Design Codes : what they are and how to create them ?

Meaning of Design Codes

You have probably been reading a lot about design codes while studying urban design and architecture. The Mistry of Housing Communities and Local Government(MHCLG) published a new draft National Model Design Code(NMDC) and accompanying Guidance Notes. The National Model Design Code (NMDC) was introduced as part of the government’s planning reforms to encourage high-quality design in new developments. It is designed to provide a framework for local authorities to use in creating their own local design codes. The idea is to ensure that new developments are visually appealing, well-integrated into their surroundings, and contribute positively to the built environment (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, 2021).

Evolution of Design Codes (Chris Wong, 2020)

1.  National Design Guide(NDG)

The National Design Guide was published on 1^st October 2019 with the ‘ND G Wheel’ comprised of 10 characteristics under three Cs – Character, Community and Climate. It has been developed.

2. Living with Beauty Report

On 30^th January, living with Beauty Report was published by Building Better Building Beautiful Commission(BBBBC), proposing sto safeguard the values – beauty, community, history and landscape. Recommendations from the BBBBC’s report include :

• Making beauty and placemaking a strategic policy;
• Putting an emphasis on approving good design as well as refusing poor quality schemes;
• Asking local authorities to produce their own design codes;
• Asking for new streets to be tree-lined; and
• Improving biodiversity and access to nature through design.

3. Planning for the Future White Paper (PfFWP)

This White Paper published in August 2020 aims at ‘once in a generation’ reform and simplification of England’s planning system. Visual and legible forms are expected when it comes to design with community involvement. This has led to recently published National Model Design Code(NMDC)

How does Design Codes work in designing architecture?

The NMDC does not function as a national policy or a specific design code. Instead, it acts as broad guidance or a model to assist in the creation and formulation of local codes (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, 2021). The NMDC starts by building upon and elaborating on the NDG Wheel, along with the three Cs and the 10 characteristics that define a well-designed place. The NMDC comes with an extensive guidance notes document that goes into greater detail about potential elements for local codes. The format and design of this document are visually accessible and comprehensible for the general public, local authorities, and council members. The notes feature numerous three-dimensional hand-drawn diagrams, accompanied by widely accepted best-practice examples. These illustrations are particularly effective in clarifying more abstract spatial considerations, including different development block types, street layouts, building frontages, setback distance requirements, and more.

Limitations

As of my last knowledge update in January 2022, the National Model Design Code (NMDC) in the United Kingdom is a guidance document intended to support the development of local design codes. While the NMDC provides a valuable framework, it does have certain limitations. According to Rudlin (2023), The NMDC serves as a model, but its actual implementation can vary from one local authority to another. Local authorities have the flexibility to adapt the guidance to suit their specific context and needs. Moreover, the effectiveness of the NMDC depends on the willingness of local planning authorities to adopt and integrate its principles into their local planning processes. However, there is no mandatory requirement for local adoption. (IHBC, 2022). In addition, according to Richardson (2023), it is unlikely to be a Comprehensive Solution. Design Codes primarily focuse on design aspects and principles. It does not address all aspects of planning, such as broader policy considerations, economic development, or social issues. It is a tool within the larger planning framework. He also states that Design codes often generalize principles to apply across various contexts. While this provides a baseline for good design, it may not fully capture the unique character and cultural context of different localities, potentially limiting creative expression.

What is next?

Richardson (2023) emphasises that it’s important to note that the NMDC is intended to be a flexible tool, and local authorities have the discretion to adapt and apply it in a way that fosters creativity while ensuring high design standards. It is supported by Loftus’s (2023) idea that NMDC should provide a design framework which is a substitute for local engagement and consultation in the process of developing them. Successful planning involves considering the input and needs of local communities especially designers.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the emergence of design codes is a dynamic process influenced by the evolving needs of society, technological advancements, and a desire for standardized practices to achieve specific goals. However, these codes should be being developed in ensuring that design and construction activities meet local aspects.

Reference lists

Wong, C. (2023),  Coding Beauty – A designer’s overview of the National Model Design Code. [Online] Gillespies. Available at: https://www.gillespies.co.uk/insights/coding-beauty-a-designers-overview-of-the-national-model-design-code. (Accessed: 15th December, 2023)

Rudlin, D. (2023). What will design codes in local plans mean for you? [Online] The Riva Journal. Available at: https://www.ribaj.com/intelligence/national-model-design-code-local-authority-plan. (Accessed: 19th December, 2018)

Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (2021). National Model Design Code Part 1 The Coding Process. London: Crown copyright.

IHBC (2022). Design codes: Intentions and reality. [Online] the Institute of Historic Building Conservation. Available at: https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Design_codes:_intentions_and_reality#Historic_context. (Accessed: 19th December, 2018)

Richardson, R. (2023) Design codes: what are they and why do they matter? [Online] The MJ. Available at: https://www.themj.co.uk/Design-codes-what-are-they-and-why-do-they-matter/228061#. (Accessed: 19th December, 2018)

Loftus, H. (2023). Architects should get involved with design codes – before it’s too late. [Oline] Architects’ Journal. Available at: https://nclurbandesign.org/emergence-and-development-of-design-codes/. (Accessed: 19th December, 2018)