Huntsville, AL Zoning Overlays & Bonuses: Downtown Design Guide (2026)

To maintain consistency with the existing historic streetscapes, new construction shall utilize natural materials for the exterior cladding of all visible wall surfaces. Acceptable materials include, but are not limited to, brick, stone, concrete stucco, terra cotta, recast concrete and glass. Synthetic and imitation materials as well as metal, aluminum, vinyl and plastic materials are not acceptable.(4)To create an animated streetscape, at least 50 percent of the street level walls shall be windows and doorways. An unbroken expanse of solid or blank wall shall not exceed 20 linear feet. Devices suitable to break such a wall span include street art, fountains, plazas, trees and landscaping, pedestrian furniture and the introduction of variety in materials, texture, color and/or pattern of wall materials.(5)Street level commercial spaces should be configured as units 15 to 40 feet wide in order to stimulate visual interest, establish a predictable rhythm for pedestrians, and encourage the introduction of small retail and service businesses.(6)Windows located in street level walls, with the exception of stained glass windows, shall be transparent.