Toledo Old West End Historic District Design Guidelines
Toledo, Ohio
WHY
These guidelines were developed to provide a more comprehensive and localized set of standards for the Old West End Historic District (OWE). While still based on the national Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation, they incorporate specific guidance relevant to the unique characteristics of the OWE.
HOW
The process involved several steps: a kick-off tour and photography of the district for information gathering; bi-weekly coordination with City of Toledo staff and the Historic District Commission; conducting one-on-one discussions with diverse community stakeholders, including property owners, residents, the Lucas County Land Bank, and commission members, to understand existing regulations and preservation issues; and holding a public open house to allow residents to review the draft guidelines and provide feedback, which was then incorporated.
WHAT
Ultimately, this comprehensive assessment empowers the community to make informed decisions about the future preservation and revitalization of this treasured historic district.
Amherst Historic District Design Guidelines
Amherst, New Hampshire
WHY
These guidelines were created to provide clear direction for exterior work on historic buildings within the Amherst Village Historic District. The primary goal was to transition the existing, mostly textual guidelines into a visual document as well as to ensure that the guidelines were more easily digestible for everyday homeowners.
HOW
This project was a collaborative effort, supported by the Town of Amherst and the Amherst Village Historic District Commission, with partial funding from a Certified Local Government (CLG) grant.
WHAT
The final result was a comprehensive, practical resource that uses easy-to-read graphics and illustrations to describe historical context, prominent architectural styles, and specific instructions for various building elements. This ensures all new work is sensitive to the village's historic fabric, preserving its unique character and appearance.
Frankfort Special Capital Zoning District Design Guidelines
Frankfort, Kentucky
WHY
The Special Capital District is one of the three City of Frankfort historic districts, mostly focused on residential properties. The District exists to help preserve historic buildings in the neighborhood to ensure that the history of Frankfort lives on well into the future. Establishing Downtown Historic District Design Guidelines will encourage the renovation, rehabilitation and preservation of older neighborhoods in Frankfort that have special or unique features or important associations with the City’s historical development.
HOW
The team evaluated the existing historic buildings in the district and examined the needs and desires of residents and property owners through engagement sessions and public design workshops. Topics addressed included the renovation of historic properties, including construction materials, as well as the design of newly constructed buildings.
WHAT
The new design guidelines for the Special Capital District create cohesive guidelines with the other two historic districts in Frankfort and solidify continued preservation and investment in the community’s historic resources.
Sandusky Preservation Design Guidelines
Sandusky, Ohio
WHY
The City of Sandusky is experiencing a boom in downtown redevelopment, especially with updates to historic buildings. Preserving the historic structures, while allowing them to take on new life, will provide direction for historic preservation in Sandusky which is an economic catalyst for the community and enhances its identity.
HOW
The project team facilitated one-on-one discussions with various community stakeholders including historic preservation enthusiasts; building owners, architects and residents who had been through the design review process; city staff, members of Landmarks Commission and related commissions, and leadership. These conversations formed the basis of the project team’s understanding of the status of the existing guidelines as well as general preservation and development issues throughout Sandusky.
WHAT
The Design Guidelines includes a substantial revision to the format and organization of the 2007 guidelines document. This includes diagrammatic graphics, a visual history of the City, and a reorganization of various items.
