SEPP 65 - Apartment Design Guide

03 I Siting3C Public domain interfaceThe public domain interface is the transition area betweenthe apartment building, its private or communal space at thestreet edge and the public domain.A change in level from thefootpath to a ground floorapartment by up to 1.0menhances privacy while allowingsurveillance of the public domainThe interface of the development contributes to the qualityand character of the street. Subtle variations throughplanting and fencing can create an attractive and activepublic domain with a pedestrian scale. Long, high blankwalls or fences can detract from the appearance of thepublic domain and impact on the safety of pedestrians andresidents. Direct access from the street to ground floorapartments and windows overlooking the street can improvesafety and social interaction.Key components to consider when designing the interfaceinclude entries, private terraces or balconies, fences andwalls, changes in level, services locations and planting.The design of these elements can influence the real orperceived safety and security of residents, opportunities forsocial interaction and the identity of the development whenviewed from the public domain.Front setbackStreetStreetLevel changemax. 1.0mGardens with a variety ofplantings including trees andshrubs can enhance the quality ofthe public domain, while providingprivacy and amenity benefits toapartment residentsAlso see sections 3G Pedestrian access and entries,3H Vehicle access and 4J Mixed use.Ground floor terraces at streetlevel can help promote activityalong a street and contribute tothe safety of the public domainStreetWhere ground floor apartmentsare elevated above the footpath,landscaping should be consideredto soften the building edge andimprove the relationship with thepublic domainLevel changemax. 1.0mSetbackStreetFigure 3C.1 Diagrams illustrating various public domain interface scenarios52 DRAFT | Apartment Design Guide I September 2014