Page 11 - Plano, TX Heritage Preservation Plan

CONNECTING WITH THE PAST
Heritage resources throughout Plano create a connection between current
residents and Plano’s past. Residents who grew up in Plano and have lived in the
city for decades are reminded of previous building uses and events throughout
the community by the preservation of the city’s historic resources and districts.
New residents in Plano, on the other hand, are able to learn more about and
experience the community’s history as they live, work, and play in and around
Plano’s heritage resources. The continued preservation and recognition of
additional heritage resources as they come of age also maintains them for
future generations to enjoy and to learn about the history of the city. 1611 H Avenue

LIVABILITY AND QUALITY OF LIFE
Heritage resources reinforce the City’s identity and contribute to its sense
of community. In many neighborhoods, historic buildings create a street
scene that is “pedestrian-friendly,” which encourages walking and neighborly
interaction. Decorative architectural features also contribute to a sense of place
that is difficult to achieve in newer areas of the city. This also reinforces desirable
community social patterns and contributes to a feeling of security.

CONSTRUCTION QUALITY
Often the quality of early building construction was higher than it is today.
Lumber came from mature trees, was properly seasoned, and was typically milled
to “full dimensions,” providing stronger framing and construction. Buildings 1039 E. 15th Street
were also thoughtfully detailed, and finishes were generally of high quality –
characteristics that owners today appreciate. This higher quality of construction
in earlier buildings is therefore an asset which is difficult to replicate.

ADAPTABILITY
Owners also recognize that floor plans of many historic properties easily
accommodate changing needs. Rooms in historic homes and commercial
buildings are frequently large, accommodating a variety of uses while retaining
the overall historic character of these structures.

Adaptively reusing a historic residential building as an office
or studio spaces is common.

1001 E. 15th Street

Historic Character
The sum of all visual aspects, features,
materials, and spaces associated with
a cultural landscape’s history, i.e. the
configuration together with losses
and later changes. These qualities are
often referred to as character-defining.
Source: Secretary of the Interior
National Park Service

NOVEMBER 2018 chapter 2: what is heritage preservation? 11