Page 44 - Waxahachie, TX Residential Design Guidelines

Pl annin g a Preservation Project

b . o v e R a R c h i n g

p R e s e R v a t i o n g u i d e l i n e s

With an understanding of the basic concepts of historic
significance and integrity, it is important to consider the overarching
guidelines that underlie the more specific ones that appear later in
this document. When beginning a preservation project, there are
many approaches that can be chosen. Maintaining a high degree
of integrity for a property is important, so the first step should be
to simply keep it in good condition, using accepted maintenance
procedures. However, if a character-defining feature is in disrepair,
then repair is preferred over replacement as it will help to retain
a higher degree of integrity. The following overarching guidelines
describe the preferred sequence of approaches in general terms.
This sequence is reflected throughout the design guidelines
provided in “Chapter 4: Treatment of Historic Resources” on page
59.

3.1 Preserve and respect the historic character of a
property.
a. Preserve basic roof form and pitch, eaves and raised
porch.
b. Maintain the orientation of the roof.
c. Do not try to change the style of a historic resource,
mix elements of different styles, or make it look older
than its actual age.

3.2 Seek uses that are compatible with the historic
character of the property.
a. Converting a building to a new use different from the
original use is considered to be an “adaptive reuse,”
and is a sound strategy for keeping an old building
in service. For example, converting a residential
structure to offices is an adaptive reuse. A good
adaptive reuse project retains the historic character of
the building while accommodating a new function.
b. Every reasonable effort should be made to provide
a compatible use for the building that will require
minimal alteration to the building and its site.
c. Changes in use requiring the least alteration to
significant elements are preferred. In most cases,
designs can be developed that respect the historic
integrity of the building while also accommodating
new functions.

36 Waxahac hie Residential design guidelines