Orange County NC Website
topography of the site and be consistent with significant <br /> landforms . <br /> Examples <br /> * Architectural form at the base of a hill must provide a <br /> natural transition between intersecting slope and the <br /> base . <br /> * On a hilltop , especially at the ridgeline or crest , <br /> building forms must not break or detract from the natural <br /> lines of the hillside . <br /> * Where buildings are to be located near natural features <br /> such as scenic vistas , stands of trees , and open space , <br /> views and pedestrian access must be provided to these <br /> amenities . <br /> Compatibilitv with Neighbors <br /> Unless there are overriding concerns or poorly defined <br /> aspects , a new building must reflect the architectural <br /> character of surrounding buildings in the following ways . <br /> * Similar unifying design concept <br /> * Similar proportions , scale , and roof line <br /> * Similar architectural style and exterior finish materials <br /> * Similar patterns and proportions of windows <br /> * Similar entry configuration and relationship to street <br /> * Similar architectural details or features <br /> Unified Design Concept <br /> To unify a building ' s architectural character and individual <br /> elements such as entries , windows , pedestrian areas , and <br /> roofs , all buildings must be visibly organized by a clear <br /> design concept . <br /> Architectural Scale <br /> Architectural scale generally refers to the size of a <br /> building relative to the buildings or elements around it . To <br /> ensure that new buildings do not over power their neighbors , <br /> they must be designed to be compatible with existing <br /> neighboring structures as well as their general surroundings . <br />