Design strategy and guidelines

Brisbane City Council has developed a number of strategies and guidelines to support achieving quality design and design excellence in Brisbane. Information and documents include Council's overarching framework, Design-led City - a design strategy for Brisbane and our guide for low-to-medium density residential development, Design-led City - Low-to-medium density residential design guide.

Brisbane is a great place to live, work, and relax - it's a safe, vibrant, green and prosperous city, valued for its friendly and optimistic character and enjoyable lifestyle. The design of future buildings, places and spaces across our city should build on these attributes.

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The Brisbane Green Factor is a green infrastructure ratings tool for urban developments. The tool improves green urban outcomes to help Brisbane achieve its goal of being a well-designed, sub-tropical city.

Design-led City - a design strategy for Brisbane outlines Council's commitment to ensuring quality design, that reflects Brisbane's character and identity and is delivered across all elements of the built environment. Download the document and read the list of actions.

The Traditional Housing: Alterations and Extensions Design Guide is one way Council is protecting Brisbane's unique character as well as ensuring best practice design that complements the character of the city.

The Design-led City - Low-to-medium density residential Design Guide is one way Council is encouraging quality design of townhouses and apartments up to five storeys to reflect Brisbane's identity. 

New World City Design Guide - Buildings that Breathe provides a shared vision for achieving subtropical building design in Brisbane. Download the document, review best-practice examples and use the checklist.

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To encourage well-designed, green and energy efficient buildings in Brisbane, Council offers a financial payment equivalent to 50 per cent of infrastructure charges paid on eligible residential and commercial office developments. Find out if your project is eligible.

Last updated: 10 May 2023

Brisbane City Council acknowledges this Country and its Traditional Custodians. We pay our respects to the Elders, those who have passed into the dreaming; those here today; those of tomorrow.