MID-RISE GUIDELINES Urban Design Guidance for the Site Planning and Design of
Mid-Rise Buildings in Milton
SUMMARY
Milton's Mid-Rise Development Guidelines outline a comprehensive strategy for integrating new
mid-rise buildings into existing neighborhoods, prioritizing a balanced approach to growth. This
strategy emphasizes seamless visual integration by limiting building heights to respect the
surrounding streetscape and requiring design that complements the scale and style of existing
structures. Furthermore, the guidelines go beyond aesthetics, focusing on resident well-being by
mandating the incorporation of public and private open spaces within developments. Additionally,
they encourage smooth transitions between mid-rise buildings and lower-rise areas, fostering a
more cohesive and walkable environment. While not explicitly mandated, the guidelines
acknowledge the potential benefits of mixed-use developments for creating vibrant and dynamic
communities, promoting efficient land use by accommodating population growth within existing
urban areas. Overall, these Milton Mid-Rise Development Guidelines provide a valuable
framework for responsible and sustainable development, ensuring new mid-rise buildings
contribute positively to the character and livability of the community.
Figure showing: Mid-rise residential in Milton Town
FINDINGS.
Analyzing the Town of Milton's Mid-Rise Development Guidelines reveals a multi-layered
approach to fostering responsible mid-rise development within existing neighborhoods:
• Contextual Harmony: The guidelines prioritize maintaining a harmonious streetscape by:
o Height Limitations: Building heights are restricted to not exceed the width of the
street and sidewalks, ensuring new structures don't overwhelm surrounding lower-
rise buildings.
o Design Sensitivity: Architectural design must be sensitive to the scale and style of
nearby buildings, promoting a cohesive visual environment and avoiding a sense of
visual disruption.
• Resident-Centered Design: The guidelines go beyond aesthetics and consider resident
well-being through:
o Open Space Mandates: Developments must incorporate public and private open
spaces, providing areas for recreation, relaxation, and fostering a sense of
community.
o Smooth Transitions: Seamless connections between mid-rise buildings and lower-
rise neighborhoods or streetscapes are encouraged, creating a more integrated and
walkable environment.
• Sustainable Growth Considerations: While not explicitly mandated, the guidelines
acknowledge the potential benefits of mid-rise development for efficient land use:
o Density and Growth: Mid-rise buildings have the potential to accommodate
population growth within existing urban areas, potentially minimizing urban sprawl
and promoting efficient use of land resources.
o Mixed-Use Potential: The guidelines don't restrict mixed-use developments,
allowing for the possibility of integrating residential units with commercial or
office spaces, potentially creating more vibrant and walkable communities.
These findings suggest that the Milton Mid-Rise Development Guidelines prioritize thoughtful
development that integrates new mid-rise buildings harmoniously with existing neighborhoods
while promoting resident well-being and considering the potential for sustainable growth.
Conclusion
the Town of Milton's Mid-Rise Development Guidelines establish a valuable framework for
responsible and sustainable mid-rise development. By prioritizing contextual harmony through
height limitations and design sensitivity, the guidelines ensure new buildings integrate seamlessly
with existing neighborhoods. Furthermore, by mandating open spaces and promoting smooth
transitions, the guidelines prioritize resident well-being and create a more cohesive environment.
While not explicitly mandated, the guidelines acknowledge the potential benefits of mixed-use
developments for increased density and creating vibrant communities. Overall, these
comprehensive guidelines position Milton for positive future growth by balancing the need for
development with the importance of maintaining a livable and aesthetically pleasing community
character.
Reference:https://www.milton.ca/en/business-and-development/resources/Mid-Rise
Guidelines.pdf
