Building Blocks

A total of 17 visual simulations – building blocks – were created to illustrate possible conditions likely to be created under the average 5 to 8 net units per acre in preferred scenario and a continuum of conditions from neighborhoods to village centers. They were also created to address residents’ concerns about uniformity and scale. The building blocks, based on Kona building types, were presented and rated during the Open House segment of the second charrette.

A visual simulation of a pedestrian-oriented village center building block with parking predominately behind the buildings.

The results of the rating exercises indicated a preference for communities with well-defined centers that have parking in the back and create a walkable and social environment. They indicate a preference for neighborhoods that offer varied housing types, setbacks, and lots while they express a dislike for conditions associated with conventional subdivision developments, e.g. uniform lots and housing sizes and lack of sidewalks. (See figures below.) The building blocks, based on the public’s preferences, informed the creation of a prototypical neighborhood.

A visual simulation of a conventional subdivision development with uniform housing sizes, types, and setbacks. This typical development type includes front-loaded garages and numerous curb cuts.

A visual simulation showing a variety of housing types, sizes, and setbacks. Garages and small ohana houses (flats for extended family) are in the rear yards and are accessed via alleys and pathways.

The responses to the building blocks provide critical information to be used in the development of regulatory tools to implement the compact neighborhoods and village vision expressed through the preferred development scenario. In addition, the building blocks were used to analyze the physical implications of density bonuses in the range of 20 to 30 percent for the provision of affordable housing.