ARCHITECTURAL STANDARDS FOR THE COMMUNITY OF LAFAYETTE SHORES

Transcription

1 ARCHITECTURAL STANDARDS FOR THE COMMUNITY OF LAFAYETTE SHORES Published-November 1990 Updated 1991 Updated 1993 Updated 1994 Updated 1996 Updated 2005 Updated

2 Table of Contents PURPOSE OF ARCHITECTURAL STANDARDS 3 DEFINITIONS 4 HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION 8 ARCHITECTURAL STANDARDS 9 GOVERNING DOCUMENTS 10 COMMUNITY PLAN 11 COMMUNITY LANDSCAPE 13 COMMUNITY CHARACTER 14 BUILDING ENVELOPE AND SETBACK 15 GARAGES 20 BUILDING FEATURES AND MATERIALS 21 MAILBOXES AND STANDS 27 LANDSCAPE STANDARDS 28 ARCHITECTURAL COMMITTEE 32 SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS 33 SUBMITTAL REQUIREMENTS 34 REVIEW PROCESS 37 ARCHITECTURAL APPROVAL APPLICATION FORM 38 MAINTENANCE APPLICATION FORM 39 APPENDIX A - PLANTS 40 2

3 Purpose of the Architectural Standards The Architectural Standards presented in this publication govern the design and details of the Owner s Improvements constructed on Home sites in The Community of Lafayette Shores. The requirements included in these Standards are intended to establish and to maintain the design character of the Community. These standards will help you design your new home so that it will be in harmony with the other homes, and with the site improvements, landscaping and the streetscape of the Community. These standards constitute the architectural, landscaping and site construction requirements that must be met as you design and build your Improvements to your Lafayette Shores Homesite and so are included in the Governing Documents and within the Bylaws of the Lafayette Shores Homeowners Association. In addition to meeting these requirements, Improvements to on your Homesite must also, of course, conform to all applicable city, state, and federal requirements. In some instances, these requirements may overlap or differ. Wherever that occurs, the more stringent requirements will apply. 3

4 Definitions Approved Drawings: All the contents of Submittal No. 2 to the Architectural Committee upon determination by the Architectural Committee that all requirements of these Architectural Standards have been met. Architect: A person certified of registered to practice the profession of Architecture in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Architectural Committee: The committee appointed by the BNB Financial Partners and the City of Norfolk during all new home construction and then subsequently appointed by the Board of Directors of the Lafayette Shores Homeowners Association, as provided in the Governing Drawings, to review and either approve or disapprove proposals and/or drawings and specifications for the construction or installation of Improvements within The Community of Lafayette Shores. BNB Financial Partners: A Virginia General Partnership, which has complete control of the land known as The Community of Lafayette Shores and has entered into a Development Agreement with the City of Norfolk to improve the property and the sell single-family, detached homesites to the general public. Builder: An individual or business entity licenses as a Class A General Contractor in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Building Envelope: That volume in which a house may be constructed as defined by the applicable setback requirements and height limits set forth herein and in the Governing Documents. Civil Engineer: A person, registered to practice engineering in the Commonwealth of Virginia, who is professionally skilled in Civil Engineering. Commons: Landscaped greenswards constructed by the Developer on land owned by the City of Norfolk. Community: The Community of Lafayette Shores. Developer: The Lawson Group, Ltd. a real estate development company and a General Partner of BNB Financial Partners, who will manage the improvements of The Community of Lafayette Shores. Dormer: A structure projecting from a sloping roof housing a window or ventilating louver. Excavation: Any removal from or displacement of soil on a Homesite, or a portion thereof, to a depth of two feet or more below the existing elevation of the portion of the surface of the ground. 4

5 Fill: Any grading or added soil that raises the elevation of a homesite, or a portion thereof, by two feet or more above the existing elevation of the portion of the surface ground. Finish Floor Elevation: The elevation at the front door of the finish surface of the first floor of the House. Finish Grade: The designed average elevation of the surface of the ground adjacent to the front wall of the house. Gable: The vertical triangular portion of the end of a building having a double sloping roof, from the height of the eaves to the ridge of the roof. Governing Documents: The Articles, Bylaws Declaration of Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions of the LSHOA as well as the Association s Rules of the Governing Documents, together with the Architectural Standards, as adopted by its Board of Directors and as amended from time to time. Hardscape: Building and paving materials placed on the ground to form a permanent driving or walking surface (such as driveways, walkways, pool decks, recreation or game surfaces). LSHOA: Lafayette Shores Homeowners Association Homesite: One or more adjacent Lots, owned by the same Owner and a single House and associated Improvements are constructed. House: Custom designed, single-family dwelling. Improvements: Any construction, structure or appurtenance of every kind and type, or portion thereof, including, but not limited to buildings, accessory buildings, shade structures, patio covers, walkways, play yards, playhouses, storage structures, pet houses and runs, irrigation sprinkler pipes, drainage devices, garages, swimming pools, spas, recreational facilities, tennis courts, roads, driveways, parking areas, fences, screening walls, retaining walls, stairs, decks, landscaping, exterior lighting, antennas, hedges, windbreaks, piers, plantings, planted trees and shrubs, poles, signs, mailboxes, mechanical or electrical equipment visible on the exterior including air conditioning, solar panels, and water softening fixtures of equipment. The Community of Lafayette Shores: The project, which is subject to these Architectural Standards and the Governing Documents. Landscape Architect: A person licensed to practice Landscape Architecture in the Commonwealth of Virginia. 5

6 Lot: A parcel of real property shown on a final official plat of The Community of Lafayette Shores covering real property subject to the jurisdiction of the LSHOA together with any improvements thereon. Mews: The private lanes, owned by LSHOA, constructed on access easements located within the real yards of the adjacent Lots situated within the street loops. Owner: The person or persons who own a Homesite. Porte Cochere: A roofed structure extending from an entrance of the house to serve as a porch or as a shelter to or over an adjacent driveway, open on three sides except for the supporting columns and customary architectural features. Slope Bank: The surface of the ground located between Elevation and the mean low water line. Soils Engineer: A person registered to practice engineering in the Commonwealth of Virginia who is professionally skilled in soils engineering. Streetscape: Design elements provided in connection with a street, its right of way and the immediately adjacent land, primarily consisting of street trees and other plants, walls, Hardscape and lighting. Top of Slope: The contour of Elevation on the private slope bank first reached shoreward from the wetlands. Working Drawings: All of the documents, including drawings, specifications, schedules or material and equipment which set forth in detail the requirements for the complete construction of the Improvements. Yard: That portion of a Homesite between any property line and the ground area of the Building Envelope. 6

7 Homeowners Association Of The Community of Lafayette Shores The Lafayette Shores Homeowners Association (LSHOA) governs the Community of Lafayette Shores. LSHOA is responsible for the maintenance of the entries and Mews, security controls (if any) and Community owned recreational facilities. It is responsible for maintaining the landscaping of all Community owned property and of the three Common areas. 7

8 The Architectural Standards The Architectural Standards consist of those restrictions, limitations, requirements and guidelines contained in this document that concern: The design of all improvements constructed on or made to the Homesite; The conformity of the completed Improvements to the Approved Drawings and specifications for the Improvements; and Construction, reconstruction, exterior additions, changes or alterations to or maintenance of any Improvement, including the nature, shape, height, exterior materials, colors, surface texture, configuration and location of such Improvements. These standards, along with the provisions set forth in the Governing Documents for the Lafayette Shores Homeowners Association (LSHOA), serve as the basis and form the criteria for the evaluation of drawings and specifications for Improvements submitted for review and approval by the Architectural Committee. In the event of a conflict between these Architectural Standards and any of the terms of the Governing Documents, the terms of the Governing Documents prevail over those contained herein. Any specific condition or material, not discussed or defined in these Architectural Standards, unless described by the Governing Documents, will be subject to the discretionary judgment of the Architectural Committee, acting in good faith on behalf of the best interest of the LSHOA as a whole. 8

9 Governing Documents The governing powers and regulations of LSHOA are contained in the Articles, Bylaws, Declaration or Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions and Association Rules of the Governing Documents. The Community of Lafayette Shores is located within the City of Norfolk, Virginia and is governed by its zoning ordinances, building codes, planning regulations, and the Governing Documents. The Lots in The Community of Lafayette Shores have been zoned R-8 by the Zoning Ordinance of the City of Norfolk. The Building Official of the City of Norfolk should be contacted concerning municipal ordinances, codes and regulations including requirements of the Chesapeake Bay Preservation Act. 9

10 Community Plan Lafayette Shores, located on the banks of the Lafayette River, seeks to blend with the established character of Norfolk. The Community is intended to include houses that exemplify the best of the city s traditional styles and buildings of contemporary design, which is developed as a continuum of the historic architectural roots of the city. The plan provides a framework for individual architectural expression that promotes the highest of aesthetic standards. The Community of Lafayette Shores relies on three overall features to achieve a cohesive Community character: a unified streetscape, compatible architectural styles and materials, and control or the visual scale of the Houses. In consonance with the further goal to establish and maintain cohesive neighborhood characters, the Community has been designed to include a combination to both single and multi-story homes. The Homesites in some portions of the Community must consist of two or more Lots. These designated neighborhoods are indicated on the Site Development Plan on the following page. 10

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12 Community Landscape Community Edge The Slope Bank is located between the mean low water line and Elevation contour of the individual Lots. It includes public and private wetlands and contains natural vegetation and plantings that frame distant views from The Community of Lafayette Shores toward the Lafayette River while partially screening the Community from offsite view. Any disruption or damage to the Slope Bank by Owners will require restoration to the pre-existing conditions, in accordance with standards set be applicable governing bodies. Streetscape The City owned land between the back of the street curb and the front property line and the portion of each Lot immediately adjacent to a street must have a Community unifying landscape treatment. It is termed the Streetscape. This Streetscape acts as a buffer between private and public spaces and as a visually unifying design element. Owners are encouraged to enhance the effect of existing tree emplacement with additional plant materials selected from approved plant lists provided as an appendix to the Architectural Standards. Homeowners are required to maintain the landscaping on the portion of the City owned right-of-way between the back of the curb and the front property line of their Lots. 12

13 The Community Character It is the intent of these Architectural Standards to provide design guidance that will result in a recognizable Community character, yet encourage a diversity of architectural styles. The Community aspires to be characterized by a variety of architectural styles tied together by a vocabulary of elements typical to all styles. The use of these elements shall become the means by which the Community character will develop. Designs deemed inappropriate are thematic or period types not historically apropos to Norfolk, and post Modern styles. Thematic or period styles are characterized by their representation or the architecture of a different time or place in history. Unacceptable forms include half-timber wall framing, pseudo castles, adobe and Spanish colonial, neo- Gothic, Mediterranean, French provincial and country rustic. Unsuitable postmodern architecture is characterized by the free use of a combination or neo-historic and modern decoration and forms and by the use of materials, shapes and colors, which are incongruous to local architectural environment or irrelevant to the residential architecture idioms of this area. Avoidance of these architectural styles and designs will help achieve a Community of enduring quality with the benefits of visual harmony for its inhabitants. 13

14 Building Envelope and Setbacks The Building Envelope sets the maximum height, setback, and special boundaries of each House. It does not represent the ultimate shape or architectural appearance of the building. It presents the boundaries beyond which no part of any House may protrude except Porte cocheres and covered or uncovered unenclosed porches to the extent allowed by these restrictions. Unenclosed attached porches, landings, terraces, patios or platforms that are not covered by a roof or canopy and do not extend about the Finish Floor Elevation (except for railings and railing supports) may project into any required front, side or rear Yard a distance not to exceed 8 feet. Open, unenclosed stairway or balconies extending above the Finish Floor Elevation, not covered by roof or canopy, may extend or project into a required read Yard only, not more than 4 feet. Minor entrance porches are permitted to project into any front Yard provided they do not project more than 3 feet and are not more than 6 feet in width. Oriel windows, cornices, eaves, belt courses, sills, canopies, or similar architectural features, but not including bay windows or vertical projections which extend to the ground, may project into a required side Yard not more than 18 inches and may extend into a required front of rear Yard not to extend 36 inches. Setbacks No accessory building or structure may be located in any required front Yard or required Yard adjacent to a street except that poles, posts, and other customary Yard accessories, ornaments, and furniture are permitted if they are of architectural design congruous to the principal House structure and do not constitute substantial impediments to free flow of light and air across the yard; but swimming pools, landscape pools or combinations or pools that exceed 12 inches in depth or 50 square feet in total area, outdoor grills or ovens, tennis courts and the like are prohibited in such yards. Accessory buildings and these type Improvements are permitted in the required back Yards. The Envelope The horizontal projection of the Building Envelope is the site area to which ground level construction must be confined, except for the ancillary appurtenances previously described. Front Yard: Side Yard: 25-foot setback fronts the front property line. 5 foot setback for single lots, 10-foot setback for estate or double lots from The side property line. 14

15 Rear Yard: 25-foot setback from rear property line or Top of Slope, whichever is Closer to the front. The vertical projection of the Building Envelope is the area projected upward from the ground within which vertical construction is permitted. Construction above the eave height of the principal roof of the building must lie within the volume which is determined be a 1:1 slope inward from the roof eave height, except that roof gables shaped dormers may extend to the vertical projection of the Building Envelope. The diagrams of Pages 18, 19 and 20, illustrate the horizontal and vertical limiting dimensions of the Building Envelope. The envelope system of the building setback control provides a framework within which a great variety of architectural expressions are possible. The sketches, which follow, illustrate diagrammatic examples of some of the many building variations that con occur within the envelopes. 15

16 Building Envelope and Setbacks MIN SQUARE FOOTAGE:

17 Building Envelope and Setbacks MIN SQUARE FOOTAGE:

18 Building Envelope and Setbacks Note1: 10-0 minimum side yard for estates or double lots. 18

19 Garages and Offstreet Parking All houses are required to have fully enclosed garages. Carports open on one or more sides are not acceptable. Insofar as is practicable, garage doors shall be located at the side or rear of the house. Homesites situated on Mews must have the garage doors in the wall facing the Mews, except Homesites comprising two or more Lots may have the garage doors in the wall facing the side yard. Where garage doors are located in the front elevation of the house, the design of doors, dimensions and shapes shall be carefully conceived to coordinate with the dimensions and visual scale of the other fenestrations. The driveway design must allow for a minimum of two offstreet parking spaces exclusive of the garage. Parking on or otherwise obstructing Mews access is not allowed. Public streets should be used for overflow parking. 19

20 Exterior Wall Surfaces Building Features and Materials All dwellings are encouraged to be predominately brick, however, Exterior Insulation Finish System (EIFS), horizontal wood siding or wood shingles may be used. Pressed board or other similar manufactured board sidings are not allowed. For material and color contrast one or more detail elements are recommended for construction in contrasting brick, header, or soldier coursing, concrete, or limestone. Windowsills, lintels, keystones, string coursing, chimney caps and steps, made of different materials are not allowed. In unpainted cedar siding is used, it shall be treated to prevent unsightly uneven color due to weathering. Owner shall be responsible for ongoing prevention and/or correction of such uneven coloring. First Floor Heights Crawl space construction of the first floor of the House is required. The 3 foot to 5 foot height of the Finish Floor above Finish Grade is required to be expressed architecturally at the front of the building. Roofs All roofs shall have a pitch in the range of 8:12 to 12:12. Pitches on secondary structures will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Principal roof forms shall be hip or gable. Roofs of gambrel, mansard, or other composite forms are to be avoided. Wood shakes or shingles, slate or architectural grade asphalt shingles are required. All other roof materials are prohibited except standing seam metal roofing over limited areas of special features. Limited areas of flat roof for balconies, sun decks, terrace covers and trellises are acceptable if designed as architectural extensions of the house. Roof materials on such areas shall blend in color with the main roof. Gutter and Downspouts Effective 12/19/96: Gutters and rain leaders must be of approved materials and their design and application must be approved. Exposed gutters and rain leaders shall be colored to match trim color unless unpainted copper is used. Baked on enamel is recommended to decrease the appearance of wear. Chimneys The visible portions of the walls of all chimneys must be constructed of brick or exterior insulation finish system (drivit). Chimney walls faced with the same material as the wall of the House are acceptable. Exposed metal flues are not acceptable except for minor projections above the chimney walls and must be painted out. 20

21 Chimneys may not exceed the minimum heights required by the Building Code of the City of Norfolk. Skylights Skylights shall be designed as an integral part of the roof. Skylight glazing must be clear, solar bronze or gray; white or reflective glazing is prohibited. Skylight framing material visible on the exterior must be bronze anodized or colored to match adjacent roof. Natural color aluminum is prohibited. It is recommended that skylights not be visible on the front elevation. Flashing and Sheet Metal All flashing and sheet metal except unpainted copper must be colored or painted to match the material to which it is attached. Roof flashing should be painted to blend with the roof color. Vents All vent stacks and pipes must be colored to match the roof or wall material from which they project and shall not be visible from the public right-of-way. They shall not extend higher from the roof surface than the minimum required by engineering design or building codes. Effective 03/21/06 The painting of stacks and vents will no longer be required. Antennas Effective 12/19/96 Outdoors satellite dish antennas are allowed to the extent that they are less than 24 in diameter and are not visible from off the home site. They may in no instance be visible from the public right of way. With approval of all neighbors bordering the dish home site they may be visible from outside the home site. The Architectural Review Committee must approve all dish placements. Solar Panels Solar panels, if utilized, shall be integrated into the roof design. Visible portions of panels and frames must be bronze anodized or colored to match roof. Natural color aluminum is prohibited. Solar equipment shall be screened from view. Windows and Doors To enhance the shades and create architecturally produced shadows on the walls, it is recommended that window and door openings give the appearance of being recessed in the wall plane. Actual recessed opening are highly encouraged although the appearance can be achieved through surrounds, box-outs, projections, bay and oriel windows. 21

22 Mirrored or highly reflective glass is prohibited, as are silver or gold colored frames. Front loading garage doors shall be recessed a minimum of 12 inches from adjacent wall surfaces. Patterns or strongly applied color to garage doors are not acceptable. The sizes, shapes and glazing patterns of windows must be compatible with the architectural style of the house. Natural aluminum color framed windows will not be permitted. If aluminum storm doors are used, they shall have a factory baked-on enamel or bronze anodized finish. Storm doors shall be full glass. Crossbuck, pseudo-colonial or other similar paneled aluminum storm doors will not be permitted. Awnings Canvas awnings, if used, must be an approved color (see trim and color accent). Metal or rigid plastic awnings are not acceptable. Trim and Color Accents Exterior trim and architectural details and color accents shall be of permanent materials (with the exception of awnings). Wood trim including deck railings and bands shall be painted. Colors shall be compatible architecturally with House design and materials, and must be approved. Porches, Trellises, Port Cocheres, Sun Shades and Gazebos If appurtenant Improvements are connected to the House the appurtenances must be located entirely within the boundaries described in the Building Envelope and Setbacks section of these Architectural Standards. All appurtenant Improvements are subject to the approval process described herein. Whether attached or not, all auxiliary structures shall be designed true to the architectural character of the House. Sundecks, Balconies, Patios Uncovered porches and decks may protrude beyond the Building Envelope only if they are constructed no higher than the Finish Floor Elevation. Any deck or platform which extends beyond the Top of Slope of an individual Lot must be cantilevered or supported by piles in such a manner as does not disturb the ground surface. Wood railings and bands are regarded as trim and must be painted. Decks visible from the street or a Mews must have a skirt of brick weave, matching the foundation of the house, or a solid wood skirt. Effective 12/19/96: Wood trim including deck railings and bands shall be painted or stained when visible from the public right of way. 22

23 Fences For all Homesites, solid fencing or walls within the rear 10 feet of lot shall be fully brick or semi-transparent to a maximum height of 6 feet. Transparent fencing may be constructed above a 3-1/2 feet high masonry wall, matching the color and texture of the House, to a maximum total height of 6 feet. Fencing or walls within the rear 10 feet of a Lot shall be understood to mean the portion of the Lot measured from the edge of the Mews easement. For Homesites located on a Mews, fencing and walls may be constructed, except within the Mews easement, as permitted at the front of the Lots. Side yard fencing and walls, except within the front and rear 10 feet of a Lot are permitted to a maximum height of 6 feet. Masonry and other architectural accents such as pilaster or columns are allowed. All fence and wall heights are measured vertically from the average finished grade at the base of the fence or wall. No fence is to be constructed in the Slope Bank area below the Top of the Slope. Solid or semi-transparent fences must be of masonry material, finished to match the character or the principle dwelling. Where fully or semi-transparent fencing is desired, wrought iron is encouraged. Wood fences are prohibited. Open pattern brickwork providing at least 33% open space, may be utilized for semi-transparent fencing. Existing Community fencing or walls may not be modified or altered by Homeowners without approval of the Architectural Review Committee. Side yard fencing between Lots must be kept inside property lines and may not be constructed on a property line without the written approval of all Lot owners affected. Structural framing and/or unfinished sides of fences and walls may not be exposed to any public right-of-way, Community Facility or neighboring Lot. Piers Pile supported piers for recreation use may be constructed over Slope Banks provided that official approval is received from the U.S. Army Corp. of Engineers and all other governing agencies. All portions of piers shall be constructed of materials that resist deterioration due to weathering and attack by marine and other biological organisms. The top of the deck shall be no higher than the Finish Grade of the Homesite. Railings, if any, shall be constructed as transparent structures and shall not be higher than 42 inches above the deck. Enclosed superstructures are not allowed. The Architectural Committee permits shelters, open on all sides, subject to review and approval of the design. It is the intent of these Architectural Standards that the Slope Banks is left in their present, natural state, and to prevent the construction of Improvements, which will disturb the surface slopes, vegetation or views. To this end, the construction of superstructures on piers is discouraged. Lighting, if included, shall be designed to illuminate only the pier deck and the immediately adjacent portion of the site. 23

24 Luminaries shall be shielded so that the source of the light is not visible from outside the Homesite. No pier or portion thereof shall create an unreasonable obstruction to the view of the wetlands or river from outside the Homesite. Pools and Game Courts Pools, pool decks and game courts shall be designed so they do not impact adjoining properties with light or sounds. They shall not project beyond that Top of the Slope. Pool heaters and pumps must be screened from view and should be sound insulated from neighboring houses. Paving Driveway and other flat paved areas may be exposed aggregate concrete, quarry tile, brick, paving blocks and similar materials. Black asphalt paving and broom finished concrete within the Homesite is prohibited. Gas and Electric Meters Effective 11/4/93 Residents/builders will not be required to screen gas and electric meters. Utility companies, city code and design of home designate meter location. When possible, landscaping should be used to soften the appearance of meters. Trash and Recyclable Containers The preferred method of hiding trash and recyclable containers will always be behind a wall. However, landscaping is permitted to hide the containers using a selection of materials in Appendix A. Mechanical Equipment All air conditioning (A/C), heating equipment, swimming pool and similar equipment must be screened from view by public right-of-ways. Where located within ten feet of the property line, compressors shall be insulated from sound attenuation. A/C units will not be permitted on the roofs unless installed in recessed or otherwise architecturally designed enclosures, which render them fully not visible from outside the Home site. Effective 11/4/93: Residents/builders may submit lattice and/or landscape plans to screen mechanical equipment. Brick will remain the preferred screening method. Exterior Signs Exterior signs or signs visible from the exterior, other than house numbers and security signs are prohibited. Temporary unlighted For Sale signs, with the necessary information only, not exceeding 8 square feet, may be erected at or near the front 24

25 property line. Only one sign per Homesite will be permitted. When the building is sold the sign must be promptly removed. During construction of a new House or of major alterations or additions one temporary sign not exceeding 16 square feet in size may be erected in addition to the foregoing to list the builder, architect and/or other such participants in the work. Exterior Lighting All exterior lighting shall be shielded to prevent spillover outside the Homesite. Exterior luminaries shall be housed in fixtures, which are architecturally compatible with the design of the House. Effective 12/19/96 Exposed bulbs and reflector lamp spot lights are allowed to the extent that their light does not spill over into their neighbors home site. Color of exterior lighting generally shall be natural incandescent. Metal halide luminaries or fluorescent lighting will not be allowed except high pressure sodium luminaries may be used for lighting the front and rear yards. The height of light poles shall not exceed 10 feet. 25

26 Mailboxes and Stands In order to enhance the consistency and overall attractiveness or the Community, mailboxes and mailbox stands will be standardized throughout Lafayette Shores. All mailboxes and stands shall conform to the following design specifications: The post shall be 3 square tubular steel ¼ thick. The supporting bracket shall be of ½ steel. The finial shall be a Julious Bloom 5330 cap. The box shall be black with house numbers displayed. The bottom of the box shall be 41 above the street level. The entire stand shall be painted flat black. It is recommended that the stand by installed with the face of the box within four (4 ) inches of the curb line and be placed on either side of the front walk (or driveway if the front walk does not intersect with the street or sidewalk). Mailbox stands conforming to these specifications are available from London Bridge Welding and at the Lafayette Shores Clubhouse. Effective 3/21/06: Seasonal decorations can be used on mailboxes as long as they are removed within two weeks of the holiday. 26

27 Landscape Standards Lot Landscape Zones Each of the Homesites contains two designated landscape zones; the Streetscape zone and its associated front Yard planting and the side and rear Yard zone. Planting in these zones is controlled by the Landscape Standards to create an arborous environment, which complements that of the community. The Lot Owner is responsible for planting and maintaining al landscaping within the Homesite. All plant material must be selected from the approved list for each zone. The Streetscape Zone is the front 15 feet of each Lot. The side are rear Yard Zone consists of the required side and rear Yards of the Homesite. Side Yard planting is required to provide screening between neighboring Houses. No tree may be planted on a property line without obtaining the written permission of all adjoining Lot owners. Grading Plans All grading of the Homesite must be based on a grading plan prepared by an Architect, a Civil Engineer or Landscape Architect in conformance with the requirements of the City of Norfolk and other governmental agencies. This plan must be submitted to and approved by the Architectural Committee. Excavation or fill in excess of two feet from the existing Lot elevation, as installed by the Developer, is prohibited in the Yards. Excavation in the rear Yard for pool construction and tree installation are the only allowed exceptions. Site Preparation All demolition, clearing, grubbing, stripping of soil, excavation, and compaction and grading must be preformed within the Owner s Homesite. Stockpiling may be allowed on adjacent Lots with the written permission of the Lot Owners. The use of chemical treatment of existing vegetation, if necessary, must be accomplished through a State Licensed Pest Control Applicator. Case must be taken to prevent runoff of chemicals used onto the Slope Bank or outside the property lines. Existing Slope Bank Landscaping must be protected during grading operations through the use of fencing or other protective barriers. Adequate provisions must be made to prevent surface water runoff from damaging excavations; public or private property cut and fills slopes, both during and after 27

28 constructions. The erosion control requirements of the City and State shall be scrupulously followed. Site Drainage Surface drainage or paved areas must be sloped a minimum 1 percent, except for swimming pool deck areas which must be sloped at least ½ percent and shall be directed to deck drains and underground drain lines. Surface drainage or portions of the Homesite not covered with Hardscape must be sloped a minimum of 1 ½ percent except swale drainage of large turf areas which shall be sloped at least 2 percent. All sites unable to meet these minimum surface drainage rates must use underground drains, which transport drainage water to existing drains of the storm drainage system of The Community of Lafayette Shores development. All underground drains must contain approved inlets with an appropriate grate and maintain a minimum slope of 1 percent. All drain line material must be rigid Polystyrene; 1000 pound crush strength or equal, except when cast iron is required. Flex or ribbed drain line material is not acceptable except for use in subsurface dewatering systems. All existing Lot drainage patterns and Top of Slope berms shall be maintained as originally installed by Developer except modifications to Lot drainage will be considered if designed by a Civil Engineer and approved by the Architectural Committee. Drainage over the rear Top of Slope is prohibited. Weep holes or other provisions shall be made for drainage through or beneath privacy walls and fences where such Improvements obstruct the surface drainage. Landscape Design It is suggested that an Architect or Landscape Architect prepare Landscape Plans. The planting palettes, appended to these Architectural Standards, should be used in designing the landscaping of each Homesite. Deviation from these palettes will only be permitted upon written approval by the Architectural Review Committee or upon appeal to the majority vote of the Board of Directors of LSHOA. Streetscape Planting Zone The area of land within 15 feet from the edge of the sidewalk, or back of curb where applicable, toward the dwelling constitutes the Streetscape planting zone. Turf grass is recommended for ground cover in this area. The use of sod is highly encouraged. If shrubs and alternative ground covers are included because of the landscape design or space restraints, up to 50 percent of the Streetscape area may consist of support shrubs and support ground covers selected from the shrub and ground cover landscape palette and the balance in turf. 28

29 Front Yard Planting For plant material outside the Streetscape zone but located in front of the dwelling, it is suggested the owner install in each Lot at least two specimen front Yard trees, at least 8 to 10 feet tall, selected from the front Yard planting palette. It is recommended that at least 25% of this area be planted in turf grass. The use of sod is encouraged. The remaining plant material should be made up of shrubs and ground covers selected from the front Yard landscaping palette. The minimum acceptable planting are one 2 ½ inch caliper tree (two for estate or double lots) and from 25 to 30, three gallon container shrubs from the landscaping palette. Side and Rear Yard Planting It is suggested the owner make maximum use of specimen trees, at least 8 to 10 feet tall, selected from the side and rear yard planting palette. Shrubs and ground covers for the side and rear yards shall be similar to those included in the front yard palette. Landscaping in these areas shall be comparable to densities in the front Yard area. Placement of all front and rear yard trees will be subject to approval of the Architectural Committee in the interest of avoiding view obstruction. Planting Standards Landscape plant materials are to be considered as important visual unifying elements and should reflect the physical, functional, and aesthetic qualities of the Homesite. The planting should be designed to create a concordant exterior environment to complement the landscaping, which will be displayed throughout the Community. Plant material should be selected to relate to the scale and character of the Homesite and its Improvements. Trees and shrubs should be utilized to provide the principle visual enhancement, with herbaceous and quick growing plants representing only a small quantity of the planting. The recommended shrub-type and vine ground covers should be spaced so they completely cover the soil when mature. Close attention should be given to the use of plants so they create a livable environment for people. Plants may be used to provide screening, define three dimensional spaces, control erosion, glare, noise and dust, accentuate or re-emphasize land forms, and to define circulation patterns. It is recommended that installation of the plant materials be accomplished in a manner than reduces potential maintenance problems. Vines should be secured to vertical surfaces in permanent fashion without improvised trellises or other non-approved supports. Major trellis structures, designed as an integral past of the architecture, are permitted. 29

30 Irrigation It is recommended that all landscape areas have an underground irrigation system. Use of automatic controls is encouraged. It is highly recommended that all irrigation systems be professionally designed by either a Landscape Architect or an irrigation consultant to insure efficient water management and control for proper watering plant material. The use of wells or exclusion water meters is recommended to minimize Sanitation District sewage disposal charges. All pumps and other irrigation equipment must be screened from view or otherwise rendered inconspicuous. Pumps located within 10 feet of a property line shall be insulated for sound attenuation. Maintenance After installation of all landscaping it is recommended that a maintenance program be implemented. Problems such as irrigation adjustment and related plant failure should be corrected within a ninety (90) day period. The landscape maintenance program should include mowing and edging of turf grass at least once a week, water as required to maintain soil moisture necessary for proper plant growth, fertilizing at least four times a year with a balanced fertilizer, and controlling weeds through the selective use of approved post-emergent to pre-emergent herbicides. Consultation with a licensed pest control advisor is recommended prior to the use of insecticide and fungicide for pest and disease control. Yearly Inspections The Compliance Committee shall make a thorough inspection of the outside of all private property at least once each calendar year. The Compliance Committee shall issue a Notice to property owners found to be out of compliance with The Covenants and or The Standards. The Notice shall follow the rules established in the Bylaws and The Board of Directors. 30

31 Architectural Committee Submittal of drawings and specifications for the construction or installation of any and all Improvements within The Community of Lafayette Shores is to be made to the Architectural Committee at the following address: Lafayette Shores Homeowners Association Architectural Committee 3425 Norway Place Norfolk, Virginia The Board of Directors has the authority to change the address for the submittal of drawings and specifications. Approval of the Architectural Committee is required prior to the construction or installation of all Improvements. By way of illustration, but without limitation, submission to the Architectural Committee for approval is required for the following: 1. New construction or installations including dwellings, accessory buildings, garages, fences, retaining walls, steps, awnings, canopies, poles, mailboxes, trellises, patio, overheads or decks, gazebos, sundecks, piers, wind screens, tennis courts, swimming pools, fountains, spas, hot tubs, exterior recreational apparatus, exterior lighting, sound systems and solar energy systems. 2. Installation or revision of landscaping, hardscaping or surface or subsurface improvements including ground covers, trees, shrubs, plants, irrigation or drainage systems, recreation areas or courts, and surface grading and drainage. The Architectural Committee reserves the authority to waive and/or modify any of the guideline contained in the Architectural Standards. Waivers of requirements and/or modifications of the guidelines in the Architectural Standards will be considered pursuant to requests from owners only in response to demonstrated hardships due to specific Homesites. 31

32 Submissions Required City and Other Approvals Approval of any Improvement by the Architectural Committee does not waive the requirement of obtaining City of Norfolk and other governmental permits, nor does obtaining all required City of Norfolk permits waive the need for the Architectural Committee approval. The Architectural Committee will not knowingly approve a project which violates City of Norfolk building or zoning codes or those of any other governmental agency or entity, but takes no responsibility for verifying plan conformance to any criteria other than these Architectural Standards fro The Community of Lafayette Shores. Submissions Required for Review All submissions for the Construction or installation of any Improvements on a Homesite must be made in duplicate. The submissions must include the following information on Architectural Approval application Forms. The Architectural Committee upon request will provide the application forms to the Owner. A reproducible copy is included in the appendix. Lot Owner s Name Mailing Address Business and Residence Phone Numbers (include area code) Lot Number (s) (site of proposed construction) Address of Site Name, Address and Phone number of Architect or Owner s Representative List or number of drawing(s) and other documents or material submitted for review and approval. Submissions in two stages are recommended in the review and approval process, but not required. The first submission should show preliminary design; the second submission should consist of the Working Drawings, other construction documents, landscape plan, and material and color samples. On completion of the review and approval process, one set of each submission is retained by LSHOA and one set is returned to the Owner. It is suggested that all architectural designs and drawings be prepared and signed by an Architect, except for minor additions, alterations, patios and patio covers and site Improvements the drawings from which may be prepared be an Architect, Landscape Architect, or Civil Engineer. 32

33 Submittal No. 1 (Preliminary Design) Submittal Requirements Preliminary submittals must be prepared to scale and include all of the following: Application Form (Included on last page) Preliminary Plot and Site Plan: A. Show and dimension Lot lines accurately, including lengths, angles and lengths and degrees of curves, if any. B. Show all buildings, structures, fences, setbacks, sidewalks, slopes and street right-of-way contiguous to the Homesite. C. Show all proposed or existing buildings, principal and detached structures, fences, driveways, walls, recreation facilities and pier, if proposed. D. Show all principal dimensions of work to be considered, distances between existing and proposed work, and distances between proposed work and property lines. E. Show and dimension the required Building Envelope and Yards. F. Show location of HVAC condensers, electrical and gas metering bases and a proposed detail of their screening. Preliminary Roof Plan: A. Show plan of al proposed roofs with slope pitches, and ridge heights above Finish Grade unless these heights are shown on building elevation drawings. B. Show materials of all proposed roofing and flashing. C. Indicate any unusual roofing conditions or construction. The preliminary roof plan required information may be shown on the Preliminary Plot and Site Plan if doing so does not obscure the prime functions of that plan. Preliminary Floor Plan(s): A. Indicate all walls, partitions, columns, fenestrations and other openings, and general conditions or features that will affect the exterior appearance of the building. 33

34 B. Show clearly major items and parts of the building and appurtenant detail, including balconies, deck Porte, cocheres, atriums, carports, garages, storage buildings and other accessory structures. C. Show, in schedule form, the square foot areas of the living area of residence, garage, pools, recreation areas, patio covers, porches, etc. D. Include notes pertaining to items of the exterior that cannot be clearly noted on the elevations. Preliminary Elevations: A. Provide, to scale, exterior elevations of all proposed buildings. Show part elevations where necessary to illustrate portions of exterior walls, which would be otherwise, concealed in general elevations. B. All finish materials, colors, and textures should be identified if known at this time. C. Delineate the required Building Envelope in relation to the proposed structure for all elevations. Perspective or Isometric Renderings or Scale Models: Additional drawings or models are not required; however, perspective sketches or renderings or scale models may be submitted where the Owner considers they can help the Architectural Committee to understand the proposed Improvements. 34

35 Review Process of Submittal No. 1 Review Process When the Architectural Committee has determined that all requirements for Submittal No. 1 have been met, the Committee must, within thirty (30) calendar days thereafter meet and either approve or disapprove the proposed Improvements. Failure by the Architectural Committee to act within this thirty (30) day period will constitute an approval of the submittal. Should the Architectural Committee disapprove any submittal it will state the reason(s) therefore. The Owner is expected to take those reasons into consideration and to revise the preliminary submittal or to prepare new Submittals No. 1 for resubmission to the Architectural Committee. IF the requested revisions are nominal, the Owner may elect to proceed with Submittal No. 2, incorporation the requested minor revisions in the Working Drawings. The Owner has the right to appeal the decision of the Architectural Committee to the Board of Directors of LSHOA as provided in the Governing Documents. Submittal No. 2 (Working Drawings) Submittal No. 2 consists of the Working Drawings developed from all approved Submittal No. 1 preliminary drawings, if any, including all revisions required by the Architectural Committee. The Working Drawings must be prepared to scale and include at least all of the following: Architectural Drawings: A. Floor Plans and all other drawings, schedule, elevations, sections and details for architectural and structural systems as necessary to complete the construction of the Improvements. B. Mechanical, electrical, plumbing and other systems drawings, details and schedule as necessary and appropriate to complete the construction of the Improvements. C. Written trade specifications for all proposed work. Grading Plan: No. 1. A. Show, in definitive form, the information required for site plan Submittal B. Show contours and spot elevations, flow lines, finished grades, as necessary to define fully the grades and surface drainage. 35

36 C. Show erosion control methods and systems as required by regulatory agencies. Landscape Plan: The Landscape Plan should show at least the general location of the minimum required plantings and any vegetative screens. If an extended landscaping effort is contemplated the Committee may request: A. Drainage for surface and subsurface storm water, including direction of flow and type and size of drainage facilities. B. Soil preparation and irrigation system and specifications. C. Types, sizes, and locations of all plant materials. D. All fences, walls, trellises, arbors and gazebos and other Plot and Grading Plan information, which affect the landscape, design, such as berms or terraces. Pool Plans: If a swimming pool is to be constructed, Submittal No. 2 shall include plans for the pool, fence enclosure, deck construction, drainage, pool equipment and other related construction. Because of the soils and ground water conditions in this location it is strongly recommended that the services of a Soils Engineer be retained to review pool plans and specifications prior to executing a construction contract. Exterior Color Selection: The Committee requires al exterior colors to be approved. These include, but are not necessarily limited to: roof, brick, siding, trim, doors, windows, and pavers. Extreme colors or color combinations are generally discouraged however, the Committee will consider any color or color combination subject to the overall effect desired by the applicant; the appropriateness of the use and the broad harmony of the streetscape. The Committee requires that all paint colors or material samples such as brick, shingles or pavers be provided in small chips or wafers appropriately labeled fro point(s) of use. A mounting board is ideal for this. If approved, the sample will be retained for a file copy. The Committee reserves the right to disapprove any color or color combination even if previously approved on another residence in Lafayette Shores. This is especially true if identical or near identical colors is proposed for residences in close proximity. 36