Explanation and Examples
The term "human scale" generally refers to the use of human-proportioned architecural features and site design elements clearly oriented to human activity.

A building has a good human scale if its details, elements and materials allow people to feel comfortable using and approaching it. Features that give a building human scale also encourage human activity.

The following are some of the building elements that may be used to achieve better human scale:

• pedestrian-oriented open space such as a courtyard, garden, patio, or other unified landscaped areas
• bay windows extending out from the building face that reflect an internal space such as a room or alcove
• individual windows in upper stories that
• • are approximately the size and proportion of a traditional window
  • include a trim or molding that appears substantial from the sidewalk
  • are separated from adjacent windows by a vertical element
• windows grouped together to form larger areas of glazing can have a human scale if individual window units are separated by moldings or jambs
• windows with small multiple panes of glass
• window patterns, building articulation and other treatments that help to identify individual residential units in a multi-family building
• upper story setbacks
• a porch or covered entry
• pedestrian weather protection in the form of canopies, awnings, arcades or other elements wide enough to protect at least one person
• visible chimneys