Client
The Westown Association and The City of Milwaukee

Project
The Westown Design Guidelines use a "form-based" approach to create a harmonious character for a commercial district in downtown Milwaukee. The guidelines unify the architectural character of a unique business district that reflects building styles which have emerged during the last 100 years. Due to its history, the district reflects a wide range of street types and architectural styles. By establishing a cohesive sense of place, the guidelines will help create more attractive buildings and streets will add economic value to the area.

Flexibility in Diverse District
The guidelines affect new construction, as well as improvements to existing buildings. The guidelines recognize the diversity within Westown and offer flexibility in proposed design projects.

Form-Based Guidelines
Property owners will use the form-based guidelines to determine the "Street Type" for the project, and then follow appropriate guidelines for building facade "Zones."

Easy To Use
The guidelines earned an award from the Wisconsin Chapter of the American Planning Association for the educational, informative, and innovative elements of the document. The guidelines include illustrations, explanations, and color-coded "facade zones" to help simplify the application process for property owners.

The guidelines were prepared for the City of Milwaukee and a Downtown Business Improvement District, the Westown Association.