Lakewood Considers Updating Development Guidelines

LAKEWOOD, OH — Mayor Meghan George has proposed updating the city's design guidelines for construction and renovation projects. The design guidelines were last updated in 2010.

“The goal of this effort is to provide clearer guidance and expectations as it relates to architecture and design in Lakewood,” said George in a statement. “The guidelines will embody community values and offer direction to new development, rehabilitation, redevelopment and other improvements in Lakewood’s commercial and residential districts.”

The design guidelines will be available for developers, designers, property owners, business owners, visitors and current residents. Homeowners in Lakewood likely have aging properties and may want to bring contemporary aesthetics and technology to their houses. Updating the design guidelines will make it easier for residents to navigate updating older homes, George's office believes.

“Much of our time at the beginning of the process will be spent on the residential design guidelines” said Planning Director Bryce Sylvester. “A few pragmatic examples of topics we’ll discuss include porch and front entry design, garage design and orientation, addressing the process for demolition and subsequent design approval new construction, as just a few examples. We will work toward utilizing graphics and illustrations, built examples, as well as concise text to inform users of the guidelines in the clearest way possible.”

For the guidelines to be updated, the city will need to get input from the community, various commissions and, primarily, the Architectural Board of Review (ABR). The board will review all of the guidelines in coming months and may offer approval later this year.

"As the owner of a 98-year-old house, I know how challenging it can be to want to update your property with 21st-century technologies and aesthetics, while also letting the charm and historic nature of Lakewood’s building fabric shine through, “ said Amy Haney, chair of ABR.

The Lakewood Planning Commission will also be involved in the review of existing guidelines and the adoption of any proposed changes. Lakewood City Council will have the final on the design guideline changes.

Prior to 2010's update, the city's design guidelines had not been revisited since their adoption in 1979. George's administration feels the guidelines would be more illustrative if accompanied by graphics and illustrations.