The Design Trust for Public Space and the New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) released the document “Laying the Groundwork: Design Guidelines for Retail & Other Ground-Floor Uses in Affordable Housing Developments.”
The document is “a robust set of guidelines for designing efficient, flexible ground-floor space for retail and other community services in affordable housing developments,” according to a press release. “The guidelines offer feasible ways to improve economic vitality and streetscape in underserved neighborhoods.”
The document provides practical recommendations for building ground-floor space that is functional for retailers, community, and cultural organizations; accessible and convenient for residents and neighbors; and cost-effective for developers. Recommendations are included for:
- Facade and signage
- Exterior access and streetscape
- Interior architecture:
- Mechanical (heating, cooling, and ventilation), electrical, plumbing; and fire protection systems:
For further information, visit here.
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