We offer a variety of services, including code reviews and diagnostics, code updates and overhauls, local plan updates, design manuals, and facilitation sessions. These services can be provided incrementally or combined into a comprehensive process tailored to meet each community’s unique needs.
Code Studio advances creative zoning reform to support walkable, mixed-use communities. Our codes focus on building form, street design, and public space. We shape vibrant places through clear, context-sensitive development standards.
Code Studio conducts in-depth reviews of existing zoning codes, identifying issues that impact development. Our diagnostics draw from local plans, staff input, and current regulations to provide clear, actionable recommendations tailored to each community.
We have extensive experience leading complete zoning code overhauls from kickoff through adoption. With nearly two decades of experience, we manage projects independently or as part of a larger team with equal success.
We work on smaller-scale code amendments that address specific challenges or refine targeted sections of an existing code. Our approach ensures updates are consistent with community goals and integrate smoothly with existing regulations.
We implement visionary plans that transform policy from ideas into action. From citywide frameworks to small-area plans, our work connects vision, community input, and practical tools to create a lasting impact.
Our team has worked on small area plans across diverse communities nationwide, including corridor plans and transportation corridors where land use, mobility, and design intersect. We develop plans that reflect local priorities, address specific challenges, and provide clear, actionable strategies for targeted areas within a community.
In addition to small area plans, Code Studio has developed comprehensive plans that address broader regional contexts. These frameworks guide growth, infrastructure, and policy across multiple jurisdictions, aligning local goals with regional priorities.
Code Studio integrates urban design principles directly into the structure of zoning, translating physical character—block structure, frontage conditions, building typologies, and public realm relationships—into calibrated regulatory standards. Through pattern book analysis, context-based district frameworks, frontage standards, and graphic development criteria, we embed urban design outcomes—walkability, enclosure, activated ground floors, and coherent neighborhood transitions—into predictable, administrable code language.
Our work moves beyond abstract land use categories to focus on form, scale, and the spatial relationship between buildings and streets. The result is regulatory systems that reinforce place-specific character while accommodating growth, housing diversity, and mixed-use intensity.
Our team is skilled in 3D modeling and visual communication, creating compelling graphics that support code updates, design toolkits, and public-facing materials like flyers, ensuring clarity and engagement across all formats.
At Code Studio, we develop design guidelines and handbooks that translate community goals into clear, visual standards. These tools help communicate expectations for development while supporting consistency, quality, and local character.
Code Studio’s strength lies in making complex planning and zoning concepts understandable to everyday citizens and elected officials. Our experience across the country has sharpened our ability to lead clear, effective public engagement.
We prepare engagement plans that outline tools, target audiences, and outreach locations. Each plan includes methods to assess effectiveness in real time, allowing staff and the team to adjust strategies as needed.
To support ongoing public understanding and engagement, we host interactive “Code Connect” meetings. These sessions provide a regular forum for community members to ask questions and learn about zoning and the project.
We use code testing to identify issues with existing regulations, evaluate draft updates, and highlight enforcement challenges. These sessions also serve as hands-on training opportunities to help staff confidently apply new codes.
Code Studio creates visually engaging websites that share key project information such as schedules, upcoming meetings, and documents. As projects progress, we incorporate graphics and photos to keep content fresh and accessible.
Innovation involves finding new ways to think, viewing challenges from fresh angles, and creating practical, creative tools.
Our philosophy is that there is no one-size-fits-all solution to development regulations in the 21st century. At Code Studio, we recognize that every municipality has its own character and challenges.
This diversity calls for tailored tools and responsive solutions. We believe the best results come from working collaboratively with communities to develop strategies that reflect their needs, priorities, and vision for the future.
Merit Award for Analysis, Planning and Design: Potomac ASLA
Sandy Springs Development Code – Sandy Springs, GA
Celebrating Leadership in Development Excellence Award (CLIDE)
Stockyards Form-Based Code – Fort Worth, TX
Driehaus Form-Based Code Award
Buffalo Green Code Code – Buffalo, NY
Wisconsin APA
Moving Milwaukee Forward: Equitable Growth Through Transit Oriented Development – Milwaukee, WI
Western New York APA – Outstanding Planning Award
Boulevard Central District Planning – Amherst, NY
Code Studio opens Atlanta office led by Associate Principal Christy Dodson.
Code Studio celebrates its 20th Anniversary.
