Urban

APPROVED
17 Avenue SW
urban design strategy
calgary.ca/centrecity | call 3-1-1

APPROVED
17 Avenue SW
urban design strategy
calgary.ca/centrecity | call 3-1-1

PUBLISHING INFORMATION
TITLE: 17 AVENUE SW URBAN DESIGN STRATEGY
AUTHOR: LAND USE PLANNING & POLICY

PLANNING, DEVELOPMENT & ASSESSMENT
STATUS: APPROVED 2008 MARCH 10
PRINTING DATE: 2008 MARCH
ADDITIONAL COPIES: THE CITY OF CALGARY

RECORDS & INFORMATION MANAGEMENT (RIM)
P.O. BOX 2100, STN “M”, #8115
CALGARY, ALBERTA T2P 2M5
PHONE: (403) 268-5333 or Call 3-1-1

FAX: (403) 268-4615
WEB: www.calgary.ca/centrecity
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Table of Contents
Acknowledgment .....................................................ii 7.0 Case Studies .....................................................37
1.0 Background.........................................................1 7.1 East Precinct Context: ..............................38
2.0 Role of The Strategy ..........................................2 Case Study 1: Stampede Entrance .........38
3.0 Stakeholder Engagement .................................3 Case Study 2: Rouleauville Park .............40
4.0 Local Character Discussion .............................4 7.2 Central Precinct .........................................42
4.1. The East Precinct .......................................6 Case Study 3: Tomkins Park.....................42
4.2 The Central Precinct ...................................8 7.3 West Precinct ............................................44
4.3 The West Precinct.....................................10 Case Study 4: 11 Street S.W. Intersection44
5.0 Uses....................................................................12 8.0 Implementation.................................................46
5.1 Uses & Use Sizes ......................................12
6.0 Public Realm Guidelines .................................13
6.1 Pedestrian Realm Guidelines ..................14
6.1.1 “Build to” Incentive .........................15
6.1.2 Pedestrian Realm Scenarios..........15
6.2 Built Form Guidelines ................................30
MARCH 2008 APPROVED i

Acknowledgment
The City wishes to acknowledge the contributors of Sturgess
Architecture in the stakeholder engagement and analysis
components of this Strategy. Section 7.0 Case Studies is the
product of Sturgess Architecture.
ii APPROVED APPROVED 17 AVENUE SW URBAN DESIGN STRATEGY

1.0 BACKGROUND
1.0 Background
Once a boundary to the city in the early 1900’s, 17 Avenue SW including on-street parking, appropriate plantings and an
has always been an important artery in Calgary. It marks the animated and safe pedestrian environment. The pedestrian
intersection of the CPR established downtown grid with the realm, especially the interface zone must accommodate a
alignment of the greater city grid. It is the original surveyor’s full range of activities from retail to patios. High streets are
correction line with the confluence of the two grids occurring characterized by:
at the centre of the avenue at Tomkins Park.
s Upgraded sidewalks;
Today, 17 Avenue SW is often viewed by many Calgarians as s Public art;
one of the City’s most vital and thriving thoroughfares. The
s Pedestrian scaled street lighting;
avenue is a medley of mixed-use commercial, residential and
office in varying building forms providing fluctuating degrees s Single tree boulevards;
and quality of public realm. As mentioned in the Beltline Area s Pedestrian scaled built form; and,
Redevelopment Plan (ARP), public realm can be defined as
s Enhanced street furniture.
“special places, linkages, interfaces and the building form
which are fundamental to the creation of a functional, visually The Strategy provides urban design guidelines for this
attractive and safe public realm”. portion of 17 Avenue SW. The guidelines aim to preserve
the unique personalities of different sections of the avenue,
The study area is comprised of both the north and south sides while providing a cohesive and consistent guideline for future
of a sixteen block stretch between MacLeod Trail SE to 14 development along the whole avenue. The guidelines will
Street SW. There currently exists a need within this portion address:
of 17 Avenue SW to define and identify the character of the
avenue so that it can be preserved and enhanced through s Pedestrian oriented development;
future development. s Building massing and scale; and
This avenue has been identified by the Centre City Plan as a s Interfaces between public and private realm.
High Street, typically found in areas with historic character
or high-density retail areas with a high concentration of
pedestrian movement. High streets represent a model of the
traditional main street with mixed use, medium to high-density
developments, and provide flexible transportation alternatives
MARCH 2008 APPROVED 1

2.0 ROLE OF THE STRATEGY
2.0 Role of The Strategy

The 17 Avenue SW Urban Design Strategy is a non-statutory s Lower Mount Royal ARP; and,
document that provides guidelines for development and
s The Beltline ARP.
makes recommendations for future action. It addresses the
interaction and relationship between buildings, landscape, The Strategy will be used in addition to these documents to
road right of ways and public spaces to encourage livability guide design for new development. Other applicable plans
and vitality along the avenue. There are four communities include:
which are represented along the thoroughfare. s The Centre City Plan
These communities are: This plan is non-statutory in nature, but does contain ideas,
actions and projects that relate to the avenue.
s Mission: 1 St. SE to 4 St. SW on the south side of 17
Avenue; Currently there is no unified strategy for the 17 Avenue SW
s Cliff Bungalow: 4 St. SW and College Lane SW on the corridor to address urban design ideas and guidelines for
south side of 17 Avenue SW; sidewalks, streetscapes, public spaces, and built form along
both sides of the avenue. The Strategy is sensitive to the
s Lower Mount Royal: College Lane SW and 14 St SW on
character of the avenue and surrounding neighbourhoods. It
the south side of 17 Avenue SW; and,
strives to maintain a high quality of urban design and built
s Beltline: Macleod Trail SE and 1 St SE on the south side form similar to the character of the avenue that Calgarians
of 17 Avenue SW and between Macleod Trail SE and 14 have come to expect.
St SW on the north side of 17 Avenue SW.
Each of the communities has an Area Redevelopment Plan
(ARP) that guides land use and development for the area.
Applicable ARP’s include:
s Mission ARP;
s Cliff Bungalow ARP;
2 APPROVED APPROVED 17 AVENUE SW URBAN DESIGN STRATEGY

3.0 STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT
3.0 Stakeholder Engagement

Comprehensive consultation with stakeholders ensured development expected within the area in terms of use,
that public opinion and values were taken into account in density and design. Each of these ARP’s were informed by
the creation of these guidelines. Stakeholders from the the 17 Avenue SW engagement input. Also, the new Land
above mentioned communities, as well as local Business Use Bylaw 1P2007 has created new districts for commercial
Revitalization Zones were consulted through two public corridors that apply to 17 Avenue SW. These new districts have
open houses held on September 20th 2005, and October incorporated provisions that address some of the concerns
25th, 2005. The intent of these open houses was to gather raised through the earlier 2005 engagement process. With
information on issues relating to developments along the these pieces now in place, The Strategy brings them together
avenue. These open houses identified a number of design in a unified vision for the 17 Avenue SW corridor.
aspects such as:
s Building typology;
s Building character;
s Urban edges;
s Building interface
s Building massing; and,
s The quality of the public realm.
A stakeholder presentation was held to review the ideas
prior to the final open house held at the beginning of January,
2006.
Between 2005 and 2007, significant work was completed

on the Centre City Plan which identified street and road
typologies vital to the development of 17 Avenue SW. Work
on this plan also included significant stakeholder engagement
and discussed the vision for 17 Avenue SW along with the rest
of the Centre City. Additionally, new ARP’s were approved for
Mission and Beltline, which have further clarified the future

4.0 LOCAL CHARACTER DISCUSSION
4.0 Local Character Discussion

The local context of an area includes a variety of physical MAP 1: Study Area
aspects which are visible and tangible; such as elements
14 ST SW
pertaining to the built form, redevelopment opportunities,
and open space patterns. The Beltline ARP defines character
areas as: “areas that are identifiable as having special or 14 AV SW
unique qualities that are different from neighbouring areas

within the community”. Using this thinking, the avenue can
15 AV SW
be differentiated into three different precincts, each with its
12 ST SW
11 ST SW
10 ST SW
own unique character, personality and potential.
16 AV SW
16 AV SW
The first precinct is located between MacLeod Trail SE and
2 Street SW (the East Precinct), the second precinct from 2 17 AV SW 17 AV SW
Street SW to 9th Street SW (The Central Precinct), and the

third precinct between 9th Street SW and 14 Street SW (the
9A ST SW
West Precinct).
CAMERON AV SW
CAMERON AV SW
10 ST SW
14A ST SW
BAGOT AV SW
ROYAL AV SW
10A ST SW
11 ST SW
14 ST SW
12 ST SW
Legend
13 ST SW
Ownership Parcels
COLBORNE CR SW
Buildings 1:10,500

2 ST
4
1 ST S
1 ST SE
13 AV SW
13 AV SW
13 AV SW
13 AV SE
CENTRE ST S
MACLEOD TR SE
14 AV SW
14 AV SW
14 AV SW
14 AV SE
15 AV SW
9 ST SW
8 ST SW
15 AV SW
7 ST SW
6 ST SW
15 AV SW
5 ST SW
15 AV SE
17 AV SW 17 AV SW 17 AV SW 17 AV SE
E ST S
1 ST SE
CENTRE
18 AV SW 18 AV SE
18 AV SW 18 AV SW 18 AV SE
9 ST SW
PARK RD SE
1 ST SW
8 ST SW
MACLEOD TR SE
COLLEGE LN SW
19 AV SW
19 AV SW 19 AV SW
4 ST SW
5A ST SW
5 ST SW
20 AV SW
ROYAL AV SW 20 AV SW
9 ST SW
HOPE ST SW
7 ST SW
1S
X:\149_...\GIS\mxd\lett....mxd
TS
4.1. The East Precinct
1 ST SW
MACLEOD T
CENTRE ST
2S
1 ST SE
1 215 AV
A SW 3 4 5 6
15 AV
A SE
16
17 AV
A SW 17 AV
A SE
2 ST SW
7 8 18 AV
A SW 9 10 1811 12
A SE
AV 13 14 15 17
ST SW
SE
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
Built Form 13. Many “dead” spaces
3. Inconsistent front setbacks & street 17. Varying sidewalk width

wall
4. Single purpose buildings (mainly auto Linkages
related)
8 9 10 16. Bound by Light Rail Transit (LRT)
5. Low quality architecture lines & a pedestrian ramp
6. Variety of building forms ranging 16. No ground level access points
mainly from one to two storey for either pedestrians or vehicles
buildings through to Stampede Park
9. Encourages automotive traffic
14. Very little transparency at the Special Places
11 12 13 pedestrian level 7. Rouleauville Park/St Mary’s
15. Heritage Conversions
Building Interface
1. Minimal interaction with the space
2. Overhead power-lines dominating
sidewalk
14 15 16 8. Large signage encroaching into the
public realm for each individual use
10. Front parking lots
11. Automotive specialty and repair
dominate the node in terms of use
12. Uneven pavement & deteriorating
sidewalk quality
17

4.2 The Central Precinct

14 AV
A SW
2 ST SW
5 ST SW
15 AV
A SW
15 AV
A SW
9 ST SW
7 ST SW
1 2 3 4 5 6
15 A
AV SW
ST SW
SW
6 ST S
8S
4 ST SW
16 AV
A SW
17 AV
A SW AV SW
17 A A SW
17 AV
gend
18 AV
A SW
LLEGE LN SW
Ownership Parcels
Residential 7
18 AV SW 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16
5 ST SW
Residential Garages and Decks
Commercial
W
W
1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Built Form 13. On-street parking begins at

2 St SW,
2. Mainly retail and restaurants with
some intermittent office use. 14. Avenue becomes more textured
2. Pedestrian oriented 15. Some parking at the front of

buildings at east end of precinct
8 9 10 2. Building height ranging mainly from
1-3 storeys.
2. Presence of an urban edge scaled Linkages
for human use rather than vehicular 1. Connections to 4 St SW & 8th St
use. SW
4. Patio setbacks range from 1.5–3.0
metres from the back of curb. Special Places
5. Setbacks ranging from 3.0-6.0
11 12 13 1. Western Canada High School
metres from the back of curb to the
3. Heritage Building
building front.
8. The Devenish building
6. At-grade, individually accessed uses
10. Tomkins Park
11. Some buildings/sites are not
16. Public Art
currently pedestrian oriented
Building Interface
14 15 16 5. More continuous building frontage
7. Narrow pedestrian right of ways at
specific spots
9. Improved lighting standards,
9. Banners for signage
12. Improved pavement materials

4.3 The West Precinct
9 ST SW
16 AV
A SW
1 2 3 4 16 AV
A SW 5 6
17 AV
A SW A SW
17 AV
13 ST SW
14 ST SW
11 ST SW
10 ST SW
12 ST SW
10A ST SW
9A ST SW
7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16
1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Built Form 11. Pedestrian oriented spaces
1. Some lot access driveways 14. Most redevelopment consistent

with older setbacks
2. Trees spaced every 10.0- 20.0
metres
Linkages
8 9 10 3. Inconsistent building frontage
6. Surface parking lots 7. 14 Street SW, 11th St SW
6. Various forms of street furniture

located between back of curb and Special Places
building front 8. Heritage building
9. Building setbacks ranging from
3.0-10.0 metres
11 12 13 13. Some vacant sites

15. Higher densities for residential
16. Intermittent historic lamp posts
Building Interface
2. Big display windows – transparent to
pedestrian
14 15 16 4. Large, auto-oriented signage
5. Larger storefronts
9. Automotive oriented spaces
10. New retail developments

5.0 USES
5.0 Uses
General
One of the main character defining elements of 17 Avenue
SW is the variety of uses and the spacing between uses
at the street level. The new C-COR-1 District of Land Use
Bylaw 1P2007 ensures that street level uses remain small
in size (a maximum of 465 square metres) and that they are
predominantly retail and service oriented. For example, offices
and medical clinics are not allowed on the ground floor and
large floor area uses are to be located above or below street
level. These rules are entirely consistent with the overall vision
for 17 Avenue SW.
5.1 Uses & Use Sizes

In addition to the Bylaw rules, another level of guideline is
needed to preserve the fine-grain, retail character of the
Central Precinct.
In general, financial institutions will be strongly discouraged at

street level. Where permitted, the maximum storefront width
fronting 17 Avenue SW should be no greater than 7.5 metres.
This will encourage the inclusion of small “liner shops” to
mask the main financial institution floor space, thereby
preserving a fine-grain of shops and an active street level.

6.0 PUBLIC REALM GUIDELINE
6.0 Public Realm Guidelines

Much of the character of the avenue derives from the lacking an overall sense of place and identity. These guidelines
organization and character of the public realm generated will help to unify the avenue while building on the existing
from the overall spatial configuration and details of specific physical characteristics of the individual precincts.
elements. Since the existing boundaries of the public realm
are inconsistent along the length of the Avenue, the area is
Gradual changes of setbacks are in direct co-relation with building type,

building height and use at grade (retail, hospitality, office, service) 17th AVENUE
PUBLIC REALM — INTRODUCTION
Public realmconsists
Public realm consists of three
of three main main elements
elements: -
linkages,
Linkages, Places
places and built form,and Built
where eachForm, where functions,
has different each of
those haveand
opportunities different functions,
constraints. opportunities
In high density urban envi-
and constraints
ronments, they are.found
In high
in a density
variety ofurban environ-
relationships and
Continuous, unified setbacks without dramatic depth changes, fine grain ment all of them are in endless variety of rela-
vertical orientation of facades and fenestration and active interface (edges) configurations. Careful manipulation of these elements
provide physical and cognitive setup for successful urban pedestrian tionships that can be used for the creation of
experience to create a unified
functional, but also urban environment
beautiful, is achieved
experiential with
urban
environment. Careful manipulation of those
urban design guidelines.
relationships is achieved with urban design
tools , oneofofbuilt
Continuity which
formis(building
urban design
or streetguidelines.
wall) is essen-
tial for the creation of a high quality urban environment,
Continuity of Built form (building or street wall)
especially for the High Street typology of 17 Avenue SW.
is essential for the creation of a high quality
Continuous cornice lines, unified setbacks without dra-
urban environment, especially in the High
Variety of streetscape situations can be harmonized and unified with the matic depth
Street changes,
Typology of height
17thandAvenue.
massing of the building
Continuous
provision of limited number of building setbacks, space for trees, public art,
patios and street furniture. cornice
base and lines, unified
activities setbacks
and design of thewithout dramatic
street wall at street
depth changes,
level provide height and
the physical andcognitive
massingenvironment
of the base for
and activities
a successful andrealm.
public design of street wall at street
level provide the physical and cognitive
environment for successful public realm.
Treatment of the pedestrian realm /built form interface
is related to land use, building typology, building height,
Treatment of Pedestrian realm /Interface design
is in direct
activities correlation
at-grade, to of
and location land use,points.
access building
Con-
typology, building
flicting situations canheight, activities
be harmonized andat grade,
unified and
with the
location of space
provision of accessfor points. Variety
trees, public art, of conflicting
attractive store-
situations can lights.
fronts and street be harmonized and unified with
the provision of space for trees, public art,
attractive storefronts and street lights.

6.1 Pedestrian Realm Guidelines East Precinct

The existing built condition with respect to curb location,
property lines, sidewalk dimensions and building setbacks North Side:
is inconsistent along the length of the study area. Property A minimum building setback of 9.0 metres and patio setback
lines are typically located 3.0 metres from the back of the of 4.5 metres from the back of curb.
curb creating the predominant sidewalk condition. In some
This wider pedestrian realm is encouraged on the north side
cases, commercial buildings are built right to the edge of their
for the following reasons:
property lines in order to create a strong built retail edge, and
in other instances, they are set back from this line. Other s it is achievable given that all sites can and likely will be
buildings have been constructed 5.0 metres back from their redeveloped over time;
property line in order to allow for the 5.182 metres bylawed s it allows for greatest sun exposure; and
setback requirement in place when 17 Avenue SW was s it helps offset the higher densities and taller buildings
conceived to become a major vehicular thoroughfare. Lastly, allowed in this location.
there are some buildings whose property lines are located as
far back as 8.0 to 10.0 metres from the curb. South Side:
A minimum building or patio setback of 4.5 metres from the
back of curb.
In order to unify the pedestrian realm of the Avenue over the
long term and to ensure a comfortable width to allow safe
pedestrian circulation and a full range of urban “street life” Central and West Precincts
activities, the following dimensions shall be achieved with
new development or redevelopment: Both Sides:
A minimum building or patio setback of 4.5 metres from the
back of curb.

6.1.1 “Build to” Incentive 6.1.2 Pedestrian Realm Scenarios

Over time, existing development that has been set back from The following pages present a variety of scenarios that
the street due to the previous bylawed setback is encouraged illustrate in greater detail how these guidelines will be
to “build to” these dimensions. As an incentive, new floor implemented depending on the site specific context. Each
area created for this reason may be exempt from any parking drawing also shows the maximum building setbacks for each
requirement. scenario.
17th AVENUE
TYPICAL CROSS-SECTION

PEDESTRIAN REALM - ZONES LEGEND
4 SIDEWALK ZONE
1 ( unobstructed path )
BOULEVARD ZONE
2 ( urban forestry, urban
furniture, streetlights,
2 Public transit stops, sign-
age, public art)
PUBLIC DOMAIN
7 6 INTERFACE ZONE
3 ( hardscape / landscape
treatment, patios, Sea-
sonal retail activities, tem-
porary signage )
CURB
4
1
URBAN BRAILLE TAC-
5 TILE GUIDE
TREES
6
5
PUBLIC ART ELEMENTS
7
BUILDING WALL
8
PRIVATE DOMAIN
( retail / office / residen-

3 tial / public art interface)
6
PROPERTY LINE
8

17th AVENUE
CALGARY URBAN BRAILLE SYSTEM
1
5 LEGEND
3
2 SIDEWALK
1
4 1
1 CROSSWALKS
2 2
2 VEHICULAR REALM ( Traffic lanes )

3
INTERSECTION
4
3
BUILDING WALL
5 ( retail / office / residential / public art interface)
SIDEWALK
4 4 2 3 1 DIRECTION TILE
30 cm Sidewalk Direction Tile—basic
prefabricated element, gives sense of direc-
tion on unobstructed path
INTERSECTION
2 NODE TILE
Basic prefabricated element-Informs about
possible direction change
EDGE WARNING TILE

3 (curb ramp)-basic prefabricated element
that warns user about change from pedes-
trian to vehicular realm
4 CROSSWALK DIRECTION TILE

basic prefabricated element that guides
user about change from pedestrian to ve-
hicular realm

17th AVENUE
URBAN EDGE STANDARD, TYPE 1
PARALLEL PARKING
LEGEND
SIDEWALK ZONE
4 1 ( unobstructed path )
BOULEVARD ZONE
2 ( urban trees and furniture, streetlights,
150 cm
Public Transit stops, signage, wayfinding,

6 7 2 6 public art)
INTERFACE ZONE
3 ( hardscape / landscape treatment, patios,
PUBLIC DOMAIN
seasonal retail activities, temporary signage

outside of bus shelter zones )
CURB
4
URBAN BRAILLE TACTILE GUIDE
5 1 5
150 cm
TREES (public domain)

6
LOCATION FOR PUBLIC ART
7
PPRIVATE DOMAIN
BUILDING WALL
8
150 cm
( retail / office / residential / public art

Leveled with sidewalk and ground floor interface)
3
PROPERTY LINE
UNDERGROUND GARAGE LINE
STOREFRONT
BUILDING OVERHANG: Max.. 1.5 m
8 from building storefront face

17th AVENUE
LEGEND
SIDEWALK ZONE
BOULEVARD ZONE
public art)
INTERFACE ZONE
6 6 CURB
4
5
6
LOCATION FOR URBAN FURNITURE &
7 PUBLIC ART
BUILDING WALL
8 8
8 ( retail / office / residential / public art
interface)
7 5 7 5
4 2 1 3 4 2 1 3
PROPERTY LINE

from building storefront face
ALTERNATIVE 1 ALTERNATIVE 2

PARALLEL PARKING 17th AVENUE

4
LEGEND
150 cm
6 7 2 6 1
SIDEWALK ZONE
( unobstructed path )
BOULEVARD ZONE
PUBLIC DOMAIN

public art)
INTERFACE ZONE
5 1 outside of bus shelter zones )
150 cm
CURB
4
5
6
150 cm
Leveled with sidewalk and ground floor

3 7
LOCATION FOR STREET FURNITURE &
PUBLIC ART
PPRIVATE DOMAIN
SEASONAL PATIO
8
BUILDING WALL
Transparent fence 9 ( retail / office / residential / public art
8
180 cm
PROPERTY LINE
8
STOREFRONT

17th AVENUE
LEGEND
SIDEWALK ZONE
BOULEVARD ZONE
public art)
INTERFACE ZONE
6 6
CURB
4
5
8 8 6
LOCATION FOR STREET FURNITURE
7 & PUBLIC ART
8 LOCATION FOR STREET FURNITURE

& PUBLIC ART
7 5 7 5
SEASONAL PATIO
4 2 1 3 4 2 1 3 9
PROPERTY LINE
UNDERGROUND GARAGE:Min. setback 0.15
ALTERNATIVE 1 ALTERNATIVE 2
BUILDING OVERHANG: Max. 1.5 m from build
ing face

PARALLEL PARKING 17th AVENUE

4 URBAN EDGE STANDARD, TYPE 3
LEGEND
6
150 cm
2 6 SIDEWALK ZONE
PUBLIC DOMAIN
BOULEVARD ZONE
public art)
INTERFACE ZONE
150 cm
5 3
CURB
4
5
150 cm
STOREFRONT Leveled with sidewalk and ground floor TREES (public domain)
6
8 TREES (private domain)
PPRIVATE DOMAIN
7
UNDERGROUND GARAGE LINE if min. 1.5 m SOIL DEPTH PROVIDED
RESTAURANT PATIO
8 (Large)
7 7 3 7
BUILDING WALL
interface)
8
450 cm
PROPERTY LINE
Min. vertical clearance under
150 cm
UNDERGROUND GARAGE:Min. setback 0.15 m

building overhang 7.5 m
9
BUILDING OVERHANG: Max. 1.5 m from build-
ing face
STOREFRONT

17th AVENUE
LEGEND
SIDEWALK ZONE
BOULEVARD ZONE
public art)
INTERFACE ZONE
6 7 seasonal retail activities, temporary signage
CURB
4
5
9 TREES (public domain)
6
TREES (private domain)
7
8 LOCATION FOR STREET FURNITURE

& PUBLIC ART
SEASONAL PATIO
9
8 5
8 4 2 1 3
PROPERTY LINE
UNDERGROUND 6 GARAGE:Min. setback
BUILDING OVERHANG: Max. 1.5 m from build-

ing face

1 17th AVENUE
150 cm
3 2 3
LEGEND
CURB
1
PUBLIC DOMAIN
URBAN FURNITURE &

2 PUBLIC ART LOCATION
TREES (Public domain)

4 3
150 cm
4
5 TREES (private domain)

Leveled with sidewalk and ground floor
150 cm
TREE PLANTER
6 Max.120 cm above the grade
(columnar trees only)
UPPER LEVEL: PATIO / RETAIL

7 LOWER LEVEL: RETAIL+LIVE / WORK
PPRIVATE DOMAIN
150 cm
BUILDING WALL
5 6 8 ( retail / office / residential / public art
interface)
450 cm
300 cm
7 PROPERTY LINE
8 BUILDING OVERHANG: Max.. 4.5 m

STOREFRONT

17th AVENUE
3 3 3
7 8 7 8 7 8
5 5 5
6 6 6
4 4 4
1 2 1 2 1 2
LEGEND
CURB TREES (private domain)
1 5 PROPERTY LINE
TREE PLANTER UNDERGROUND GARAGE LINE

2 URBAN FURNITURE & 6 Max.120 cm above the grade (columnar trees only)
PUBLIC ART LOCATION
TREES (Public domain) UPPER LEVEL: PATIO / RETAIL from building storefront face
3 7 LOWER LEVEL: RETAIL+LIVE / WORK
URBAN BRAILLE TACTILE GUIDE BUILDING WALL
4 8 ( retail / office / residential / public art interface)

1 17th AVENUE
150 cm
3 2 3 LEGEND
CURB
1
PUBLIC DOMAIN
URBAN FURNITURE &

4 3 TREES (Public domain)

150 cm
4 URBAN BRAILLE TACTILE GUIDE
5 TREES (Private domain)

150 cm
PLANTER WITH COLUMNAR OR

6
Leveled with sidewalk and ground floor OTHER DECORATIVE TREES
COLONNADE: EXTENDED SIDEWALK +
7 PATIO+RETAIL+LIVE/WORK COURTYARD
BUILDING WALL
150 cm

PPRIVATE DOMAIN
5 6 interface)
PROPERTY LINE
450 cm

300 cm
7
COLONNADE / ARCADE
8
STOREFRONT

17th AVENUE
LEGEND
CURB
1
URBAN FURNITURE &

3 TREES (Public domain)
4 URBAN BRAILLE TACTILE GUIDE

3 5
PLANTER WITH COLUMNAR OR

6
OTHER DECORATIVE TREES
7 COLONNADE: EXTENDED SIDEWALK +
7 PATIO+RETAIL+LIVE/WORK COURTYARD
8
BUILDING WALL
interface)
6
PROPERTY LINE

4
1 2 BUILDING OVERHANG: Max.. 4.5 m



Urban Edge Standards by Precinct

Determining which urban edge standard is used for a particular site will depend on where the site is located.
This table illustrates the preferred urban edge standard by precinct.
PRECINCTS
East Central West
TYPE 1
s s s
TYPE 2
-- s s
TYPE 3
s* -- --
TYPE 4
s s* s*
TYPE 5
s -- --
* Preferred on North side

6.2 Built Form Guidelines

The term “context” involves the consideration of buildings as entrances, storefronts, signage, etc. All these elements
beyond a particular site’s immediate neighbours. An directly influence the perception of “human scale” and our
evaluation of existing sites along 17 Avenue should always experience of the urban environment. A building or block
include massing, scale, height, proportions of fenestration, along 17 Avenue SW may continue a certain streetscape
nature and quality of materials used, textures and colours. rhythm through various aspects of its structure or shape
and placement of its openings. New infill development may
One of the most important elements in urban design is rhythm
establish new points of symmetry and balance and may
– an orderly alternation of primary, secondary and tertiary
strengthen existing patterns or stimulate the establishment of
17th AVENUE elements of a building, block or precinct. When moving along
new built form patterns. The following guidelines are intended
BUILT FORM GUIDELINES the street as a pedestrian, one subconsciously experiences
to facilitate change, acknowledge the best existing patterns
a rhythm of building mass to building openings. There is
and suggest the best solutions for future low, medium and
INFILL also a rhythmic relationship between tertiary elements such
high density infill projects.
13
13
13
14 14
7
5 11
8
11 11 5
8
3 9 9 14 3 9
9
6 2 4
10 10
1
12

1 Building edges that are oriented toward a public right-of-way should be 11 Facades shall be highly articulated and incorporate vertically oriented
lined with uses that create activity and provide natural surveillance. fenestration and other applicable architectural elements that suggest
a rhythm of narrower business frontages. As a guideline, a business
2 Canopies or other architectural features that are integrated with the frontage width of 7.5 m is considered to be a useful benchmark.
overall building design should be provided to protect pedestrians from
inclement weather. 12 New developments are encouraged to consider provision of below-
grade uses that can be accessed directly from the sidewalk.
3 The base of the building should be designed to create a human scaled
street wall and establish a strong visual rhythm. 13 All rooftops, including podiums of taller buildings are encouraged to
incorporate landscape amenities or green roofs in order to achieve
4 New infill development shall avoid the creation of blank building living, aesthetic and environmental benefits.
facades. Facades shall be pedestrian scaled, create visual interest
and use fully transparent glass. 14 The base of infill buildings should be capped with strong cornice lines
or similar contemporary architectural features that maintain the street
5 There should be strongly defined transition between the base and continuity of existing buildings.
the body of a building through the use of setbacks, materials or other
applicable architectural treatments such as cornices, canopies, or
trellises.
6 Body materials may differ from base materials, but compatibility and
transition between materials should be considered and the rhythm of
the lower floors should be respected. Building elements in this zone
may have a “lighter” appearance with more glazing than used at the
base.
7 Special consideration should be given to the excessive use of dark

coloured reflective glass and textures in order to prevent negative
light reflection impacts on surrounding properties.
8 Fully or partially recessed balconies, regardless of size, are preferred

over “tacked on” balconies, especially on higher floors.
9 Weather protection features that are integral to the architectural

design of the building are encouraged along street with commercial
activities where retail and office spaces are located on lower portions
of the building, or where the public might congregate, such as transit
stops.
10 Street front elevations shall be highly transparent and allow for

unobstructed pedestrian views directly into the business for minimum
of two-thirds of the façade length.

17th AVENUE
STREETSCAPE PRINCIPLES
15
CENTRAL & WESTERN PRECINCTS
6 15
7 1 SIDEWALK ZONE ( unobstructed path )
15 BOULEVARD ZONE
1 2
( urban forestry, urban furniture, streetlights,
Public transit stops, signage, public art)
9
10 3 INTERFACE ZONE ( hardscape / landscape
10
15 treatment, patios, Seasonal retail activities, tem-
porary signage )
8 8
6
4 CALGARY URBAN BRAILLE

5
11
11 15
6
4 6
SMALL PATIO
7
5
5 14
4 LARGE PATIO
8
12 11 PORTICO / GATEWAY / ARTISTIC

10 3 9
TRANSPARENT SCREEN
14
9 10 PUBLIC ART
3
11 URBAN FURNITURE
1 2
2 13

1 Building edges that are oriented toward a public right-of-way street with commercial activities where retail and office
should be lined with uses that create activity and provide spaces are located on lower portions of the building, or where
natural surveillance. the public might congregate, such as transit stops.
2 Canopies or other architectural features that are integrated 10 Street front elevations shall be highly transparent and allow
with the overall building design should be provided to protect for unobstructed pedestrian views directly into the business
pedestrians from inclement weather. for minimum of two-thirds of the façade length.
3 The base of the building should be designed to create a human 11 Facades shall be highly articulated and incorporate
scaled street wall and establish a strong visual rhythm. architectural elements that suggest a rhythm of narrower
business frontages. As a guideline, a business frontage width
4 New infill development shall avoid the creation of blank of 7.5 m is considered to be a useful benchmark.
building facades. Facades shall be pedestrian scaled, create
visual interest and use fully transparent glass. 12 New developments are encouraged to consider provision
of below-grade uses that can be accessed directly from the
5 There should be strongly defined transition between the sidewalk.
base and the body of a building through the use of setbacks,
materials or other applicable architectural treatments such as 13 Corner treatments may include full built-to-line corners,
cornices, canopies, or trellises. chamfered, semi-circled or other types of geometric
treatments. Corner treatments should include single or
6 Body materials may differ from base materials, but compatibility multiple entrances, full visual transparency at grade and
and transition between materials should be considered and protection from weather elements in form of colonnades or
the rhythm of the lower floors should be respected. Building architecturally integrated canopies.
elements in this zone may have a “lighter” appearance with
more glazing than used at the base. 14 Use colonnades for weather protection, and where opportunity
exists to extend the public realm by providing a wider sidewalk
7 Special consideration should be given to the excessive use of area. Colonnades may also be used for restaurant patios if
dark coloured reflective glass and textures in order to prevent sufficient size. Colonnades shall not extend into the public
negative light reflection impacts on surrounding properties. right-of-way.
8 Fully or partially recessed balconies, regardless of size, are

15 All rooftops, including podiums of taller buildings are
preferred over “tacked on” balconies, especially on higher encouraged to incorporate landscape amenities or green
floors. roofs in order to achieve living, aesthetic and environmental
benefits.
9 Weather protection features that are integral to the
architectural design of the building are encouraged along

17th AVENUE
STREETSCAPE PRINCIPLES
12
EASTERN PRECINCT
14 1 SIDEWALK ZONE ( unobstructed path )
10 6 BOULEVARD ZONE
2
( urban forestry, urban furniture, streetlights,
Public transit stops, signage, public art)
7
5 3 INTERFACE ZONE ( hardscape / landscape
3 13 11 treatment, patios, Seasonal retail activities, tem-
4 porary signage )
7 6 3 1
2 8 9 4 CALGARY URBAN BRAILLE
1
2 5
8
TREES (Private domain)
6
5 7 LARGE PATIO
10 10
4
8 PUBLIC ART
6

1 Building edges that are oriented toward a public right-of-way treatments. Corner treatments should include single or
should be lined with uses that create activity and provide multiple entrances, full visual transparency at grade and
natural surveillance. protection from weather elements in form of colonnades or
architecturally integrated canopies.
2 Canopies or other architectural features that are integrated
with the overall building design should be provided to protect 9 Use colonnades for weather protection, and where opportunity
pedestrians from inclement weather. exists to extend the public realm by providing a wider sidewalk
area. Colonnades may also be used for restaurant patios if
3 The base of the building should be designed to create a human
sufficient size. Colonnades shall not extend into the public
scaled street wall and establish a strong visual rhythm.
right-of-way.
4 New infill development shall avoid the creation of blank

10 All rooftops, including podiums of taller buildings are
building facades. Facades shall be pedestrian scaled, create
encouraged to incorporate landscape amenities or green
visual interest and use fully transparent glass.
roofs in order to achieve living, aesthetic and environmental
benefits.
5 There should be strongly defined transition between the
base and the body of a building through the use of setbacks,
11 The base of infill buildings should be capped with strong
materials or other applicable architectural treatments such as
cornice lines or similar contemporary architectural features
cornices, canopies, or trellises.
that maintain the street continuity of existing buildings.
6 Body materials may differ from base materials, but compatibility
12 It is encouraged that tower tops contribute to the skyline
and transition between materials should be considered and
profile by having reasonably identifiable or iconic architectural
the rhythm of the lower floors should be respected. Building
design that skillfully incorporates within the tower top all
elements in this zone may have a “lighter” appearance with
elevator cores and mechanical rooms.
more glazing than used at the base.
13 Building bases are encouraged to use masonry or other
7 For comprehensive block re-developments facades shall be
durable materials and other architectural details that establish
highly articulated and incorporate architectural elements
a strong vertical rhythm with human scaled elements.
that suggest a rhythm of narrower business frontages. As a
guideline, a business frontage width of 7.5 m is considered to 14 Body materials may differ from the base materials, but
be a useful benchmark. compatibility and transition between materials should
be considered and the rhythm of the lower floors should
8 Corner treatments may include full built-to-line corners,
be respected. Building in this zone may have a “lighter”
chamfered, semi-circled or other types of geometric
appearance with more glazing than used at the base.

This image of a High Street from

the Centre City Plan exemplifies the
desired character for 17 Avenue SW as
it develops over time.
This image represents a typical section

of the Central Precinct with the
incorporation of street trees consistent
along the section.

7.0 CASE STUDIES
7.0 Case Studies

In order to significantly enhance the quality and character of
17 Avenue SW, four major opportunities have been identified
to create new or improve on existing nodes. These nodes help
to “anchor” the avenue and create a dynamic and interesting
experience as one moves along the corridor. Each precinct is
represented in the case studies.
The role of these case studies is to inspire both private and

public redevelopment without prescribing or committing to
specific detailed solutions. They can serve as a guide for City
initiated projects and a suggestion for private redevelopment
opportunities.
The analysis, design and illustration of these case studies

was undertaken by Sturgess Architecture as part of their
contribution to the 17 Avenue SW Urban Design Strategy.

7.0 CASE STUDIES
7.1 East Precinct Context: Design Principles:

s Expand sidewalk width/ pedestrian zone
Case Study 1: Stampede Entrance s Create a connection through the Stampede grounds,
over the LRT tracks for both vehicular and pedestrian/
Context: bicycle traffic
s There is no current visual terminus of 17 Avenue SE at s Consistent with the Centre City Plan, the possibility
the east end of burying the LRT adjacent to Stampede should be
investigated. This would significantly increase the
s Macleod Trail connection to Stampede Park should be
presence and ceremony of Stampede Park at 17 Avenue
exploited
SE.
s Public realm should be expanded to accept greater at-
s Provide an increased public realm possibly through the
grade traffic related to Stampede and other events.
incorporation of a plaza and entrance features on the
s Greater residential density is expected in the first block
Stampede grounds
Existing Plan from the east.
s Utilize the greater building setbacks to create a row
of trees on private lands as an alternate to a central,
planted median.

7.0 CASE STUDIES
Proposed Plan
Axonometric
Perspective

7.0 CASE STUDIES
Case Study 2: Rouleauville Park
Context:
s Historic St. Mary’s Cathedral and Rouleauville Park
s Existing context includes church buildings and schools,
mixed single family and multi-family housing and retail
along 17 Avenue SW
s 1 ST. SW has a mix of retail and high-rise residential
towers
Design Principles
s Enhance the pedestrian connection through Rouleauville
Square to the Cathedral and the Alberta Ballet Building
to the Elbow River
s Frame Rouleauville Square with low-rise residential
buildings
s Extend plaza treatment to the Cathedral
s Enhance view of St. Mary’s Cathedral from 17 Avenue
SW by removing existing signage adjacent to 17 Avenue
SW
s Live-work/residential extends along 1 St SW
s Double row of trees is provided along 17 Avenue SW
Existing Plan

7.0 CASE STUDIES
Perspective
Proposed Plan
Axonometric

7.0 CASE STUDIES
7.2 Central Precinct Design Principles:

s Extend plaza treatment and design to incorporate
adjacent streets
Case Study 3: Tomkins Park
s Provide a double row of street trees at 17 Avenue SW
Context: edge and prune trees with a higher canopy
s Historic Devenish Building faces directly onto Tomkins s At-grade parking is still permitted on the plaza
Park delineated by bollards
s Potential for new retail/residential mix s At-grade parking from the lane permitted where
warranted
s Intensive office, retail and residential mixed use area
s Consider a new pedestrian bulb adjacent to the
s Major intersection of 8th St S.W. and 17 Ave S.W.
Devenish building to increase pedestrian realm
s Signify confluence of 8th St S.W. and 17 Ave S.W with a
Existing Plan significant piece of public art
Proposed Plan s Incorporate significant decorative lighting

7.0 CASE STUDIES
Perspective
Axonometric

7.0 CASE STUDIES
7.3 West Precinct Design Principles:

s Provide a new park on the corner of 11th Street and 17
Avenue SW by relocating the park on 16th Avenue to 17
Case Study 4: 11 Street S.W. Intersection
Avenue SW
Context: s Provide retail/residential edge to the new park
s Existing marginalized retail strip parking, large out of s Align residential buildings to line up axially with 11th
scale signage Street
s Connections to 11th Street at 17 Avenue SW are s Complete retail multi-family housing edge where
disconnected and need to be enhanced appropriate
s Establish a non-vehicular axial alignment north of 11th St
S.W.
Existing Plan Proposed Plan

7.0 CASE STUDIES
Perspective
Axonometric

8.0 IMPLEMENTATION
8.0 Implementation
The 17 Avenue SW Urban Design Strategy will be implemented
through the following methods:
1. The development application review process.
2. City-initiated public improvement projects, coordinated

through:
s The Business Planning and Budget Coordination

Process;
s Land Use Planning and Policy Work Program; and
s Centre City Implementation Work Programs.
3. Public improvement projects may be funded through the
Beltline Community Investment Fund and other methods
to be determined on a case by case or site by site basis.
4. Other possible methods and processes to be

determined.

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APPROVED

calgary.ca/centrecity | call 3-1-1

calgary.ca/centrecity | call 3-1-1

TITLE: 17 AVENUE SW URBAN DESIGN STRATEGY

AUTHOR: LAND USE PLANNING & POLICY

STATUS: APPROVED 2008 MARCH 10

PRINTING DATE: 2008 MARCH

ADDITIONAL COPIES: THE CITY OF CALGARY

PHONE: (403) 268-5333 or Call 3-1-1

MARCH 2008 APPROVED i

ii APPROVED APPROVED 17 AVENUE SW URBAN DESIGN STRATEGY

MARCH 2008 APPROVED 1

2.0 Role of The Strategy

2 APPROVED APPROVED 17 AVENUE SW URBAN DESIGN STRATEGY

3.0 Stakeholder Engagement

Between 2005 and 2007, signiﬁcant work was completed

MARCH 2008 APPROVED 3

4.0 Local Character Discussion

unique qualities that are different from neighbouring areas

Street SW to 9th Street SW (The Central Precinct), and the

4 APPROVED APPROVED 17 AVENUE SW URBAN DESIGN STRATEGY

4.1. The East Precinct

Built Form 13. Many “dead” spaces

3. Inconsistent front setbacks & street 17. Varying sidewalk width

MARCH 2008 APPROVED 7

4.2 The Central Precinct

8 APPROVED APPROVED 17 AVENUE SW URBAN DESIGN STRATEGY

Built Form 13. On-street parking begins at

2. Pedestrian oriented 15. Some parking at the front of

MARCH 2008 APPROVED 9

4.3 The West Precinct

10 APPROVED APPROVED 17 AVENUE SW URBAN DESIGN STRATEGY

Built Form 11. Pedestrian oriented spaces

1. Some lot access driveways 14. Most redevelopment consistent

6. Various forms of street furniture

11 12 13 13. Some vacant sites

MARCH 2008 APPROVED 11

5.1 Uses & Use Sizes

In general, ﬁnancial institutions will be strongly discouraged at

12 APPROVED APPROVED 17 AVENUE SW URBAN DESIGN STRATEGY

6.0 Public Realm Guidelines

Gradual changes of setbacks are in direct co-relation with building type,

MARCH 2008 APPROVED 13

6.1 Pedestrian Realm Guidelines East Precinct

14 APPROVED APPROVED 17 AVENUE SW URBAN DESIGN STRATEGY

6.1.1 “Build to” Incentive 6.1.2 Pedestrian Realm Scenarios

MARCH 2008 APPROVED 15

PEDESTRIAN REALM - ZONES LEGEND

( retail / office / residen-

16 APPROVED APPROVED 17 AVENUE SW URBAN DESIGN STRATEGY

2 VEHICULAR REALM ( Traffic lanes )

EDGE WARNING TILE

4 CROSSWALK DIRECTION TILE

MARCH 2008 APPROVED 17

Public Transit stops, signage, wayfinding,

seasonal retail activities, temporary signage

TREES (public domain)

( retail / office / residential / public art

18 APPROVED APPROVED 17 AVENUE SW URBAN DESIGN STRATEGY

BUILDING OVERHANG: Max.. 1.5 m

MARCH 2008 APPROVED 19

PARALLEL PARKING 17th AVENUE