Are there requirements for building articulation or façade design?
Yes, façade and building articulation need to be considered as part of the design, but there is not one universal façade style that a dual occupancy must follow.
The design should avoid large, visually dominant building forms and provide an appropriate relationship with the street and surrounding neighbourhood. Elements such as changes in building form, entrances, windows, balconies, materials, landscaping and setbacks can be used to create visual interest and reduce the apparent bulk of the development.
The exact design response will depend on the site and proposal.
Reference: ACT Missing Middle Housing Design Guide – building form, street interface and façade design guidance – https://www.planning.act.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0020/3092411/ACT-Missing-Middle-Housing-Design-Guide.pdf
Short Answer
There is no single prescribed façade style. However, a dual occupancy should demonstrate appropriate building articulation, visual interest and a positive relationship with the street and surrounding neighbourhood.
Detailed Explanation
There is no universal prescribed architectural style or façade treatment for dual occupancy development. However, building form, articulation and the presentation of development to the street form part of the overall design response considered during assessment.
A Development Application for missing middle housing must meet the applicable Territory Plan requirements and demonstrate how the Missing Middle Housing Design Guide has been considered. The Guide provides methods and examples for achieving good design rather than prescribing one architectural solution.
No minimum block size does not remove the need for planning assessment.
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