UDA Pattern Books are developed for specific communities or developments. The first step in preparing a pattern book is to research local traditions of both architectural and community patterns. The local interpretation of architectural styles is extraordinarily rich and diverse. For example, the Colonial Revival style in Colorado has many elements of the Prairie style with its long low eaves and horizontal proportions, while Colonial Revival in Kentucky has many attributes of the dominant Victorian style with its vertical proportions. Similarly, the way in which houses are sited on their lots and the details of public spaces vary in each community, and create a distinct and unique character. The key elements of these inherited and much admired places are interpreted and applied through the Pattern Book to the new development. Pattern Books become a key component of both the marketing program and long-term implementation of a master plan.
UDA Pattern Books are designed as a "kit of parts", with a great deal of flexibility for the designers and builders who use them. They generally have three sections:

OVERVIEW
The desired character of the community is described and illustrated based on precedents found in the region. These include both community patterns and architectural patterns documented in photographs, cross sections, and perspective drawings.

COMMUNITY PATTERNS
The way in which individual buildings relate to streets and public open spaces are described in plan, perspective drawings, and sections for each address within the new community. Principles for building placement and massing are defined for a variety of conditions and lot types.
Community Patterns are divided into two sections. The first section describes principles for placing buildings on their lots. The second section illustrates and describes the guidelines for specific addresses within the new community.

ARCHITECTURAL PATTERNS
Architectural Patterns and essential qualities of specific styles are documented in a sequence of illustrated pages including: Essential Qualities (History and Character); Massing with Key Details; Special Elements (Porches); Windows and Doors; Materials and Colors; and Possibilities. These focus on the four or five most important elements that must be incorporated into the design of new houses to create the distinction between styles and sense of timeless quality.