Community Design + Architecture uses the category of building to define not only the architecture of buildings, but also the design of streetscapes and open spaces, transit stops and stations, and the definition of public policies that directly shape the built environment. Building refers also to the development of policies and guidelines that directly shape the built environment. CD+A’s approach to design at this level occurs within the economic, transportation, and environmental context of the neighborhood, city, and region, and allows for designs that are socially, environmentally, and economically responsible.

Community Design + Architecture's approach to the Building scale of design is informed by:

• considering regional architectural traditions and climatic conditions while not necessarily recreating historic styles;
• working with the public, property owner or builder to define a clear understanding of the users wants and needs;
• defining a site plan, building massing, and landscape and architectural detail that make appropriate contributions to the public realm and the environment;
• employing principles and design details that further pedestrian-oriented design and provide equitable access to the public realm;
• integrating ecological systems within the built environment; and,
• recognizing the relationships and dependencies between the private and public realms.

CD+A’s architectural and landscape design experience has included work for a variety of public agencies and private institutions, religious groups, non-profits, and developers. Our design guidelines and standards assist in the implementation of city and neighborhood planning projects, and in some cases are written to be models for an entire region.