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Resources for
Historic Property Owners
As a courtesy to
historic property owners, we have assembled a number of
resources to assist you in maintaining Newtown's historic charm.
Feel free to
contact us with any question
you may have.
Basics Preservation Principles*
An understanding of
basic preservation principles helps ensure that renovation
projects are carried out in such a way that they enhance the
features that define the character of a given site or place. To
achieve this, a number of considerations must be made:
- Alterations
- In working with historic buildings, repair is always
preferred over replacement. If historic fabric has
deteriorated beyond repair, replacement features should
closely resemble the original features. Unnecessary removal
of historic elements or removal without replacement should
be avoided.
- Additions
- Additions should minimize impact to historic fabric and
should be compatible with the main structure in massing,
size, scale and materials. An addition should not overwhelm
the original structure and should be located on a secondary
facade. Window placement and roof form should also reflect
the design of the original building.
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Relationships - When evaluating proposed site changes or
changes to the exteriors of building consider the
relationships that landscape elements, such as buildings,
roads, walls, and trees have to one another. Strive to
maintain these relationships. Avoid removing important
features or adding new features that disrupt existing
relationships.
- Use -
It is always best if historic buildings can be used as
originally designed. If this is not possible, it is
recommended that a new use be selected that does not require
major alterations to the building.
The Secretary of the
Interior's Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties is
a great resource that any historic property owner should
consultant in the beginning stages of considering preserving,
rehabbing, restoring or reconstructing. This can on the National
Park Service website at:
http://www.nps.gov/history/hps/tps/standguide
Local Vendors, Craftsman, Consultants and other Resources
Appraisers
Architects
Preservation Planners
Preservation Attorneys
Bookbinding
and restoration
Ceramics (porcelain, earthenware, stoneware, pottery,
terracotta) Restoration
This list is growing.
If you could like to be added to this list, please email us at
info@historicnewtownsquare.org.
Please include two local references.
* - Adopted from John Milner and
Associates Report on Preservation Guidelines
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