The general objective of the design review guidelines is to maintain the architectural and visual qualities of existing historic buildings and streetscapes and to encourage architecturally compatible new design. The guidelines are based on the Secretary of the Interior’s standards for rehabilitation as well as on an analysis of the specific characteristics of the city’s historic buildings.
(A) All work should be of a character and quality that maintains the distinguishing features of the building and the environment. The removal or alteration of distinctive architectural features should be avoided as should alterations that have no historical basis and which seek to create an earlier appearance. The restoration of altered original features, if documentable, is encouraged.
(B) Changes which may have taken place in the course of time are evidence of the history and development of a building, structure or site and its environment. These changes may have acquired significance in their own right, and this significance shall be recognized and respected.
(C) Deteriorated architectural features should be repaired rather than replaced whenever possible. In the event of replacement, new materials should match the original in composition and design including consideration of proportion, texture, detail, color and overall appearance.
(D) New additions or alterations to structures should be constructed in a manner that if the additions or alterations were to be removed in the future, the form and integrity of the original structure would be unimpaired.
(E) The impact of alterations or additions on individual buildings as well as on the surrounding streetscape will be considered; major alterations to buildings which occupy a corner lot or are otherwise prominently sited should be avoided.
(F) New construction should be compatible with the historic and architectural character of the district.
(Prior Code, § 12-1622)