Table of Contents

Introduction Page 1
Design Review Process Page 3
Chapter 1: Site and Building Strategies Page 5
Chapter 2: Sub-District Areas Page 15
Chapter 3: Architectural Design Strategies Page 19
Chapter 4: Streetscape Design Strategies Page 26
More Information Page 30

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS:
COMMITTEE
Kirt Schuman, Jim Verschuren, Norm Fracassa and Peggy Carter
PLANNING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT STAFF
Donna Benton
PROJECT CONSULTANT
Resilience Planning, LLC
PROJECT FUNDING
Major grant funding for these guidelines was provided by PlanNH
through a Municipal Technical Assistance Grant and City of Dover match
INTRODUCTION AND SCOPE OF THE DESIGN GUIDELINES

D
over’s Central Business District has been the center of commerce, culture and
social activity for the community for over 300 years. There is a variety of building
styles and types within the 100 acre area. As development continues and the district
evolves, the Community hopes to capture certain characteristics and aspects within
that development. This document is intended to be a resource supporting and further
explaining the Design Guideline Regulations required within the Central Business District,
and to complement the zoning requirements in the District. Those regulations establish
standards for quality architectural designs, and establish standards for streetscape
designs.

These Design Guidelines promote development which, from a design perspective, is context
sensitive and reinforce the visual appeal and functionality of the Central Business District.
The Guidelines specifically address the design characteristics of new development and
redevelopment projects. The design characteristics include:

• Architecture
• Materials
• Landscaping and green infrastructure
• Streets and sidewalks
• Infrastructure (visible elements)
• Lighting

Led by a Steering Committee, the Planning Board worked with Resilience Planning & Design
to develop these Design Guideline Regulations and this resource document through public
engagement and adherence to Dover’s Master Plan. A visual preference survey defined the
elements to address in the architectural standards and streetscape standards, and informed the
creation of this resource document.

The City of Dover and Resilience Planning

and Design fostered public participation
throughout the creation of the design
guidelines. This work included a Visual
Preference Survey, which allowed citizens
to rate visual concepts of building designs,
landscape characteristics, architectural styles,
streetscape features, and more. The feedback
was used to help shape the public’s vision for
the Central Business District.

1.
Maintaining Dover’s heritage and character
is essential to the continued economic health
of the City and the quality of life its residents
enjoy. As the region’s population and popularity These guidelines are provided to
continue to grow, communities will increasingly
need to pay attention to the design of projects promote proven design practices
within their borders. Contextual design, re-
sponding to and respecting the surroundings
that reinforce the character and
promote Dover’s continued vitality and vibran- context of the Central Business
cy. Furthermore, the community can reinforce
its unique identity by creating a strong sense of District, and sustain long term
place. This is accomplished when buildings and
their facades are in harmony with the streets-
community value.
capes’ built context and are designed with ele-
ments such as pedestrian areas, landscaping,
and lighting that promote a walkable, livable
environment.

This document is intended to provide guidance on the issues of Architectural and Streetscape De-
sign Guidelines and is intended to be used by architects, designers, developers, and those guiding
the form of development.

2.
DESIGN REVIEW PROCESS
COMPLIANCE
These Design Guidelines provide a range of standards and concepts that are intended to fulfill the
public purposes that are under the stewardship of the Planning Board and Technical Review Com-
mittee. Compliance with these Design Guidelines represents compliance with the underlying public
interests, except to the degree that overriding regulations, approvals or reviews at the state and/or
federal level are deemed to apply.

BACKGROUND
All improvements by a developer shall be subject to design approval by the City of Dover Planning
Board and such other federal and/or state regulatory agencies having jurisdiction over matters
required to be permitted pursuant to the City of Dover Site Plan Review Regulations (the Public
Approvals).

Both the Planning Board and Technical Review Committee will have certain approval authority. As
with any development, the role of the Dover Planning Board will be to exercise its traditional site
review responsibilities as provided in Chapter 149 of the City Ordinances. That review involves
application of zoning requirements, subdivision and site plan regulations, technical and engineering
requirements, and requiring that the Developer(s) comply with state and federal permitting
obligations.

REVIEW PROCESS
The process is described below. Subsequent to the development, the design review process which
utilizes these guidelines is expected to be as follows:

1. The Developer will submit to the Planning Board and Technical Review Committee the proposed
design for the project. This proposal should include the depiction of: streets, sidewalks, and
parking areas; building sizes and locations; building uses, with minimum and maximum uses;
phasing; utility design and layout; building design information including elevations, renderings
and materials, and other information required by the Planning Board in order for it to make a
recommendation as to whether the proposal complies with the Design Guidelines. The City of
Dover Technical Review Committee (“TRC”) would review the site review application to review
whether the application complies with the technical requirements of engineering and regulatory
matters. The TRC will conduct its review and provide comments and recommendations for
design revisions.
2. The Planning Board would then review the recommendations from TRC to determine if the
Planning Board would still recommend approval if the design would have to be modified to

3.
DESIGN REVIEW PROCESS
reflect the comments and recommendations from TRC. Based on its further review, the Planning
Board would then vote on a final recommendation as to whether the revised design complies
with the design standards.
3. The Planning Board would conduct its own full review of the subdivision and/or site plan
application, to apply the regulations and requirements which it customarily applies. This review
occurs as part of the Site Plan Review. If the Planning Board votes to approve the subdivision
and/or site plan application, then within fifteen days of the Planning Board’s vote, the TRC would
again review that approved plan and the conditions of approval to determine if the revised plan
complies with the design standards. The Planning Board may require a third-party review.

Final approval would also include any state or federal approvals. If conditions imposed on those
approvals required revision of the design, the Planning Board may conduct further proceedings to
determine if the respective agency would approve the design with the new requirements imposed
by either the state or federal agencies. Any final Planning Board approval shall be given or denied
within fifteen days of request.

4.
CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN GUIDELINES
CHAPTER ONE: SITE AND BUILDING STRATEGIES
TERMINATING VISTAS | PRIMARY CORNERS | LINER BUILDINGS

A terminating vista is a building or focal

point that stands at the end of a road KEY POINTS:
or greenway. These high visibility areas
are suitable for feature elements of the
building design. When one is looking up
Create visual impact
the street the view should end with a at terminating vista
Example of a terminal vista.
design statement. locations.
Prominent vistas are also formed by
areas of the Park where central gathering Evaluate prominent
spaces focus views onto the adjacent corners to add
buildings.
interest from all
The Primary Corners of development vantage points.
Orient the façade to the street.
sites contain opportunities for areas of
interest and the architectural expression.
Corners can contain entries and be
Use liner buildings to
rounded or angled to widen the views at shield parking and
intersections. utilities from view.
Use liner buildings to screen
transformers, dumpsters, and other Corners and parks provide water views and opportuni-
ties to engage pederstrian activity.
utilities from street views.

5.
CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN GUIDELINES
SITE STRATEGIES
DEFINE AND ENHANCE THE STREET EDGE

RESIDENTIAL: Fences, low walls,

arbors, and plantings should be used KEY POINTS:
to continue the building line close to
the road edge and to maintain a sense Create front yard
of enclosure along the roadway. Edge
treatments also define individual front definition in
yards and provide buffers between residential areas.
sidewalks and residents. ABOVE AND BELOW: Successful retail streets offer a
continuous line of shops with no drives or parking.
COMMERCIAL: Placing larger buildings Design new buildings
behind smaller structures will screen to front on the street
the larger structures and create a and interact with
pedestrian friendly building mass
along the sidewalk. Continuation of pedestrian traffic.
a traditional streetscape pattern, and
storefront design where applicable, is Place structures with
desired.
more modest forms
PARKING: Parking areas create a at the street edge
barrier between buildings and the to create pedestrian
public. Locate parking under or behind
buildings. Parking shall be screened friendly scale.
from view from the traveled way.
Definition of yards and entries create interest and security.
6.
CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN GUIDELINES
BUILDING STRATEGIES
VOLUME AND MASSING STRATEGIES
Break large building masses into apparent
smaller individual structures with significant
breaks in the volume, and footprint.

Reduce the apparent size of a large building

by designing a main mass with several smaller,
attached components.

Smaller building forms along the edges of

the site will also screen and break up larger
building masses as viewed from the park.
Varied masssing

KEY POINTS:
• Avoid large building volumes with
flat facades and long continuous
rooflines.
• Break down the building mass visually
Example of small frontage building to screen mass and significant breaks in overall volume. into multiple buildings.
Visually reduce building height by setting
• Shield large buildings with smaller
back top floors, using varied eave heights and frontage buildings.
introducing pitched rooflines with dormers.

A complex of smaller scale buildings is preferable to a single large structure because the varied massing provides visual interest and human scale.
7.
 CENTRAL
DOVER BUSINESS DISTRICT
WATERFRONT ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN GUIDELINES
DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS
BUILDING STRATEGIES
SETBACKS
For long facades, vary the setback,
height, and roof form to establish a
rhythm and proportion of facades
along the street and corners of the
site.

These areas provide relief, soften

the street edge, and provide an
opportunity for gathering and
interaction that contributes to the
vitality of the community.

Increased setbacks may

accommodate a small landscaped
gathering area. Upper floor setbacks

Top floor setbacks create an Footprint setbacks

apparent lower building height as Small gathering area
well as opportunity for balconies
or other varied roof forms.

KEY POINTS:
• Provide setbacks greater than two feet.
• Provide setbacks along the building footprint.
• Provide setbacks on upper floors
• Combine smaller and larger setbacks to provide variation and rhythm.

Corner setbacks provide relief and create interest. Building setbacks can create a small gathering area. Setbacks should be greater than two feet for desired effect.

8.
CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT
DOVER WATERFRONT DESIGN ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN GUIDELINES
RECOMMENDATIONS
BUILDING STRATEGIES
VARYING THE ROOFLINE
Vary the height and style
of the roof line and eave
line to break down large
roof masses into smaller
elements.

Large overhangs are

desirable. Significant
overhangs provide both
protection from the
weather and are more
proportional and balanced
with larger building
masses.

Pitched roofs are

compatible with regional
styles and can be
effectively combined to
break down the scale of
a single large building.
Pitched roof forms
including, gables, hips,
mansards, and dormers
are encouraged.

Varying the height, orientation and setbacks create interest and continue the rhythm of facades along the streetscape.
Varied rooflines and dormer adds visual interest.

KEY POINTS:
• Vary the setback, height and roof forms of the building.
• Incorporate different roof forms on various parts of a
large building.
• Flat roofs are discouraged but not prohibited.
Larger gables flank this roof deck to provide elevated
outdoor space.

9.
 CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN GUIDELINES
SITE STRATEGIES
BRING DOWN THE BUILDING EDGES
Use horizontal banding and
single-story roofed masses along
a larger structure at street level
to create a more pedestrian-
scaled environment.

Provide eave line transition from

high roof lines to the ground
level to further reduce the
apparent mass.

Create a unique identity for the

first floor level.

KEY POINTS:
• Bring the edges of the building down to reduce
the appearance of large vertical building faces.
• Use single story forms such arcades, entrance
forms, awnings or cornices.
• Lower roof eaves and gables.
A change in scale distinguishes the change between uses. The • Add upper level decks and porches
pronounced first floor cornice creates the impression of a single story
building along the sidewalk.

As shown in this sketch, lower roof eaves on attached masses reduce the apparent scale of the bulding.

10.
CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN GUIDELINES
BUILDING STRATEGIES
MAINTAIN PEDESTRIAN SCALE
In both commercial and large
scale residential buildings first
floor design carries significant
importance. Pedestrian traffic is
in direct contact with this level.
First floor design is enhanced
by alcoves, covered walkways,
awnings, windows, public
seating, bicycle amenities,
architectural details, and other
single story features that relate
to pedestrians.

A significant portion of the

building facade should be
devoted to windows and doors
to maintain the pedestrian
relationship. Natural wood KEY POINTS:
finishes create focal points at
critical areas of interest.
• Buildings must relate to the pedestrian
Residential porches should be environment.
used to accentuate variations • Incorporating pedestrian-scaled features creates
in the footprint of the building,
but should not take the place of a sense of community and security, and invites
setbacks in the exterior building greater activity in front of the building.
walls.

Provide pedestrian scale detail and three dimensional elements. Residential porches are encouraged.

11.
 CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN GUIDELINES
SITE STRATEGIES
FACADE SCALING STRATEGIES
Large building
masses can be
made to look
like smaller
individual
buildings by
combining
setbacks
with varied
architectural
design styles.

Provide
appropriate
window scale
and patterns to
complement the
A collection of complimentary architectural styles and window patterns. massing.

KEY POINTS:
• Use a collection
of complementary
architectural styles to
define the identities of
separate buildings.
• A variety of window
patterns create visual
interest. Varied materials and window patterns.
• Use horizontal
banding, brackets and
cornices.
• Vary the materials.
Varied materials and window patterns Brackets Cornice
and horizontal banding

12.
CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN GUIDELINES
BUILDING STRATEGIES
ENTRIES
The building entry is an
important functional
element that needs to
be clearly articulated
through a variety of
means. The use of
residential porches
and stoops, as well as
recessed doors create a
sense of entry.

In first floor retail spaces,

provide a street-oriented
entry and storefront
Well defined entry
glazing to encourage a
variety of uses.

KEY POINTS:
• Use landscaping,
signage,
architectural
At left, a recessed entry example with expanded storefront glass. Above, a
corner serves customers arriving from multiple directions. features and
thoughtful details
to highlight
entries.
• Face entries
toward the
Above, recessed entries highlighted by natural materials abd street.
quality details. At left, covered entries help maintain pedestrian
scale and add character to the building. Below, separate retail
• Incorporate
and residential entries express individual purposes. pedestrian-
scaled entrance
elements such
as porches and
stoops.
13.
 CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN GUIDELINES
SITE STRATEGIES

QUALITY MATERIALS AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

In prominent areas
with entrances, display
windows, and other
pedestrian amenities,
the use of high-quality,
traditional building
materials and greater
architectural detail is
strongly recommended.

Use a complementary
combination of
materials to effectively
break up a large facade.

Non-traditional
materials may be used
if they accomplish the KEY POINTS:
overall goal of adding
interest and depth to
the facade. • Vary building materials to add depth and interest to the
Promote sustainable
facade.
development by
incorporating energy- • Use traditional and natural building materials appropriate
saving building
envelope features for each building type.
and by using building
materials from recycled
or renewable sources.
• Take advantage of alternative energy sources.

The LEED program outlines strategies for energy efficient Solar panels can be used to absorb energy and give back to the community. Incorporate natural materials and
design. earth tones to help buildings blend
into the landscape.
14.
CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN GUIDELINES
CHAPTER 2: SUB-DISTRICT AREAS
Within the Central Business District (CBD) there are five distinct sub-districts with their own distinct
character, mix of uses, and regulatory standards. They are defined below with some of their distin-
guishing qualities.

CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT: GENERAL DISTRICT

From the late 1700’s, when Dover began to shift from a farming community to a manufacturing cen-
ter, the land and blocks in and around Washington and Main Streets and Central Avenue have been
the community’s commercial core.

USE DESIGN GOALS:

• A wide array of retail and com-
mmercial activity
• Residential activity on upper • Public spaces are important
floors of buildings • Break structures up to
provide:
BUILDING TYPE human scale
variation
• Building placement create an ur- depth
ban wall • Streetscape should interact
• Building height should reflect ur-
with the building and
banity
• Roofs should be mansard or flat encourage activation of the
• Materials should reflect a pedes- building
trian scale with strong materials

15.
CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN GUIDELINES
SUB-DISTRICT AREAS
DOWNTOWN GATEWAY AND MIXED-USE DISTRICTS
The Downtown Gateway district is an area that marks a transition point into the more formal,
densely developed urban core (multi-story buildings, civic buildings, etc.). Many elegant Victorian
homes grace these areas which should be celebrated by new development.

USE
• Generally commercial activity
DESIGN GOALS:
• Some residential activity, combined and standalone
• Pedestrian
BUILDING TYPE use should be
encouraged
• Lower height than the Urban Core
• Setback from the street with a fair amount of land-
scaping
• Building design and materials should account for
close interaction of standalone commercial and uses
16.
CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN GUIDELINES
SUB-DISTRICT AREAS
TRANSIT ORIENTED DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT
This is a potential growth area in downtown, west of Chestnut Street where industrial uses (railroad
and coal yards, warehouses etc) were prevalent, an active rail line that passes through it.

USE DESIGN GOALS:

• A wide array of retail and commmer-
cial activity
• Residential activity on upper floors of • Transit lines and spaces should
buildings enhance development
• Transit-based uses • Dense development along the
BUILDING TYPE Cochecho River
• Break up structures to provide:
• Building placement create an urban human scale
wall variation
• Building height should reflect urbanity depth
• Roofs should be mansard or flat • Streetscape should interact with
• Materials should reflect a pedestrian
the building and encourage
scale with strong materials
activation of the building
17.
CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN GUIDELINES
SUB-DISTRICT AREAS
RESIDENTIAL DISTRICT
North of the Downtown core are neighborhoods of smaller homes, once the residences of mill em-
ployees, shopkeepers, and others for whom the close proximity to the Downtown was an important
feature.

USE DESIGN GOALS:

• Generally residential activity • Pedestrian use should be
• Some commercial activity, combined
encouraged
and standalone
• New structures should mimic the
BUILDING TYPE
placement, scale, and building
materials of the older homes
• Lower height than the Urban Core • Single family, medium density
• Not set back from the street with lim- and higher density residential
ited landscaping buildings should be harmonious
• Building design and materials should with neighboring structures in
account for close interaction terms of mass, width, height,
• Outbuildings to the rear with parking
proportion, spacing, and setback.
18.
CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN GUIDELINES
CHAPTER THREE: ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN STRATEGIES
Preserving and enhancing the architectural tradition, history, and visual appeal of the Central
Business District is integral to maintaining the character and identity of our community. Buildings
designs and materials should enhance the appearance of Dover, reinforce pedestrian character
where appropriate, reflect a consistency found within the sub-district and neighboring buildings,
and consider existing natural and cultural resources. Building design should also minimize poten-
tial aesthetic conflicts between residential and nonresidential uses, and between single family and
multifamily uses. Architectural Standards are not intended to stifle creativity or variety. They will pro-
duce designs respectful of place and context. Given this intention to provide guidance on the issues
of Architectural Design Guidelines the following elements are introduced and explained to provide
additional context to the regulations.

GROUND FLOOR STANDARDS

The ground floor of the building
façade is an important aspect of
the streetscape. In each of the
sub-districts there is a require-
ment for a pedestrian entrance,
and a percentage of the façade
must be windows. The window
requirement is lower in the Resi-
dential, Gateway, Transit Orient-
ed Development, and Mixed-Use
Districts where first floor uses
may be residential uses and
should be afforded some privacy.
In the General District first floor
uses must be non-residential so
no less than 80% of the façade
must be windows. These require-
ments should not supplant any
building or life safety codes or
ordinances.

In all of the Sub Districts, except

Residential, it also important
to include ground floor exteri-
or lighting on the building that
offers a feeling of warm security
and increased safety to pedestri-
ans without being overwhelming
such as sconces to wash walls,
lights at entry canopies, or other
ways to provide indirect lighting.

19.
CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN GUIDELINES
ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN STRATEGIES
REQUIRED STANDARDS
While the required elements of these standards vary to some degree over the five sub-districts they
are further explained below to inform applicants and design professionals.

HARMONIOUS DESIGN:
Building designs shall be harmonious with neighboring structures in terms of mass, width, height,
proportion, spacing, and setback. Harmony involves the selection and incorporation of design el-
ements that share common traits within the built context; however, harmony becomes monotony
without a variety of design approaches. Common traits include orientation, colors, and the shape/
size of materials. Visual interest is also enhanced by introducing some dissimilar but complimentary
elements and spatial arrangements.

MATERIALS:
The exterior materials used set the stage for the impressions the building gives of its character and
the sense of the overall structure, and its efficiency and maintenance. Natural and durable materials
(wood, masonry etc) are preferred materials, however, contemporary materials that are compatible
with the aesthetic established by neighboring structures are desirable. In this regard, within the
first 20 vertical feet of the portions of the building where pedestrian traffic/infrastructure exists, the
building must incorporate wood, brick, stone or a suitable contemporary. Beyond that portion of the
building the applicant can incorporate additional materials that meet the regulations and their goals
for the long-term maintenance and operation of their building.

MASSING:
A building’s mass, or shape, is defined by its component parts, including the size of its footprint and
number of stories. Individual characteristics of mass generally include building form, roof shape,
and orientation. Large structures shall be broken into smaller masses to provide human scale, varia-
tion, and depth. This can be accomplished if buildings are constructed to look like smaller individual
buildings, by combining setbacks and through varied architectural design styles. Windows, entry-
ways, horizontal elements, bays, entry elements, arcades, or other features of varying height and/
or depth are examples of architectural elements which can be used to create a sense of pedestrian
scale and space.

VIEWS:
Given the density of the District, it is important to consider the views created from inside new build-
ings and the relationship with adjacent properties. The design of new buildings shall incorporate
views that are directed to the street and garden/courtyard rather than toward adjacent neighbors.

PLACEMENT:
The underlying zoning regulations for this district emphasize the placement of buildings and the
relationship they have with the public realm of city streets. To ensure this pattern is reinforced and
continued new buildings shall be placed at or near the street, along the outer edge of their sites, to
ensure the unity of those streets and to encourage and facilitate pedestrian activity. Where buildings
are not at the street edge, they should include a welcoming public space integrating the building
and street.
20.
CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN GUIDELINES
ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN STRATEGIES
STREETSCAPE:
The combination of these re-
quired architectural standards
will create building designs that
enhance the pedestrian envi-
ronment and streetscape. Build-
ing placement, materials, mass-
ing, and harmonious design
along with creative approaches
from the design team will en-
sure that new buildings con-
tribute to Dover’s streetscapes
while preserving the important
context of the Downtown. The
other streetscape elements
and the intended uses that take
place within this public space
will be addressed further in the
Streetscape Design Strategies,
contained herein.

GARAGES: UTILITIES:
Garage entrances and the blank walls While essential to the buildings and occupants utility
created by their doors disrupt the pe- elements detract from the character of the District.
destrian experience. This is partially due This can be addressed by screening, an aesthetical-
to the reduced activity, and compound- ly pleasing manner all utility elements, allowing that
ed by the need to watch for vehicles these functional items be easily available but effectively
entering and leaving while walking hidden from view. The following should be screened or
through the district. Given this, garages buffered or blended:
typically should not directly face the
street. Where there is no other option, • Loading Areas
doors should be minimized and blend • Dumpsters
into the building. • Utilities – generators, chillers etc.
• Effective Screens or Buffers can be:
• Fencing – 8’ height. Wood or composite

21.
CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN GUIDELINES
ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN STRATEGIES

SOLAR STANDARDS:
All new buildings are expected to be
designed and constructed to be solar
ready. This is intended to make the
eventual addition of solar panels less
of a barrier and more cost effective.
Infrastructure (eg roof weight loads,
conduit, etc.) should be put in pace
to easily allow conversion to solar
power through future retrofitting. On
commercial and mixed-use buildings
that are 25,000 or larger square feet in
size, solar panels must be incorporat-
ed during construction on at least 30
percent of the roof area. The applicant
can individually meter the solar ar-
rays or make use of New Hampshire’s
group net metering provision which
allows for the distribution of proceeds
to a variety of participants on or off
site. See RSA 362-A:9 XIV.

22.
CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN GUIDELINES
ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN STRATEGIES
GREEN ROOF STANDARDS:
As land continues to be replaced with impervious surfaces the necessity to provide green space is
becoming increasingly critical to maintain environmental quality and ecosystem services. Install-
ing green roofs is one option that can reduce the negative impact of development while providing
numerous environmental, economic, and social benefits. On commercial and mixed-use buildings,
in these Districts, that are 25,000 or larger square feet in size, a green roof must be incorporated on
at least 30 percent of the roof area during construction. When installed in combination with solar
panels, the performance of the solar panels improves due to the reduced roof temperature.
Green roofs also improve stormwater management by reducing runoff and improve water quality
through filtering, conserve energy by further insulating the roof, mitigate the urban heat island effect
by reducing rooftop temperatures, increase the longevity of roofing membranes, reduce noise and
air pollution, sequester carbon, increase urban biodiversity by providing habitat for wildlife, provide
a more aesthetically pleasing and healthy environment, and improve return on investment compared
to traditional roofs.

DETAILS AND DEPTH:

Use of architectural details and changes in depth are encouraged on building elevations to increase
visual interest and scale. The use of horizontal banding and single-story roofed masses along a
larger structure at street level will create a more pedestrian scaled environment. Provide eave line
transition from high roof lines to the ground level to further reduce the apparent mass. It is also ben-
eficial to create a unique identity for the first floor level.

OPTIONAL STANDARDS
While the optional standards vary to some degree over the five sub-districts they are further ex-
plained below to inform applicants and design professionals.

ROOF FEATURES:
Ornamental roof features that exceed the al-
lowed building height are subject to the CUP
process. To ensure that roof features contribute
to the architectural design vary the height and
style of the roof line and eave line to break down
large roof masses into smaller elements. Large
overhangs are desirable as significant over-
hangs provide both protection from the weather
and are more proportional and balanced with
larger building masses. Pitched roofs are also
compatible with regional styles and can be
effectively combined to break down the scale
of a single large building. Pitched roof forms
including, gables, hips, mansards, and dormers
are encouraged when appropriate to the context
and location.
23.
CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN GUIDELINES
ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN STRATEGIES

ENTRIES:
Use of elements that accentuate and/or provide cov-
erage at the entry such as a canopy, porch, recessed
entry, etc. promote vibrancy and are desirable. The
building entry is an important functional element
that needs to be clearly articulated through a variety
of means, such as: residential porches and stoops,
recessed doors, which create a sense of entry. In first
floor retail spaces, provide a street-oriented entry and
storefront glazing to encourage a variety of uses.

GREEN BUILDING:
Promote sustainable development by incorporating
energy saving building envelope features and by
using building materials from recycled or renewable
sources. LEED standards, the Living Building Chal-
lenge, or an equivalent standard are encouraged. The
intent of this provision is to ensure that new buildings
being constructed in the City are energy efficient,
high performance buildings that minimize their im-
pact on the natural environment while maximizing
human health.

24.
CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN GUIDELINES
ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN STRATEGIES

GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE:
Green infrastructure is a term that can encompass a wide array of specific practices from open
space protection to ecologically designed and constructed BMPs. Green infrastructure incorporates
both the natural environment and engineered systems to provide clean water, conserve ecosystem
values and functions, and provide a wide array of benefits to people and wildlife. Green infrastruc-
ture investments boost the economy, enhance community health and safety, and provide recreation,
wildlife, and other benefits. At the site level, green infrastructure practices can include rain gardens,
permeable pavements, green roofs, infiltration planters, trees and tree boxes, and rainwater har-
vesting systems. As well as the preservation and restoration of natural landscapes (such as forests,
floodplains and wetlands) as critical components of the City’s green infrastructure. Due to these
many benefits integrated green infrastructure elements are encouraged in all development projects.

25.
CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN GUIDELINES
CHAPTER FOUR: STREETSCAPE DESIGN STRATEGIES
Streetscape standards were crafted to ensure streets in Central Business District are safe and walk-
able, accommodate pedestrians and bicyclists, and are compatible with the character of Dover’s
neighborhoods. All street elements must be consistent with Dover Streetscape and Landscape
Standards.

Physical features that are incorporated into streetscape designs include sidewalks, landscaping,
fences, retaining walls, street trees, benches and sitting areas, bicycle storage, and other infrastruc-
ture like street lights or curb and gutters. Streetscape elements create character and sense of place.
Consistent use of quality materials is required.

The streetscape areas identified in this illustration give a sense of the expectation and activity level
that should be incorporated into development proposals. This is to ensure that all new buildings re-
inforce their relationship with the public realm. These areas are further explained below through the
various elements of a streetscape:

• Outdoor dining & display zone

• Pedestrian Zone
• Furniture and Planting Zone
• Parking and Loading Zone

26.
CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN GUIDELINES
STREETSCAPE DESIGN STRATEGIES
SIDEWALKS:
In order to provide a safe pedestrian
zone along the frontage of all build-
ings, a sidewalks that is at least 5
feet wide must be provided. The
material must be brick along Cen-
tral Avenue, Main Street and Wash-
ington Street, or where it exists.
Chestnut Street should be concrete
with brick accents. All other streets
should have concrete sidewalks.

STREET TREES:
Street trees shall be planted at an average spacing of
25 to 30 feet on center. The planting method shall allow
for maximum root zone space where possible. Existing
healthy street trees shall be protected, if possible. These
trees improve the pedestrian environment, compliment
building facades, reduce heat island effect, assist with
stormwater management, and provide many other bene-
fits to the Downtown. Trees specifications can be found in
the Downtown Design Standards.

27.
CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN GUIDELINES
STREETSCAPE DESIGN STRATEGIES
LANDSCAPING:
Beyond street trees other ele-
ments of the landscape contribute
to the green infrastructure in the
Downtown. Unpaved ground area
along the frontage shall be plant-
ed with appropriate groundcover
or shrubs, and no bare ground or
mulch-only areas are permitted.
Low Impact Development tech-
niques that incorporate green
infrastructure solutions such as
rain gardens, bioretention areas,
tree boxes and other techniques
shall be incorporated into these
landscaped areas and maintained.
Property owners are also encour-
aged to place planters and win-
dow boxes with flowering plants
and/or climbing vines along the
area in front of their buildings.

ACCESS AND CIRCULATION:

Projects shall be designed to maintain and enhance the quality of vehicular, bicycle and pedestrian
circulation and safety on affected public streets.

STREET FURNITURE:
Street furniture shall be provid-
ed within the streetscape area.
A minimum of the following is
required:

• 1 bench for every 75 feet of

frontage.
• At least 1 waste bin, and recy-
cling bin, at each block corner.
• 1 bike rack per project.

Benches shall be oriented to en-

courage social interaction, and be
designed to enhance the site, not
detract from it. Benches may be
exchanged for other street fur-
niture (eg chess/checker tables)
where space allows.
28.
CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN GUIDELINES
STREETSCAPE DESIGN STRATEGIES

LIGHTING AND EQUIPMENT:

Site lighting, like site furniture can provide pedestrian scale and character as well as safety for pe-
destrians. Lighting choices should reflect Dover’s urban character. The use of LED lighting uses less
energy and is more efficient over time. Additionally, Dark Sky Friendly fixtures that light the ground
and not the sky are recommended. Lighting and mechanical equipment standards are further de-
fined in 170-20(E)(3)(d).

ART:
Public art is encouraged. All pro-
posed public art installations shall
be reviewed and endorsed by the
Dover Arts Commission. Public art is
a part of our public history and her-
itage, part of our evolving culture,
reflects and reveals our society and
adds meaning to our cities. Public
art should create a chronicle of our
public experiences through a variety
of genres and mediums.

29.
MORE INFORMATION
• Please refer to Chapters 149 and 170 for further information on the land use regulations
• Please check the Planning Department website for the District Tables and Visual Preference
Survey Report.

VISUAL PREFERENCE SURVEY

A visual preference survey was used to help define the elements included in the architectural stan-
dards and streetscape standards, and helped inform the creation of this resource document. The
survey results, including the survey report, follows:

Visual Preference Survey - Design Guidelines Project

Streetscape
The following examples show streetscape designs for urban and Transit Oriented Development neighborhoods.

The following examples show streetscape design for Residential and Gateway neighborhoods

30.
 Visual Preference Survey - Design Guidelines Project
Tr a n s i t O r i e n t e d D e v e l o p m e n t
The following examples show a variety of architectural designs for transit oriented development

The following examples show transit oriented neighborhood environments

31.
 Visual Preference Survey - Design Guidelines Project
Residential Development
The following examples show architectural designs for high density residential development.

The following examples show architectural designs for medium density residential development.

32.
 Visual Preference Survey - Design Guidelines Project
General - Central Business District
The following examples have a variety of architectural styles, building materials and street level treatment.

The following examples show ‘street wall’ façades that have traditional and contemporary architecture.

33.
 Visual Preference Survey - Design Guidelines Project
General - Central Business District
The following examples have a variety of architectural styles, building materials and street level treatment.

The following examples show ‘street wall’ façades that have traditional and contemporary architecture.

34.
Visual Preference Survey Report
Central Business District Architectural & Urban Design Guidelines

Introduction
In 2018, the City of Dover partnered with Resilience Planning & Design LLC to develop Architectural and Urban
Design Guidelines for the Central Business District. As part of the community engagement process, a Visual
Preference Survey was created to provide an opportunity for citizens to participate in the development of these
guidelines. Visual Preference Surveys (VPS) allow citizens to rate visual concepts of building designs, landscape
characteristics, architectural styles, and streetscape features. The feedback collected gave the City a sense of
what participants wanted to see in the Central Business District and informed the architectural and urban design
guidelines document.

Methodology
The VPS was created in two formats; one as an online survey and the other as a storefront display. Survey
respondents were asked to indicate their preferences among a series of images that illustrated various options
for development and public infrastructure enhancements in the Central Business District area. The rating scale
was -2 to +2, with -2 being unappealing, -1 being somewhat unappealing, 0 being neutral, +1 being somewhat
appealing, and +2 being appealing. Images were selected to demonstrate a range of design possibilities. The
preliminary results of the Visual Preference Survey were shown at Apple Harvest Day.

Summary of Results
Images that received ratings that indicated high levels of preference reflected the following characteristics:

• Use of traditional building materials

• Clear architectural definition of buildings
• Variety among buildings including texture, architectural detail, etc.
• A vibrant and walkable streetscape with pedestrian amenities
• Cottage style, townhouse, and missing middle style housing units

Images that received ratings indicating neutral feelings from respondents reflected the following characteristics:

• Modern in nature
• Use of contemporary building materials
• Lack of vibrancy and walkability in streetscape
• Appeared “cookie-cutter” in its design

Images that received ratings that indicated low levels of preference reflected the following characteristics:

• Plain, flat building facades

• Little relationship between building and streetscape
• No vibrancy in streetscape (i.e. lack of landscaping, pedestrian amenities, not aesthetically appealing,
etc.)

The following pages show the visual preference survey results for each image.

35.
General- Central Business District
Image #1
General- Central Business District
Image #2
General- Central Business District
Image #3

38.
General- Central Business District
Image #4

39.
General- Central Business District
Image #5
General- Central Business District
Image #6
General- Central Business District
Image #7
General- Central Business District
Image #8
General- Central Business District
Image #9
General- Central Business District
Image #10
General- Central Business District
Image #11
General- Central Business District
Image #12
General- Central Business District
Image #13
General- Central Business District
Image #14
General- Central Business District
Image #15
General- Central Business District
Image #16
General- Central Business District
Image #17
Residential Development
Image #1
Residential Development
Image #2
Residential Development
Image #3
Residential Development
Image #4
Residential Development
Image #5
Residential Development
Image #6
Residential Development
Image #7
Residential Development
Image #8
Residential Development
Image #9
Residential Development
Image #10
Residential Development
Image #11
Residential Development
Image #12
Residential Development
Image #13
Residential Development
Image #14
Residential Development
Image #15
Residential Development
Image #16
Residential Development
Image #17
Residential Development
Image #18
Residential Development
Image #19
Residential Development
Image #20
Gateway/Mixed Use Development
Image #1
Gateway/Mixed Use Development
Image #2
Gateway/Mixed Use Development
Image #3
Gateway/Mixed Use Development
Image #4
Gateway/Mixed Use Development
Image #5
Gateway/Mixed Use Development
Image #6
Gateway/Mixed Use Development
Image #7
Gateway/Mixed Use Development
Image #8
Gateway/Mixed Use Development
Image #9
Gateway/Mixed Use Development
Image #10
Gateway/Mixed Use Development
Image #11
Gateway/Mixed Use Development
Image #12
Gateway/Mixed Use Development
Image #13
Gateway/Mixed Use Development
Image #14
Gateway/Mixed Use Development
Image #15
Gateway/Mixed Use Development
Image #16
Gateway/Mixed Use Development
Image #17
Gateway/Mixed Use Development
Image #18
Gateway/Mixed Use Development
Image #19
Gateway/Mixed Use Development
Image #20
Gateway/Mixed Use Development
Image #21
Gateway/Mixed Use Development
Image #22
Gateway/Mixed Use Development
Image #22
Transit-Oriented Development
Image #1
Transit-Oriented Development
Image #2
Transit-Oriented Development
Image #3
Transit-Oriented Development
Image #4
Transit-Oriented Development
Image #5
Transit-Oriented Development
Image #6
Transit-Oriented Development
Image #7
Transit-Oriented Development
Image #8
Transit-Oriented Development
Image #9
Transit-Oriented Development
Image #10
Transit-Oriented Development
Image #11
Transit-Oriented Development
Image #12
Transit-Oriented Development
Image #13
Transit-Oriented Development
Image #14
Transit-Oriented Development
Image #15
Transit-Oriented Development
Image #16
Streetscape
Image #1
Streetscape
Image #2
Streetscape
Image #3
Streetscape
Image #4
Streetscape
Image #5
Streetscape
Image #6
Streetscape
Image #7
Streetscape
Image #8
Streetscape
Image #9
Streetscape
Image #10
Streetscape
Image #11
Streetscape
Image #12
Streetscape
Image #13
Streetscape
Image #14
Streetscape
Image #15
Streetscape
Image #16
Streetscape
Image #17
Streetscape
Image #18
Streetscape
Image #19
Streetscape
Image #20
Streetscape
Image #21
Streetscape
Image #22
134.