designed to create a human 11 Facades shall be highly articulated and incorporate scaled street wall and establish a strong visual rhythm. architectural elements that suggest a rhythm of narrower business frontages. As a guideline, a business frontage width 4 New infill development shall avoid the creation of blank of 7.5 m is considered to be a useful benchmark. building facades. Facades shall be pedestrian scaled, create visual interest and use fully transparent glass. 12 New developments are encouraged to consider provision of below-grade uses that can be accessed directly from the 5 There should be strongly defined transition between the sidewalk. base and the body of a building through the use of setbacks, materials or other applicable architectural treatments such as 13 Corner treatments may include full built-to-line corners, cornices, canopies, or trellises. chamfered, semi-circled or other types of geometric treatments. Corner treatments should include single or 6 Body materials may differ from base materials, but compatibility multiple entrances, full visual transparency at grade and and transition between materials should be considered and protection from weather elements in form of colonnades or the rhythm of the lower floors should be respected. Building architecturally integrated canopies. elements in this zone may have a “lighter” appearance with more glazing than used at the base. 14 Use colonnades for weather protection, and where opportunity exists to extend the public realm by providing a wider sidewalk 7 Special consideration should be given to the excessive use of area. Colonnades may also be used for restaurant patios if dark coloured reflective glass and textures in order to prevent sufficient size. Colonnades shall not extend into the public negative light reflection impacts on surrounding properties. right-of-way.

8 Fully or partially recessed balconies, regardless of size, are 15 All rooftops, including podiums of taller buildings are preferred over “tacked on” balconies, especially on higher encouraged to incorporate landscape amenities or green ﬂoors. roofs in order to achieve living, aesthetic and environmental beneﬁts. 9 Weather protection features that are integral to the architectural design of the building are encouraged along

MARCH 2008 APPROVED 33 6.0 PUBLIC REALM GUIDELINE

17th AVENUE STREETSCAPE PRINCIPLES

12 EASTERN PRECINCT

14 1 SIDEWALK ZONE ( unobstructed path )

6 BOULEVARD ZONE 10 2 ( urban forestry, urban furniture, streetlights, Public transit stops, signage, public art) 7 5 3 INTERFACE ZONE ( hardscape / landscape 3 13 11 treatment, patios, Seasonal retail activities, tem- 4 porary signage ) 7 6 3 1 2 8 9 4 CALGARY URBAN BRAILLE 1

TREES (Public domain) 2 5 8 TREES (Private domain) 6

LARGE PATIO 10 5 10 7 4 PUBLIC ART 6 8

34 APPROVED APPROVED 17 AVENUE SW URBAN DESIGN STRATEGY 6.0 PUBLIC REALM GUIDELINE

1 Building edges that are oriented toward a public right-of-way treatments. Corner treatments should include single or should be lined with uses that create activity and provide multiple entrances, full visual transparency at grade and natural surveillance. protection from weather elements in form of colonnades or architecturally integrated canopies. 2 Canopies or other architectural features that are integrated with the overall building design should be provided to protect 9 Use colonnades for weather protection, and where opportunity pedestrians from inclement weather. exists to extend the public realm by providing a wider sidewalk area. Colonnades may also be used for restaurant patios if The base of the building should be designed to create a human 3 sufficient size. Colonnades shall not extend into the public scaled street wall and establish a strong visual rhythm. right-of-way. New infill development shall avoid the creation of blank 4 10 All rooftops, including podiums of taller buildings are building facades. Facades shall be pedestrian scaled, create encouraged to incorporate landscape amenities or green visual interest and use fully transparent glass. roofs in order to achieve living, aesthetic and environmental 5 There should be strongly defined transition between the benefits. base and the body of a building through the use of setbacks, 11 The base of infill buildings should be capped with strong materials or other applicable architectural treatments such as cornice lines or similar contemporary architectural features cornices, canopies, or trellises. that maintain the street continuity of existing buildings. 6 Body materials may differ from base materials, but compatibility 12 It is encouraged that tower tops contribute to the skyline and transition between materials should be considered and profile by having reasonably identifiable or iconic architectural the rhythm of the lower floors should be respected. Building design that skillfully incorporates within the tower top all elements in this zone may have a “lighter” appearance with elevator cores and mechanical rooms. more glazing than used at the base. 13 Building bases are encouraged to use masonry or other For comprehensive block re-developments facades shall be 7 durable materials and other architectural details that establish highly articulated and incorporate architectural elements a strong vertical rhythm with human scaled elements. that suggest a rhythm of narrower business frontages. As a guideline, a business frontage width of 7.5 m is considered to 14 Body materials may differ from the base materials, but be a useful benchmark. compatibility and transition between materials should be considered and the rhythm of the lower floors should Corner treatments may include full built-to-line corners, 8 be respected. Building in this zone may have a “lighter” chamfered, semi-circled or other types of geometric appearance with more glazing than used at the base.

MARCH 2008 APPROVED 35 6.0 PUBLIC REALM GUIDELINE

This image of a High Street from the Centre City Plan exempliﬁes the desired character for 17 Avenue SW as it develops over time.

This image represents a typical section of the Central Precinct with the incorporation of street trees consistent along the section.

36 APPROVED APPROVED 17 AVENUE SW URBAN DESIGN STRATEGY 7.0 CASE STUDIES

7.0 Case Studies

In order to signiﬁcantly enhance the quality and character of 17 Avenue SW, four major opportunities have been identiﬁed to create new or improve on existing nodes. These nodes help to “anchor” the avenue and create a dynamic and interesting experience as one moves along the corridor. Each precinct is represented in the case studies.

The role of these case studies is to inspire both private and public redevelopment without prescribing or committing to speciﬁc detailed solutions. They can serve as a guide for City initiated projects and a suggestion for private redevelopment opportunities.

The analysis, design and illustration of these case studies was undertaken by Sturgess Architecture as part of their contribution to the 17 Avenue SW Urban Design Strategy.

MARCH 2008 APPROVED 37 7.0 CASE STUDIES

7.1 East Precinct Context: Design Principles: s Expand sidewalk width/ pedestrian zone Case Study 1: Stampede Entrance s Create a connection through the Stampede grounds, over the LRT tracks for both vehicular and pedestrian/ Context: bicycle traffic s There is no current visual terminus of 17 Avenue SE at s Consistent with the Centre City Plan, the possibility the east end of burying the LRT adjacent to Stampede should be investigated. This would significantly increase the s Macleod Trail connection to Stampede Park should be presence and ceremony of Stampede Park at 17 Avenue exploited SE. s Public realm should be expanded to accept greater at- Provide an increased public realm possibly through the grade traffic related to Stampede and other events. s incorporation of a plaza and entrance features on the Greater residential density is expected in the first block s Stampede grounds Existing Plan from the east. s Utilize the greater building setbacks to create a row of trees on private lands as an alternate to a central, planted median.

38 APPROVED APPROVED 17 AVENUE SW URBAN DESIGN STRATEGY 7.0 CASE STUDIES

Proposed Plan

Axonometric

Perspective

MARCH 2008 APPROVED 39 7.0 CASE STUDIES

Case Study 2: Rouleauville Park

Context: s Historic St. Mary’s Cathedral and Rouleauville Park s Existing context includes church buildings and schools, mixed single family and multi-family housing and retail along 17 Avenue SW

s 1 ST. SW has a mix of retail and high-rise residential towers

Design Principles s Enhance the pedestrian connection through Rouleauville Square to the Cathedral and the Alberta Ballet Building to the Elbow River

s Frame Rouleauville Square with low-rise residential buildings

s Extend plaza treatment to the Cathedral s Enhance view of St. Mary’s Cathedral from 17 Avenue SW by removing existing signage adjacent to 17 Avenue SW

s Live-work/residential extends along 1 St SW s Double row of trees is provided along 17 Avenue SW

Existing Plan

40 APPROVED APPROVED 17 AVENUE SW URBAN DESIGN STRATEGY 7.0 CASE STUDIES

Perspective Proposed Plan

Axonometric

MARCH 2008 APPROVED 41 7.0 CASE STUDIES

7.2 Central Precinct Design Principles: s Extend plaza treatment and design to incorporate Case Study 3: Tomkins Park adjacent streets s Provide a double row of street trees at 17 Avenue SW Context: edge and prune trees with a higher canopy s Historic Devenish Building faces directly onto Tomkins s At-grade parking is still permitted on the plaza Park delineated by bollards

s Potential for new retail/residential mix s At-grade parking from the lane permitted where warranted s Intensive ofﬁce, retail and residential mixed use area s Consider a new pedestrian bulb adjacent to the s Major intersection of 8th St S.W. and 17 Ave S.W. Devenish building to increase pedestrian realm

s Signify confluence of 8th St S.W. and 17 Ave S.W with a Existing Plan significant piece of public art Proposed Plan s Incorporate significant decorative lighting

42 APPROVED APPROVED 17 AVENUE SW URBAN DESIGN STRATEGY 7.0 CASE STUDIES

Perspective

Axonometric

MARCH 2008 APPROVED 43 7.0 CASE STUDIES

7.3 West Precinct Design Principles: s Provide a new park on the corner of 11th Street and 17 Case Study 4: 11 Street S.W. Intersection Avenue SW by relocating the park on 16th Avenue to 17 Avenue SW Context: s Provide retail/residential edge to the new park s Existing marginalized retail strip parking, large out of s Align residential buildings to line up axially with 11th scale signage Street

s Connections to 11th Street at 17 Avenue SW are s Complete retail multi-family housing edge where disconnected and need to be enhanced appropriate s Establish a non-vehicular axial alignment north of 11th St S.W.

Existing Plan Proposed Plan

44 APPROVED APPROVED 17 AVENUE SW URBAN DESIGN STRATEGY 7.0 CASE STUDIES

Perspective

Axonometric

MARCH 2008 APPROVED 45 8.0 IMPLEMENTATION

8.0 Implementation

The 17 Avenue SW Urban Design Strategy will be implemented through the following methods:

1. The development application review process.

2. City-initiated public improvement projects, coordinated through:

s The Business Planning and Budget Coordination Process;

s Land Use Planning and Policy Work Program; and s Centre City Implementation Work Programs. 3. Public improvement projects may be funded through the Beltline Community Investment Fund and other methods to be determined on a case by case or site by site basis.

4. Other possible methods and processes to be determined.

46 APPROVED APPROVED 17 AVENUE SW URBAN DESIGN STRATEGY