Façade Design Guidelines

The objective of the Façade Design Guidelines are to support the ongoing revitalization of the historic downtown core through the City’s Community Improvement Plan (CIP). Improved building appearances enhance the overall attractiveness of the area for new business, for shoppers and for people wishing to live work and/or conduct business in the area.

The guidelines provide examples and best practices for a successful façade improvement project for people considering applying for CIP funding for a façade improvement of their building. 

The program helps improve economic vitality through increase property values, improved marketability of space within the buildings and drawing business and residents to the area. Specifically, the program helps to: 

• Improve the overall quality of building façades in the program area and support the ongoing revitalization efforts of the historic downtown area
• Strengthen the role of downtown as a vibrant commercial and retail centre
• Improve the visual appearance of building façades
• Support property owners in their efforts to upgrade their properties and improving the viability of the buildings for new quality businesses to locate in the downtown
• Support business owners in their efforts to improve their storefronts and provide a high-quality façade appearances
• Encourage and support the restoration and reinstatement of historic building façades