Brevard Architectural Standards
Brevard, NC

Brevard Architectural Standards

Project Type: Architectural Standards + Urban Design
Project Status: Adopted
Dates: 2024-2025
Site Area: City-wide
Team: Plusurbia Design

Plusurbia collaborated with the City of Brevard, NC to retool their community-wide Architectural Standards for the first time since 2006. The initiative began with a several-month study of Brevard’s Blue Ridge architectural heritage that involved heavy historic research and public engagement. Five distinct character areas were identified, as well as important Citywide design features and six authentic styles. Plusurbia translated these findings into an Architectural Guidelines book that the City now uses during discussions with developers and others helping to shape the local built environment.

Advancing from the Architectural Guidelines, the second project phase involved a rewrite of the City’s Architectural Standards, which codified the most representative styles, features, and signatures of mountain heritage into the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO). The regulations aim to preserve Brevard’s unique character, natural beauty, and cultural heritage, while accommodating modern architectural building systems. Additionally, this undertaking helped advance Brevard’s regulations to a “hybrid code” that includes 14 building types.

Overall, the effort integrated innovative urban planning and the City’s architectural excellence into a product that enhances local community character and identity. This project aligns with Plusurbia’s commitment to blending aesthetic appeal with functional urban design, contributing to the creation of vibrant, livable spaces that resonate with the values and aspirations of Brevard’s residents.