Horizontal mixed use 

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​Design Checklist​

1. The site layout locates compatible uses together and provides separation distances and buffers between incompatible
uses

​Overview

Horizontal mixed use developments are suited to large sites where it is possible to provide adequate separation between
buildings containing different uses.

There are a number of advantages to horizontal mixed use developments, including:

activation of the street edge by locating commercial and retail activities at the front of the site
the segregation of incompatible uses, both within and between sites, through separation distances and physical buffers
the ability to integrate higher density developments into otherwise lower density areas through the use of staggered
building heights
an increased demand for local services
easy access to local employment opportunities.

Horizontal mixed use developments usually locate commercial uses at the (street)front of the site with
residential uses set back from the development frontage. Such an arrangement allows for some
separation from street noise for residents.
Better Design Practice

Ensure compatibility of uses in horizontal mixed use developments.

Optimise the outcomes of a horizontal mixed use development by:

arranging buildings to ensure maximum compatibility between uses within a site and the
neighbouring area
locating business and commercial uses closer to the street to create an active street frontage
locating residential units to the rear of the site to provide privacy for residents
using distance or buffers (such as buildings or landscaping) between incompatible uses to protect
residents from unnecessary disturbance
incorporating quality outdoor spaces for residents within the development.