Page 83 - Plano, TX Heritage Preservation Plan

ADAPTIVE REUSE

Description
While historic structures were typically built for a specific use, repurposing
a building to serve a new function so it can remain active and a part of the
historic fabric of the community is crucial to preserving heritage resources.
When adaptively reusing a historic building, choosing a use that requires
the least amount of changes to the building is the best option. For instance,
converting a historic residential structure to a bed and breakfast minimizes the
number of interior and exterior changes to the building, as rooms that the bed
and breakfast will utilize already exist in the structure.
Event 1013 in Downtown Plano
As Plano continues to experience growth and redevelopment pressures,
especially on its downtown heritage resources, the adaptive reuse of structures
as an alternative to demolition may be necessary in some cases. In order for
Plano’s historic structures to be adaptively reused, city policies and plans must
also reflect the desire to retain these buildings as part of the historic fabric
of the City so long as they are appropriate to the character of the area and
complementary to surrounding uses. This may mean ordinances and other
policies require some flexibility, and that creative programming must be
implemented.

Summary of Issues Wells House at 3921 Coit Rd.
A A coordinated adaptive reuse program that provides educational
materials and potential funding sources to property owners does not
exist.
A Plano’s ordinances and Plans do not clearly promote the adaptive reuse
of historic structures as an alternative to demolition.

Adaptive Reuse Policy Statement
Consider adaptive reuse of heritage properties to allow them to remain in active
and productive use, maintain historic character, and serve as an alternative to
demolition.

Recommendations

A Explore the use of an adaptive reuse program to facilitate the reuse of
underutilized properties.
A Consider flexibility in zoning regulations and adaptive reuse overlays to
accommodate the adaptive reuse of historic resources, where appropriate
and complimentary to adjacent uses.

Formerly the largest flour mill in the world, now converted to artist lofts

The exterior and interior of the Courtyard Theater,
which was originally the Cox Gymnasium, built in
1938 and restored in 1999.
november 2018 chapter 6: Issues and Recommendations 83