As communities around the globe continue to become more homogenized, the value of capitalizing on "sense of place" is increasingly important.  A community's heritage, character, and environmental setting can all be complemented and reflected in the design of its buildings, landscapes, and special places.  Well-designed communities also can drive economic investment because people often seek out places with special characters to live, shop, work, invest, and spend their time.

Guidance for architectural styles, building placement, landscape palettes, signage, lighting, environmental resource protection, and much more can be provided in a Design Manual.  By following simple guidelines, places can be built, redeveloped, or slowly changed in ways that respect the communities' long term goals, existing identity, natural resources, landmarks, and history. Design guidelines can be implemented voluntary or be incorporated into the regulations of government agencies.  Either way, design guidance is often appreciated by property owners, investors, design professionals, and others to help steer community image in proper directions. 

T&B Planning has prepared a variety of Design Guideline manuals that are shaping the future of regions and communities throughout the United States.  Our experience in the preparation of Design Manuals ranges from residential neighborhood design to natural and scenic regions; from mixed use districts to industrial parks; and from intimate residential streets to regional highway corridors.