Lincolnwood, Illinois
Rooted in the New Urbanism and Smart Growth movements, form-based codes are an emerging regulatory technique that recognizes a community’s physical form as its most essential element. The goal of form-based codes (FBCs) is to shape the character within communities by establishing definitive design/development criteria for such elements as building height, architectural standards, use designations, sidewalk dimensions, build-to-lines, landscaping, and parking configurations.
By applying these techniques to the Lincoln Avenue Corridor, Teska created a unique set of standards aimed to fulfill the mix of development opportunities identified in the Village Plan. The Form-Based Overlay District divides the Corridor into five sub-areas with standards tailored to the unique characteristics of each area. Some features of the new district include requiring build-to lines, regulating parking to the side and rear of the buildings, setting back the upper floors of the building and establishing design criteria. The successful implementation of these guidelines will create a high quality environment with an inviting, pedestrian friendly image.