Los Gatos Commercial Design Guidelines FINAL ... - City of Winters

Town of Los Gatos
INTRODUCTION
The Town of Los Gatos has developed a unique character and
ambience over more than a century as the community’s residential
and commercial structures combined with the natural setting of
topography and landscape have defined an overall character and
environment which is cherished by its residents and instantly recognized
by visitors. The community’s built environment is characterized
by relatively small scale buildings, a quiet architectural demeanor,
respect for neighboring properties, and the attention to architectural
detail and landscaping.
These guidelines contain a clear statement of community expectations
to assist property and business owners in understanding
the Town and commercial development features that assist in defining
the overall ambience and sense of place that contribute so
strongly to the liveability and economic vitality of Los Gatos.
The guidelines are intended to establish a balance that preserves
and enhances the Town’s livability while supporting the economic
vitality that provides the resources for community services and the
uses that make Los Gatos a complete community.
These design guidelines will be used by the Town staff, Planning
Commission, and Town Council in evaluating changes to existing
properties and new construction. While the guidelines are organized
around specific physical districts within the community, other
commercial properties located outside the specific district boundaries
should conform to the Common Design Guidelines (see pages
9-14) and the spirit of this document.
INTRODUCTION
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HOW TO USE THIS DOCUMENT
• Review the Community Expectations
in the Introduction to obtain
an overview of the characteristics
and features valued by the Town.
• Take a drive and walk around
the Town’s commercial and residential
areas to observe both existing development
as well as elements that
contribute to the community’s overall
ambience.
• Review the Common Design
Guidelines in the Introduction. Of
special importance are the guidelines
which stress design that maintains and
reinforces the unique scale and character
of Los Gatos.
• Review the Guidelines chapter
applicable to the location of your
project.
• Review the Signage Guidelines
in Chapter 6.
• An early, informal meeting with
the Town’s planning staff to review
your preliminary development plans
and designs is generally a good idea
to identify any special problems and
concerns before you have committed
large amounts of time and money for
the preparation of application drawings
and materials.
• For projects that are located
adjacent to or near residential neighborhoods,
applicant meetings with affected
residents are strongly encouraged.
Addresses noted in this document as
good examples are as of the creation of
the document. Please inquire at the
Community Development Department
for an updated list.
Main Street Shops
Should you have any questions about
these guidelines, please contact the
Community Development Department
at (408) 354-6872.
Commercial Design Guidelines
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