Burnaby Active Patio Program and Patio Design Guidelines
Burnaby, BC
Project Summary
The introduction of outdoor street patios not only expands customer seating options, increases foot traffic, and fosters street activity, but it also enhances urban vibrancy within the public realm. In collaboration with the City of Burnaby in British Columbia, Canada, Toole Design Group helped to develop the Active Patio Program and Patio Design Guidelines to provide guidance and regulation on the types of permitted patios, the application process, and how businesses should design and operate patios.
Our team’s process included an analysis of best practice, a policy and regulatory review, a pilot to test the new application, development of public-facing materials, and a Program Charter for the City to successfully implement and evolve the program.
Expertise Applied
We also developed patio design guidelines and standards that are applicable citywide and adaptable to different street types and land-use scenarios. The guidelines offer insight on how to provide space for three patio typologies including:
- A sidewalk patio where the patio is located on the sidewalk next to the business
- A boulevard patio where the patio is located on the sidewalk next to the curb
- A curbside patio where the patio is located in an on-street parking space separated from travel
Additionally, the design concepts provide considerations for safer pedestrian walkways, placement for street trees, and clearance from utilities and structures, among other items. The result is a program that formalizes streets as welcoming spaces for pedestrians, promoting walkability, commerce, and a distinct sense of community.