Design Review

The EHOA believes in the preservation of our residential neighborhoods. After extensive research of communities that have implemented a design review process, we have compiled a list of suitable guidelines which could be used for the creation of a design review committee in Englewood.

Many of the following guidelines are being used in Livermore, California.

The Design Review Committee consists of five members serving two-year terms. Each member should have demonstrated ability in the area of design in the virtue of vocation, talent and interests in architectural and landscaping design. At least three members of the committee should have professional training and experience in a related design discipline.

Duties and responsibilities: The Design Review Committee develops design standards to serve as guidelines to the architect of the owner of a property that is going to be built or extensively added on. The committee acts in an advisory capacity to the city council, the planning commission and city staff. The committee reviews architectural plans before a building permit is given. Three registered design professionals, (architects and landscaping architects) need not be residents of the city. The design review process is intended to promote quality architectural design, site planning and landscape development. Projects recommended by the Design Review Committee must meet specific standard conditions such as architectural screening of all mechanical equipment from view. Landscaping design is a primary emphasis of the committee. Building and site development plans, once recommended by the committee, are reviewed and approved by the planning staff prior to the issuance of a building permit.

The Design Review Committee does not infringe on property rights. Nor, does it have the power to become the “taste police”. The architect retained by the homeowner takes into serious consideration the recommendations of the committee.

The committee landscape architects encourage buffers of evergreens on the property boundary lines, to insure privacy to the homeowner. Sometimes, the Design Review Committee, for the protection of the homeowner’s children, emphasizes lush screenings of front yards. The safety of young children is of high importance to the committee.

This type of design review could be most helpful to homeowners planning to do extensive renovations or building new homes. The guidance of the Design Review Committee should be offered to homeowners in the entire city.

What is your opinion? Please contact the EHOA office and let us know.

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