SEPP 65 - Apartment Design Guide

03 I Siting3D Communal and public open spaceCommunal open space is an important environmentalresource that provides outdoor recreation opportunitiesfor residents, connection to the natural environment andvaluable ‘breathing space’ between apartment buildings.It also contributes to the well being of residents.Some developments include open space which isaccessible and usable by the general public. The size,location and design of communal or public open spacewill vary depending on the site context and the scale ofdevelopment. The function of open space is to provideamenity in the form of:• Landscape character and design• Opportunities for group and individual recreation andactivities• Opportunities for social interaction• Environmental and water cycle management• Opportunities to modify micro climate• Amenity and outlook for residentsPhoto: ASPECT StudiosFigure 3D.1 Quality landscape design of communal spaces and pathways isparticularly important for high density developmentsThe principal communal open space area may besupplemented by:• Additional landscape area, circulation space andareas for passive use and outlook• Public land used for open space and vested in orunder the control of a public authorityHigh quality open space is particularly important andbeneficial in high density developments (for private openspace requirements see to section 4P Private open spaceand balconies).Photo: ASPECT StudiosFigure 3D.2 Communal open spaces can be located on the podium or roofsand should offer gathering areas to provide opportunity forsocial interaction amongst residents56 DRAFT | Apartment Design Guide I September 2014