Page 72 - State College, PA Design Guidelines

06.28.2018 •

Character-Defining Features

Many residential buildings in the College Heights and Holmes-Foster/
Highlands Historic Districts have similar character-defining features (porches,
windows, entry doors, etc.); however, they represent a variety of building
styles. The repetition of these features creates a visual unity at the street
that should be preserved. These features should not be altered, obscured or
removed. The preservation of a residential facade also will help maintain a
pedestrian-friendly environment.
Preserve character-defining features on a
traditional residential building front.
6.1 Preserve these character-defining features on a
traditional residential building front:
a. Building and roof orientation: Orientation of building and roof in
respect to the street
b. Eaves: Portion of the roof that overhangs the vertical walls
c. Porch: A one-story covered, unenclosed or partially enclosed
entry element
d. Front door: The primary entrance into the building
e. Windows: An opening in the walls

f. Trim: Wood that covers transition between building elements
g. Dormer: A window that projects vertically from the roof or wall

CHARACTER-DEFINING FEATURES OF A RESIDENTIAL FACADE

Roof, often gable or hipped

Eave
Double-hung window

Porch
Column
Front door
Baluster

66 STATE COLLEGE, PA • HERITAGE STATE COLLEGE DESIGN GUIDELINES