David,
In my naivite I assumed that most communities were like Philadelphia. The local zoning code controls light and air to "legally required windows" for certain rooms (bedrooms and living rooms) in dwelling units. This has been in effect my entire career. We have a new code that is going into effect this summer that changes the way things work, but I do not yet know how in regards to this issue.
Michael
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Michael Ytterberg AIA
Principal
BLT Architects
Philadelphia PA
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Message From: David Johannas
If I am reading it correctly, 1205.1 permits windowless units.
I am trying to build a case for Richmond to take action against this type of dwelling unit design. So your reaction is a good one. The last time I brought this up, I did not get direct examples that I could forward to our city planning office.
I am also concerned that most of our projects with windowless units are historic rehabilitation tax credit projects. It seems to me that the National Park Service has interpreted the Secretary Standards for Rehabilitation in a way that approves windowless apartments and at the same time makes it more difficult for developers to provide alternative approaches for certain adaptive reuse projects.
Looking for opportunities to expand the interpretation of the Secretary Standards would require action from an educated group such as the AIA.
First, I just think my city needs to take a more responsible approach to approving some of the adaptive housing projects that are seeking special zoning permits.
Your response is a good statement towards taking action.
Thanks, and my apologies for being repetitive.
Dave Johannas