Rural Center — Design Elements
Example Scenario
In this Rural Center scenario, open land next to a crossroads village is developed with village-style buildings that complement the existing historic character and provide services to local residents.
New development in Rural Centers should consist of village style development reflective of Chester County and should include the following design elements:
Building Character
- Compact traditional village form
- Larger footprint buildings located behind small-scale, village-style buildings
- Buildings that typically stand alone, often with landscaping around them
- One to three story height for buildings
- Residential design characteristics for non-residential buildings
- Small scale, externally illuminated signs
Site Amenities
- Active recreation facilities and central greens
- Extensive landscaping on properties and in parking lots
- Green infrastructure, including innovative stormwater management
Transportation
- Parking to side or rear of buildings and limited in front
- Small parking lots and parking areas
- Rectilinear street pattern with lanes and common driveways
- Pathways and sidewalks along streets and between buildings