Understanding design review: Key terms every homeowner should know

Any change made to your property after your home was originally built. This includes new paint colors, landscape updates, pools, patios, fencing, and more. Even small exterior changes qualify as additions and must go through Design Review before work begins.

Plant species recommended or required by the community for water-wise, desert-adapted landscaping. Choosing from the approved list supports sustainability, consistent streetscapes, and long-term maintenance success.

The design language of a home (e.g., modern prairie, farmhouse, Spanish Colonial). Exterior improvements should complement your home’s established architectural style to maintain cohesion across the neighborhood.

The approved exterior paint colors and corresponding manufacturer codes used for body, trim, doors, and accents. Using colors within the community palette keeps homes harmonious and simplifies future touch-ups and approvals. Check with your builder for your home’s specific paint palette. 

The Design Review Committee, or DRC, is the group responsible for reviewing homeowner projects. Their role is to ensure that all exterior changes follow the Blossom Rock Design Guidelines and fit the architectural and aesthetic vision of the community.

A structure or feature that doesn’t fully comply with the current Design Guidelines, possibly because it was built before newer standards were adopted. While these existing elements may remain, they don’t set a precedent for future approvals.

The built or non-living features of your outdoor space — such as shade structures, walkways, driveways, retaining walls, and decorative rock. Hardscape design should balance with your plantings to create a cohesive, well-structured yard.

Any modification that changes the appearance of your lot — from lighting and paint to new landscaping or structures. If it alters your property’s exterior look, it’s considered an improvement and must go through Design Review.

The system used to deliver water to your landscape, including drip lines, emitters, backflow devices, and control valves. Design for efficiency and maintenance access to minimize water waste and protect community infrastructure.

The living parts of your yard — trees, shrubs, turf, and plants. In Blossom Rock, using water-wise, approved plants support sustainability and enhance the community’s natural beauty.

The landscape area between the sidewalk and the street curb, often maintained by the homeowner (with the exception of the parkway trees, maintained by the Blossom Rock Residential Association). Parkway zones should follow community planting standards to ensure visibility and consistent curb appeal.

Exterior cameras and doorbell cameras used for home security. Installations should be as discreet as possible, with visible wiring concealed and camera placement respectful of neighboring privacy and sightlines. 

The required distance that a structure — such as a wall, shed, or patio — must be placed from your property lines. Setbacks help maintain spacing, privacy, and safety across the neighborhood. City standards may also apply.

Permanent or semi-permanent structures that provide shade and outdoor living space. Materials, color, and scale should complement the home; placement and height may be subject to setbacks and visibility considerations.

Changes in grade on your lot created by cut or fill. Slopes should be stabilized, drained properly, and landscaped with appropriate plants or hardscape to prevent erosion and protect adjacent properties.

Any system or device designed to capture solar energy, such as rooftop solar panels. Installations must follow placement and screening guidelines to minimize visibility and maintain architectural harmony.

Outdoor decorative lighting suspended on cords or wires, typically used for patios or gathering areas. Use steady, warm-white lighting; avoid flashing or colored bulbs, and prevent glare or light spill onto neighboring homes.

Anything built or installed on a lot that’s attached to the ground — such as walls, sheds, gazebos, or large decorative features. If it’s permanently placed or anchored, it qualifies as a structure and must be reviewed before installation.

Mesh screens installed on windows or doors to reduce heat and glare while maintaining visibility. Frames should complement the home’s color palette and be neatly fitted to existing windows.

The finishing materials that frame your home’s windows, doors, and rooflines. Trim is often painted in a complementary or contrasting color to highlight architectural features and maintain a cohesive neighborhood appearance.

Any object or activity on your lot that can be seen from a neighboring yard — without the use of tools or elevation — is considered visible from neighboring property. Design Review takes this into account to ensure improvements blend with surrounding homes and maintain privacy.

The horizontal board along the edge of the roof where gutters are often attached. Wood fascia should be well-maintained (painted, sealed, or replaced as needed) and color-coordinated with the home’s exterior palette.

A solid wall five feet or taller, typically built of masonry. Yard walls define property lines or provide privacy and should match or complement your home’s colors and materials for a consistent appearance throughout the neighborhood.

The walkway that leads from the front yard to the side gate and rear yard. Paths should be safe, well-drained, and constructed of approved hardscape materials that complement the home and lot.