B6.3.3 Materiality

Code: C6.12

To reduce the visual impact of large employment buildings in longer-range views (particularly where they sit against open landscapes or the skyline) external materials must incorporate a high-quality and innovative design. These must have regard to the surrounding local context and landscape character, taking reference from the Site Appraisal Assessment (C1.1 and G1.1 where applicable) and Local Character and Context Assessment (C1.2 and G1.2, where applicable).

Measures to achieve this may include:

  • establishing unique links to historic uses or local industrial heritage, where this can help create a distinct narrative connected to the site and its surroundings

  • using colour gradients or tonal changes to visually break down large building masses and reduce their dominance in longer-range views

  • avoiding highly reflective materials, stark white finishes, or bold dark contrasts that can increase visual prominence and detract from the wider landscape setting

The approach to materiality and supporting design principles must be documented within the DAS, masterplan and/or Design Code.

Exception: For minor applications which do not require submitting a DAS, the approach may be illustrated on scaled elevational drawings.

Code: C6.13

Large, uninterrupted elevations composed of a single material must be avoided, as they can result in monotonous and visually dominant façades.

A large cladded warehouse building with blue gradient panelling effects and small glazed windows along the long façade.

Figure 197: Shows how horizontal and vertical panelling and tonal changes can break up façades and reduce visual dominance (Code: C6.12)

A large green living wall consisting of varying planting on a large industrial building, framed with multiple timber panels, a glazed horizontal feature sits above and a curved metal roof.

Figure 198: Shows a living wall which activates the long public facing facade on the Leeds Recycling and Energy Recovery Facility (Guidance: G6.8 overleaf)

Code: C6.14

Materials that are prone to staining, weathering unevenly, or rapid visual deterioration must be avoided, as they can detract from the long-term quality and appearance of the development. Applicants must demonstrate the durability and weathering performance of proposed materials through manufacturer specifications, precedent examples, or material samples, particularly for exposed or prominent elevations.

Code: C6.15

Where large, blank façades are prominently visible from the public realm, applicants must incorporate design measures to enhance visual interest. These may include architectural detailing, integrated landscaping, or high-quality public art. If public art is proposed (including murals, sculptural elements, or light installations), it must be designed as a permanent, high-quality and integrated feature. Light installations must be designed to prevent unnecessary light pollution.

Guidance: G6.7

New development should ensure primary or prominent façades enhance visual interest. This may include the incorporation of living walls or vertical gardens which would contribute to biodiversity and environmental performance.

Where proposed, they should be designed for long-term viability, with appropriate irrigation systems and planting selections that can withstand prolonged dry or hot periods. An effective maintenance and management regime should also be secured to ensure continued performance and visual quality.

A large leisure centre which utilises various modern building materials such as concrete for the main structure, extensive glazing (glass) , timber battens for the façade, cladding panels, and block work for the internal walls.

Figure 199: Shows how high quality material choices combined with sculptural architectural detailing provide a positive frontage onto the street at Aspire @ The Park, Pontefract (Code: C6.15)