In Gomel approved the design code of the urban environment: a single style for the historical center and courtyards

Gomel has developed and approved a design code that will define a single visual style of urban spaces. The document regulates color solutions, advertising, registration of entrance groups, stops, bicycle parking and other elements to make the environment holistic and comfortable.

This document, as emphasized by the head of the Department of Architecture and Urban Planning of the Gomel City Executive Committee Larisa Kovaleva, is aimed at creating a unified visual style in the regional center. It regulates color decisions, placement of advertising, elements of improvement and lighting, design of entrance groups, bicycle parking, stopping pavilions, landscaping and other components of the urban environment.

Daria Svidunovich, Head of the Department of Architecture and Planning Bureau of the Department of Architecture and Urban Planning, added: the document provides for four regulations in the design of urban space - the historical part, central main streets, courtyards and other locations. Gradually, the design will be brought to a single style, taking into account the characteristics of each territory.

Explaining the purpose of the design code, Daria Svidunovich drew attention to the fact that any corner of the city combines dozens of elements, each of which was created in different years by different specialists and according to different rules. “As a result, we can observe a mosaic in some areas. For example, the sign covers the stucco, and wires and engineering boxes are carried out on the facade itself. At the same time, there may be a fence nearby that does not combine with other elements. Yes, each solution can be understood individually, but together they create what's called visual noise. And the task of the design code is to remove this noise, preserve the historical and cultural value of the building and make the environment holistic and comfortable.

The approved norms are aimed at maintaining the tourist attractiveness of Gomel and preserving its identity for future generations.

“Gomel is not like other cities. We recognize and unique its historical center, large avenues, yards with playgrounds. If we want the guest to remember Gomel, the city should have its own recognizable visual style, Daria Svidunovich emphasized.

The draft design code was submitted for public discussion in open access. Gomel residents actively responded and sent a lot of proposals. “Of course, we have considered the most relevant ones. Most of them concerned the arrangement of stop complexes. Citizens asked to make the most light-type designs so that there were no heavy objects on city streets. Gomel residents also proposed to make the stop wall transparent or open from the arrival of transport for a better view. In particular, we added such a sketch to the design code, said Larisa Kovaleva.

The Department of Architecture and Urban Planning, together with the district administrations, is already consulting with the owners on the gradual bringing of entrance groups, advertising structures and other elements to the established requirements. The document suggests the possibility of its further development, taking into account modern technologies and proposals of residents.