HomeMy WebLinkAboutORD 2012-48 - Town Design GuidelinesAn Ordinance of r of of •t g• ramending
Downtown Design Guidelines, Passed and Adopted on the 281hDay of August 2001;
Repealing Conflicting Ordinances and Resolutions* Including a Severability Clause;
r Establishing an Effective Date.
Whereas, the historic core of Georgetown has served as the cultural center of the
community for more than 160 years; and
Whereas, the courthouse square and the nine blocks immediately surrounding it,
to be referred to as Area 1 of the Downtown Overlay District, contains structures of
historic significance that enhance the quality of life as well as the economy of the
community; and
Whereas, the character of the development in the blocks that extend from the
core downtown area surrounding the courthouse square, to be referred to as Area 2 of
the Downtown Overlay District, serves to frame the historic district, and therefore
deserves special consideration; and
Whereas, the character of the development in the primarily residential blocks
that extend from the Downtown Overlay District, to be referred to as the Old Town
Overlay District, contains structures of historical significance, and therefore deserves
special consideration as well; and
Whereas, historic preservation and economic development are partners in the
success for Downtown and Old Town; and
Whereas, design guidelines for the historic area will help ensure appropriate
development, renovation and redevelopment in Downtown and Old Town; and
Whereas, the existing Historic and Architectural Review Commission (HARC)
has knowledge of the application of design guidelines; and
Whereas, the Unified Development Code designates the Downtown and Old
Town boundaries and development regulations within; and
Whereas, the City Council of the City of Georgetown finds it to be in the best
interest of the citizens of Georgetown to adopt the attached Downtown & Old Town
Design Guidelines; and
Ordinance
Description: Downtown Design Guidelines Amendment
Date Approved: August 14, 2012
Page 1 of 4
Whereas, the City Council adopted the original Downtown Design Guidelines
on July 28, 2001 (Ord. 2001-48); and
Whereas, City staff, HARC, and the public conducted numerous open meetings
to consider the amendment items; and
Whereas, Public Workshops were conducted on May 9, 2012 and May 10, 2012;
and
Whereas, HARC conducted a Public Hearing on the draft amendments at their
regular meeting of May 24, 2012, and recommended approval of the amendments to the
City Council at a specially scheduled public meeting on July 2, 2012;
Now therefore, be it ordained by the City Council of the City of Georgetown, Texas
that,
Section 1. The facts and recitations contained in the preamble of this Ordinance
are hereby found and declared to be true and correct, and are incorporated by reference
herein and expressly made a part hereof, as if copied verbatim. The City Council
hereby finds that this Ordinance implements the vision and policies of the Georgetown
2030 Comprehensive Plan as follows:
Vision Statement 1: Quality of Life
1.1: Community Character
1.1.A: The City of Georgetown is regarded throughout Central Texas and
the nation as a safe, livable, and beautiful "community of choice."
1.1.8: We have retained our unique identity and heritage by protecting
the historic character of downtown and our older neighborhoods.
Vision Statement 2. Quality Growth / Sustainable Development
2.1: Throughout Georgetown we have...
2.1.A: Attracted desired forms of balanced development, creating quality
urban, suburban, and rural places that offer a choice of setting and lifestyle.
2.1.C: Encouraged sound, compact, quality growth, including pedestrian -
friendly development patterns that incorporate mixed uses and densities,
conserve resources, and accommodate public transportation, alternative fuel
vehicles, biking, and walking as convenient substitutes for automobile use.
Ordinance Number:_
Description: Downtown Design Guidelines Amendment
Date Approved: August 14, 2012
Page 2 of 4
2.2: In downtown Georgetown and our older neighborhoods we have ...
2.2.A: Supported home-grown business and planned for an optimal mix
of businesses, serves, retail and entertainment suited to the scale and historic
charm of downtown.
2.2.B: Promoted downtown and in -town housing including infill, mixed
use and the creation of apartments and lofts over retail.
Vision Statement 3: Balanced Transportation / Efficient Mobility
3.0.0 Georgetown has reduced its reliance on conventional fuels and
automotive traffic by promoting alternative fuel vehicles; by retrofitting bike
lanes and sidewalks in underserved areas to enhance bicycle and pedestrian
mobility; by incorporating these facilities in new developments; and by
encouraging compact mixed-use and other "walkable development types.
3.0.D: Georgetown assisted in carefully locating employment and
commercial centers, schools, and other high -traffic generators.
Vision Statement 4: Effective Governance
4.1: Efficient, Responsive Government
4.1.A: Our City government retains its reputation for providing a high
level of responsiveness to citizens and in exercising visionary leadership in
planning and investing for the future.
4.1.B: We have created and enforced innovative, effective, and fair
regulatory codes and development standards to guide growth and improve
development quality. We have streamlined the regulatory process,
particularly for desired development types and locations.
Section 2. The amended Downtown & Old Town Design Guidelines document
in its entirety (absent of pictures and other visuals) is hereby amended as described in
Exhibit A: Downtown & Old Town Resign Guidelines.
Section 3. All ordinances and resolutions, or parts of ordinances and resolutions,
in conflict with this Ordinance are hereby repealed, and are no longer of any force and
effect and all other ordinances of the City not in conflict with the provisions of this
ordinance shall remain in full force and effect.
Ordinance Number: C 0
Description: Downtown Design Guidelines Amendment
Date Approved: August 14; 2012
Page 3 of 4
Section 4. If any provision of this Ordinance or the UDC, or application thereof to
any person or circumstance shall be held invalid, such invalidity shall not affect the other
provisions, or application thereof, of this Ordinance which can be given effect without the
invalid provision. or application, and to this end the provisions of this Ordinance are
hereby declared to be severable.
Section 5. The Mayor is hereby authorized to sign this Ordinance and the City
Secretary to attest. This Ordinance shall become effective and be in full force and effect
on the date of final adoption by City Council,
PASSED AND APPROVED on First Reading on the 24t" day of July, 2012.
PASSED AND APPROVED on Second Reading on the 14"' day of August, 2012.
ATTEST:
Jossi¢a Brettle
Secretary
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Acting City Attorney
Ordinance Number:
Description: Downtown Design Guidelines Amendment
Date Approved: August 14, 2012
THE CITY OF GEORGETOWN:
By: Gel
Mayor
Garver
Page 4 of 4
Exhibit A
CHAPTER 1
PURPOSE OF THE DESIGN GUIDELINES
These guidelines are to be used when considering improvements to historic properties in
Georgetown, and for new construction within the city's historic overlaydistricts. These
Districts include the Downtown Overlay District, and the Old' Town Overlay District.
The historic core of Georgetown has served as the cultural center of the community for
more than 150 years and retains many buildings that convey its early character. The
blocks facing the courthouse square contain structures of historic significance that have
been renovated and that enhance the quality of life as well as the economy for the
community. Historic preservation and economic development are partners in the
success of downtown. This relationship was formalized when the City established the
Town Square Historic District (Area 1) in 1975, which was expanded in 2000.
In more recent years, citizens have come to recognize that the character of development
in those blocks that frame the historic district also are of community interest. This area
contains major commercial streets' that dead through the downtown and it also
incorporates some blocks of "buildings that were 'originally residential and have been
adapted to commercial uses. While many historic properties are found in this outlying
area, other sites have newer buildings or are undeveloped. This broader area is defined
as Area 2.
For the purposes of these design guidelines, two areas combined form the Downtown
Overlay District (see map at left):
® Area 1—the Town Square Historic District
• Area 2—the remainder of the Downtown Overlay District (not including the Town
Square Historic District)
Portions of these design guidelines are written to assure that those preservation' efforts
and property investments are protected by providing direction for future improvements in
Area 1. It is also important that Area 2 serves as a'frame for the historic district and that
it, in its own right, is a place of active retail uses that invites pedestrian `activity and
contributes to the economy of downtown. Guidelines for Area `2 are also provided that
encourage development which draws upon the basic design traditions of the commercial
core. They also recognize that this outer ring should not seek to imitate the historic
buildings around the courthouse square.
The guidelines
are for property owners
planning exterior
alterations,
additions to or the
rehabilitation of
existing buildings. They
also apply to the
design of
new buildings. The
Design Guidelines 1 -1
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
guidelines will assist property owners in understanding the historic character of the
buildings and environment in which they are located, and assist owners when they are
faced with decisions about repair, maintenance, rehabilitation, and new construction.
The guidelines are not a rigid set of rules. They do not require that buildings be restored
to an historical period or style. Rather, their purpose is to provide:
• Guidance to property owners and tenants about buildings, their distinctive
characteristics and how to maintain them;
• Various appropriate ways to address design, repair and rehabilitation issues;
• Good maintenance practices; and,
• Appropriate ways to design new, compatible infill buildings and site layouts.
Design
In order to assure that this distinction between Area 1 and Area 2 occurs in a manner
consistent with traditional development patterns, a series of design goals are established
for each sub -area. These design goals reflect the feelings of residents and property
owners alike.
1r •
The Town Square Historic District (Area 1) should continue to develop in a coordinated
manner so that an overall sense of visual continuity is achieved. The dominant character
of this area should be that of a retail -oriented, commercial environment, with an active
street edge that is pedestrian friendly.
The design goals for Area 1 are:
• To rehabilitate existing historic commercial buildings;
® To continue the use of traditional building materials found in the area;
® To maintain the traditional mass, size and form of buildings seen along the street
(i.e., a building should be a rectangular mass that is one- to three -stories in
height.);
® To design commercial buildings with storefront elements similar to those seen
traditionally (i.e., a commercial building should include: recessed entries, display
windows, kick plates, transom windows, midbelt cornices, cornices or pediments
and vertically-oriented upper -story windows.);
® To design a project that reinforces the retail -oriented function of the street and
enhances its pedestrian character;
To promote friendly, walkable streets (i.e., projects that support pedestrian activity
and contribute to the quality of life are encouraged.); and
® To provide site amenities—such as benches, lights, waste receptacles,
landscaping, etc.—to enhance the pedestrian clean, uncluttered experience.
Design Guidelines 1 - 2
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
Those commercial streets in Area 2, surrounding the Town Square Historic District, ()
should develop in a manner that is inviting to pedestrians while also accommodating
automobiles. Development should include a mix of building types, including older
structures and more contemporary ones. Each should reflect the design trends of its own
time, while also contributing to a sense of visual continuity and strengthening the
pedestrian experience. In addition, a combination of uses is encouraged, including
residential, office and retail.
The design goals for Area 2 are:
• To develop in a compatible nature with that of Area 1; whereas the entire
Downtown Overlay District is seen as a distinct commercial district that also allows
and encourages residential development;
• To define the sidewalk edge with elements that are amenities for pedestrians;
• To establish a sense of scale in buildings and streetscape design that can be
enjoyed by pedestrians;
• To minimize the visual impacts of automobiles; and
• To strengthen the pedestrian network of sidewalks, plazas and paths.
Design for civic institutions
The design guidelines focus on principles for rehabilitation and infill of commercial and
mixed-use projects that should reinforce the historic building fabric and enhance the
pedestrian environment. To do so, they draw upon principles established in traditional
commercial buildings. While these are the majority of property types that will occur in the
area, civic facilities also should be a part of the urban mix.
These civic facilities include churches, schools, libraries, art spaces, meeting facilities,
courts and governmental offices. Traditionally, buildings for these uses have contrasted
with the framework of storefronts. The historic courthouse is an example: It stands apart
from the rows of commercial buildings, framed by a lawn as a foreground. Its entrances
are more prominent. While it stands apart as a .structure, it clearly is a part of the
downtown, with its entrances oriented to the street and walkways promoting pedestrian
use. This helps to convey its civic function ,as a gathering .place. This -tradition of
designing civic institutions as landmarks in the urban fabric should be continued. At the
same time, the basic principles of urban design outlined in this document should still
apply. Among them are these key principles:
Design principles for civic facilities:
• Civic facilities should be located such that they encourage pedestrian traffic to
nearby downtown businesses;
• Civic facilities should be designed to reinforce the downtown fabric of streets and
sidewalks;
• Convenient pedestrian connections should link abutting civic buildings;
Design Guidelines 2 - 3
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
® The edges of a civic property should be inviting to pedestrians;
® The visual impacts of automobiles should be minimized;
® Primary entrances should face the street, not parking lots;
® A sense of human scale should be conveyed;
® Impacts on adjacent historic resources should be minimized; and
® Outdoor spaces designed for public use should be provided.
New picture: Streetscapes
New picture: Civic institutions
Design in the Old Town Overlay District
The Old Town Overlay District should continue to reflect the traditional character, which
is predominantly single family residential.
The design goals for the Old Town Overlay District are:
® To preserve historic structures;
To continue the use of traditional building forms and materials in new construction;
® To maintain the residential character of street facing facades, streets, and front
yards, and the overall residential character of the area; and
® To preserve the character of historic houses that may be adapted to new uses.
11111 MIMI •. �` „ ..
While the guidelines in this document focus on the design character of development in
the downtown area, they are based on key values the community holds about town
development in general. These are:
1. Georgetown protects its historic resources and its heritage in general.
2. The community maintains its unique character in the downtown area.
3. Downtown is safe and inviting for visitors, residents, and workers.
4. Downtown users are diverse; economically, culturally, and in age.
5. The community maintains a high quality of life and livability.
6. Downtown is relatively dense in population which supports a variety of activities
and enhances the efficiency of alternative modes of transportation.
7. Downtown maintains its economic vitality. It is a place to work, conduct business,
promote tourism, and be entertained.
8. Cultural activities in a vibrant downtown, including civic buildings (library, museum),
art galleries, performance venues, and event and multi-purpose sites.
9. Old Town has a diverse mix of housing types and sizes.
IVA• ': - •;
The design guidelines provide a basis for making decisions about the appropriate
Design Guidelines 1 - 4
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
treatment of historic resources and compatible new construction. They also serve as a
planning tool for property owners and design professionals who seek to make
improvements that may affect historic resources.
While the design guidelines are written such that they can be used by the layman to plan
improvements, property owners are strongly encouraged to enlist the assistance of
qualified design and planning professionals, including architects and preservation
consultants.
Why Preserve Historic C
Across the nation, thousands of communities promote historic preservation because
doing so contributes to neighborhood livability and quality of life, minimizes negative
impacts on the environment, and yields economic rewards.
Because Georgetown is rich in resources and offers an outstanding quality of 'life, it
continues to attract development that challenges the community to seek creative ways of
protecting its character. Preserving historic resources is part of an `overall strategy of
maintaining` communityidentity and livability. As Georgetown continues to grow the goal
is to -maintain its ties to the past through the preservation of its architectural' heritage
reflected in its historic resources.
From the `1980s, community planning efforts in Georgetown emphasized citizen
concerns about the need to preserve the scale and character of the older commercial
and residential neighborhoods.'' Preserving historic resources will help maintain the feel
and way of life that makes Georgetown attractive.
Preservation of the built environment provides a fundamental link to the past. Many of
the buildings tell the story of Georgetown's unique historical development and keeping
these resources creates a sense of place for those who live here and provides visitors a
connection with this unique heritage.
Construction quality
Many of the historic structures in the city were constructed with high quality materials
and craftsmanship. Other buildings were more modest, but even so may have used
lumber from mature trees that were properly seasoned and typically sawed or milled to
full dimension, which often yielded stronger framing. Masonry walls were carefully
crafted to fit together, resulting in buildings with considerable stability. These structures
also were thoughtfully detailed and the materials finishes, including fixtures, wood floors,
and trim, were generally of high quality features that owners today appreciate and value.
Design Guidelines 1 - S
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
Owners frequently find that the floor plans of historic buildings easily accommodate
modern lifestyles and support a diversity of populations. Many rooms are large,
permitting a variety of uses while retaining the overall historic character of the structure.
Even historic buildings that are smaller in scale are often on sites that can accommodate
additions, if needed.
• • a
When older buildings occur in groups, they create a street scene that is "pedestrian
friendly," and encourages walking and neighborly interaction. Mature trees and
decorative architectural features also contribute to a sense of identity that is not found in
newer areas. These historic buildings therefore help create desirable places to live and
work.
Preserving an historic structure is also a sound environmental conservation policy
because preservation and reuse saves energy and reduces the need for producing new
construction materials. Four types of energy savings occur:
• First, energy is not consumed to demolish a building,_ dispose of the resulting
debris, or use more land fill space.
• Second, energy is not used to create new building materials, transport them and
assemble them on site.
® Third, the "embodied" energy that was used to create the original building and its
components is preserved.
® Finally, by "reusing" older buildings, or their salvaged materials, pressure is also
reduced to harvest new lumber and other materials that may have negative effects
on the environment of other locales where these materials are produced.
Nationwide studies prove that preservation projects also contribute more to the local
economy than do new building programs because each dollar spent on a preservation
project has a higher percentage devoted to labor and to the purchase of materials
available locally. By contrast, new construction typically has a higher percentage of each
dollar spent devoted to materials that are produced outside of the local economy and to
special construction skills that may be imported. Therefore, when money is spent on
rehabilitating a building, it has a higher "multiplier effect," keeping more money
circulating in the community.
Historic preservation efforts also foster a charm and character that attracts visitors. Many
small towns throughout the country have made tourism, based on their historic
resources, a profitable and effective development strategy.
Design Guidelines 2 - 6
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
Ownership of an historic property carries both the aforementioned benefits and a
responsibility to respect the historic character of the resource and its setting. While this
responsibility does exist, it does not automatically translate into higher construction or
maintenance costs. Ultimately, residents and property owners should recognize that
historic preservation is a long-range community policy that promotes economic well-
being and overall viability of the city at large. In addition, they play a vital role in helping
to implement such a policy through careful stewardship of the area's historic resources.
Picture updated: Historic preservation efforts also foster a charm and character that
attracts visitors.
The Historic iReview
M
The City of Georgetown appoints volunteer members to its Historic and Architectural
Review Commission (HARC). A majority of the Commission members are chosen from:
property owners within an Historic District; state licensed architects; landscape
architects, professional planners, or urban designers; historians or persons with
expertise in historic preservation; and developers, contractors or Realtors. The HARC
and Planning and Development Department staff will use the , guidelines when
considering the issuance of a Certificate of Design Compliance for projects within the
Overlay Districts.
How Are Guidelines
Property owners, real estate agents, developers, tenants and architects should use the
guidelines contained in this document when considering a project. This will help
establish an appropriate direction for its design. For any project subject to review, the
applicant should refer to the guidelines at the outset, to avoid planning efforts that later
may prove to be inappropriate. -
The Historic and Architectural Review Commission will also use the design guidelines for
the review of proposed projects within the Overlay Districts to determine if the design
policies presented herein have been followed. It is important to recognize that in each
case a unique combination of design variables is at play and, as a result, the degree to
which each relevant guideline must be met may vary. In making its determination of the
appropriateness of a project, HARC's overall concerns are that:
1. The proposed work complies with the criteria in its ordinance.
2. The integrity of an individual historic structure is preserved.
3. New buildings or additions are designed to be compatible with surrounding historic
properties.
Design Guidelines 1 - 7
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
4. The overall character of the Overlay Districts +s are protected.
The design review process is "reactive," in that it only applies to proposed actions
initiated by a property owner. While it guides an approach to certain design problems by
offering alternative solutions, it does not dictate a specific outcome and it does not
require a property owner to instigate improvements that are not contemplated.
Ordinary repair and maintenance do not require approval. However, seemingly
unimportant changes, like adding a driveway, fence, or enclosing a porch, can have a
dramatic effect on the visual character of an historic resource and therefore are of
concern to the City. Therefore, approval is necessary for any changes to the exterior of
a building in the Downtown Overlay District and some buildings in the Old Town Overlay
District.
The following is a list of changes that must be brought before HARC for design review:
Downtown Overlay District
• The construction of a new structure.
® Addition to a structure.
9 The alteration or restoration of any exterior features of an historic resource.
® The removal or demolition, in whole or in part, of an historic resource.
® The construction of a new sign or changes to an existing sign.
® Applying a new exterior siding material.
• Adding a new window, door or dormer.
® Creating a driveway or e parking area.
o Adding a satellite dish (TV) or other mechanical equipment, solar panel etc.
® Building or enclosing a porch, carport, deck, fence, or garage
® Adding outdoor heaters, televisions, mounted electronic equipment, and similar
items.
Old Town Overlay District
The construction of a new structure; however, new single or two-family residential
structures are exempt unless the structure exceeds the limitations set forth in UDC
Section 4.09.030.B
® The alteration of any exterior features of commercial structures, non-residential
structures, bed and breakfasts, or residential structures used as or changing to
non-residential or commercial use.
® Addition, removal or demolition to the street facing fagade of single or two-family
residential structures.
Addition to a non -single or non -two-family structure and any addition to a
residential structure that exceeds the limitations set forth in UDC Section
4.09.030.8.
Design Guidelines 1 - 8
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
® The removal or demolition, in whole or in pari, of an historic resource.
® The construction of a new sign and changes to existing signs.
• Applying a new exterior siding material to a non -single or two-family structure.
• Adding a new window, door, or dormer to a non -single or two-family structure.
• Creating a driveway or a parking area for a non -single or two family residential use.
® Adding a satellite dish (TV) or other mechanical equipment, solar panel etc. to a
non -single or two-family structure.
® Building or enclosing a porch, carport, deck, fence or garage .for a non -single or
two-family structure
• Adding outdoor heaters, televisions, mounted electronic equipment, and similar
items to non -single and two-family uses.
Applying for a Certificate of Design Complianci.-
(CDC)
Use the following steps for an efficient application process for a CDC:
Property owners are strongly encouraged to engage`' licensed architects and other
design and planning professionals to assist them in developing their concepts. Doing so
may facilitate a smoother review process. If a project proposal is not clear, the review
may be delayed for 30 days or longer while clarifications are made. HARC is available
for consultation on a conceptual review prior to making a formal application.
Step . Check other City regulations,
The guidelines supplement other adopted City ordinances. The City of Georgetown
Planning and Development Department can provide information about these regulations,
which could affect the design character of a project. Examples include:
• The City of Georgetown. Unified Development Code (UDC)
• The City's Downtown Master Plan
® The Building Code (current version, as adopted by the City)
• The City's Historic Resource Survey
® The City of Georgetown 2030 Comprehensive Plan
• Federal income tax credits for certified rehabilitation of historic buildings (if
applicable)
Note: Historical markers at
state and national
levels carry varying
protections and
restrictions. if a structure
or site has a state
level designation of
Recorded Texas
Historic Landmark (RTHL) or State Archeological Landmark (SAL), the owner needs
to contact the 'Texas Historical Commission Architecture Division to coordinate any
exterior alterations being considered (www. thc. state. tx. us).
Design Guidelines 2 - 9
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
Recorded Texas Historic Landmark is a legal designation and comes with a measure
of protection. Owners of RTHL-designated structures must give the THC 60 days
notice before any alterations are made to the exterior of the structure.
Unsympathetic changes to these properties may result in removal of the designation
and historical marker. An owner is encouraged to contact the THC Architecture
Division for technical advice. A RTHL designation is a permanent designation that is
retained with the property even upon a transfer of ownership.
State Archeological Landmarks are designated by the Texas Historical Commission
and receive legal protection under the Antiquities Code of Texas. SAL designation
stipulates that the property cannot be removed, altered, damaged, salvaged, or
excavated without a permit from THC. The designation of SAL is conveyed with the
property when sold.
Updated The Design Review Process chart:
Step eco a familiar with the design guidelines.
Review the basic organization of this document and determine which chapter(s) will
apply to a project. Contact the City of Georgetown's Planning and Development
Department with any questions.
Step 4. Review the site context.
Consider immediately adjacent properties and also the character of an entire block. In
many cases, the character of the district is an important consideration.
Step 5. Develop design conc- • r the guideline
The g
•-
• i- • the basis for`' design reviewdecisions.
Step re®a plication Conference.
Prepare a packet for preliminary review for by the Planning and Development
Department prior to creating drawings for final review. This step is required prior to
submitting an application for a CDC_
Step 7. Prepare and submit a complete application packet for
formal review.
An application packet should be prepared and submitted to the Planning and
Development Department for staff and HARC to review. Adequate documentation is
essential to provide a completei' • • of the work proposed. requires
Design Guidelines 1-10
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
that sufficient information be provided to facilitate an informed review and to document
conditions of approval for effective enforcement. Minimum submittal requirements are
described in the City's review procedures, which are available in the UDC Development
Manual at the Planning Department. or on the web page at www.udc.georgetown.org.
Applicants are required to submit the following documentation, based on application
type:
® Completed application checklist
Site plan/roof plan (drawn to scale)
® Floor plan for each floor or level (drawn to scale)
Q Proposed building elevations (drawn to scale)
® Photographs of building conditions (existing and historic)
Product literature or specifications
® Accurate material samples and color samples
If a drawing is to be included in the submittal package, it should be drafted to scale and
executed in a -manner that clearly depicts the character of the proposed work. A
professionally produced drawing is strongly encouraged as the sketches that follow
illustrate.
The City requires that sufficient information ,be provided to facilitate an informed review
and to document conditions of approval for effective enforcement. Minimum submittal
requirements are described in the City's review procedures, which are available in the
UDC Development Manual at the Planning and Development Department or on the web
page at www.udc.georgetown.org.
Step 8. Present your application before
Each project proposal will have a formal presentation by the applicant or agent familiar
with the project, so attendance at the public <meeting by the applicant is strongly
encouraged. The presentation should focus on how the proposed project; complies with
the design guidelines. The public will also have an opportunity to comment after the
presentation has been made and Staff recommendation on the application has been
presented. A critique by HARC will follow, and a decision will be made.
Step 9. Issuance of a building or sin permit.
After an application has been approved by HARC, the City will issue a Certificate of
Design Compliance. This document is the applicant's ,proof that the proposed design
meets the intent of the City's adopted design guidelines. At this point, the applicant can
begin to acquire a building or sign permit from the City. A sign permit may be applied for
prior to HARC approval, at an applicant's own risk. Remember, the building and sign
permits processes are separate from receiving a Certificate of Design Compliance.
Design Guidelines
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
What is the Format of a Guideline
A guideline contains the following components:
Pertinent subtopics
Each chapter is divided into subtopics. For example, in the chapter addressing "Site
Design," the subtopics include: public streetscape, building and street lighting, historic
landscape features, mechanical equipment, and service areas; other equipment, and
parking.
For each subtopic broad policy statements explaining the City's basic approach for the
treatment of the design feature being discussed may be included for reference. This
statement provides the basis for the more detailed background information and design
guidelines that follow. In a case in which special conditions exist that do not appear to be
anticipated in the guideline, this broad policy statement serves as the basis for
determining the appropriateness of the proposal.
Background information
A discussion of the issues typically associated with the specific design topic is presented
next. This may include technical information as well as general preservation theories that
are relevant to the topic at hand.
Design guidelines
Specific design guidelines are presented in this document in bold face font. These are
numbered to indicate their relative position within a chapter and to aid in specific
reference in the design review process. Supplementary requirements that clarify the
primary design guideline statement and may suggest specific methods for compliance
are listed as bulleted (*)statements.
Illustrations
Design guidelines are further explained through the use of photographs and illustrations.
Examples given should not be considered the only appropriate options. In most
instances, there are other solutions that meet the intentiar} of the design guidelines.
If there are any questions regarding the appropriateness of a potential design solution
contact the Planning and Development Department.
It is important to note that all of the elements of the design guidelines (i.e., including the
introductory and informational sections, the policy statement, and the sub -points)
constitute the material upon which the City will make its determination of the
Design Guidelines 1-12
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
appropriateness of a proposed project.
Unified Development Code
The Unified Development Code (UDC) details the development standards for all
properties within Georgetown. The standards that are applied to each property are
based on zoning and use and include development issues such as parking, landscaping,
tree protection, land use and building design.
Properties located in the Overlay Districts must meet the development standards of their
specific zoning district as well as the Design Guidelines. The zoning district standards
often address items that might not be included in the Design 'Guidelines and vary based
on ;zoning designation. For example, -a residentially zoned historic property located in
the : Downtown Overlay District must meet the residential setback and parking
requirements of the UDC as well as the design standards in the Design Guidelines, while
a property zoned Mixed -Use Downtown must meet different UDC parking and setback
requirements as well as the Design Guidelines.
Downtown Master< tan
The Downtown Master Plan is a planning document designed to illustrate the overall
vision of the downtown and enable the City, property owners, and 'citizens to make
informed strategic decisions about future developments'' and enhancements. The Plan
details a framework of how public infrastructure, streetscape design, way finding
systems, circulation, parking, new construction, redevelopment, and preservation work
together to provide a strong, viable downtown.
During site review of proposed projects in the Downtown Overlay, property owners will
be asked to design public improvements, streets,' sidewalks, street furniture, and other
elements in conformance with the Downtown Master Plan. To help facilitate these
improvements, there may be financial assistance or other incentives available.
Design Guidelines 1-13
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
CHAPTER 2
ARCHITECTURAL RESOURCES OF GEORGETOW1
The "Williamson County Courthouse Historic District," was listed in the National Register of Historic
Places in 1977. It encompasses one of the finest collections of high Victorian commercial
architecture in Texas. The district includes approximately 50 structures which were constructed
primarily between the years 1885 and 1930, when Georgetown experienced its first Golden Age.
This was a period when Georgetown had successfully weathered its frontier settlement days, and
the community offered great promise in the years ahead. A lively host of commercial establishments
clustered around an impressive county courthouse, Southwestern University had located on the
eastern edge of town, and most important of all, the railroad had come to Georgetown (in 1878). It
was a time of real prosperity for some and a time of anticipated prosperity for many others and the
buildings that survive from this period help to convey the significant period in history. However, the
city's beginnings a few decades earlier were less grand.
Georgetown was founded in 1848, and named the county seat of Williamson County that same
year. At that time the "town" was little more than an undeveloped tract overlooking the confluence of
the San Gabriel Rivers to the north. Founding father George Washington Glasscock donated 173
acres of land which was quickly surveyed and marked off in a uniform grid of blocks and lots and
offered for sale at a public auction on July 4, 1848. This grid system of development, with a central
public square donated for governmental purposes, is typical of county seats throughout the state.
New property owners found themselves in possession of attractive sites with abundant trees and
foliage and an ample water supply, but few resources other than natural ones on which to draw.
Crude shacks and log buildings initially served as residences and commercial and governmental
establishments as well. Most early settlers had neither the financial means nor the time to devote to
erecting a refined structure. Immediate shelter, in the most basic sense, was a priority so that early
inhabitants could go about the business of settling the land and establishing the town.
Farming the surrounding land appeared to be the principle endeavor of most Georgetown families
at this time, according to census records of 1850. Other occupations listed in the census records
were merchant, trader, grocer, hotel keeper, and lawyer. The commercial and mercantile
establishments were concentrated in the center of the community around the square. The
expanded labor force included a comparatively large number of blacksmiths in addition to a tanner,
gunsmith, wheelwright and millwright, each serving a critical need in the settlement activities of the
young town.
It was not until 1857 that a courthouse stood in its designated central location. Official county
business was originally conducted beneath an oak tree two blocks southeast of the square, at the
intersection of 9th and Church Streets. Next, a log building located on the east side of Main Street
across from the square, and later a wood frame residence served as the courthouse before a two -
Design Guidelines 2-1
City of Georgetown
story, rubble stone building was erected on the square in 1857.
As the town prospered, the crudely -constructed early structures were replaced with more finely
crafted wood -frame buildings. These early "store houses" as they were called, were typically one or
two story structures with a high false front projecting well above the gabled roofline. Building
components such as finished lumber, doors, sashes, and blinds became available locally and
carpenters and builders established a lively trade in Georgetown. By the late 1864s, limestone was
being quarried locally for use in commercial building construction as is evidenced in the Makemson
Hotel Complex and the Shaffer Saddlery Building.
The last two decades of the 19th century brought 'great and lasting changes to the appearance of
Georgetown. It was a time of robust economic development activity and physical expansion. Having
been established as the home of Southwestern University in the late 1870s and tied into a rapidly
expanding railroad network in 1878, it was apparent to all that the county seat of Williamson County
had a promising future.
City building codes were established and wood -frame 'commercial buildings were replaced with
more permanent ones constructed of native limestone and 'materials such as brick, decorative
pressed metal, and cast iron, imported by rail. Building to reflect not only their individual prosperity,
but also the confidence they had in the future of Georgetown, building owners for the first time
concentrated on aesthetic designs embellished with elaborate ornamentation.'
Limestone, readily available in abundant supply and therefore inexpensive, was commonly used in
random, rubble stone construction on the less important rear facades and party `walls. These party
walls can be seen on all sides of the square above the parapets. Dressed limestone, involving more
time and labor, was a more expensive material and was reserved for the public facades of the
structures. Several excellent examples of dressed limestone masonry can be evidenced around
downtown Georgetown in the Makemson Hotel Complex, the M.E. Lockett Building, the Masonic
Lodge, the McDougal -Booty Building and the Hodges Building. 'Carved limestone detailing was a
very labor intensive process requiring a high degree of skill on the part of the stone mason and was
consequently, quite expensive. The P.H. Dimmitt & Co. Building and the Evans Building exhibit
superb limestone carving and highly skilled stone masonry in their construction.
Pressed metal and cast iron 'became another important building material in turn -of -the century
Georgetown. Decorative components could be mass produced in major manufacturing centers and
shipped by rail, offering building owners an affordable option for achieving the high degree of
ornamentation, so favored in the Victorian era. Building owners were able to order decorative
elements from catalogues at the local lumber yards which would 'receive the goods by rail. The
sheets of metal and cast iron columns were then transported to the building and 'nailed to wooden
frames. One company in particular was a major supplier of metal components to downtown
Georgetown. Metal work on the M.E. Lockett Building, the H.C. Craig Building, the Dimmitt Building,
and the Mileham Building can all be attributed to the Mesker Brothers of St. Louis. Similarities in
details on these buildings with others around the square suggest that several more represent the
Design Guidelines 2-2
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
work of Mesker Brothers as well.
Mesker Brothers began their manufacture and catalogue marketing of metal storefronts in 1884 and
achieved remarkable success nationwide, selling over 5,000 storefronts in a twenty-three year
period. The Williamson County Sun Buildings and the Hodges Building bear the mark of F.
Heireman of Austin on cast iron columns. The popularity of pressed metal as a decorative element
can be evidenced by the fact that virtually every turn -of -the -century building in downtown
Georgetown features some degree of pressed metal ornamentation on the front facade. Arrival of
the railroad facilitated expanded retailing activities as well. Local merchants could stock their stores
with products from regional and national manufacturing centers. Downtown Georgetown became an
important commercial center for the surrounding area, which supported widespread agricultural and
ranching pursuits. First floor storefronts were devoted primarily to retail activities with the second
floors utilized for residential and more commonly, professional occupation. Attorneys were
particularly attracted to available spaces with close proximity to the courthouse.
Once the construction boom began it swept throughout the central business district and lasted into
the early 20th century. The county constructed its fourth courthouse in 1879, a stylized example of
the French Second Empire style designed by architects Preston and Ruffini. This high Victorian
structure was deemed too small in the early 1900s and razed to allow construction of the present
structure in 1910. The current courthouse, visible for miles in all directions, is a restrained example
of Beaux Arts Classicism, designed by Austin architect Charles Hall Page. When completed, the
imposing structure featured terra cotta pediments with base relief carving and a terra cotta
balustrade encircling the roof. These decorative elements were removed from the structure in 1965
to relieve fears of potential safety hazards.
Though the boom period ended in the early 20th century as the population declined slightly
between 1910 and 1920, this robust Victorian era left its mark on the city. The growth trend
resumed in 1930, but setbacks from the Depression, World Wars, and a regional drought weighed
heavily on the local economy. Financial activities in this agricultural region became decidedly
conservative and the face of downtown Georgetown changed very little throughout the 20th century.
The advent of the automobile and resulting increased mobility of the local population coupled with
the development of regional shopping centers and malls in nearby Austin caused a tremendous
decline in downtown Georgetown retailing. As sales declined and businesses closed, repair and
maintenance of commercial buildings relaxed substantially. Professionals abandoned the second
floors for modern offices in outlying commercial areas and the vacant spaces were boarded up.
Downtown Georgetown joined a national trend and took on a shabby, neglected appearance.
Folding to the pressures of the 1960s and 1970s, many small towns across the country essentially
died, but the determined spirit that founded Georgetown had been rekindled and the city was in the
midst of a major revitalization which insured the future of this pioneer Texas town.
In 1975, the
city established
the Town Square
Historic
District, charging the
then
Historic
Preservation
Commission with
responsibility of
reviewing
alterations to ensure
that
historic
Design Guidelines 2.3
City of Georgetown
Exhibit`A
resources were preserved. Then in the 1980s, in response to these challenges, downtown joined
the Main Street Program, a self-help downtown revitalization effort conceived by the National Trust
for Historic Preservation and sponsored by the Texas Historical Commission. These efforts, coupled
with growth in the county helped revitalize the downtown core.
However, at the beginning of the twenty-first century, the
downtown faced
yet another
challenge
with "big box" retailers locating along Interstate 35. These
new, out-of-town
businesses—including
retail stores, restaurants and hotels—competed for both the
local consumer's
and tourist's
dollar.
01
Architectural Building Types
The sources of architectural styles in a small town are often indirect and difficult to trace. Buildings
of mixed influence are common. In particular, with commercial buildings the means and desires of
the building owner, the available building materials, and the skills of the local builders may have had
a more direct influence on the design of a building than any recognized architectural style.
Most commercial building types within the downtown share a basic two- or three-story boxlike form.
They are rectangular in plan with load-bearing masonry walls. Facades and sidewalls are
rectangular and roofs are flat. Individual buildings are attached, often sharing interior sidewalls. At
street side a continuous facade line is created with each building being set at the sidewalk ,edge.
The width and depth of these buildings has been prescribed by the dimensions of the lots and
properties. While buildings may span several of the 20- to 30 -foot wide properties, the individual lot
width is still expressed as a distinct bay or module. This helps give the town a consistency in scale.
Public buildings, including churches, are much fewer in number than commercial buildings. Like the
commercial types, these buildings are also of load-bearing masonry but they are freestanding rather
than attached. Unlike the commercial types with street level storefronts, each public building has a
raised basement with a stepped approach from the street to the main level.
The most notable building types found in downtown and old town Georgetown are presented on the
pages that follow. The key features of each type are listed, along with a brief description of the
style. Property owners should review these descriptions carefully. In many cases the following
design guidelines make reference to the characteristics of styles that are presented in this chapter.
The property owner is encouraged to use the styles section in analyzing the overall historic
character of their building, as well as distinguishing its character -defining features. Ultimately, this
should aid in choosing an appropriate design solution for any proposed work.
Originally inspired by farmhouses found in Northern Italy, this blending of classical and romantic
features became one of the most popular of the picturesque styles in the United States. Because of
its ornate details, such as bracketed cornices, this style was easily adapted to simple buildings and
Design Guidelines 2-4
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
storefronts.
As the
details and
features of this
style were capable of being interpreted in wood,
masonry or
iron, it
was also
very adaptable
in the various regions of the country. With this
adaptability
and the
sensibilities
of the times, its
popularity grew for commercial buildings.
Characteristics
• Tall, narrow, double -hung windows, often with arched or round arch heads (commonly
referred to as "punched" windows as opposed to "ribbon" windows)
• Window panes are either one -over -one or two -over -two
• Protruding sills
• Quoins at building corners
• Double doors with glass panels
• Transom, often curved, above the front door
• Brackets, modillions and dentil courses
• Flat roof with ornate cornices
• Decorative paired brackets
Usually between one and four stories, the vernacular commercial building is divided horizontally into
two distinct bands. The first floor is more commonly transparent, so goods can be displayed, while
the second story is usually reserved for residential or storage space. The upper floor is typically
supported by a steel beam that spans the glass opening. However, many one-story examples also
exist. A kickplate is found below the display window while above the display window, a smaller band
of glass, a transom, is seen. Also, the main door is frequently recessed.
These buildings have stone and brick facades. Ornamental detail exists, but is simple, limited to a
shallow molding such as a cornice. Some cornices were made of masonry, while others were made
of stamped metal. Many carry simplified Italianate detailing. In essence, these buildings lack
distinctive detail, contrasting them with the revival styles that were also popular during this period.
Characteristics
• Cast-iron supported storefronts
• Large display windows
® Transom lights
• Kickplate
• Recessed entry
• Tall second story windows
• Cornice
Design Guidelines 2-5
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
The Greek Revival style became quite popular during the middle of the nineteenth century. Based
on classical detailing that originated in ancient Greece, these buildings are known primarily for
columns with Doric, Ionic or Corinthian capitals. Other Greek Revival detailing includes classical
entablatures, simple window surrounds and door surrounds consisting of transom and sidelights.
Characteristics
• Rounded columns with capitals
• Pediment roof
® Tall first floor windows
® Entablature
• Doors with transom, side and corner lights
® Gabled or hipped roof
® Frieze band windows
Beaux Arts Classicism
® circa 1885-1930
The term "Beaux Arts," or the French equivalent of "Fine Arts," has come to mean both the period of
elaborate eclectic design from 1885 to 1920, as well as that style advocated by the era's premier
architectural school in France: Ecole des Beaux-Arts. This style is based on many classical building
precedents that were then elaborated with lavish detailing.
Characteristics
• Wall surfaces with decorative garlands, floral patterns, shields or keystones
• Decorative brackets
• Pedimented windows
• Accentuated cornice
• Facade with quoins, columns or pilasters (usually paired with Ionic or Corinthian capitals)
® Rusticated first floor (stonework joints exaggerated)
• Roof -line balustrade
• Arched windows
® Symmetrical facade
• Masonry walls (usually light colored stone)
• Low or flat pitched roof or mansard roof
Richardsonian Romanesque
9 circa 1840=1900
The monochromatic brick or stone Romanesque building is highlighted by the semi -circular arches
for doorways and windows. The arch is used decoratively to enrich corbel tables along the eaves.
Each building has clearly defined forms and they are frequently of a very regular symmetrical plan.
Characteristics
Design Guidelines
City of Georgetown
2-6
Exhibit A
• Round arch openings
• Thick walls
• Decorative arches
• Sturdy piers
• Monochromatic stone finish
• Pronounced archivault trim
• Battlement parapet
• Hip roof with cross gables
ueen Anne
0 circa :0
The Queen Anne style is typically a richly decorated style with many variations, most often with an
asymmetrical design. Queen Anne houses commonly have steeply pitched roofs that have irregular
shapes. They frequently have towers, turrets, wrap-around porches and other romantic complex
details. The style was based on "decorative excess" and variety. This excess was made possible
by power tools and mass-produced trim work.
Characteristics
• Steep roof
• Complicated, asymmetrical shape
• Front -facing gable
• One-story porch that extends across one or two sides of the house
• Round or square towers
• Wall surfaces textured with decorative shingles, patterned masonry, or half-timbering
• Ornamental spindles and brackets
• Bay windows
• Stained glass decoration
VictorianFolk
* circa 1870A910
The Folk Victorian is a more middle-class, affordable version of the Queen Anne style, with basic
symmetrical floor plans and simpler details. A very common style found in the turn -of -the century
when mass-produced wood features were available in smaller towns because of railroad expansion.
Often trim and ornamentation was added to traditional folk houses. Unlike Queen Anne, typically
there are no towers, bays or elaborate moldings.
Characteristics
• Square shape
• Porches with spindle work or jig -sawed detailing
• Gable -front and side wings
• Brackets under the eaves
• Details with Queen Anne or Italianate inspiration
• Low-pitched, pyramid style roof
Craftsman/Arts and Crafts/Bungalow
Design Guidelines
City of Georgetown
2-7
Exhibit A
The Craftsman style is defined by simple design with low-pitched gable roofs with broad eaves,
large front porches and exposed wooden structural elements. Craftsman houses were bungalows
that incorporated locally handcrafted wood, glass and metal work. The style incorporates a visible
sturdy structure with clean lines and natural materials. Craftsman houses include those that came
from mail-order house catalogs, such as Sears.
Characteristics
• Low-pitched roof lines, gabled or hipped roof
• Deeply overhanging eaves with exposed rafters
• Open front porches
• Columns supporting the roof
• Hand-crafted design details
• 1 to 1'/ stories
• Double -hung windows with multiple lights in the upper window .and a single ...pane in the
lower, some stained or leaded glass
• Wood, stone or stucco siding
• Exterior stone chimneys
• Built-in cabinets, shelves, and seating
• Exposed rafters and beams with elaborated ends and/or supported by knee boards
Prairie influence
® circa 1893-1920
The 'Prairie style has low, strong horizontal lines and open 'interior `spaces. They are one and two
story houses with a central portion that rises slightly higher than the wings. 'Prairie houses are
typically long and low with broad,overhanging eaves and broad covered porches.
Characteristics
• Low-pitched roof, hip roof
• Broad overhanging eaves
• Horizontal lines
• Prominent central chimney
• Open floor plan
• Extending walls form sides of terraces and balconies
• Clerestory windows
• Ribbons of windows
• Stylized, built-in cabinetry
• Wide use of natural materials, such as wood and stone
Ranch tyle / American Ranch / Rambler / Rancher
® circa 1920-1970
The Ranch style is a style that originated in the United States that became extremely popular with
the booming middle class of the mid -twentieth century. It is noted for its long, close -to -the -ground
Design Guidelines 2-8
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
profile, and minimal use of exterior and interior decoration. The houses fuse modernist ideas and
styles with notions of the American West working ranches to create an informal and casual living
style.
Characteristics
• Single story
• Long, low roofline
• Asymmetrical rectangular, L-shaped, or U-shaped design
• Simple, open floor plans
• Attached garages
• Sliding glass doors opening onto a patio
• Large windows, often decorated with shutters
• Vaulted ceilings with exposed beams
• Exteriors of brick, wood, or stucco
• Large overhanging eaves
• Cross -gabled, side -gabled, or hip roof
• Simple and/or rustic interior and exterior trim
circa 1933A965
The Mid -Century Modern style is a style derived from a further development of Frank Lloyd Wright's
principals of organic architecture combined with many elements reflected in the International and
Bauhaus movements and employs the goal of bringing modernism into America's post-war suburbs.
It is noted for an emphasis on creating structures with ample windows and open floor -plans with the
intention of opening up interior spaces and bringing the outdoors in. Many of these houses utilized
then -groundbreaking post and beam architectural design that eliminated bulky support walls in favor
of walls seemingly made of glass. Function is as important as form with an emphasis placed
specifically on targeting the needs of the average American family.
Characteristics
• Rectangular in shape
• Flat planes and roofs
• Large glass windows
• Open interior space
• Both single and multi -story
• Most commonly used materials are glass for the fagade, steel for exterior support, and
concrete for the floors and interior support.
• Contemporary interiors
• Attached garages or carports
These were the buildings of the future: sleek, geometric, dramatic. With their cubic forms and
zigzag designs, art deco buildings embraced the machine age. Art Deco architecture was a
Design Guidelines 2-9
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
complete break away from older architecture. It was meant to reflect a style of its own: It embodied
all that was thought of as "modern." It represented the modernity of the machine age - - - all the
amenities of modern society brought on by the industrial revolution. It represented modern
simplicity, strength, forward motion, achievement, technology. Gone were the remnants of fancy,
traditional, classic design/ornamentation.
During the roaring twenties and the early thirties, jazzy Art Deco architecture was the rage. Like any
style, it evolved from many sources. The austere shapes of the Bauhaus School and streamlined
styling of modern technology combined with patterns and icons taken from the Far East, ancient
Greece and Rome, Africa, India, and Mayan and Aztec cultures.
Characteristics
® Stylized floral patterns
® Segments of circle
Repetitive geometric forms incorporating sharp angles, zigzags, chevrons, and other stylized
geometric motifs on the fagade
Vertical emphasis on towers and other projections above the roof line
® Building entrances embellished. with decoration extending to hardware and light fixtures.
Smooth wall surfaces, usually stucco, with glass brick used in rounded or angular corner
windows and panels/walls.
® Illumination through colored fighting is common
Design Guidelines 2-10
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
PRINCIPLES FOR HISTORIC PRESERVATIO-K
The design guidelines in this document incorporate principles set forth in The Secretary of the Interior's
Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties — a widely accepted set of basic preservation design
principles. This document is compatible with the Secretary of the Interior's Standards, while
expanding on how these basic preservation principles apply in Georgetown. See Appendix B for
these standards.
111111 E33MM=
What makes a property historically significant? It is generally recognized that a certain amount of
time must pass before the historical significance of a property can be evaluated. The National
Register, for example, suggests that a property be at least 50 years old or have extraordinary
importance before it may be considered. Georgetown also employs the "50 -year" guideline;
however, structures that are more recent may be considered significant if they are found to have
special architectural or historical merit. Also, in the future other events, time periods, areas or
districts may become historically significant to the city and could be designated as an historic
structure or district.
A property may be significant for one` or more of the following reasons:
® Association with events that contributed to the broad patterns of history, the lives of significant
people, or the understanding of Georgetown's prehistory or history.
• Construction and design associated with distinctive characteristics of a building type, period,
or construction method.
® An example of an architect or master craftsman or an expression of particularly high artistic
values.
® Integrity of location, design, setting, materials, workmanship, feeling and association.
Period of significance
Every historic building has a period of significance—or the time span during which it gained
architectural, historical or geographical importance. In most cases, a property is significant because
it represents or is associated with a particular period in history. Frequently, this begins with the
construction of the building and continues through the peak of early occupation. Portions of the
building fabric and features that date from the period of significance typically contribute to the
character of the structure.
Historic districts also have a period of significance. The Town Square Historic District, for example,
has a period of significance which spans approximately 45 years (1885 to 1930). Throughout this
period, the city witnessed construction of a number of buildings and alterations that have become
Design Guidelines 3-1
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
significant.
Conversely,
structures
built after
this period are not considered as significant, although
some may
contribute to
the overall
character,
or ambience, of the district.
Concept o "Integrity"
In addition to being historically significant, a property also must have integrity—a sufficient
percentage of the structure must date from the period of significance. The majority of the building's
structural system and its materials should date from that time and its key character -defining
features also should remain intact. These may include architectural details, such as dormers and
porches, ornamental brackets and moldings and materials, as well as the overall mass and form of
the building. It is these elements that allow a building to be recognized as a product of its time.
Each preservation project is unique. A project may include a variety of treatment techniques,
including the repair and replacement of features and maintenance of those already in good
condition. In order to define the range of preservation treatments that may be needed in a project,
consider these steps:
1. Research the history of the property.
This analysis should begin with an investigation of the history of the property. This may identify
design alterations that have occurred and may help in developing an understanding of the
significance of the building as a whole as well as its individual components.
2. Assess existing conditions.
Historical research should be combined with an on-site assessment of existing conditions. In this
inspection, identify those elements that are original and those that have been altered. Also
determine the condition of individual building components.
. List use requirements.
Finally, list the requirements for continued use of the property. Is additional space needed? Or
should the work focus on preserving and maintaining the existing configuration?
4. Summarize a preservation strategy.
By combining an understanding of the history of the building, its present condition, and the need for
action, one can then develop a preservation approach.
Defining i
When developing a preservation strategy, consider the application of these terms:
Maintenance
Work that often focuses on keeping the property in good working condition by repairing features as
Design Guidelines 3-2
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
deterioration becomes apparent, using procedures that retain the original character and finish of the
features is considered maintenance. In some cases, preventive maintenance is executed prior to
noticeable deterioration. No alteration or reconstruction is involved. Property owners are strongly
encouraged to maintain their property in good condition so that more aggressive measures of
rehabilitation, restoration or reconstruction are not needed.
Preservation
Keeping an existing building in its current state by a careful program of maintenance and repair is
preservation. It will often include repair and stabilization of materials and features in addition to
regularly scheduled maintenance. Essentially, the property is kept in its current good condition.
Rehabilitation is the process of returning a property to a condition which makes a contemporary use
possible while still preserving those portions or features of the property which are significant to its
historic, architectural and cultural values. Rehabilitation may include the adaptive use of the building
and constructing additions. Most good preservation projects in Georgetown may be considered
rehabilitation projects.
To restore, one reproduces the appearance of a building exactly as it looked at a particular moment
in time; to reproduce a pure style - either interior or exterior. This process may include the removal
of later work or the replacement of missing historic features. A restoration approach is used on
missing details or features of an historic building when the features are determined to be particularly
significant to the character of the structure and when the original configuration is accurately
documented.
To renovate means to improve by repair, to revive. Renovation is similar to rehabilitation, although it
includes the use of some new materials and elements. The basic character and significant details
are respected and preserved, but some sympathetic alterations may also occur. Alterations that are
made are generally reversible, should future owners wish to restore the building to its original
design.
. E
Converting a building to a new use that is different from its original purpose is considered to be
adaptive use. For example, converting a residential structure to offices is adaptive use. A good
adaptive use project retains the historic character of the building while accommodating new
functions.
While adaptive use allows the building owner to convert the building to a purpose other than that for
which it was designed, it should be done with respect to the original building form. For example, it
would be inappropriate to turn the living room of an historic building into a bathroom. The reason for
Design Guidelines 3-3
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A'
this is that when the programmatic uses of a building are drastically altered, this often results in a
major change to the original floor plan as well as to the exterior appearance of the building. When
adaptive use is the preferred preservation alternative, the proposed design should make use of the
original building function as closely as possible.
Remodeling
To remake or to make over the design image of a building is to remodel it. The appearance is
changed by removing original detail and by adding new features that are out of character with the
original. Remodeling is inappropriate for historic buildings in Georgetown.
The Preferred Sequence of Preservation Action.0176
Once the basic approach to a project has been defined, it is important to assess the property and to
identify any significant character -defining features and materials. Retaining these elements, and
then using the guidelines to select an appropriate treatment mechanism will greatly enhance the
overall quality of the preservation project. In making the selection follow this; sequence:
1. If a feature is intact and in good condition, maintain it as such.
2. If the feature is deteriorated or damaged, repair it to its original condition.
3. If it is not feasible to repair the feature, then replace it with one that is the same or similar in
character (materials, detail, finish) to the original one. Replace only that portion which is
beyond repair.
4. If the feature is missing entirely, reconstruct it from appropriate evidence.
5. If a new feature or addition is necessary, design it in such a way as to minimize the impact on
original features.
Design Guidelines 3-4
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
CHAPTER
DESIGN GUIDELINES FOR41RCHITECTURAL
This chapter presents the design
policies and guidelines
for the rehabilitation of
an historic resource
located in Georgetown, including
the Downtown Overlay
and Old Town Overlay
Districts.
Architectural details play several roles in defining the character of an historic structure. They add
visual interest, distinguish certain building styles and types and often showcase superior
craftsmanship. Features such as window hoods, brackets and cornices exhibit materials and
finishes often associated with particular styles, and therefore their preservation is important.
o . IIIIII III 111 11 111 INs
Preserving original architectural details is critical to the integrity of an historic building. Where
replacement is required, one should remove only those portions that are deteriorated beyond repair.
Even if an architectural detail is replaced with an exact copy of the original, the integrity of the
building as an historic resource is diminished and therefore preservation of the original material is
preferred.
111111:11t
i
Using a material to match those used historically is always the best approach. However, a
substitute material may be considered for a detail when it appears similar in composition, design,
color and texture to the original.
In the past, substitute materials were employed as methods of producing architectural features.
Many of these historic "substitutes" are now referred to as traditional materials. For example, a
stamped metal cornice on a commercial building was a substitute for stone. Just as these historic
substitutes offered advantages over their predecessors, many new materials today hold promise.
However, these substitute materials should not be used wholesale, but only when it is absolutely
necessary to replace original materials with stronger, more durable ones.
Substitute materials may be considered when the original is not readily available or whose use is
not feasible, where the original is known to be susceptible to rapid decay, or where maintenance
access may be difficult.
Another factor which may determine the appropriateness of using substitute materials for
architectural details is their location and degree of exposure. For example, lighter weight materials
Design Guidelines q_y
City of Georgetown
MWIM0r I
may be inappropriate for an architectural detail that would be exposed to intense wear. Also, it may
be wise to avoid using a fiberglass column on a front porch where it may be accidentally damaged;
whereas, the use of fiberglass to reproduce a cornice on a commercial building may be successful.
Po
lic Original architectural details should a preserved in place
whenever feasible.
Architectural details—including their scale, texture and finish—contribute significantly to the
character of a structure. Porches, turned columns and brackets, cornices, storefronts, foundations
and window and door surrounds are examples of architectural details that should not be removed or
altered. The best way to preserve many of these features is through well-planned maintenance.
4.9 Avoid removing or altering any significant architectural detail.
• Do not remove or alter architectural details that are in good condition or that can be repaired
in place.
4.2 Avoid adding elements or details that were not part of the original building.
• For example, details such as decorative millwork or cornices should not be added to a building
if they were not an original feature of that structure.
4.3 Protect and maintain significant stylistic elements.
• Distinctive stylistic features and examples of skilled craftsmanship should be treated with
sensitivity.
• The best preservation procedure is to maintain historic features from the outset so that
intervention is not required.
• Employ treatments such as rust removal, caulking, limited paint removal and reapplication of
paint.
olicy: Deteriorated architectural details should be repaired rather
than replaced, henever possible.
In some cases, original architectural details may be deteriorated. When deterioration occurs, repair
the material and any other related problems. It is also important to recognize that all details weather
over time and that a scarred finish does not represent an inferior material, but simply reflects the
age of the building. Therefore, preserving original materials and features that show signs of wear is
preferred to replacing them.
4.4 Repair only those features that are deteriorated.
• Patch, piece -in, splice, consolidate, or otherwise upgrade existing materials, using recognized
preservation methods as those identified in the Department of the Interior's Historic
Preservation Briefs, located online at httpJlwww.nps.govlhpsltps/
• Isolated areas of damage may be stabilized or fixed using consolidants. Epoxies and resins
Design Guidelines 4-2
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
may be considered for wood repair. Also, special masonry repair components may be used.
• Removing damaged features that can be repaired is not appropriate.
• Protect features that are adjacent to the area being worked on.
4.5 When disassembly of an historic element is necessary for its restoration, use methods
that minimize damage to the original materials.
® When disassembly of an historic feature is required in a restoration procedure, document its
location so it may be repositioned accurately. Always devise methods of replacing the
disassembled materials in their original configuration.
4.6 Use approved technical procedures for cleaning, refinishing and repairing architectural
details.
• When choosing preservation treatments, use the gentlest means possible that will achieve the
desired results.
• Employ treatments such as rust removal, caulking, limited paint removal and reapplication of
paint.
olicys Original architectural details that have deteriorated •- • •'
,�epair should be -• -• in kind.
While restoration of the original material or feature is the preferred alternative, in some situations a
portion of the original building material may be beyond repair. Replacement should occur only if the
existing historic material cannot be reasonably repaired. In the event replacement is necessary, the
new material should match that being replaced in design, color, texture and other visual qualities.
4.7 Remove only that which is deteriorated and must be replaced.
• Match the original in composition, scale and finish when replacing materials or features.
4.8 Replace missing original details in kind.
• If parts are damaged or missing, replace them with the same material as the original.
® In some instances, substitute materials may be used. If substitute materials must be used,
then they should convey the visual appearance of the original materials in design, scale,
proportion, finish and appearance.
4.9 Replacement of missing or deteriorated details shall be based on original features.
• The design should be substantiated by physical or pictorial evidence to avoid creating a
misrepresentation of the building's heritage.
j.10 When inadequate information
simplified interpretation of the original,
0 The new element should still relate in general size, shape, scale and finish.
Design Guidelines 4-3
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
4.11 Avoid adding decorative elements, unless thorough research indicates that the
building once had them.
• Conjectural "historic" designs for replacement parts that cannot be substantiated by
documented evidence are inappropriate.
® Dressing up a building with pieces of ornamentation that are out of character with the
architectural style gives the building a false "history" it never had, and is inappropriate.
Design Guidelines 4-4
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
•
DESIGN GUIDELINESFOR
This chapter presents the design policies and guidelines for the rehabilitation of historic
building materials. They apply to individually listed historic resources, as well as historic
properties located in the Downtown and Old Town Overlay Districts.
Brick and stone—used for building walls, chimneys, porch supports and foundations—
were the primary materials used in downtown. Wood siding also occurred on residential -
type structures. Painted, horizontal clapboard was the most popular. In each case, the
distinct characteristics of the building material, including the scale of the material unit, its
texture and finish, contribute to the historic character of a building.
The best way to preserve historic building materials is through well-planned
maintenance. Wood surfaces, for example, should be protected with a good application
of paint. In some cases, historic building materials may be deteriorated. When
deterioration occurs, repairing the material rather than replacing it is preferred.
Frequently, damaged materials can be patched or consolidated using special bonding
agents.
In other situations, however, some portion of the material may be beyond repair and may
be replaced. The new material should match the original in appearance. It is important,
however, that the extent of replacement materials be minimized, because the original
materials contribute to the authenticity of the property as an historic resource. Even
when the replacement material exactly matches the original, the integrity of an historic
building is to some extent compromised when extensive amounts of original materials
are removed.
Rather than replace original materials, some property owners may consider covering
them. Aluminum and vinyl siding are examples of materials that are often discussed.
However, using any material, either synthetic or conventional, to cover historic materials
is inappropriate. Doing so would obscure the original character and change the
dimensions of walls, which are particularly noticeable around door and window
openings. The extra layer may in fact cause additional decay, by its method of
attachment, because it may trap moisture inside the wall and because it also creates
cavities in which insects can live. For similar reasons, if original wall materials are
presently covered with a more recent siding, consider removing the outer layer and
restore the original. When damaged, these materials also can be more difficult to
Design Guidelines 5-1
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
repaint, repair or replace.
Building materials—including such characteristics as their scale, texture and finish—
contribute significantly to the character of a structure. The best way to preserve many of
these features is through well-planned maintenance.
place,Policys Original building materials should be preserved M1
5.1 Maintain existing wall materials and textures.
• Avoid removing materials that are in good condition or that can be repaired in
place.
• Remove only those materials that are deteriorated and must be replaced.
• Avoid rebuilding a major portion of an exterior wall that could be repaired.
Reconstruction may result in a building that is no longer historic.
• In many cases, original building materials may not be damaged beyond repair and
do not require replacement. Repainting wood, ensuring proper drainage and
keeping the material clean may be all that is necessary.
Policyw Deteriorated building 'materials should be repairerTC
rather than replaced, whenever possible.
In some cases, original building materials may be deteriorated. When deterioration
occurs, repair the material and any other related problems. It is also important to
recognize that all materials weather over time and that a scarred finish does not
represent an inferior material, but simply reflects the age of the building. Therefore,
preserving original materials that show signs of wear is preferred to replacing them.
5.2 Repair deteriorated primary building materials by patching, piecing -in,
consolidating or otherwise reinforcing the materials.
• Avoid the removal of damaged materials that can be repaired.
• Isolated areas of damage may be stabilized or fixed, using consolidants. Epoxies
and resins may be considered for wood repair. Also, special masonry repair
components may be used.
5.3 Use technical procedures that preserve, clean, refinish or repair historic
materials and finishes.
• A professional experienced in the cleaning of historic buildings should be hired to
advise on the best, lowest impact method of cleaning that is appropriate for a
project.
• Perform a test patch to determine that the cleaning method will cause no damage
Design Guidelines 5-2
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
to the material's surface or to surrounding materials. Many procedures, such as
sandblasting, are not appropriate, as they permanently erode building materials
and finishes and accelerate deterioration.
• If cleaning is appropriate, a low-pressure water and detergent wash, using plastic
or fiber bristle brushes, is encouraged. A steam wash may also be considered.
® Clean masonry only when necessary to arrest deterioration (but not for cosmetic
reasons).
• See also Preservation Briefs #6: Dangers of Abrasive Cleaning to Historic
Buildings, published by the National Park Service.
Policya Original building materials that have deteriorated
beyond repair should be replaced in kind.
While restoration of the original material or feature is the preferred alternative, in some
situations, a portion of the original building material may be beyond repair. Replacement
should occur only if the existing historic material cannot be reasonably repaired.
5.4 Latch the original material in composition, scale and finish when replacing it
on a primary surface.
• If the original material is wood clapboard, for example, then the replacement
material should be wood as well. It should match the original in size, the amount of
exposed lap and finish.
® Replace only the amount required. If a few boards are damaged beyond repair,
then only replace them and not the entire wall.
5.5 Do not use synthetic materials, such as aluminum, vinyl siccing or panelized
brick, as replacements for primary building materials on an historic structure.
• Primary building materials such as wood siding and brick may not be replaced with
synthetic materials.
• See also Preservation Briefs #16: The Use of Substitute Materials on Historic
Building Exteriors, published by the National Park Service.
Policys The covering of original building
i E' • •
Rather than repairing or replacing siding, some property owners may entertain the idea
of covering the original building material. Aluminum and vinyl siding are examples of
synthetic materials that are often considered. Using these products to cover historic
materials is inappropriate. Doing so obscures the original character and changes the
dimensions of walls, which is particularly noticeable around door and window openings.
Design Guidelines 5_3
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
5.6 Historic building materials or features shall not be covered.
• No material shall be applied as a covering to historic materials.
• Synthetic stucco, panelized brick, vinyl, aluminum or other composite siding
materials are not appropriate.
• See also Preservation Briefs #8: Aluminum and Vinyl Siding on Historic Buildings,
published by the National Park Service.
• Removing later covering materials that have not achieved historic significance is
encouraged.
• In. some instances a .later covering .may have achieved historic significance,
especially if it was applied early in the building's history. When this is the case, the
later covering may be maintained on the structure.
• An applicant may not re -side a building with another covering material if one
already exists. Removing the covering to expose the original material is
appropriate in such a case.
• Once the covering siding has been removed, repair the _original underlying
material.
Case Study: Uncovering Building Materials — pictures and captions added.
olicy® Original wood should be protected against moisture
and deterioration.
Wood appears frequently in Georgetown. It is used for siding, trim, windows, doors and
porches. To preserve the wood, it is important to maintain its painted finish.
5.8 Protect wood features from deterioration.
• Provide proper drainage and ventilation to minimize rot.
• Maintain protective coatings to retard drying and ultraviolet damage. Exterior wood
walls should be painted, not stained. If the building was painted historically, it
should remain painted,including all trim.
5.9 Plan repainting carefully.
• Note that frequent repainting of trim materials may cause a`buildup of paint layers
that 'obscures architectural details. When this occurs; consider stripping paint
layers to retrieve details. However, if 'stripping is necessary, use the gentlest
means possible, being careful not to damage architectural details and finishes.
• Good preparation is key to successful repainting,` but the buildup of old paint layers
is an important historic record of the building. The removal of old paint, by the
gentlest means possible, should be undertaken only if necessary to the success of
the repainting.
Design Guidelines 5-4
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
Old paint may contain lead. Precautions should be taken when sanding or scraping
is necessary.
• Prepare a good substrate and use compatible paints. Some latex paints will not
bond well to earlier oil-based paints without a primer coat.
• See also Preservation Briefs #10: Exterior Paint Problems on Historic Woodwork,
published by the National Park Service.
Policyn Masonry construction should be preserved in its
original condition.
Many buildings include brick or stone for structural walls, foundation piers and chimneys.
Although it is a very durable material, masonry is not invulnerable. Therefore the proper
maintenance and preservation of masonry is important.
5.10 Preserve the original: mortar joint and unit size, the tooling and bonding
patterns, coatings and color of masonry surfaces.
• Original mortar, in good condition, should be preserved in place.
• See also Preservation Briefs #1: The Cleaning and Waterproof Coating of Masonry
Buildings, published by the National Park Service.
5.11 Repoint only those mortar joints where there is evidence of moisture
problems or when sufficient mortar is missing.
• Duplicate the old mortar in strength, composition, color, texture and joint width and
profile.
• Mortar joints should be cleared with hand tools. Using electric saws and hammers
to remove mortar can seriously damage the adjacent brick.
• Do not use mortar with a high percentage of portland cement or white masonry
cement content. It will be harder than the masonry and will not allow for expansion
and contraction. The result is deterioration of the material itself.
• A mortar formula containing lime should fill the joint but should not overfill it, and it
should not be smeared on the faces of the masonry units.
• See also Preservation Briefs #2: Repointing Mortar Joints in Historic Brick,
published by the National Park Service.
5.12 Masonry that was not painted historically shall not be painted.
• Painting masonry walls can seal in moisture already in the masonry, thereby not
allowing it to breathe and causing extensive damage over the years.
5.13 Protect masonry from water deterioration.
• Provide proper drainage so that water does not stand on flat, horizontal surfaces or
accumulate in decorative features.
Design Guidelines 5.5
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
ollc Architectural metals should be protectedagainst
corrosion,
Metals were used for a variety of applications including columns, storefronts, siding,
roofing, window hoods and decorative features. Metal applications should be maintained
where they exist.
5.14 Preserve architectural metal features that contribute to the overall historic
character of the building.
® Examples are columns, roofs, window hoods and storefronts.
® Provide proper drainage to minimize water retention.
® Maintain protective coatings, such as paint, on exposed metals.
5.15 Repair metal features by patching, splicing or otherwise reinforcing the
original metal whenever possible.
5.16 Use the gentlest cleaning method possible when removing deteriorated paint
or rust from metal surfaces.
® Harsh abrasive cleaning methods should be avoided.
Design Guidelines 5-6
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
CHAPTER
DESIGN GUIDELINES FOR INDIVIDUAL
AMR
This chapter presents design guidelines for the preservation of individual historic building elements
in Georgetown. They apply to individually listed historic resources, as well as historic properties
located in the Downtown and Old Town Overlay Districts. The guidelines are organized into a series
of relevant design topics. Within these design topics are individual policy and design guideline
statements upon which the City will base its decisions.
Ornamentation and details of elements such as cornices and parapets are original components that
"dress up" a building and give it a sense of style and character. Ornamental items include hood
molds, trim at doors and windows; plaques and medallions; signboards or sign panels; date or
name stones; and simple geometric shapes in metal, stone, or concrete.
Cornices, which are usually found at the top of building walls, and ornamental moldings or belt
courses, which are located just above storefronts, are horizontal projecting elements that provide a
visual break in or termination to a wall. A parapet is an upward extension of a building wall above
the roofline, sometimes ornamental and sometimes plain, used to give a building a greater feeling
of height or a better sense of proportion.
Cornices are most apparent on late 19th century commercial structures, when several ornate,
bracketed types were used. Early 20th century buildings were, as a rule, less decorated and had
simpler ornamentation. Rather than cornices, they tend to have parapets, some low and some
extending several feet above the roof surface. A parapet may be capped with brick, stone or tile,
and frequently decorative elements or panels are placed in it.
Commercial buildings should, for the most part, all relate to the street and to pedestrians in the
same manner: with a clearly defined primary entrance and large windows that display goods and
services offered inside. The repetition of these standard elements creates a visual unity on the
street that should be preserved.
IT 1111 111 iqqqiiiii�
Windows
and doors are
some of the most important character -defining features of
historic
structures. They give scale
to buildings and provide visual interest
to the composition of individual
fagades.
Distinct window
and door designs in fact help define
many historic building
styles.
Windows
and doors often are inset into relatively deep openings or
they have surrounding
casings
and sash
components, which have a substantial dimension that
cast shadows that wftiGh
also
Design Guidelines 6-1
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
contribute to the character of the historic style.
HARC should consider the following when evaluating proposals to replace historic windows and
doors:
1. Historic windows and doors are not necessarily decorative, so their functionality as well as
appropriate design should be considered.
2. Whether the repair of the historic windows and/or doors is technically not feasible.
3. The window and door openings should not be altered to accommodate windows or doors of
different sizes, proportions, views or configurations.
4. If the windows and doors are visible to the public they should not be removed, enclosed or
obscured.
5. Windows and doors visible to the public view should be retained in the original location.
6. Whether the appearance matches the details such as window or door size, shape,
operation, glass configuration, material, and finish. The appearance of the sash, opening
size, and decorative detail should look like the historic window or door.
7. Whether the operation of the replacement window or door is the same; for example, double -
hung or casement windows that open inward.
3. Whether the muntin style, configuration, detailing, and installation is the same for the
replacement window or door as the historic window or door.
9. Whether the sash and frame materials are the same materials, match the historic detailing,
style, complexity, and profile.
HARC should consider the following when evaluating proposals to replace non -original windows
and/or doors:
1. Whether the proposed replacement windows and/or doors are based on the documented
configuration of the building's original windows and/or doors.
2. Whether historic window and door openings are proposed to be altered to accommodate
windows or doors of different sizes, proportions, views or configurations.
3. A historic window or door opening should not be enclosed, altered in its dimensions or
obscured..
4. Whether the non -original windows and/or doors have taken on historic significance and now
contribute to the history of the building.
The character of the roof is a major feature for most historic structures. When repeated along the
street, the repetition of similar roof forms contributes to a sense of visual continuity for the
neighborhood. In each case, the roof pitch, its materials, size and orientation are all distinct features
that contribute to the character of a roof. Gabled and hip forms occur most frequently in residential
areas while flat roofs appear on most historic commercial buildings in Georgetown.
Although the function of a roof is to protect a structure from the elements, it also contributes to the
overall character of the building. The Overlay Districts have seen the construction of various roof
forms, as illustrated below.
Design Guidelines 6-2
City of Georgetown
N O M A
When evaluating roofing proposals HARC should consider the following:
1. The condition of the deteriorated or damaged existing roof materials and whether they can
be economically repaired.
2. Whether the proposed new roofing material can be installed without removing, damaging or
obscuring character -defining architectural features or trim, such as cupolas, dormers,
cornices, brackets, chimneys, cresting, finials and weathervanes.
3. If the proposed new roofing material is similar in regard to size, style and details of the
original historic roofing materials, to the extent that such original roofing can be documented.
If no photographic or other documentation exists for original historic roofing materials,
selection of new roof materials shall be typical of those used in the style of the historic
building.
4. The original form and shape of the roof are retained.
5. The original character of the structure should be maintained.
Many residential styles and building types developed with the porch as a prime feature of the front
fagade. Because of their historical importance and prominence as character -defining features,
porches should be preserved and they should receive sensitive treatment during exterior
rehabilitation.
Porches vary as much as architectural styles. They differ in height, scale, location, materials and
articulation. Some are simple one-story structures, while others may be complex with elaborate
details and finishes. These elements often correspond to the architectural style of the house and
therefore the building's design character should be considered before any major rehabilitation work
is begun.
HARC should take the following into consideration when asked to approve the alteration or addition
of a historic porch:
1. If the existing porch has deteriorated or become badly damaged such that repair is
technically infeasible.
2. The proposed new porch is similar to the historic porch in regards to size, style, detail and
shape and will be constructed from historic or appropriate new materials.
3. If inadequate documentation of original porches exists, a new porch should be typical of
those built in the style of the historic building. A simplified adaptation may be allowed if
physical evidence of the original is non-existent or if the design is prohibitively expensive to
recreate.
4. Whether the existing porch materials are being retained, unless it is technically infeasible to
do so.
5. If proposed new railings and balusters on an existing or new porch use historic or
appropriate new materials, are designed in a style similar in appearance to historic
balusters, and whether railings are characteristic of the style of the historic building.
Design Guidelines 6-3
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
6. The porch floor is of a type characteristic of the style of the historic building. Spaced planks
shall not be used where painted tongue -and -groove boards would have been used
historically.
7. New and existing wood visible from the right-of-way is painted unless it can be documented
that the original wood was unpainted or stained (generally, unpainted pressure treated wood
will not be allowed).
8. Concrete steps and porches are allowed if it can be shown that they existed on the building
historically or if they are characteristic of the style of building.
olicy: Maintain an historic storefront and all of its character defining
features.
6,111 For a commercial storefront building, a rehabilitation project shall preserve these
character -defining elements:
• Display windows: The main portion of glass on the storefront, where goods and services are
displayed. This will help maintain the interest of the street to pedestrians by providing views to
goods and activities inside first floor windows.
• Transom: The upper portion of the display window, separated by a frame.
• Kickplate: Found beneath the display window. Sometimes called a bulk -head panel.
• Entry,:, Usually setback from the sidewalk in ,a protected recess,
• Upper -story windows: Windows located above the street level. These usually, have a vertical
orientation.
® Cornice molding: A decorative band at the top of the building.
These features shall not be altered, obscured or removed.
6.2 Maintenance of storefronts.
a Wash display windows...
• Repair damaged kickplates.
® Re -caulk display windows to reduce air.. infiltration.
® Install weather-stripping around doors.
6.3 if a storefront is altered, restoring it to the original design is preferred.
® If evidence of the original design is missing, use a simplified interpretation of -similar
storefronts. The storefront still should be designed to provide interest to pedestrians.
® Note that, in some cases, an original storefront may have been altered early in the history of
the building, and may itself have taken on significance. Such alterations should be preserved.
® See also Preservation Briefs #11: Rehabilitating Historic Storefronts, published by the
National Park Service.
Combining i. • .h ,. b°t. Principles
rp;. ACaseStudy
This sequence of photographs illustrates the positive results of • • r procedures f•
preservation, repair, reconstruction, and sympathetic alterations that are set forth in the design
Design Guidelines 6-4
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
guidelines in this chapter.
6.4 Alternative designs that are contemporary interpretations of traditional storefronts may
be considered.
• Where the original is missing and no evidence of its character exists, a new design that uses
the traditional elements may be considered.
• However, the new design should continue to convey the character of typical storefronts,
including the transparent character of the display window.
6.5 Retain the kickplate as a decorative panel.
The kickplate, located below the display window, adds interesting detail to the streetscape and
should be preserved.
If the original kickplate is covered with another material, consider exposing the original design.
6.6 If the original kickplate is missing, develop a sympathetic replacement design.
• Wood is an appropriate material for replacements on most styles. However, ceramic tile and
masonry may also be considered when appropriately used with the building style.
6.7 Preserve the character of the cornice line.
® An original cornice moulding should be preserved.
• Most historic commercial buildings have cornices to cap their facades. Their repetition along
the street contributes to the visual continuity on the block.
• Many cornices are made of sheet metal. Areas that have rusted through can be patched with
pieces of new metal.
6.6 Reconstruct a missing cornice when historic evidence is available.
• Use historic photographs to determine design details of the original cornice.
• Replacement elements should match the original in every detail, especially in overall size and
profile. Keep sheet metal ornamentation well painted.
• The substitution of another old cornice for the original may be considered, provided that the
substitute is similar to the original.
• • A simplified interpretation is also appropriate for-• •rnice if evidence of
the original;
Appropriate materials include stone, brick and stamped metal.
6.10 Retain the original shape of the transom glass in historic storefronts.
• Transoms, the upper glass band of traditional storefronts, introduced light into the depths of
the building, saving on light costs. These bands should not be removed or enclosed.
• The shape of the transom is important to the proportion of the storefront, and it should be
preserved in its historic configuration.
• If the original glass is missing, installing new glass is preferred. However, if the transom must
be blocked out, be certain to retain the original proportions. One option is to use it as a sign
Design Guidelines 6-5
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
panel or decorative band.
6.11 A parapet wall should not be altered, especially those on primary elevations or highly
visible facades.
• When a parapet wall becomes deteriorated, there is sometimes a temptation to lower or
remove it. Avoid doing this because the flashing for the roof is often tied into the parapet, and
disturbing it can cause moisture problems.
• Inspect parapets on a regular basis. They are exposed to the weather more than other parts
of the building, so watch for deterioration such as missing mortar or excessive moisture
retention.
• Avoid waterproofing treatments, which can interfere with the parapet's natural ability to dry out
quickly when it gets wet.
Policy*• •• and doors significantly affect
if a structure and should be preserved.
The size, shape and proportions of window and door openings are important features. They give
scale to buildings and provide visual interest to the composition of individual facades. These
features are inset into relatively deep openings in a building wall or they have surrounding casings
and sash components that have substantial dimensions. They cast shadows that contribute to the
character of the building.
6.12 Preserve the position, number, size and arrangement of historic windows and doors in
a building wall.
• Enclosing an historic opening in a key character -defining facade is inappropriate, as is adding
a new opening.
• Do not close down an original opening to accommodate a smaller window. Restoring original
openings which have been altered over time is encouraged.
• Historically, windows had a vertical emphasis. The proportions of these windows contribute to
the character of each residence and commercial storefront.
6.13 Preserve the functional and decorative features of an historic window or door.
• Features important to the character of a window include its clear glass, frame, sash, muntins,
mullions, glazing, sills, heads, jambs, moldings, operation, location and relation to other
windows.
• Features important to the character of a door include the door itself, door frame, screen door,
threshold, glass panes, paneling, hardware, detailing, transoms and flanking sidelights.
• Historic screen and storm doors should be preserved and maintained.
6.14 Maintenance of windows.
• Wash windows.
• Clean debris from windows.
• Replace loose or broken glass in kind. This will reduce air leaks.
Design Guidelines 6-6
City of Georgetown
A O t
® Replace damaged muntins, moldings or glazing compound with material that matches the
original in shape, size, and material.
® Repair window hardware or replace with materials that match the original in scale and design.
If the replacement hardware does not match the original design it should be simple,
unobtrusive and compatible with the style and building's period of significance.
• Install weather-stripping. This will enhance energy conservation significantly.
® Maintain the interior views, so that either merchandise or furniture can be seen.
6.15 Repair wood features by patching, piecing -in, consolidating or otherwise reinforcing
the wood.
• Avoid the removal of damaged wood that can be repaired.
® Rebuild or repair portions of existing window frames, sashes, sills, or portions thereof, rather
than replacing complete windows unless it is technically infeasible to do so.
• See also Preservation Briefs #9: The Repair of Historic Wooden Windows, published by the
National Park Service.
6.16 Glass in doors and windows should be retained.
• If it is broken or has been removed in the past, consider replacing it with new glass. If security
is a concern, consider using wire glass, tempered glass, or light metal security bars
(preferably on the interior).
Replacement glass may be insulating glass, but it should match the style and color of the
original glass.
® Replacement glass should match the historic glass - clear, rolled (`wavy"), tinted, etc.
® Removal of historic leaded, art, stained, beveled, prismatic glass, etc. should not be permitted,
unless it is damaged and is technically infeasible to repair.
• ••IF;•!1111 UP • r11 1 • • • • • .•• ••
6.18 Maintain recessed entries.
• The repetition of recessed entries provides a rhythm of shadows along the street, which helps
establish a sense of scale.
• These recessed entries were designed to provide protection from the weather and the
repeated rhythm of these shaded areas along the street helps to identify business entrances.
Typically, recessed entries were set back between three and five feet.
• Restore the historic recessed entry if it has been altered.
• Avoid doors that are flush with the sidewalk, especially those that swing outward.
6.19 Where entries were not recessed historically, maintain there in their original position.
• However, one may also need to comply with other code requirements, including door width,
direction of swing and construction.
• In some cases, entries must comply with accessibility requirements of the Americans with
Disabilities Act. Note, however, that some flexibility in application of these other regulations is
provided for historic properties.
Design Guidelines 6-7
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
® See also Preservation Briefs #32: Making Historic Properties Accessible, published by the
National Park Service.
®lacy: A new or replacement window or door should tch the
appearance of the original.
While replacing an entire window or door is discouraged, it may be necessary in some cases.
Although wood is preferred as a replacement material, metal is common on the market today and
sometimes is suggested for replacement. It is possible to consider alternative materials, if the
resulting appearance matches the original as closely as possible. The substitute also should have a
demonstrated durability in this climate.
6.20 When window or door replacement is necessary, match the replacement to the original
design as closely as possible.
Preserve the original casing, when feasible.
® If the original is double -hung, then the replacement window should also be double -hung, or at
a minimum, appear to be so. Match the replacement also in the number and position of glass
panes.
® Very ornate windows or doors that are not appropriate to the building's architectural style are
inappropriate.
® Using the same material (wood) as the original is preferred.
® A new screen door added to the front of a visible door should be "full view" design or with
minimal structural dividers to retain the visibility of the historic door behind it.
A screen door should be sized to fit the original entrance opening and the design should be of
the appropriate style and period of the building.
® Security doors are non -historic additions. If installed, they should follow the guidelines for
screen doors.
6.21 Maintain the historic ratio of window and storefront openings to solid wall..
® Significantly increasing (ordecreasing) the amount of..glass will negatively. affect the integrity
of a structure.
® On traditional storefronts,first floors should be more transparent than upper floors...
• Upper floors should appear more solid than first floors.
® Avoid a blank :wall appearance .that does not provideinterest to pedestrians. ,Note, however,
that the side wall of a historic building located on a corner will have fewer openings.
® Large surfaces of glass are inappropriate on residential structures and on the upper floors and
sides of commercial buildings.
® If necessary, divide large ..glass .surfaces into smaller windows that are. in scale. with .those
seen traditionally.
7*01icys Preserve the original form and scale of a roof.
6.22 Preserve the original roof form of an historic structure.
Design Guidelines
City of Georgetown
.:
Exhibit A
• In residential areas, most roof forms are pitched, such as gabled and hipped. Most
commercial buildings, on the other hand, have flat, or slightly sloping roofs.
• Avoid altering the angle of a historic roof. Instead, maintain the perceived line and orientation
of the roof as seen from the street.
• Retain and repair roof detailing. All architectural features which give the roof its fundamental
traits, such as dormer windows, cupolas, cornices, brackets, chimneys, cresting and weather
vanes, shall be retained.
• Often repairing a basically sound roof can be much less expensive than a complete
replacement. If a new roof is necessary, try to match the color, material, and pattern of the old
as closely as possible. A roof may be re -roofed with substitute materials, such as asphalt or
composite shingles that resemble the original style, if the original materials are determined to
be beyond repair, are no longer available, or the historic roofing has been previously removed
or covered.
® Skylights shall not be added where they are visible from the public right-of-way.
Skylights should be placed at the rear rooflines or behind gables or dormers.
® Do not install new ornaments, unless it can be shown that they historically existed on the roof.
® Roof alternations such as adding a greenhouse, roof deck, solar panels, vents, and
mechanical and electric equipment are not recommended if they would be visible from the
street. These items should be made less noticeable by minimizing the size and using
subdued colors.
6.23 Locate downspouts to minimize impacts on historic canopies and other facade details.
• Water from downspouts should drain away from the building properly.
• Ideally, a downspout should empty into an underground drainpipe that takes the water to the
sewer or street.
• If this is not possible, a downspout should empty onto a metal or concrete splashblock that
slopes downward and away from the building.
® Maintain and repair existing gutters and downspouts in place.
® If existing gutter and downspouts are deteriorated to the extent that they must be replaced,
new gutters and downspouts shall match the original historic gutters and downspouts. They
shall be of size and profile that would be characteristic of the period of significance.
Where built-in gutters exist and must be repaired, repair or replace only those sections
needing it, using similar materials to existing historic built-in gutters.
® Note that galvanized half -round sheet metal gutters may in many cases be more appropriate
for historic buildings that had exposed gutters than the colonial profile aluminum gutters and
downspouts commonly used today.
6.24 Regular maintenance and cleaning is the best way to keep your roof in good shape.
• Inspect the roof for breaks, or holes in the surface, and check the flashing for open seams.
• Many commercial buildings have shallow sloping flat roofs that are hard to see, so there is a
tendency to forget about them until problems develop.
• Clean debris from gutters and downspouts to prevent the backing up of water.
• A roof should not hold water.
Design Guidelines 6-9
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
• Patch leaks in the roof. This should be a high priority for ongoing building maintenance.
• Replace deteriorated flashing.
• Re -solder downspout connections to prevent water from leaking into walls.
licy: Maintain a porch and its charactermdefining features.
Historically, porches were popular features in residential designs. A porch protects an entrance
from rain and provides shade in the summer. It also provides a sense of scale to the building and
provides a space for residents to sit and congregate. A porch provides stylistic details to the house,
and in some cases is an integral part of an architectural style.
6.25 Maintain an historic porch and its detailing.
• Do not remove original details from a porch. These include the columns, balustrade and any
decorative brackets that may exist.
• Maintain the existing location, shape, details, and columns of the porch.
• Missing or deteriorated decorative elements should be replaced with new wood, milled to
match existing elements. Match the original proportions and spacing of balusters when
replacing missing ones.
• Unless used historically, wrought iron porch posts and columns are inappropriate.
• Where an historic porch does not meet current code requirements and alterations are needed
or required, then retrofit it to meet the code, while also preserving original features. Do not
replace a porch that can otherwise be modified to meet code requirements.
® A missing porch and its steps should be reconstructed, using photographic documentation
and historical research, to be compatible in design and detail with the period and style of the
building.
® Most precast concrete steps are not acceptable alternatives for primary fagade porches.
® Construction of a new non -original porch is usually inappropriate.
• The construction of a non -original second or third level porch, balcony, deck, or sun porch on
the roof of an existing front porch is inappropriate.
6.26 Avoid enclosing an historic front porch with opaque materials.
• Enclosing a porch with opaque materials that destroy the openness and transparency of the
porch is inappropriate.
® If historic porches that have been enclosed in the past are proposed to be remodeled or
altered, they should be restored to their appearance during the period of significance, unless
the enclosure, by nature of its age, architectural significance, or other special circumstance,
has achieved historic significance of its own.
• When a porch is enclosed or screened, it shall be done with a clear transparent material. This
material should be placed behind porch columns.
6,27 The detailing of decks and exterior stairs should be compatible with the style and
- •• of • • and material of decks and stairs should complement
main structure.
Design Guidelines 6-10
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
® New decks should be minimally visible from the street and should have no major impact on
the original building.
6.28 Avoid altering original chimneys.
® Existing brick chimneys should not be removed or covered with stone, stucco or other non -
original material.
® If chimneys are damaged or missing they should be restored to their original condition or
reconstructed in keeping with the chimney design of the period.
Design Guidelines 6-11
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
DESIGNCHAPTER 7
This chapter presents design guidelines for additions and alterations to historic buildings.
They apply to individually listed historic resources, as well as historic properties located
in the Downtown and Old Town Overlay Districts. The design guidelines are organized
into a series of relevant design topics. Within each category, individual policies and
design guidelines are presented, which the City will use in determining the
appropriateness of the work proposed.
Design r i
Alterations may be considered for historic buildings; however, these alterations should
occur in a manner that will not diminish the historic integrity of the property and they
should be reversible for future property owners.
Additions
Many buildings have experienced additions over time, ' as need for additional space
occurred, particularly with a change in use. An historic addition typically was subordinate
in scale and character to the main building. The height of the addition was usually
positioned below that of the main structure and it was often located to the side or rear,
such that the primary facade remained dominate. An addition was often constructed of
materials that were similar to those in use historically. In some cases, owners simply
added on to an existing roof, creating more usable space without increasing the footprint
of the structure. This tradition of adding on to buildings is anticipated to continue. It is
important, however, that new additions be designed in such a 'manner that they maintain
the character of the primary structure.
The compatibility of proposed additions with historic buildings will be reviewed in terms
of the mass, the scale, the materials, the color, the roof form, and the proportion and
spacing of windows and doors. Additions that echo the style of the original structure and
additions that introduce compatible contemporary design could_be acceptable.
Adaptive
The adaptive use of a residence for a commercial or office use is a distinct possibility in
Georgetown. In fact, a large majority of the Downtown Overlay District is zoned Mixed
Use Downtown (MU -DT), which allows for a variety of uses. However, when such
adaptations must occur, they should be designed to have the least impact on the historic
Design Guidelines 7-1
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
character of a neighborhood—some of which is residential in character. Although for
commercial use, these adapted properties should not be commercial in character. This
means that the overall form of a building with a sloping roof and the landscaped front
lawn should not be altered. More detailed information about the treatment of an adaptive
use project can be found in the Design Guidelines, on page 60. Editor's note, check
page number it should be last page in this Chapter.
Demolition is forever, and once a building is gone it takes away another piece of the
city's character. Demolition of an historic building or resource should only be an action
of last resort. HARC can delay or deny requests for demolition while it seeks solutions
for preservation and rehabilitation.
HARC should not allow the demolition or relocation of any resource that has historical
and/or architectural significance unless one or more of the following conditions exist and
if, by a finding of HARC, the proposed demolition or relocation will materially improve or
correct these conditions:
1. The resource constitutes a hazard to the safety of the public or the occupants, as
determined by the Building Official.
2. The resource is a deterrent to a major improvement program that will be of
substantial benefit to the community and the applicant proposing the work has
obtained all necessary planning and zoning approvals, financing, and
environmental clearances.
3. Retention of the resource will cause undue financial hardship to the owner when
a governmental action, an act of God, or other events beyond the owner's control
created the hardship; and all feasible alternatives to eliminate the financial
hardship, which may include offering the resource for sale at its fair market value
or moving the resource to a vacant site within the historic district, have been
attempted and exhausted by the owner.
4. Retention of the resource is not in the interest of the majority of the community.
HARC should consider the following when evaluating proposals to demolish or relocate
historic resources:
1. Does the resource proposed for demolition or relocation have architectural and/or
historical significance?
2. What would be the effect on surrounding buildings of demolition or relocation of
the resource?
3. What would be the effect on the Overlay District as a whole of demolition or
relocation of the resource?
4. What would be the effect on safeguarding the heritage of the city of the
Design Guidelines 7_2
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
demolition or relocation?
5. What has been the impact of any previous inappropriate alterations?
6. Has the owner offered the property for sale?
7. Has the owner asked a fair price?
8. Has the property been marketed for a reasonable time?
9. Has the property been advertised broadly in a reasonable manner?
10. Has the owner sought the advice of a professional experienced in historic
preservation work?
11. What would be the effect of open space in that location if the lot is to be left
open?
12. What will be done with the empty lot?
13. What would the effect of any proposed replacement structure be to the
community?
14. What is the appropriateness of design of any proposed replacement structure to
the Overlay District?
historicPolicys Design an alteration to be
of • ••-
compatible
7.1 Avoid alterations that would damage historic features.
• Avoid alterations that would hinder the ability to interpret the design character of
the original building.
• Alterations that seek to imply an earlier period than that of the building are
inappropriate.
7.2 Properties designated by the City as a High, Medium, or Low Priority Historic
Structure should be preserved and their historic character retained.
® Due to special circumstances, a structure's, historic priority may change over time
(because a reduced number of similar style structures in stable condition still exist
within the district or city, or if unknown historic information becomes available that
adds significance.
Case study goes here.
olicy: Minimize the visual impacts
co ecial uil in .
Two distinct types of additions are considered to be appropriate by HARC: ground -level
or roof -top.
First, a ground -level addition that involves expanding the footprint of a structure may be
Design Guidelines 7-3
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
considered. Such an addition should be to the rear or side of a building. This will have
the least impact on the character of a building, but there may only be limited
opportunities to do this.
Second, an addition to the roof may be designed that is simple in character and set back
substantially from the front of a building. The materials, window sizes and alignment of
trim elements on the addition should be compatible to those of the existing structure, but
also visually subordinate in character so as to avoid calling attention alteration to the
addition.
Another option, which will only be considered on a case-by-case basis, is to design an
addition to the front wall plane of the existing building. This option may only be
considered on a "newer" or more contemporary building that was originally constructed
set back from the front property line or sidewalk edge.
7.3 An addition shall be compatible in scale, materials and character with the
main building.
• An addition shall relate to the building in mass, scale and form. It should be
designed to remain subordinate to the main structure.
• An addition to the front of a building is inappropriate. However, where a building in
the Downtown Overlay is set back from the front property line and the structure
does not have historic significance, the first consideration for the placement of an
addition should be to fill the gap between the existing building and sidewalk. This
will maintain the consistent "street wall' desired in the downtown.
® For example, mounting a sign panel in a manner that causes decorative moldings
to be chipped or removed would be inappropriate.
7A An
addition shall
not damage or
obscure architecturally important feature
For
example, loss
or alteration.a
corniceshould beavoided.
7.5 An addition may be made to the roof of a commercial building if it does the
following:
® An addition should be set back from the primary, character -defining facade, to
preserve the perception of the historic scale of the building.
® Its design should be modest in character, so it will not attract attention from the
historic facade.
• The addition should be distinguishable as new, albeit in a subtle way.
® The roofs of additions should not interfere with the original roof form by changing
its basic shape and should have a roof form compatible with the original building.
Rehabilitation Case Study: Updated with new picture (2009).
Design Guidelines 7.4
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
' • •n an addition t• a residentialto be
compatible with the primary building.
An addition to a structure can radically change its perceived scale and character if
inappropriately designed. When planning an addition, consider the effect the addition will
have on the building itself. When creating an addition, keep the size of the addition
small; in relation to the main structure. If an addition must be larger, it should be set
apart from the main structure and connected with a smaller linking element. A design for
a new addition that would create an appearance inconsistent with the character of the
building, especially an historic one, is discouraged.
One also should consider the effect the addition may have on the character of a street or
neighborhood, as seen from the public right-of-way. For example, a side addition may
change the sense of rhythm established by side yards in the block. Locating the addition
to the rear could be a better solution in such a:case.
7.6 Design.a new addition such that the original character can be clearly seen.
• In this way, a viewer can understand the history of changes that have occurred to
the building.
• An addition should be made distinguishable from the original building, even in
subtle ways, such that the character of the original can be interpreted.
• Creating a jog in the foundation between the original and new structures may help
to define an addition.
® The amount of foundation exposed on the addition should match that of the original
building, in appearance, detail, and material.`
• Even applying a new trim board at the connection point between the addition and
the original structure can help define the addition.
• See also Preservation Briefs #14` New Exterior Additions to Historic Buildings,
published by the National Park Service.
7.7 Place an addition at the rear of a building or set it back from the front to
minimize the visual impacts.
• Setting an addition back from any primary, character -defining fagade will allow the
original proportions and character to remain prominent.
• Locating an addition at the front of a structure is inappropriate, and an addition
should be to the rear of the building, when feasible.
7,8 Do not obscure, damage, destroy or remove original architectural details and
materials of primary
• When preserving original details and materials, follow the guidelines presented
earlier in this chapter.
Design Guidelines 7-5
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
7.9 An addition shall be compatible in scale, materials and character with the
main building.
r An addition shall relate to the historic building in mass, scale and form. It should be
designed to remain subordinate to the main structure.
O While a smaller addition is visually preferable, if a residential addition would be
significantly larger than the original building, one option is to separate it from the
primary building, when feasible, and then link it with a smaller connecting structure.
® An addition should be simple in design to prevent it from competing with the
primary facade.
• Consider adding dormers to create second story spaces before changing the scale
of the building by adding a full second floor.
7.10 The roof form of a new addition shall be in character with that of the primary
building.
® Typically, gable, hip and shed roofs are appropriate for residential additions. Flat
roofs are appropriate for commercial buildings in the downtown area.
® Repeat existing roof slopes, overhangs, and materials.
• If the roof of the primary building is symmetrically proportioned, the roof of the
addition should be similar.
® The roofs of additions should not interfere with the original roof form by changing
its basic shape or view of the original roof and should have a roof form compatible
with the original building.
10`olicyw When adapting a residence to a commercial
s - .. •I
Converting a building to a new use that is different from that which its design reflects is
considered to be "adaptive use." When residential use ceases to be viable, the first
preference is to choose new uses that minimize the negative changes in building
features. Often there are new uses that are inherently less disruptive to residential
structures such as bed and breakfasts, professional offices, small specialty restaurants
and personal service businesses.
7.11 Seek uses that are compatible with the historic character of the building.
® The primary goal should be to preserve preseMRg the original residential
character, appearance and scale of the structure.
® Building uses that are closely related to the original use are preferred. Avoid radical
alterations to either the interior or exterior of the structure.
® Avoid altering porches and original windows and doors.
7.12 TMen use changesdemand be -. such that little or •
use can be •' of originalconsider •. • the structure to
Design t'
City of • t' t
Exhibit A
compatible location.
• This move can be made to another location on the same site or to a vacant site in
another neighborhood.
7.13 Only as a last resort should an historic structure be considered for
demolition.
• Demolition of any original feature or part of an historic building should be avoided.
• Demolition of a building that contributes to the historic or architectural significance
of a locally or nationally designated district should not occur, unless:
+ Public safety and welfare requires the removal of the building or structure;
+ The building has lost its architectural and historical value/significance and
its removal will improve the viability of the neighborhood;
+ A building does not contribute to the historical or architectural character
and importance of the district and its removal will improve the appearance
of the neighborhood; or
+ The denial of the demolition will result in a substantial hardship on the
applicant as determined by the process outlined in the City's Unified
Development Code.
• Where a structure must be razed, then a record shall be made of it prior to any
deconstruction or demolition. The owner shall be responsible for providing the
record which shall include, but is not limited to, photographs, architectural
drawings, and deed records, if available. This record shall be deposited with the
Planning and Development Department.
• A structure should never be demolished as a matter of convenience.
• If a demolition is approved, work with HARC to identify salvageable materials and
potential buyers or recipients of salvaged materials. The removal of , all
salvageable building materials before demolition is encouraged, through a proper
demolition by deconstruction method as determined by HARC at the public
hearing, and may be required depending on the significance of the building.
• Preserve historic garages and other secondary buildings where feasible.
• Demolition of secondary buildings (garages, etc.) 50 years or older may be
appropriate if substantially deteriorated (requiring 50% or more replacement of
exterior siding, roof rafters, surface materials, and structure members).
• Relocating buildings within the Overlay Districts may be appropriate if compatible
with the district's architectural character through style, period, height, scale,
materials, setting, and placement on the lot.
• Relocation of a building out of the Overlay Districts should be avoided unless
demolition is the only alternative.
• See also Unified Development Code Section 3.13 for demolition or relocation
criteria, standards, and procedures.
Design Guidelines 7-7
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
CHAPTERi
UESIGN GUIDELINES
SITE DESIGN -ii
This chapter presents design guidelines for site design. The design guidelines are organized into a
series of relevant design topics. Within each category, individual policies and design guidelines are
presented, which the City will use in determining the appropriateness of the work proposed. Note
that other standards set forth in the Unified Development Code shall also apply.
1WRIII&T i. i .
Fundamentally, streetscape designs should help to establish a sense of visual continuity in an area
and they should be compatible with any historic resources found there.
The character of lighting design and level of intensity of the resulting illumination are key
considerations. Traditionally, lights were simple in character and were used to highlight entrances,
walkways and signs. Most fixtures had incandescent lamps that cast a color similar to daylight,
were relatively low in intensity, and were shielded with simple shade devices. Although new lamp
types may be considered, the overall effect of modest, focused light should be continued.
In the commercial core, landscape designs were historically -simple, while a variety of site features
appeared in the residential parts of downtown. Wood and metal fences often defined property
boundaries. Concrete sidewalks were popular and lined many streets. A variety of plantings,
including trees, lawns, and shrubbery also occurred. Each of these elements, along with paths,
trails and streams contributed to the historic character of the city. They also added variety in scale,
texture, and materials to the street scene, providing interest and shade to pedestrians.
Mechanical Equipment, Service
i. d Other
Equipment
Utilities that serve properties may include telephone and electrical lines, ventilation systems, gas
meters, air conditioners, fire protection, telecommunication and alarm systems. Adequate space for
these utilities should be planned in a project from the outset and they should be designed such that
their visual impacts are minimized. Service areas for trash and recycling containers and loading
facilities should be carefully planned as an integral part of a site. At the same time, the visual
impacts of service areas should be minimized. While solar energy collecting devices might not
always be considered as mechanical or service equipment, for the proposes of these Design
Guidelines they shall be.
Design Guidelines 8.1
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
Public parking lots and garages were not a part of Georgetown's early history. However, cars are a
fact of life in the downtown today, and the visual impacts associated with their storage should be
carefully planned.
See also Downtown Master Plan, City of Georgetown, TX - Streetscape requirements for furniture,
sidewalk and intersection types, street furniture, street lights, etc. Compliance with these standards
shall also be considered in determining the appropriateness of specific elements. See the Unified
Development Code Chapter 11 related to the impervious cover and stormwater detention
requirements for properties located in the Overlay Districts.
Policy* The public streetscape in Area 1 should enhance the
pedestrian experience without being an obstacle to traffic or commerce.
The sidewalks, lights, landscaping and street furnishings all contribute to the pedestrian -friendly
environment in downtown Georgetown. These elements should be preserved, enhanced and
expanded. Sidewalks vary in construction and quality. While many sidewalks are concrete, some
include brick as an accent element, or are completely brick themselves. Curb ramps have also been
installed at some comers to facilitate access. Also, while several areas already have amenities in
place that enhance the pedestrian experience, additional furnishings should be considered to
enhance the area.
8.1 Preserve significant sidewalk features.
• The alignment with other original sidewalks, the street and overall town grid is of primary
importance.
• Replace only those portions that are deteriorated beyond repair. Any replacement materials
should match the original in color, texture, size and finish.
8.2 When new sidewalks are to be installed, they shall be compatible with the traditional
character of the streetscape.
• A new sidewalk should align with those that already exist along a block.
• Decorative paving should be used throughout the Downtown Overlay as noted in the
Downtown Master Plan. Such paving shall be of the same design, character and installation
as that already in use by the City in and around the County Courthouse Historic District.
® Sidewalks and crosswalks should be consistent with the sidewalk, intersection and crosswalk
designs in the Downtown Master Plan.
8.3 Street furniture should be simple in design and match those already established
around the square.
• Benches, bike racks, planters or pots, statues, trash receptacles and, in the event of a
sidewalk sale, merchandise displays are examples of street furnishings that are appropriate.
• Where utilized, benches should be the same as those already in use in the downtown. See
Design Guidelines 8-2
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
the Downtown Faster Plan for the streetscape design and location criteria.
® The Area 1 wooden benches are constructed of solid teak wood. See the Planning
Department for the specifics of the bench style. Alternative design and/or materials may be
considered by HARC.
® In Area 2, the benches and waste receptacles should be black metal slat design. Alternative
design and/or materials may be considered by HARC.
• Advertising promotions on benches is not allowed under any circumstance.
• Individual furnishings should be of designs such that they may be combined with other street
furniture in a coherent composition.
8.4 Avoid materials that are incompatible with the character of the district.
• Concrete, exposed aggregate, plastic, unfinished wood, and polished metal are inappropriate.
8.5 Street furniture should be located in areas of high pedestrian activity.
• Locate furniture at pedestrian route intersections and major building entrances and near
outdoor gathering places.
8.6 Street furnishings should be clustered in "groupings," when feasible.
• Street furnishings and sidewalk displays should not interfere with pedestrian traffic.
• For example, use planters and covered or enclosed waste receptacles to frame spaces for
benches.,f^r ^v^rr,^�o
• Install benches in high pedestrian traffic areas and/or areas of interest.
8.7 Position a bench to provide a sense of comfort.
• Buffer the bench from traffic; for example, position a planter between the bench and the curb.
• Avoid locating a bench close to the curb.
8.8 Cluster waste receptacles with other furnishings.
• The design of the receptacles should be compatible with other existing furnishings.
8.9 When feasible, cluster planters with other furnishings.
• Install freestanding planters on either side of a store entrance, at seating areas, along edges
of parking lots, in pedestrian plazas and in clustered furnishing areas.
• A planter should be large enough to be easily seen, but not so large as to cause an
obstruction to pedestrian traffic.
• Conventional home -style planters, such as those constructed of redwood or ordinary
terracotta pottery, as well as over -sized concrete plant tubs are not appropriate.
New 8.10 Outdoor dining and seating areas should be simple in design and compatible
with the approved street furniture as detailed in the Downtown {Master Plan
• Furniture and fixtures must not be secured to trees, lampposts, street signs, hydrants, or any
other street infrastructure by means of ropes, chains, or any other such devices, whether
during restaurant operating hours or at times when the restaurant is closed.
Design Guidelines 8.3
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
• All furniture and fixtures must be maintained in good visual appearance and in a clean
condition at all times.
• All furniture and fixtures must be durable and of sufficiently sturdy construction as not to blow
over with normal winds.
• All furniture and fixtures must contribute to the overall atmosphere of the Overlay District and
must be complementary in both appearance and quality.
Tables and chairs are allowed without approval of a CDC if they meet the following guidelines,
otherwise HARC approval is required based upon the intent of the guidelines.
® Tables and chairs may be colored or of a _natural unpainted material (i.e. wood, metal
(treated to prevent rust), etc.). Tables and chairs are not permitted to be plastic or of any
fluorescent or other strikingly bright or vivid color.
® Upholstered chairs suitable for outdoor use are permitted, but the upholstery may not be any
fluorescent or other strikingly bright or vivid color.
• All chairs used within a particular establishment's outdoor seating area must match each
other by being of visually similar design, construction, and color.
Other furniture such as serving stations, bar counters, shelves, racks, sofas, televisions,
trash receptacles, heaters, and torches are not permitted, unless HARC determines that
these items are sufficiently setback or screened from view of the public.
Umbrellas are allowed without approval of a CDC if they meet the following guidelines. Any
proposed umbrella that does not meet the guidelines maybe approved by HARC if they determine
the intent of the guidelines has been met.
• Umbrellas shall be appropriately designed and sized for the location where they will be
utilized.
• Umbrellas must be free of advertisements and all elements contained within the outdoor
dining area, and at the lowest dimension of an extended umbrella must be at least 7 feet
above the sidewalk surface and not block the main walking path or create a hazard. Any
proposed umbrella signage will need CDC approval and to be included with the overall sign
package for the property.
• Any part of an umbrella used in an outdoor seating area may not exceed a height of 120" 00
feet) above the level of the sidewalk.
• Umbrellas must blend appropriately with the surrounding built environment; therefore,
umbrella fabric may not be fluorescent or other strikingly bright or vivid color. In addition, only
one fabric color is allowed.
• Umbrella fabric must be of a material suitable for outdoor use, and must be canvas -type. No
plastic fabrics, plastic/vinyl-laminated fabrics, grass, or rigid materials of any type are
permitted for use as umbrellas within an outdoor seating area.
• Umbrellas should not block views of building signs or windows, especially those ofadjacent
properties.
A 4 foot clear area must be maintained on all sidewalks to allow pedestrian traffic. So, smaller
tables and chairs are generally preferred to meet this requirement.
• No sidewalk coverings or raised platforms are allowed, unless the outdoor seating area is not
located on the sidewalk.
• No extra or additional signage is permitted solely as a result of an outdoor seating area. If any
signage is proposed it should be included as part of the overall sign package for the property.
• Any proposed fence related to an outside eating or sitting area for a nonresidential use is
required to have HARC approval.
Design Guidelines 8-4
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
fUsing trees and flowering plants• • encouraged.
Trees and flowering plants help provide interest to pedestrians, as well as shaded protection from
the summer sun. Therefore, the use of street trees and planters is strongly encouraged.
8.11 Use indigenous, native and drought -tolerant plant materials when feasible.
• Locate street trees along edges of sidewalks, maintaining a clearly defined pedestrian travel
zone.
• Locate street trees in larger planting areas, such as buffer strips adjacent to parking lots
and/or pocket parks.
• Provide underground irrigation systems where long-term growth will not impact the irrigation
system.
• Use flowers to provide seasonal colors.
8.12 Install new street trees to enhance the pedestrian experience.
• Install new trees where walkway widths permit.
• Replace trees that are diseased or have passed their life cycle.
• The height of a street tree should be minimized, however, to avoid blocking views of
storefronts and interesting details.
8.13 In Area I provide electrical service for string lights in trees.* Use of string lights should
generally be limited to the traditional end of year and new year holidays and other special
occasions where there is a multi -business lighting event scheduled that includes the
Downtown Overlay District.
• String lights in trees shall not be left in the trees year round, to protect the health of the tree.
• String lights shall be maintained in appearance and installation.
® Unless an approved project by the City, property owners are discouraged from plugging into
City owned outlets for personal use of lights.
• The use of lights to highlight a building's architecture, canopies, and windows may be
appropriate and effective.
• Properties outside of Area 1 are encouraged to provide electrical service for string lights in
trees, especially those properties along Austin Avenue, Main Street, and University Avenue.
Policyn Site lighting should be used to enhance the pedestria
experience at night by providing a wellmlit environment.
Lighting on a site is important for aesthetics and safety, and, on commercial properties for customer
awareness. Traditionally, lights were simple in character and were used to highlight buildings, signs,
entrances, first floor details, walkways and buildings. Today, the lights are also used to light parking
lots. Most fixtures had incandescent lamps that cast a warm color, were relatively low in intensity
and were shielded with simple shade devices. Site lighting should reinforce the visual continuity of
downtown. The light fixtures (luminaires) and poles (standards) should be unifying design elements
that promote visual interest and variety.
Design Guidelines 8_$
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
8.14 Use lighting for the following:
• To accent architectural details
• To accent building entrances
• To accent signs
• To illuminate sidewalks and pedestrian routes
• To illuminate parking and service areas, for safety concerns
® To illuminate a state or national flag
8.15 Provide low -scale lighting for pedestrian routes.
• Lighting along the right-of-way should be a combination of pedestrian -scaled street lights and
spillover from lights on adjacent buildings. Lighting in this location should be designed to be
comfortable to pedestrians.
• The position of a lamp in a light fixture on a pedestrian way should not exceed fifteen feet in
height.
8.16 'Streetscape `'lighting in the `Downtown Overlay District should be the same as that
adopted for use by the City.
• Note that while these design guidelines encourage the use of "shielded" light sources, the
luminaires in use by the City in Area 1 are not. This is appropriate only in Area 1.
® See the Downtown Master Plan for the street lighting requirements.
• Note that sidewalk lighting may be supplemented with shielded lighting in canopies that
project from building fronts. See the section on canopies in Chapter 10.
8.17 Lighting for parking areas, service areas buildings, pedestrian routes, and public ways
in Area 2 shall be shielded to prevent any off-site glare.
• Note that this also applies to parking and service areas in Area 1.
• Light sources that use the equivalent of 1,200 lumens per bulb or less shall be housed in
fixtures and installed in a manner that will shield the lights from public view and avoid glare
and light spill.
• The light source shall not emit significant amount of the fixture's total output above a vertical
cutoff angle of 90 degrees directly visible from neighboring properties. Any structural part of
the fixture providing this cutoff angle shall be permanently attached.
• Keep parking area lighting at a human scale. The maximum height of parking lot luminaires
shall be fifteen feet. This height restriction may be 'exceeded to twenty-four feet if it is
demonstrated that the overall visual impact of lighting is less.
accessories.8.18 The light pole, or standard, should be designed to accommodate special decorative
• In Area 1, mounts for hanging planter baskets and banners, for example, should be included.
In Area 2, the historic acorn street light design should remain simple without hanging baskets.
•
Mounts for seasonal lighting schemes also should be considered.
Design Guidelines 8-6
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
8.19 Minimize the visual impacts of architectural lighting.
• All exterior light sources should have a low level of luminescence.
® Wall -mounted floodlamps shall be shielded so that the light source is not visible off site.
Spotlights without shielding devices are not allowed.
• A lamp that conveys the color spectrum similar to daylight is preferred. For example, metal
halide and color -corrected sodium are appropriate.
• Lighting fixtures should be appropriate to the building and its surroundings in terms of style,
scale and intensity of illumination.
• Wall -mounted light fixtures should not extend above the height of the wall to which they are
mounted.
8.20 Minimize the use of rope/icicle lighting Downtown
® The use of rope/icicle lighting shall not be used outside of the winter holiday season.
Window/door border lighting inside a building is inappropriate
Policys Where historic landscape features exist in residential areas,
they should be preserved when feasible.
In areas of the Overlay Districts with traditional residential characteristics, site features that may
have been seen historically include fences, sidewalks, walkways and areas of private landscaping.
8.21 Preserve historic landscape features.
• Existing historic landscape features, such as fences, sidewalks and trees, should be
preserved and protected during construction. Replace only those portions that are
deteriorated beyond repair with like design and materials.
® Existing native plantings should be preserved in place. This particularly applies to significant
trees and shrubs.
® The use of rock and gravel is discouraged, and if used, should only occur as an accent
element.
• Minimize the amount of hard surface paving for patios, terraces or drives in front yards.
8.22 In new landscape designs, use materials that are compatible with the historic context.
• Landscaping schemes that are simple and subdued in character are encouraged.
• Using native trees, shrubs and wildflowers is encouraged.
• Use plant materials in quantities and sizes that will have a meaningful impact in the early
years of a project.
® Avoid use of landscaping ties or railroad ties.
® Extensive areas of exotic plantings, such as cacti and bamboo, and large ornamental rocks
are inappropriate.
Note that special provisions in the Unified Development Code for the preservation of Heritage and
Protected Trees also apply. See Chapter 8 of the Unified Development Code, which also
Design Guidelines 8-7
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
includes landscape and fence standards.
8.23 A new fence may be considered in transitional areas with a residential context.
• A fence that defines a front yard should be low to the ground and "transparent" in nature.
• A front yard fence should not exceed three feet in height.
• Solid, "stockade" fences do not allow views into front yards and are inappropriate.
• Chain link, concrete block, unfaced concrete, plastic, solid metal panel, fiberglass, plywood,
and mesh construction fences are not appropriate.
• A side or rear yard fence that is taller than its front yard counterpart may be considered. See
UDC Chapter 8 for fence standards.
8.24 Maintain the established progression of public -to -private spaces.
• This includes a sequence of experiences, beginning with the "public" sidewalk, proceeding
along a "semi-public" walkway, to a "semi -private" porch or entry feature and ending in the
"private" spaces beyond.
• Provide a walkway running perpendicular from the street to the front entry.
® Use paving materials that are similar to those employed historically.
Policyn Minimize the visual impactsof - equipment
equipment.service areas and
Utility service boxes, telecommunication devices, solar devices, cables and conduits are among the
variety of equipment that may be attached to a building that can affect the character of the area.
Trash and recycling storage areas also are concerns. To the greatest extent feasible, these devices
should be screened from public view.
8.25 Minimize the visual impact of mechanical equipment as seen from street.
• Do not locate window air conditioning units on the building's primary facade.
• Use low -profile mechanical units and elevator shafts on rooftops that are not visible from the
public's view. If this is not possible, setback or appropriately screen rooftop equipment from
view.
• Locate a satellite dish out of public view, to the extent feasible, and in compliance with other
regulations.
® Paint mechanical equipment attached to the building fascia the same color as the fascia in
order to blend into the building.
® When locating mechanical equipment be sensitive to views from the upper floors of
neighboring buildings as well as other neighboring properties.
Character defining features of existing buildings (i.e. roofline, chimneys, dormers) must be not
be damaged or obscured when adding new roof mounted energy conservation systems such
as solar devises.
® Skylights or solar panels should have low profiles and not be visible from the public right-of-
way. These features should be installed in a manner which minimizes damage to historic
materials.
Solar shingles may be added to a roof surface visible from a public right-of-way if low or non -
Design Guidelines 8-8
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
reflective shingles are used.
® Use solar panels and solar devices that are similar in color to roof materials and use non -
reflective finishes.
® Solar panels should not be mounted to project from walls or other parts of the building.
8.26 Minimize the visual impacts of utility connections and service boxes.
• Locate them on secondary walls, when feasible.
• Do not locate gas or electric meters on the roof.
8.27 Minimize the visual impacts of trash storage and service areas.
Locate service areas away from major pedestrian routes; typically place them at the rear of a
building when feasible.
Dumpsters should be screened from view.
® Service areas are not to be used for storage of shipping containers, pallets, extra store
fixtures, etc.
New picture: Deleted old: Minimize the visual impacts of utility connections and service boxes. This
landscaping helps buffer utility boxes.
Policyn Minimize the visual impacts of a parking lot.
New parking facilities should be designed to be attractive, compatible additions to the downtown.
Using high quality materials, providing a sense of scale in architectural details and providing active
uses at the sidewalk edge are methods that can mitigate the potentially negative impacts of new
parking facilities. In general, a new parking facility should remain subordinate to the street scene.
8.28 Locate a surface lot such that it will be subordinate to other site features.
• An on-site parking area should be located behind a building, where its visual impacts will be
minimized.
• Minimize the surface area of paving materials. • It is not appropriate to demolish a
structure on a building's lot or surrounding lots in order to create additional parking. This is
also relevant where a detached garage of historic significance exists on a site.
8.29 Locate a parking lot so it will minimize gaps in the continuous building wall of a block.
Where a parking lot shares a site with a building, place the parking at the rear of the site
(preferred) or beside the building (if there are no other options).
Note that
standards for
buffering
the edges
of parking lots are set forth in Section 8.04 of the
Unified
Development
Code and
shall also
apply.
8.30 Where a parking lot abuts a public sidewalk, provide a visual buffer.
• This may be a landscaped strip or planter.
Consider the use of a wall as screen for the edge of the lot.
Use a combination of trees and shrubs to create a landscape buffer.
Design Guidelines 8.9
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
• Where a parking lot exists that is presently not screened or landscaped, consider a
landscaping program or an infill building that relates to the surrounding historic context.
• See also the City of Georgetown's Unified Development Code for more guidance on
appropriate parking lot landscaping and screening.
Policys Minimize the visual impacts of a parking structure by
designing to enhance the activity J the streetscape.
Parking structures should be designed to enhance activity of the street level. At a minimum, a
parking structure should help to animate the street and be compatible with the surroundings. The
visual impact of the cars themselves should be minimized.
8.31 Design a parking structure so that it creates.a visually attractive and active street edge.
• When feasible, a parking structure in the area should be wrapped with retail, commercial or
another active use along the street edge to shield the cars from the street and to add activity
to the street.
• Other methods of accomplishing this include, but are not limited to:
- Retail/commercial wrap
- Murals or public art
- Landscaping
- Product display cases/show windows
8.32 In the Downtown Overlay District, a parking structure shall be compatible with
traditional buildings in the surrounding area.
• Respect the regular window pattern and other architectural elements of adjacent buildings.
• Maintain the alignments and rhythms of architectural elements, as seen along the street.
• Continue the use of similar building materials.
• Avoid multiple curb cuts. These complicate turning movements and disrupt the sidewalk.
• Express the traditional widths of buildings in the area.
New picture: This single infill building is divided into smaller building modules that reflect traditional
building widths. Upper floors step back from the front, thus maintaining the traditional two-
story scale of the street.
Policys The visual impacts of parking in areas with residential
character should also be mininized.
8.33 Minimize the visual impacts of a parking area.
• A parking area should be located to the rear of a site.
• Do not use a front yard for parking. Instead, use a long driveway, or alley access, that leads to
parking located behind a building.
Design Guidelines 8-10
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
8.34 A new parking pad, carport or garage should be located to the side or rear of a lot, and
detached from
Consider providing • ••f paving. This will reduce•r as allow more
drainage through soils.
• Consider sharing a single drive and curb cut where multiple driveways are needed.
• A driveway should lead directly from the street to the parking area.
A parking pad located in the front of a residence is inappropriate.
8.35 Preserve an historic garage or outbuilding structure when feasible.
• Use the garage for parking. It may be appropriate to alter an historic garage to accommodate
contemporary vehicles.
® Garage doors visible from the street:
o Repair rather than replace original or historic doors that are significant to the
character of the garage, if technically feasible.
o If repair of historic garage doors is not technically feasible, new replacement doors
may be approved if they duplicate the existing size, shape, proportion, profiles,
hardware, details, glazing, panel type and design, and operation, and fit within the
existing opening.
® New garages or carports must be compatible in style, size, material, roof profile and details
with the historic principle building on the lot.
Siding on garages should match the cover material on houses, except that wood siding is
acceptable in cases where the house is constructed of masonry.
• Avoid demolition. See UDC Section 3.13 for any proposed demolition in the Overlay Districts.
• In some cases, it may be appropriate to re -position the historic garage on its original site in
order to accommodate other needs.
• Also incorporate on -street parking spaces in calculations for parking needs, where allowed by
HARC. See UDC Section 9.02.060.
Design Guidelines g_11
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
CHAPTER t
DESIGN GUIDELINES FOR SIGNS
This chapter presents design guidelines for the design of signs. The design guidelines
are organized into a series of relevant design topics. Within each category, individual
policies and design guidelines are presented, which the City will use in determining the
appropriateness of the work proposed.
Traditionally, a variety of signs were seen in the downtown. Five different types
occurred:
• Small, freestanding signs mounted on a pole or post; located near the sidewalk
because the primary structure or business was setback from the street (e.g., an
area with residential character); printed on both sides
• Medium-sized, square or rectangular shaped signs that projected from the building
above the awnings or canopies; printed on both sides
• Small, horizontally-oriented rectangular signs that protruded from the building
below the awnings or canopies but above pedestrians' heads; printed on both
sides
• Medium- to large-sized, horizontally-oriented 'rectangular signs attached flat
against the building, above and/or below the awnings; printed on one side only
• Window signs, painted on glass; used at the street level and on upper floors
Signs that were mounted on the exterior advertised the primary business of a building.
Typically, this use occupied a street level space and sometimes upper floors as well. In
the case of a large structure that included several businesses on upper floors, the name
of the building itself was displayed on an exterior sign. Tenants relied on a directory at
the street level.
In addition, signs were mounted to fit within architectural features. In many cases, they
were mounted flush above the storefront, just above moldings. Others were located
between columns or centered in "panels" on a building face. This method also enabled
one to perceive the design character of individual structures.
Each nonresidential structure in the Downtown and Old Town Overlay Districts may
have up to five types of signs in use at any given time: primary, secondary, portable and
temporary. Multi -tenant buildings shall share signage through co -locating the various
businesses' advertising on directories and monument or other approved signs via an
approved Master Sign Plan.
• A primary sign represents the owner's largest sign expense and is likely the most
important of the five sign types. Only one primary sign will be allowed per business
Design Guidelines 9-1
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
per building. The primary sign's audience is specifically the viewer driving past in a
vehicle.
• Secondary signs are utilized in addition to the primary building sign. Typically, a
secondary sign protrudes from the building below the awnings or canopies but
above pedestrian heads, printed on both signs. This may also be a small to
medium free-standing sign mounted on a pole or post. The secondary sign is
generally intended to capture the attention of the pedestrian walking on the
sidewalk.
® Window signs are painted or applied to the glass used at street level and/or on
upper floors. The window signage is intended for the pedestrian walking on the
sidewalk and conveys specific information about the business offered.
• Portable signs are intended for the pedestrian walking on the sidewalk. Portable
signs include sandwich boards, signs mounted on easels or freestanding frames
with sign inserts.
• Temporary signs are used for a special purpose, such as limited -time offer or a
sale. Planning and Development Department staff may approve temporary signs
for up to 45 days. If more time is requested the item will be forwarded to HARC.
The applicable sign standards shall be those contained within these design guidelines.
In the event that no standard exists, the standards in the Unified Development Code,
Chapter 10, shall apply, and may be modified in order to more accurately reflect the
express language or the intent of these design guidelines in regards to signs. The
sizing, placement, manner, and overall aesthetics of a sign shall be regulated to conform
to other guidelines in this chapter. A business logo cannot be altered if it is federally
trademarked.
'• R- • • to be in balance with the overat
character of • •:-,
A sign typically serves two functions: first, to attract attention, and second to convey
information, essentially identifying the business or services offered within. if it is well
designed, the building front alone can serve the attention -getting function, allowing the
sign to be focused on conveying information in a well -conceived manner. All new signs
should be developed with the overall context of the building and of the area in mind.
9.1 Consider the building front as part of an overall sign program.
• Coordinate a sign within the overall fagade composition.
• A sign should be in proportion to the building, such that it does not dominate the
appearance.
• Develop a master sign plan for the entire building; this should be used to guide
individual sign design decisions.
• This is especially important in Area 2 where the use of contemporary building
Design Guidelines 9.2
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
forms and styles and several colorful, attention -getting signs have appeared in the
past. Such a typical "strip -commercial" development pattern is inappropriate in the
Downtown and Old Town Overlay Districts.
9.2 A sign shall be subordinate to the overall building composition.
® A sign should appear to be in scale with the facade.
® Locate a sign on a building such that it will emphasize design elements of the
facade itself.
® Mount a sign to fit within existing architectural features. Use the shape of the sign
to help reinforce the horizontal lines of moldings and transoms seen along the
street.
Policys Appropriate signs include freestanding, flush
mounted, window, projecting, hanging, awning and directory
signs.
Well-designed signs are needed in the historic District for communication and identifying
goods and services available in the District. But signs are artifacts in themselves. They
are a significant component of the environment. Signs affect the quality, image and
cohesiveness of the entire historic District.
The placement or location of a sign is a critical factor in maintaining the order and
integrity of the Downtown Overlay District and Old Town Overlay District. Consistent
placement of signs according to building type, size, location and even building materials
create a visual pattern that the pedestrian can easily interpret and utilize to the mutual
benefit of merchants, tourists and customers.
New picture
9.3 A primary sign should identify the services or business offered within.
® To avoid driver confusion, the information on the primary sign should be in a large
enough font or design that it is easily viewable from a vehicle.
® The sign should contain only enough information to alert the viewer in a vehicle to
the location of the business or entity at the building.
Whenever possible, other signs should be utilized for information geared towards
pedestrian or other viewers.
® The primary sign should be easily viewable from a vehicle with as little visual
clutter as possible.
9.4 A secondary sign should identify the services or business offered within.
® Typically a secondary sign is intended to capture the attention of pedestrians
walking on the sidewalk.
® The sign should contain only enough information to alert the viewer on a sidewalk
Design Guidelines 9-3
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
to the location of the business or entity at the building.
® The secondary sign should be easily viewable from the sidewalk with as little visual
clutter as possible.
9.S Freestanding or pole mounted signs may be considered.
• A freestanding sign may be used in the front yard of a former residence with a
commercial use.
• A freestanding sign may also be used in areas where the primary use is set back
from the street edge.
9.6 A flush -mounted wall sign may be considered.
• In many cases, turn -of -the century building types common in Georgetown have a
sign frieze, which is a panel by trim that sits just above the transom. This is the
ideal location for the primary building sign. The sign frieze is typically located
above the transom and below the second -floor windows.
• When utilizing the sign frieze as the sign placement location, it is important to
respect the frieze borders. In other words, the sign should not overlap or crowd the
top, bottom or ends of the frieze.
• When feasible, place a wall sign such that it aligns with others on the block.
9.7 A flush -mounted wall sign shall not exceed one square foot for every one
foot of linear facade width.
® For instance, a building with twenty feet of street frontage would be eligible for a
sign of twenty square feet (20 x 1 = 20). In true sign dimensions, this would be a
sign of approximately two feet by ten feet.
• Note that the formula establishes the maximum permitted sign area, when all other
factors of scale, proportion, and compatibility are met. A sign does not have to be
as large as this equation allows. The first consideration shall be compatibility with
the size and character of the facade.
• In a case where a building has more than one face exposed to a public way, the
allowed sign area may not be combined.
9.8 A window sign may be considered.
® A window sign may be considered in addition to the primary building sign to convey
specific information regarding contact information (i.e. telephone number, email, or
web address of a business), other business locations, or list more than one (1)
specific product or service.
• A window sign should cover no more than thirty percent (30%) of the total window
area.
• It may be painted on the glass, attached with flush vinyl or hung just inside a
window using appropriate attachment materials, as reviewed and approved by
HARC.
Design Guidelines 9-4
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
® No more than 50% of a window shall be covered by business signage,
advertisements, open signs, hours of operation and other messages.
® One small (maximum 2 square feet) window sign with a dark background
displaying the business' hours of operation with contrasting, but not in a vivid color,
lettering is allowed without Certificate of Design Compliance review; if additional
size or design is requested, then a CDC is required.
One small (maximum 1.5 square feet) `open' sign per business is allowed to be
placed in a window without Certificate of Design Compliance review, if additional
size is requested then a CDC is required. The sign message cannot be in a
flashing or traveling mode.
® Electronic message center signs that are designed to be visible from the right-of-
way are not allowed.
• While window displays are not 'reviewed by HARC,'their use is very important to
retailers. The attractiveness of a display is likely the highest contributing factor to
whether or not a pedestrian will enter a store, and its design should be `carefully
planned.
• Please note that HARC will take cognizance and assume jurisdiction of signs within
a store that is obviously intended to be viewed through a window.
9.9 A'hanging sign may be considered.
• A small hanging sign is easier for a pedestrian to read than other sign types and is
encouraged.'
• A small hanging sign should be located near the business entrance, just above the
door or to the side of it.
• A hanging sign installed under'a canopy should be a maximum of 50% of the
canopy's width.
• A hanging sign should be mounted perpendicular with the building facade.
• A hanging sign should provide a minimum of eight feet clearance 'between the
sidewalk surface and the bottom of the sign. However, a hanging sign mounted
under a canopy may provide a minimum clearance of seven feet.
• A hanging sign shall be no more than eight square feet in size.
9.10 A projecting sign may be considered.
• Aprojecting sign should appear to be in proportion with the building. It should not
overwhelm the appearance of the building or obscure key architectural features.
• A projecting` sign shall provide a minimum clearance of eight feet between the
sidewalk surface and the bottom of the sign.
• A projecting sign shall be no more than fifteen square feet in size with a maximum
sign height of five feet.
• Additionally, a projecting sign shall in no case project beyond 1/2 of the sidewalk
width.
Design Guidelines 9-5
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
Signs should not obscure the view of any windows, existing signs, and/or adjacent
buildings to an unreasonable extent.
A large projecting sign is not permitted unless other types of signage are not
appropriate for the building.
A large projecting sign, if approved, should be mounted higher, and centered on
the facade or positioned at the corner of a building. Generally, a projecting sign
should not be located above the second floor.
® "Blade" signs are considered projecting signs and should follow the guidelines for
projecting signs.
Any two-sided sign shall be designed to be back to back and in no case shall both
sides of the sign be visible at any time to the reader.
9.11 Awning and canopy signs may be considered.
An awning or canopy sign shall not exceed one square foot for every one linear
foot of facade width. In no case should an awning or canopy sign exceed the size
of the awning or canopy surface to which it is applied.
The size of an awning or canopy sign shall be calculated by its actual area and
shall be included in the calculation for total allowable building signage.
Consider mounting a sign centered on top of a building canopy where a flush -
mounted sign would obscure architectural details.
® A sign mounted on top and affixed to a building canopy, and located perpendicular
to the building shall not be allowed.
® Appearance of a sign as viewed from an upper level out must be considered.
9.12 A directory sign for multiAenant buildings must be considered.
° A Master Sign Plan is required for multi -tenant buildings.
° Where several businesses share a building, coordinate the signs. Align several
smaller signs, or group them into a single panel as a directory.
° Use similar forms or backgrounds for the signs to tie them together visually and
make them easier to read.
° The manner in which a directory sign is mounted to a building, either flush to or
projecting from a wall, will determine the maximum allowable sign area.
® Electronic message centers are not allowed.
Signage allocation must be considered when setting up a building for multiple
tenants, and the appropriate distribution of allowable sign square footage and sign
sizes and locations planned for the various tenants.
- For the maximum area of a flush -mounted sign see design guideline 9.5.
- For the maximum area of a projecting sign see design guideline 9.7.
9.13 A portable sign may be considered, in the Downtown Overlay District.
® Portable signs are intended for pedestrian traffic on the sidewalk and can convey
specific information regarding contact information.
Design Guidelines 9.5
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
® A portable sign may list
more
than
one specific product
or service
and/or
promotional information
(i.e.,
daily
specials, sales, or
business
related
announcements.)
• Portable signs include A -frame, sandwich boards, signs mounted on easels or free-
standing frames with sign inserts.• An A -frame or sandwich board sign should
be limited to 12 square feet of surface per side and should in no case exceed four
feet in height and three feet in width.
• A sign mounted on an easel or a free-standing frame with a sign insert should be
limited to six square feet of surface per side and should in no case exceed five feet
in height and three feet in width.
® A portable sign should not interfere with pedestrian traffic.
• A portable sign should be secured to the sidewalk. If an eye bolt is used it should
be installed by the City of Georgetown and placed below the sidewalk surface, and
a steel wire should be used to attach the sign to the bolt.
e If the sign is not anchored with an eye bolt, then the sign shall be internally
weighted rather than secured with sand bags or other external means.
® Portable signs shall be taken inside when the business being advertised is not
open.
® Portable "`signs in Area 2 are discouraged, except when placed on a sidewalk
adjacent to a street with heavy pedestrian traffic.
9A4 A temporary sign may be considered.
• A temporary sign (including banners) should be limited to a maximum of twenty-
four square feet in area with a maximum height of three feet.
• A temporary sign, when ` installed, should not obscure windows or other
architectural details of a building.
• In no case will a temporary sign be allowed to substitute as a permanent sign.
• Planning and Development Department staff may approve temporary signs for up
to 45 days, a request for a longer time period will be forwarded to HARC.
• Temporary signs should respect the design and 'color guidelines for permanent
signs.
9.15 A sign should not in any way obscure or compete with architectural details
of an historic building facade.
• This is especially important for a building with historic significance.
• A sign should be designed to integrate with the architectural features of a building
not distract attention from them.
Policyx A sign should be in character with the material, color
1=0
• •• • • • • r
Design Guidelines 9-7
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
alter the historic character of the street are inappropriate.
• Animated signs are prohibited.
• Any sign that visually overpowers the building or obscures significant architectural
features is inappropriate.
® Murals that include signage may be considered appropriate and HARC may
exclude portions of the mural from the size calculations of Guideline 9.5.
® Murals shall not be painted onto previously unpainted brick or masonry of historical
significance.
9.17 Sign materials should be compatible with that of the building facade.
• A simple, easy -to -read sign design is preferred.
• Typefaces that are in keeping with those seen in the area traditionally are
encouraged.
• Select letter styles and sizes that will be compatible with the building front.
Generally, these are typefaces with serifs.
• Avoid hard -to -read or overly intricate typeface styles.
• Painted wood and metal are appropriate materials for signs. Their use is
encouraged. Unfinished materials, including untreated wood, are discouraged
because they are out of character with the context of the Overlay Districts.
• Plastic is not permitted, except for flush, adhesive, professionally installed lettering.
• Highly reflective materials that will be difficult to read are inappropriate.
• Painted signs on blank walls were common historically and may be considered.
9.18 Using a symbol for a sign is encouraged.
• A symbol sign adds interest to the street, can be read quickly and is remembered
better than written words.
9.19 Use colors for the sign that are compatible with those of the building front.
• Sign colors should be limited. In general, no more than three colors should be
used. For these Guidelines, black and white are not counted as colors.
HARC may consider different shades of a color similar enough to count as one
color in the determination of the number of colors being allowed.
® Signs with photo images, including multiple colors, are appropriate on A -frame/
sandwich board type signs only.
New picture.
9.20 The light for a sign should be an indirect source.
• Light should be directed at the sign from an external, shielded lamp.
• The fixture should have a sense of design which is coordinated with the sign
surface and appropriate to building style and character.
• A warm light, similar to daylight, is appropriate.
Design Guidelines 9_8
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
• Light should not shine directly or reflect into the eyes of pedestrians.
• Exposed up -lights are inappropriate.
9.21 If internal illumination is used, it should be designed to be subordinate to the
overall building composition.
• Internal illumination of an entire sign panel is discouraged. If internal illumination is
used, a system that backlights only the sign text is preferred.
• Neon and other tubular illumination may be considered. However, use neon in
limited amounts so it does not become visually obtrusive.
• Internal illumination of an awning is inappropriate.
9.22 Neon signs may be considered in limited situations.
® The use of neon signs is more appropriate to new construction, non -historic
structures and historic structures built after 1930. These signs should have an
historic character.
® Neon is not
appropriate
on structures
built
before 1930 or on residential structures.
® Unshielded
neon is not
permitted, per
the
UDC.
installed9.23 Sign brackets and hardware should be compatible with the building and
in a workmanmlike
9.24 Maintenance of signs shall be required.
• Re -secure sign mounts to the building front.
• Repaint faded graphics.
• Repair worn wiring.
• Replace burned out bulbs.
• Remove non -historic, obsolete signs.
• Preserve historic painted signs in place as decorative features.
9.25 Signage should have a professional quality and a finished appearance.
® Signs that appear to be temporary, unfinished, or homemade are not allowed.
A change in a portion of a multi -tenant sign should be consistent with the original,
approved design.
9.26 Changing tenants in buildings with approved multiple tenant signs.
® Staff may approve sign face changes if they are the style of the approved multi -
tenant sign.
Note:- - are not allowed
Development ••' The limitationsof '•' Development Code Chapter 5 related to
Home -Based i apply.
Design Guidelines 9-9
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
CHAPTER
10
DESIGN GUIDELINES FOR AWNINGS & CANOPIES
This chapter presents design guidelines for the use of awnings and canopies. The design
guidelines are organized into a series of relevant design topics. Within each category, individual
policies and design guidelines are presented, which the City will use in determining the
appropriateness of the work proposed.
For purposes of these guidelines, an awning is a structure with a fabric or material surface, usually
sloped. A canopy is a rigid structure with a metal roof, generally mounted to the ground plane.
Policyn An awning or canopy should be similar to those seen
historically.
Historically, awnings and canopies were noteworthy features of buildings in downtown and their
continued use is encouraged. (Editor's note: existing language from above)
10,11 An « compatible in material and construction to the style of the building
encouraged.
• Operable awnings are encouraged on historic buildings.
• Use colors that are compatible with the overall color scheme of the facade. Solid colors or
simple, muted -stripe patterns are appropriate.
• The awning should fit the opening of the building.
• Simple shed shapes are appropriate for rectangular openings.
• Odd shapes, bullnose awnings and bubble awnings are inappropriate on most historic
structures.
10.2 A fixed metal canopy may be considered.
• Appropriate supporting mechanisms are wall -mounted brackets, chains and posts.
• Consider using a contemporary interpretation of those canopies seen historically.
10.3 Illumination related to awnings or canopies should be limited.
® Internal illumination in an awning is inappropriate.
Lights may be concealed in the underside of a canopy.
• Shielded or low wattage lights may be used on the underside of a canopy.
® Lighting that shines onto sidewalks from the underside of a canopy or awning is encouraged.
® Rope/icicle lights are discouraged outside of the winter holiday season.
10.4 Mount an awning or canopy to accentuate character_defining features.
® It should be mounted to highlight moldings that may be found above the storefront and should
not hide character -defining features.
• Its mounting should not damage significant features and historic details.
Design Guidelines 10-1
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
10.5 Maintenance of awnings and canopies is required.
® Replace worn fabric awnings or damaged metal canopies.
® Re -secure loose hardware.
® Wash fabric awnings regularly. This will help extend the life of the fabric. Spray with water
from the underside first, to lift dirt particles, and then rinse them off.
® Paint metal canopies regularly, to reduce the potential for rust. This will extend the life of the
canopy.
Design Guidelines 10-2
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
CHAPTER
DESIGN iR COLORS IN THE
OVERLAYDISTRICTS
This chapter presents design policies and guidelines that apply to paint colors. The City of
Georgetown does not have a specific color palette. Paint color changes to single-family
and two-family residential properties in the Old Town Overlay District do not require design
review.
When renovating an historic building, first consider returning to the original color scheme,
which can be discovered by carefully cutting back paint layers. Accurately determining the
original color scheme requires professional help, but one may get a general idea of the
colors that were used by scraping back paint layers with a penknife. Since the paint will be
faded, moisten it slightly to get a better idea of the original hue. It is not necessary,
however, to use the original color schemes of the building. An alternative is to use colors in
ways that were typical of the period or architectural style, and with them create a new color
scheme.
With respect to the treatment of color on individual historic buildings, colors that represent
the appropriate period of history are preferred, but not necessarily required. Color does not
damage the historic materials or alter significant details and can always be changed in the
future and thus its application is not as critical as some other design options.
Inappropriate applications of color, however, may hinder one's ability to perceive the
character of the building's architecture. For example, if a building with jig -saw brackets and
moldings is painted solid black, with no contrast between the background and the details,
and little opportunity for expression of shadows, the perception of the character of the
building may be diminished.
This concern for perception of character is more relevant in the context of the Downtown
Overlay District, where assemblage of buildings on the street is important to one's
perception of the character of the streetscape. In this sense, one building that stands out
from the rest with an inappropriate color scheme will impede one's perception of the
continuity in the district. For this reason, the city reviews the use of color as part of its
consideration of design issues. In general, HARC will consider color on a case-by-case
basis, and in context with the building's location.
• !- • x, •,,• -• •': •- - • is •.•
• • ! • . •! • ' • • • s ! •I M
11,11 Develop a color scheme for the entire building that coordinates all the fagade
® Using the historic color scheme is encouraged.
Design Guidelines Y1_y
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
® Choose a base color that will link elements of the entire building face together. It
can tie signs, ornamentation, awnings and entrances together. It can also help the
building better relate to others on the block.
A single color scheme should be used for the entire exterior so upper and lower
floors and subordinate wings of buildings are seen as components of a single
structure.
For a newer building in the Overlay Districts, a color scheme that complements the
historic character of this district should be used.
11.2 Paint colors should enhance individual building elements while creating a
unified, coordinated appearance for the entire structure.
9 Paint colors and placement should create a cohesive look for the structure. There
should be one main color on the body of the building to unify the fagade.
® Choose colors for trim, accents and architectural details that complement the main
color on the body of the structure.
® Consider the palette of surrounding structures to create a harmonized appearance
along the block face.
® Background and accent colors should be consistent within separate buildings,
where a number of buildings are attached or where unity in theme is desired.
11.3 A muted color is preferred for the base color of most buildings.
® Use muted colors to minimize the apparent scale of buildings and blend them with
the natural colors of area.
® Matte finishes are preferred to glossy ones.
••i colors must complementd overall colorof
11.5 In general, use bright colors for accents only.
® Colors of a vivid saturation are not appropriate for the body of commercial buildings.
• Overly strong or bold colors are not appropriate for the main body of a structure.
Reserve the use of strong, bright colors for accents when you want to draw the
customer's eye, such as to the sign, the building's ornamentation or entrance.
i In most cases only one or two accent colors should be used in addition to the base
color.
® Doors may be painted a bright accent color or they may be left a natural wood
finish. Historically, many of the doors would have simply had a stain applied.
• Window sashes, casings and trims are also an excellent opportunity for accent
color.
® Brilliant luminescent or day -glow colors are not appropriate.
Minimize the metallic shine of aluminum and doorframes.
11.6 Paint colors should highlight architectural details.
® Plan painting to use more than one color. It is inappropriate to allow architectural
details to be camouflaged by painting them the same color as the background of the
structure
® Strong or bold colors can be appropriate for trim, accents and architectural details.
Design Guidelines 11-2
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
•important
in its natural state or color,
11.7 Wooden structures must be painted.
® Historically wooden structures in Georgetown were painted and would not have
been left exposed wood.
® Stained wood is inappropriate for the body of a structure.
® Certain wooden details, such as doors and windows, may remain unpainted. But
the wood must not be exposed to the elements, so the materials need to be treated.
® The use and color of stain must be a typical style for the period of the structure.
11.8 Leave natural masonry finishes unpainted when feasible.
Where the natural color of the materials exists, such as with stone or brick, they
should be left unpainted.
® Painting an unpainted brick or stone wall may trap moisture inside the walls and will
drastically alter its character and appearance.
o For other parts of the building that do require painting, select colors that will
complement those of the natural materials.
11.9 Where brick has been painted historically it should remain painted.
® If a wall is made of porous brick, which has always been painted, it should remain
painted. Removing the paint will expose the brick to weather, accelerating its
deterioration.
If a building was originally plain brick, but was painted sometime in the past,
consider applying new paint colors that simulate the original brick color.
Design Guidelines 11-3
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
CHAPTER
12
DESIGN GUIDELINES FOR
INFILL CONSTRUCTION IN AREA 1
TOWN SQUARE HISTORIC DISTRICT
This chapter presents design guidelines for the construction of new buildings within the boundaries
of the Town Square Historic District (Area 1). The design guidelines are organized into a series of
relevant design topics. Within each category, individual policies and design guidelines are
presented, which the City will use in determining the appropriateness of the work proposed.
aKey Characteristics
Key design characteristics of this area include the following:
• Buildings aligned with adjacent historic buildings at the sidewalk edge
• One- to three-story, traditional commercial buildings (some buildings reach greater heights,
however)
• Masonry construction dominates
• Transparent ground floor with smaller windows
floors
• Flat -roof buildings
• Sidewalk uses and activities
"punched" into predominantly solid upper
Design
The Town Square Historic District should continue to develop in a coordinated manner so that an
overall sense of visual continuity is achieved. The dominant character of this area should be that of
a retail -oriented, commercial environment, with an active street edge that is pedestrian friendly.
The design goals for Area 1 are:
• To rehabilitate existing historic commercial buildings.
• To continue the use of traditional building materials found in the area.
• To maintain the traditional mass, size and form of buildings seen along the street (i.e., a
building should be a rectangular mass that is one- to three -stories in height).
• To design commercial buildings with storefront elements similar to those seen traditionally
(i.e., a commercial building should include: recessed entries, display windows, kickplates,
transom windows, midbelt cornices, cornices, or parapets, and vertically-oriented upper. -story
windows).
• To design a project that reinforces the retail -oriented function of the street and enhances its
pedestrian character.
• To promote friendly, walkable streets (i.e., projects that support pedestrian activity and
contribute to the quality of life are encouraged).
• To provide site amenities—such as benches, lights, waste receptacles, landscaping, etc.—to
Design Guidelines 12-1
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
enhance the pedestrian experience.
® To accurately convey the history of the area by avoiding styles that are not accurate to
Georgetown's history.
See the Downtown Master Plan, City of Georgetown, TX — for specific design information related to
infill development in the downtown.
In a residential context, buildings are typically set back a uniform distance from the sidewalk. By
contrast, buildings in commercial areas often are aligned immediately at the inside edge of the
sidewalk. This contributes to a sense of visual continuity.
A typical building in the Town Square Historic District also has its primary entrance oriented to the
street. This helps establish a "pedestrian -friendly" quality. In most cases, similar entryways are
evenly spaced along a block, creating a rhythm that also contributes to the sense of visual
continuity. These entrances are also typically recessed from the sidewalk edge.
Patterns are created along the street by the repetition of similarly -sized building elements. For
example, uniform facade widths evenly spaced in downtown create a rhythm that contributes to the
visual continuity of the area.
One of the most prominent unifying elements of the Town Square Historic District is the similarity in
building form. Commercial buildings are simple rectangular solids, deeper than they are wide. This
characteristic is important and should be continued. Also, commercial roof forms appear flat,
although there is typically a slight pitch to it for water to drain. This characteristic is important and
should be preserved.
16- -
Building materials of new structures should contribute to the visual continuity of the area. They
should appear similar to those seen traditionally to establish a sense of visual continuity. Brick and
stone are the dominant materials and their use in new construction is preferred.
The street level floors of traditional commercial buildings are clearly distinguishable from the upper
floors. First floors are predominantly fixed plate glass with a small percentage of opaque materials.
Upper floors are the reverse: opaque materials dominate, and windows appear as smaller, vertically
oriented openings puncturing the solid walls. The floor -to -floor height on the street level is also
generally taller than the upper floors. This feature should also be expressed in new construction.
Design Guidelines 12.2
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
• _i. - • .�... �* • - • OM I
Structures in the Town Square Historic District should contribute to a strong "building wall" along the
street. A new building should align at the front lot line and be built out to the full width of the parcel
(i.e., to the side lot lines). Although small gaps can occur between some structures, these are
exceptions.
12.1 Maintain or enhance the alignment of buildings at the sidewalk edge.
• Locate the front building wall at the sidewalk line when feasible.
• Where a building must be set back from the sidewalk, use landscape elements to define the
sidewalk edge.
12.2 Orient the primary entrance of a building toward the street.
• A building shall have a clearly-defined primary entrance. For most commercial buildings, this
should be a recessed entry -way.
• Secondary public entrances to commercial spaces are also encouraged on a larger building.
commercialPolicy* A building should appear simila
buildings.
in scale to traditional
Building
heights
vary
in
the Town Square Historic District and
yet
there is
a strong sense of
similarity
in scale.
This
is
in part because most buildings are one to
two
stories in
height.
12.3 Maintain the traditional range of building heights seen in the historic core,
• Traditional floor heights should be expressed with horizontal moldings, alignment of windows
and other architectural details.
• Set back portions of a third floor to emphasize the lower scale of one and two story portions of
a building.
12,4 Buildings shall appear similar in width to those seen historically in the block.
• Traditionally, building fronts were built in 20- to 30 -foot increments. Buildings fronts should
reflect this pattern.
• On corner lots, the secondary side wall is traditionally longer in its "module", and this may be
appropriate for new secondary elevations.
12.5 Consider dividing a larger building into "modules" that are similar in scale to buildings
seen traditionally.
• If a larger building is divided into "modules," they should be expressed three -dimensionally
throughout the entire building facade.
Design Guidelines 12-3
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
• In particular, the windows in a building should appear similar in height to those seen
traditionally.
12.7 A building shall maintain the alignment of horizontal elements along the block.
• This alignment occurs because many of the buildings are similar in height.
• Window sills, moldings and cornices are among those elements that may be seen to align.
12.8 Maintain views to the courthouse.
• In certain circumstances views to the courthouse should be taken into consideration when
designing a new building.
• A new building should not be so tall as to block views of the courthouse.
Note: See UDC Section 4.12 Courthouse View Protection Overlay District
olieye The form of a building should be similar to those seen
11111 1 pilip pi III III
One of the most prominent unifying elements of downtown is the similarity in building form.
Commercial buildings were simple rectangular solids, deeper than they were wide. This
characteristic is important and should be continued.
12.9 Rectangular forms shall be dominant on commercial facades.
t Rectangular forms should be vertically oriented.
12.10 Use flat rooflines as the dominant roof form.
• Parapets on side facades should step down towards the rear of the building.
• Gable roof forms may also be considered if they are obscured by a "false front" storefront
similar to those seen historically.
Policy: Building materials should be visually compatible with the
predominate
New picture.
Traditionally, a limited palette of building materials was used in the area—primarily brick and stone.
This same selection of materials should continue to be predominant. New materials also may be
appropriate when they relate to the scale, durability, color, and texture of the predominate materials
of this area.
12.11 Materials shall appear to be similar to those used traditionally.
• Brick and stone were the traditional materials and are preferred.
• If alternative materials are selected they should be comparable to traditional materials,
Design Guidelines 12-4
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
including in texture and color.
12.12 A simple material finish is encouraged for a large expanse of wall plane.
• A matte, or non -reflective, finish is preferred.
• Polished stone should be avoided as a primary material and mirrored glass is inappropriate.
olic building should be visually compatible with traditional
commercial buildings,
While it is important that buildings be compatible with the surrounding traditional commercial
context, it is not necessary that they imitate older building styles.
12.13 New interpretations of traditional building styles are encouraged.
• A new design that draws upon the fundamental similarities among older buildings in the area
without copying them is preferred. This will allow the building to be seen as a product of its
own time and yet be compatible with its historic neighbors.
• Buildings that are similar in scale and overall character to those seen historically are strongly
encouraged.
• In essence, infill should be a balance of new and old in design.
• This applies to architectural details as well as the overall design of a building.
12.14 Maintain the distinction between the street level and the upper floor.
• The first floor of the primary facade should be predominantly transparent glass.
• Upper floors should be perceived as being more opaque than the lower floor.
• Highly reflective or darkly tinted glass is inappropriate.
• Express the traditional distinction in floor heights between street level and upper levels
through detailing, materials and fenestration. The presence of a belt course is an important
feature in this relationship.
12.15 Upper -story windows with vertical emphasis are encouraged.
• A typical, upper -story window is twice as tall as it is wide. These proportions are within a
limited range; therefore, upper -story windows in new construction should relate to the window
proportions seen historically.
• Windows should align with others in a block. Windows, lintels and their trim elements should
align with those on adjacent historic buildings.
12.16 Windows should be trimmed
with wood,
painted metal,
or anodized aluminum.
• This trim should have dimension
and shadow
lines similar to
those that used historically.
12.17 Window dimensions that are similar to those used traditionally are encouraged.
• Many windows are "one -over -one," in that a single pane of glass is in both the upper and
lower sashes. Others pane configuration also may be present, such as aye "two -over -one,"
with two panes (or lights) in the upper sash and one is in the lower sash. These arrangements
Design Guidelines 12-5
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
are preferred.
12.18 The ratio of solid -to -void surface area shall be similar to that seen traditionally on
commercial storefront buildings in the district.
• First floors should be more transparent than upper floors.
• Upper floors should appear more solid than first floors.
• Avoid a blank wall appearance that does not provide interest to pedestrians.
12.19 Building entrances should appear similar to those used historically in the block.
• Clearly define the primary entrance with an awning, canopy or other architectural or landscape
feature.
• A contemporary interpretation of a traditional building entry, which is similar in scale and
overall character to those seen historically, may be considered.
• Building entrances should be recessed.
• Clearly define primary entrances.
• Secondary public entrances are also encouraged on a larger building or along an alley if there
is parking in the rear of the site.
12.20 Doors
should
be trimmed with wood, painted
metal or
anodized aluminum.
• This trim
should
have dimension and shadow lines
similar to
those used historically.
Design Guidelines 12.6
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
CHAPTER 13
DESIGN GUIDELINES
INFILL CONSTRUCTION IN AREA 2
DOWNTOWN OVERLAY HISTORIC DISTRICT
This chapter presents design guidelines that apply to Area 2, the ring of streets and
blocks that encircle the Town Square Historic District. The design guidelines are
organized into a series of relevant design topics. Within each category, individual
policies and design guidelines are presented, which the, City will use in determining the
appropriateness of the work proposed.
However, if your property is located within thboundaries
Historic Districtconsidering..
Chapterplease consult guidelines,., of
chapter,Old Town Overlay District please consult Chapter
14 for the relevant design guidelines, instead of this chapter.
This area has emerged from a heritage of residential buildings and then later structures
that were commercial in nature, but developed at a relatively low density, with
substantial portions of land given over to automobiles. In more recent years, the area
has developed with a mix of uses, including offices, retail and some residential. While
many of the buildings are relatively new, some older structures survive, which contribute
to a pedestrian -orientation and may in some cases have historic significance. Preserving
these resources should be encouraged and, when feasible, they should be incorporated
in new developments.
See the Downtown Master Plan for specific design information related to infill
development in the downtown.
The area should continue to develop with a mix of uses and improvements should occur
in a manner that enhances the experience for pedestrians and to build a sense of visual
relatedness among properties. Even though automobile circulation routes significantly
affect the character, it is still possible to strengthen pedestrian links and to improve the
edges of properties such that a sense of human scale is conveyed.
In those portions of Area 2 that developed as residential blocks a "transitional'
character—a blend between commercial and residential structures—should be seen.
Rather than constructing a storefront type building in these blocks with predominantly
residential characteristics, a new design should relate to the traditional 'design
Design Guidelines 13-1
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
characteristics of surrounding buildings while also conveying the stylistic trends of today.
Those commercial streets surrounding the Town Square Historic District (Area 2) should
develop in a manner that is inviting to pedestrians while also accommodating
automobiles. Development should include a mix of building types, including older
structures and more contemporary ones. Each should reflect the design trends of its own
time, while also contributing to a sense of visual continuity and strengthening the
pedestrian experience. In addition, a combination of uses is encouraged, including
residential, office and retail.
The design goals for Area 2 are:
• To define the sidewalk edge with elements that are amenities for pedestrians
• To establish a sense of scale in buildings and streetscape design that can be
understood by pedestrians
• To minimize the visual impacts of automobiles
• To strengthen the pedestrian network of sidewalks, plazas and paths
• Retain native vegetation with project design
• Maintain the feel of historic surroundings, for example if the area is predominately
converted residential structures the residential appearance, scale, and character
should remain
• To utilize similar building materials, storefront design, recessed entries, and front
setbacks
A wide variety of building setbacks can be seen throughout Area 2. Much of this variety
is due to the influence of the automobile and the need to provide on-site parking. This
parking typically has been provided in front of the building for consumer convenience.
However, this trend erodes the view of the edge of buildings located along a sidewalk as
was seen historically. Therefore, it is strongly encouraged that new developments in
Area 2 should build on this tradition and locate buildings at the front lot line.
A variety of building sizes exist in this area. While contemporary design approaches are
encouraged, developments should continue to exhibit a variety of i4 sizes, similar to the
buildings seen historically and traditionally.
Design Guidelines 13.2
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
Building materials of structures should contribute to the visual continuity of the area.
They should appear similar to those seen traditionally to establish a sense of visual
continuity.
Commercial buildings throughout the Downtown Overlay District should relate to one
another through the consistent use of similar building materials, storefronts, recessed
entries, and the alignment of these different elements along a block. This tradition is
strongly encouraged for new developments in Area 2.
One of the concerns in building design is that when national chain companies or their
franchises construct buildings in Area 2 that they do so in a way that reinforces the
design traditions of Georgetown. Some typical issues and negative impacts often
associated with national chain or commercial franchise designs include:
® Bright logo colors are used over large expanses of a building.
• Large blank walls on "big box" buildings are bland and out of scale, and discourage
pedestrian activity.
® Buildings are surrounded by parking lots and cars. Primary entrances are. typically
oriented to these parking lots, rather than to the street.
® Metal panels and large areas of featureless stucco are often used and these are
out of character and not of human scale.
Instead, these building types shall comply with the design guidelines that follow.
Pedestrianf
Area 2 should provide a controlled, organized automobile system which provides a safe
pedestrian environment. Streets, sidewalks, lighting, and landscaping should define the
road edge and encourage walking, sitting and other pedestrian activities.
Projects that can occur in the area also may have automobile activity associated with
them. This should not, however, make it an unsafe environment for the pedestrian or
cyclist. Automobile circulation patterns, both internal and external, should be clearly
identified and should not interfere with pedestrian or cyclist circulation systems.
f ' new building i, maintain the wall of buildings
sidewalkat the i •
Continuity of design within the Downtown Overlay District is a goal of the city, both in
terms of connecting individual projects and town blocks. Not only should a new building
in Area 2 be located at the sidewalk edge, but it should be designed to provide visual
Design Guidelines 13-3
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
interest.
New picture: A new building should contribute to a pedestrian friendly environment by
providing an active street edge. (2008)
13.1 Locate a new building at the front property line.
• Align the building front at the sidewalk edge.
• A minimum of 50% of the street frontage of a property shall have a building wall at
the sidewalk edge.
• Where no sidewalk exists one should be installed that aligns with nearby
sidewalks.
13.2 Where a portion of a building must be set back, define the edge of the
property with landscape elements.
• For example, define the edges of a lot with landscaping, such as low -scale urban
street trees or shrubs.
• Landscaping elements should be compatible with the character of the area in size,
scale and type. Free -form, suburban type landscaping is inappropriate in this
setting.
• Also consider using a fence, or other structural element, that reflects the position of
typical storefront elements. These elements should align with nearby traditional
commercial building types.
• overall mass of a new building should
Buildings in the downtown should appear similar in height and width to commercial
structures seen traditionally in Area 1.
Replacement pictures. 1. Divide a larger building into "modules" that are similar in scale
to buildings seen traditionally. 2. Consider dividing a larger building into "modules" that
are similar in scale to buildings seen traditionally.
13.3 A new building shall reflect the traditional lot width as expressed by the
following:
• Variation in height at internal lot lines.
• Variation in the plane of the front fagade.
• Variation in architectural detailing and materials to emphasize the building module.
• Variation in the fagade height to reflect traditional lot width.
•i • heights of •r projects sh• • provide variety,
0 A larger development should step down in height towards the street or smaller,
Design
• •-
Design Guidelines 13-4
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
surrounding structures.
• Vary the building height in accordance with traditional lot width.
• Set back the upper floor to vary the building fagade profile(s) and the roof forms
across the width and the depth of the building.
• Vary the fagade (or parapet) heights at the front.
13.5 Large project sites should be developed with several buildings, rather than a
single structure.
• This will help reduce the perceived size of the project.
• The fagade height shall be varied to reflect traditional lot width.
13.6 Where a large building is needed, divide the building into modules that
reflect the traditional size of buildings.
• A typical building' module should not exceed 30 feet in width. The building module
should be expressed with at least one of the following:
- A setback in wall planes of a minimum of 3 feet
- A change in primary facade material for the extent of the building module
- A vertical architectural element or trim piece
• Variations in facade treatment should be continued through the structure, including
its roofline and front and rear facades.
• If a 'larger building is divided into "modules," they should be expressed three -
dimensionally throughout the entire building. Variation in height should occur where
the site is larger than two traditional lot widths, in order to reduce overall scale of
the building.
13.7 Maintain views to the courthouse.
• In certain circumstances views to the courthouse shall be taken into consideration
when designing a new building.
• A new building shall not be so tall as to block views of the courthouse.
Note: See UDC Section 4.12 Courthouse View Protection Overlay District
New drawing: A method of achieving height variation within a single building is to step
the building along the primary fagade.
olicy: Building materials for new construction should be
visually compatible with the predominate materials of this
area.
New materials should relate to the scale, durability, color and texture of the predominate
materials of downtown.
t
Design Guidelines 13-5
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
• Brick and stone are preferred for new construction.
New materials should appear similar in character to those used traditionally. For
example, stucco, cast stone and concrete should be detailed to provide a human
scale.
• New materials should have a demonstrated durability for the Central Texas
climate. For example, some facade materials used in new construction are more
susceptible to weather and simply do not last as long as stone or brick.
13.9 A simple material finish is encouraged for a large expanse of wall plane.
• A matte, or non -reflective, finish is preferred.
• Polished stone and mirrored glass, for example, are inappropriate and should be
avoided as primary materials.
13.10 Traditional building materials such as wood, brick and stone are
encouraged.
° Horizontal Lap siding of traditional dimensions is appropriate in most applications.
° Maintenance of traditional siding dimensions are encouraged
Brick or stone, similar to that used traditionally, is also appropriate.
• Highly reflective materials are inappropriate.
• New materials that are similar in character to traditional ones may be considered.
Alternative materials should have a proven durability in similar locations in this
climate.
13.11 Use roof materials that appear similar to those seen traditionally.
• Metal and shingle roofs are preferred.
Clay tile is discouraged.
environmentPolicyn A new building should contribute to a pedestrian
friendly by t • an active street edge.
The downtown should continue to develop as a pedestrian -oriented environment. Streets
and sidewalks should encourage walking, sitting and other outdoor activities. Buildings
also should be visually interesting to invite exploration by pedestrians. Existing
pedestrian routes should be enhanced. These are important concepts because buildings
are experienced at close proximity by pedestrians.
13.12 Develop the ground floor level of a project to encourage pedestrian activity.
• Provide at least one of the following along primary pedestrian ways:
- A storefront
- Display cases
- Landscaping
- A courtyard or plaza
Design Guidelines 13-6
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
• Include traditional elements such as display windows, kickplates and transoms on
commercial storefronts.
• Avoid a blank wall or vacant lot appearance.
13.13 Orient the primary entrance of a building toward the street.
• A building should have a clearly-defined primary entrance.
• The building entrance should be recessed.
• A primary building entrance also should be at or near street level.
identify13,14 Clearly - road -••,- and project entrances • both automobiles
• pedestrians,
0 Use landscaping and lighting accents to identify entrances.
13.15 Minimize the number of entrances along a street edge.
• Sharing ingress and egress points with neighboring projects is strongly encouraged
with consideration to safety.
13.16 Place parking areas to the rear of a site when feasible or disburst
throughout
See • the design guidelines for• found in Chapter
Policyn In those portions of Area 2 that developed as
residential blocks a "transitional" character m a blend between
commercial and residential structures = should be seen.
Several blocks of Area 2 were originally part of a single-family neighborhood. It is now, in
essence, a place of transition between the true commercial core of the Downtown
Overlay District and the surrounding residential neighborhoods. Although commercial
uses are expected throughout Area 2, residential -type structures still establish the
architectural tone for many of the blocks. Therefore, new developments should
sensitively relate to these traditions while also building upon commercial characteristics
seen elsewhere in the downtown.
Variation in height should occur where the site is larger than two traditional lot widths, in
order to reduce overall scale of the building.
13.17 A building shall fit within the range of yard dimensions seen in the block.
• The front yard setback of a new building should match the established range of
adjacent buildings.
• Where the setbacks are uniform, the new building should be placed in general
alignment with its neighbors.
• In those areas where setbacks vary slightly, but generally fall within an established
range, the new building should be within 10 feet of the typical setback in the block.
Design Guidelines 13-7
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
13.18 Buildings shall convey a sense of human scale.
° Use building materials that are of traditional dimensions.
° Provide a one-story entry element that is similar in size to those seen traditionally.
• Use a building mass that is similar in size to those seen traditionally.
• Use elements that provide a sense of scale.
13.19 Building heights of larger projects should provide variety.
A larger development should step down in height towards the street or smaller,
surrounding structures.
13.20 Sloping roofs such as gable and hipped roofs are appropriate for primary
roof forms.
• A blending of sloping roof forms and flat roofs may be appropriate for larger
projects.
1121 A porch on .; •, residential
Retain the • • - •-ntial integrity of - building.
13.22 New interpretations of traditional building styles are encouraged.
A new design that draws upon the fundamental similarities among commercial and
residential buildings in the community without copying them is preferred. This will
allow them to be seen as products of their own time yet compatible with their
historic neighbors.
Applying the Design uidelines: How may the infill guidelines be
applied in real situations?
The design guidelines for new commercial construction in Area 2 presented in this
chapter can be combined to develop a comprehensive program of development of a
property. The images on the following pages depict two infill examples from other
communities and a potential infill development scenario for Georgetown. These
examples all address situations where auto -oriented areas have re -developed to appeal
more to pedestrians.
The first case study, in Danville, California, includes the redevelopment of two blocks
along a major arterial, which parallels the historic Main Street. Design standards
required that new buildings be constructed at the sidewalk edge.
Application of guidelines for a new development in Area
In this example, the guidelines for new development in Area 2 are applied to an entire
block. The assumption is that the entire block is developed as a single project, although
Design Guidelines 13-8
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
similar results could occur with cooperative development among individual property
owners.
The focus of the project is providing a mix of uses, including retail at the street level, and
offices and residences above. The structure is divided into a series of "modules" that
reflect the traditional widths of buildings constructed in the downtown.
Canopies and awnings align along the first floor level, providing a sense of visual
continuity while also sheltering the sidewalk. Building heights vary among one and two
story segments. This creates variety in massing and also creates some upper level
balconies and decks. A corner plaza contributes to the open space; this could be
outdoor seating for a cafe. While "notches such as this are provided along the street,
the majority of the street wall is defined with storefronts, to define the pedestrian zone.
Application of guidelines for a new development in Area 2
In this example, the guidelines for new development in Area 2 are applied to an entire
block. The assumption is that the entire block is developed as individual projects that
adhere to one overall development plan.
Compared with the development scenario on the opposite page, this particular infill
scheme includes a lower density of buildings with a landscaped street edge. The key to
this scenario is the use of "anchor" buildings at the corner of all lots. Such a
development could include commercial uses (such as retail) on the ground levels of
buildings and office space or residential units on upper floors.
Application of guidelines for a new "transitional character" development
In this example, the guidelines for a new "transitional' development in Area 2 are applied
to an entire block. The assumption is that the entire block is developed as a single
project, although similar results could occur with cooperative development among
individual property owners.
This mixed-use project would provide neighborhood -oriented commercial and residential
units. This building complex complements the nearby single-family residential
neighborhood in that it steps down in height on the block face nearest the residences
and incorporates sloping roof forms. The residential units also incorporate one-story
porches and small front yards. The parking is located to the interior of the lot and would
be buffered along the street edge. Commercial uses - which include office and retail
space - are mostly located on the ground floor and several residential units are located
on the second floor.
Design Guidelines 13-9
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
DESIGNCHAPTER 14
GUIDELINES FOR
INFILL
CONSTRUCTION AND ADDITIONS _ i
TOWN OVERLAY DISTRICT
This chapter presents design guidelines that apply to non-residential and multi -family
development in the Old Town Overlay District, the area that surrounds the Downtown Overlay
District, and the construction of additions to and new construction of residential structures that
propose to exceed the minimum standards of Unified Development Code Section 4.09.030.6,
Single -Family and Two -Family Residential Development Regulations. The design guidelines
are organized into a series of relevant design topics. Within each category, individual policies
and design guidelines are presented, which the City will use in determining the appropriateness
of the work proposed.
This area has a history of residential buildings, with some institutional type uses such as
churches and a school, with later development of some small commercial uses such as medical
offices and small convenience retail sales. These non-residential uses are developed at a
relatively low density, with substantial areas devoted to parking for the use. Most of the office
uses are located within former residential structures that have been converted to commercial
use. Overall, the District has preserved its residential feel and pedestrian -orientation with
sidewalks and generally lower traffic volumes on neighborhood streets. Most of the residential
buildings have some historic significance and these resources should be preserved, protected
and when feasible, incorporated into new developments.
The area should remain primarily residential in character with a minimum of non-residential
encroachment. Any improvements should occur in a manner that enhances the experience for
residents, pedestrians, and to build a sense of visual relatedness between the residential and
non-residential properties.
Any new design should relate to the traditional design characteristics of surrounding buildings
while also conveying the stylistic trends of today, as well as attempting to incorporate
sustainable practices. The sense of human scale must be conveyed and maintained with any
new development or conversion to a non-residential use.
Key design characteristics of this area include:
® Buildings have similar setback alignment along the street frontage
® One- to two-story, traditional residential buildings, with an occasional third floor for the
grander houses
® Masonry and wood are the primary construction materials
i First floor porches and multiple windows on all fagade sides and floors
i Pitched roofs
® Primary building entrance that faces the street with a walkway connected to a sidewalk
along the street
Design Guidelines 14-1
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
® Sidewalks and typically on -street parking
® Parking accessed via a driveway with parking area or garage located to the rear of the
main building fagade
® Traditional landscape features such as large trees, shrubs and other plantings that are
visible from the street
• ..
The dominant character of this area should continue to be that of a quiet, residential
environment with a street edge that is oriented toward pedestrian traffic from the nearby houses.
The design goals for the Old Town Overlay District are:
i To rehabilitate existing historic residential buildings rather than construct new buildings
• To respect the design period or style of residential properties with any additions or
alternations
• To respect the residential character of the district
® To continue the use of traditional building materials found in the area
® To maintain traditional residential mass, size and form of buildings seen along the street
(i.e., a building should generally be a rectangular mass that is one- to two -stories in
height)._
• To design commercial buildings without store -front elements
® To minimize the visual impacts of automobiles
® To locate parking to the rear of properties screened by buildings and located to limit
visibility from residential properties
® To maintain a residential front yard appearance related to landscaping, trees, lighting,
etc.
New buildings and additions in Old Town need to respect the residential setbacks established
over time. There should be a defined front yard that is not overly encumbered by parking.
FNFM=I&M��
A variety of building sizes exist in this area. While contemporary design approaches are
encouraged, developments should continue to exhibit a variety of sizes, similar to the buildings
seen traditionally in the neighborhood.
• r r
One of the most prominent unifying elements of the Old Town District is the similarity in building
form. Generally, residential buildings are simple rectangular solids, either wider than they are
deep or deeper than they are wide. Typically, residential roof forms are pitched. These building
form characteristics are important and should be preserved.
•
Building materials of structures should contribute to the visual continuity of the area. They
should appear similar to those seen traditionally to establish a sense of visual continuity. Brick,
Design Guidelines 34-2
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
stone, and wood siding are the dominant materials and their use in new construction is
preferred.
There is a variety of architectural character in the Old Town area. There are simple vernacular
farm houses, Sears Roebuck kit houses, and Prairie style architecture as well as more
elaborate Victorians. Additions to existing buildings should be respectful of a building's original
style or design or in the case of subsequent renovations the period of significance and seek to
not alter that significance. New construction should be sensitive to the character of the existing
buildings in the area and any design should attempt to maintain a similar mass and scale and
be in context to the area.
Properties designated by the City as a High, Medium, or Low Priority Structure shall be given a
more in-depth review, so that it's architectural character is not lost or damaged by any proposed
addition or alteration.
Streets, sidewalks and landscaping should present a residential sense of scale rather than a
more urban, congested appearance. Projects that have automobile activity associated with
them should be designed to provide a safe environment for the pedestrian. Automobile
circulation patterns, both internal and external, should be clearly identified and should not
interfere with pedestrian circulation systems.
• •
New construction in the historic district is encouraged if the proposed design and siting are
compatible with the District's character. When siting new construction, compatibility with
existing setbacks, the spacing of buildings, and the orientation of buildings should be
considered. Compatibility of proposed landscaping, lighting, paving, signage, and accessory
buildings is also important.
The purpose of guidelines for new construction is not to prevent change in the Old Town
Overlay District, but to ensure that the District's architectural and historic character is respected.
The height, the proportion, the roof shape, the materials, the texture, the scale, and the details
of the proposed building must be compatible with existing historic buildings in the District.
However, compatible contemporary designs rather then historic duplications are encouraged.
An addition to a structure can radically change its perceived scale and character if
inappropriately designed. When planning an addition, the effect the addition will have on the
building itself should be considered. When creating an addition, keep the size of addition small
in relation to the main structure. If an addition must be larger, it should be set apart from the
main structure and be connected with a smaller linking element or placed to the rear, not in
prominent view from the street.. A design for a new addition that would create an appearance
inconsistent with the character of the building, especially an historic one, is discouraged.
One also should consider the effect the addition may have on the character of a street or
neighborhood, as seen from the public right-of-way or from neighboring residential properties.
Design Guidelines 14-3
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
For example, a
side
addition
may change the
sense of rhythm established
by side yards in the
block. Locating
the
addition
to the rear could
be a better solution in such a
case.
The compatibility of proposed additions with historic buildings will be reviewed in terms of the
mass, the scale, the materials, the roof form, and the proportion and the spacing of windows
and doors. Additions that echo the style of the original structure and additions that introduce
compatible contemporary design are both acceptable.
Adaptive Use
The adaptive use of a residence for a commercial or office use is a distinct possibility in
Georgetown. In fact, a large majority of the Downtown Overlay District is zoned Mixed Use
Downtown (MU -DT), which allows for a variety of uses. However, when such adaptations must
occur, they should be designed to have the least impact on the historic character of a
neighborhood—some of which is residential in character. Although for commercial use, these
adapted properties should not be commercial in character. This means that the overall form of a
building (with a sloping roof) and the landscaped front lawn should not be altered.
Demolition/Relocation
Demolition is forever, and once a building is gone it takes away another piece of the City's
character. Demolition of a historic building or resource that has most of its original design and
features should only be an action of last resort. HARC can delay or deny requests for
demolition while it seeks solutions for preservation and rehabilitation.
HARC should not allow the demolition or relocation of any resource which has historical and/or
architectural significance unless one or more of the following conditions exist and if, by a finding
of HARC, the proposed demolition or relocation will materially improve or correct these
conditions:
1. The resource constitutes a hazard to the safety of the public or the occupants, as
determined by the Building Official
2. The resource is a deterrent to a major improvement program that will be of substantial
benefit to the community and the applicant proposing the work has obtained all
necessary planning and zoning approvals, financing, and environmental clearances.
3. Retention of the resource will cause undue financial hardship to the owner when a
governmental action, an act of God, or other events beyond the owner's control created
the hardship, and all feasible alternatives to eliminate the financial hardship, which may
include offering the resource for sale at its fair market value or moving the resource to a
vacant site within the historic district, have been attempted and exhausted by the owner.
4. Retention of the resource is not in the interest of the majority of the community.
HARC should consider the following when evaluating proposals to demolish or relate historic
resources:
1. Does the resource proposed for demolition or relocation have architectural and/or
Design Guidelines 14-4
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
historical significance?
2. What would be the effect on surrounding buildings of demolition or relocation of the
resource?
3. What would be the effect on the Overlay District as a whole of demolition or relocation of
the resource?
4. What would be the effect on safeguarding the heritage of the City of the demolition or
relocation?
5. What has been the impact of any previous inappropriate alterations?
6. Is the demolition solely a matter of convenience?
7. Has the owner offered the property for sale?
8. Has the owner asked a fair price?
9. Has the property been marketed for a reasonable time?
10. Has the property been advertised broadly in a reasonable manner?
11. Has the owner sought the advice of a professional experienced in historic preservation
work?
12. What would be the effect of open space in that location if the lot is to be left open?
13. What would the effect of any proposed replacement structure to the community?
14. What is the appropriateness of design of any proposed replacement structure to the
Overlay District?
residentialPolicy: A new building should maintain the wall of the building at a
i
Continuity of design within the Old Town Overlay District is a goal of the City, both in terms of
connecting individual project, houses and town blocks. Not only should a new building in Old
Town be setback from the sidewalk edge, but it should be designed to provide visual interest.
14.1 Locate a new building using a residential type setback.
® Align the new non-residential building front at a setback that is in context with the area
properties.
® New residential buildings should meet the minimum front setback requirement of the
UDC or use an increased setback if the block has historically developed with an
extended setback.
® Generally, additions should not be added to the front facing fagades.
® Where no sidewalk exists, one should be installed that aligns with nearby sidewalks.
14.2 In the front yard, acknowledge the residential character of the area with Mefe
residential type landscape treatments.
® Landscaping elements should be compatible with the character of the area in size, scale,
and type. Free -form, suburban type landscaping is inappropriate in this setting.
® Consider using landscaped beds, trees, low level lighting, sidewalks, etc. to reflect a
more residential appearance of the property.
® Limit front yard pavement to driveways rather than parking lots, or if parking lots are
deemed necessary make them heavily screened by low level shrubs, vines and
decorative walls. Consider pavers or other less impactive materials.
Policyn The overall mass of a new building or addition should convey
a sense of human scale.
Design Guidelines 14.5
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
Buildings in the Old Town Overlay District should appear similar in height and width to
residential structures seen traditionally in the area.
14.3 Consider dividing a larger non-residential building into "modules" that are similar
in scale to buildings seen traditionally.
® If a larger building is divided into "modules," they should be expressed three -
dimensionally throughout the entire building.
14.4 Building heights of larger projects should provide variety.
® A larger development should step down in height towards the street or smaller
surrounding structures.
® A larger house should step down in height towards all setbacks, especially near smaller
surrounding houses.
14.5 Large project sites should be developed with several buildings, rather than a
single structure.
® This will help reduce the perceived size of the project.
® Large residential projects might utilize a detached garage to reduce the size of the main
structure.
14.6 Where a large building is needed, divide the building into modules that reflect the
traditional size of residential buildings.
• A typical building module should not exceed 20 feet in width. The building module
should be expressed with at least one of the following`.
o A setback in wall planes of a minimum of 3 feet
o A change in primary fagade material for the extent of the building module
o ` A vertical architectural element or trim piece.
® Variations in facade treatments should be continued through the structure, including its
roofline and front and rear facades.
14.7 Maintain views to the courthouse.
• In certain circumstances views to the courthouse shall be taken into consideration when
designing a new building or addition.
® A new building shall not be so tall as to block views of the courthouse.
Note: See UDC Section 4.12 Courthouse View Protection Overlay District.
Policy.0 Building materials fornew • in should ivisually
-
compatible with the predominate materials of for
additions • • be predominate
of the existing building.
New materials should relate to the scale, durability, color and texture of the predominate
materials of old town and in the case of building additions, to the existing structure. Additions to
existing historic buildings should use the same materials as the primary building.
14.8 Masonry materials that convey a sense of scale are preferred for new non®
residential buildings.
Design Guidelines 14-6
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
® Brick and stone are preferred for new construction.
® New materials should appear similar in character to those used traditionally. For
example, wooden siding, brick and stone should be detailed to provide a human scale.
® New materials should have a demonstrated durability in the Central Texas climate. For
example, some fagade materials used in new construction are more susceptible to
weather and simply do not last as long as stone or brick.
14.9 Historic building materials of existing buildings should be maintained and
respected when additions are proposed.
® See Chapter 5 for design guidelines related to maintaining and protecting historic
building materials.
14.10 Non-traditional siding materials are discouraged.
® Typically, artificial stone and brick veneer are not appropriate.
® Asphalt shingles are not appropriate.
® Aluminum and vinyl are not appropriate.
Policy.m Design alterations and additions to be compatible with the
historic character of the property. Minimize the visual impacts of a
,?ddition
14.11 Avoid alterations that would damage historic features.
® Avoid alterations that would hinder the ability to interpret the design character of the
original building or period of significance.
Alterations that seek to imply an earlier period than that of the building are inappropriate.
14.12 An addition shall be compatible in scale, materials and character with the main
building.
® An addition shall relate to the building in mass, scale and form. It should be designed to
remain subordinate to the main structure.
® An addition to the front of a building is usually inappropriate.
Policy= Design an addition to a residential structure to be compatibi
with the primary building.
14.13 Design a new addition such that the original character can be clearly seen.
® In this way, a viewer can understand the history of changes that have occurred to the
building.
® An addition should be distinguishable from the original building, even in subtle ways,
such that the character of the original can be interpreted.
• Creating a jog in the foundation between the original and new structures may help to
define an addition.
® Even applying new trim board at the connection point between the addition and the
original structure can help define the addition.
® See also Preservation Briefs #14: New Exterior Additions to Historic Buildings, published
by the National Park Service.
Design Guidelines 14.7
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
< Place an addition at the rear of building • back from• • minimi
the visual impacts. i
• This will allow the original proportions and character to remain prominent.
® Locating an addition at the front of a structure is usually inappropriate.
14A 5 Do not obscure, damage, destroy, or remove original architectural details and
materials of primary
When preserving original details and materials, followguidelines presented in this
document.
14,16 An addition shall be • r. • and architectural
style with the main building.
• An addition shall relate to the historic building in mass, scale, and form. It should be
designed to remain subordinate to the main structure
• While a smaller addition is visually preferable,.. if a residential addition would be
significantly larger than the original building, one option is to separate it from the primary
building, when feasible, and then link it with a smaller connecting structure.
® An addition should be simple in design to prevent it from competing with the primary
fagade.
• Consider adding dormers to create second story spaces before changing the scale of
the building by adding a full second floor.'
14.1 7 An addition shall be set back from any primary, character -defining fagade.
• An addition. should be to the rear of the building, when feasible.
14w18 The roof from of a new addition shall be in character with that of the primary
building.
® Typically, gable, hip and shed roofs are appropriate for residential additions. Flat roofs
may be more appropriate for commercial buildings.
® Repeat existing roof slopes and materials.
® If the roof of the primary building is symmetrically proportioned, the roof of the addition
should be similar.
olicy: Additions should n le a and respect and where
appropriate include architectural features of existing uil in .
Architectural details play several roles in defining the character of an historic structure and area.
A building's features are often associated with particular styles, and therefore their preservation
is important.
14,19 The architectural features of •. buildings sh• • be protected
additions are proposed,
0 See Chapter 4 for design guidelines related to protecting architectural features.
14.20 An addition shall not damage or obscure architecturally important features.
® For example, loss or alteration of a porch should be avoided.
® Addition of a porch may be inappropriate.
14.21 An addition may be made to the roof of a building if it does the following:
Design Guidelines 14-8
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
® An addition should be set back from the primary, character -defining fagade, to preserve
the perception of the historic scale of the building.
® Its design should be modest in character, so it will not attract attention from the historic
fagade.
® The addition should be distinguishable as new, albeit in a subtle way.
Policy: Additions should maintain and where appropriate include
compatible building elements.
Individual building elements give structures their sense of style and character and taken with
other structures set the character for a particular area.
14.22 Individual building elements of existing buildings should be preserved, protected
and replicated where appropriate when additions are proposed.
® See Chapter 6 for design guidelines related to preserving individual building elements.
Policy: a residence to a commercial•'residential character
of the building and neighborhood,
Converting a building to a new use that is different from that which its design reflects is
considered to be "adaptive use". When residential use ceases to be viable, the first preference
is to choose new uses that minimize any negative changes in building features. Often there are
new uses that are inherently less disruptive to residential structures such as a bed and
breakfast, professional offices, small specialty restaurants and personal service businesses.
14.23 Seek uses that are compatible with the historic character of the building and
neighborhood.
® The primary goal should be preserving the original residential character, appearance
and scale of the structure.
® Building uses that are closely related to the original use are preferred. Avoid radical
alterations to either the interior or exterior of the structure.
# Avoid altering porches and original windows and doors.
14.24 When use changes demand that structures be altered such that little or no use
can be made of the original structure, consider moving the structure to a
compatible location.
® This move can be made to another location on the same site or to a vacant site in the
neighborhood or another neighborhood.
® Historic structures should be relocated within Georgetown whenever possible.
14.25 Only as a last resort should an historic structure be considered for demolition.
# Where a structure must be razed, then a record shall be made of it prior to demolition.
This shall include photographs and architectural drawings.
® A structure should never be demolished as a matter of convenience.
• See UDC Section 3.13 for provisions related to proposed demolition and/or relocation of
historic structures.
Design Guidelines 14-9
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
APPENDIX A
GLOSSARY OF TERMS
Alignment. The arrangement of objects along a straight line.
Appropriate. Suitable for a particular condition, occasion, or place, compatible,
fitting.
Appurtenances. An additional object added to a building; typically includes
vents, exhausts hoods, air conditioning units, etc.
Architrave. The lowest part of an entablature that rests on the capitals of the
columns.
Awning. An architectural projection, which provides weather protection,
identity, or decoration, and is supported by the building to which it is attached.
It is composed of a lightweight rigid or retractable skeleton structure over which
another cover is attached that may be of fabric or other materials. Awnings are
typically sloped.
Bracket. A supporting member for a projecting element or shelf, sometimes in
the shape of an inverted L and sometimes as a solid piece or a triangular truss.
Building. A resource created principally to shelter any form of human activity,
such as a house.
Canopy. A projecting, rigid structure with a roof generally mounted to the
ground and/or suspended with tie rods.
Character/Characteristic. The aggregate of distinctive qualities, attributes, or
features that make up and distinguish a particular structure, neighborhood,
street, etc, from another.
Column. A slender upright structure, generally consisting of a cylindrical shaft, a
base and a capital; pillar: It is usually a supporting or ornamental member in a
building.
Cornice. The continuous projection at the top of a wall. The top course or
molding of a wall when it serves as a crowning member.
Demolition. The complete destruction of a building or structure; or removal of
more than 30 percent of the perimeter walls; or removal of any portion of a
street -facing fagade.
Demolition by Deconstruction. The selective dismantlement of building
components, specifically for re -use, recycling, and waste management.
Design Guidelines
City of Georgetown
A-1
Exhibit A
Demolition by Neglect. Allowing a property to fall into a serious state of
disrepair so as to result in deterioration, which would produce a detrimental
effect upon the life and character of the property itself. For Demolition by
Neglect standards see Chapter 4 of Unified Development Code.
Deteriorate. To diminish or impair in quality, character, function, or value, also
to fall into decay or ruin.
Doorframe. The part of a door opening to which a door is hinged. A doorframe
consists of two vertical members called jambs and a horizontal top member
called a lintel.
Double -Hung Window. A window with two sashes (the framework in which
window panes are set), each moveable by a means of cords and weights.
Elevation. A mechanically accurate, "headon" drawing of a face of a building or
object, without any allowance for the effect of the laws of perspective. Any
measurement on an elevation will be in a fixed proportion, or scale, to the
corresponding measurement on the real building.
Entablature. Refers to the superstructure of moldings and bands that lie
horizontally above columns, resting on their capitals. It is the upper section of a
classical building, resting on the columns and constituting the architrave, frieze,
and cornice.
Facade. Front or principal face of a building, any side of a building that faces a
street or other open space.
Fascia. A flat board with a vertical face that forms the trim along the edge of a
flat roof, or along the horizontal, or "eaves," sides of a pitched roof. The rain
gutter is often mounted on it.
Fenestration. The arrangement of windows and other exterior openings on a
building.
Form. The overall shape of a structure (i.e., most structures are rectangular in
form).
Frame. A window component. See window parts.
Frieze. A horizontal band that runs above doorways and windows or below the
cornice. It may be decorated with designs or carvings. In classic architecture,
architectural ornament consisting of a horizontal sculptured band between the
architrave and the cornice.
Glazing. Fitting/securing glass into windows and doors.
Head. The top horizontal member over a door or window opening.
Design Guidelines
City of Georgetown
A-2
Exhibit A
Historic Resource. Properties, structures, features, objects, and districts that are
determined to be of historical significance.
In -Kind. In the same manner & material.
Maintenance. The work of keeping something in proper condition, upkeep.
Activities required or undertaken to conserve as nearly, and as long, as possible
the original condition of an asset or resource while compensating for normal
wear and tear. The needed replacement of materials is done in-kind.
Mass/Massing. The physical size and bulk of a structure. A building's massing
is derived from the articulation of its fagade through the use of dormers, towers,
bays, porches, steps, and other projections. These projections significantly
contribute to the character of the building and, in town, the character of a street.
Masonry. Construction materials, typically bound together by mortar, such as
stone, brick, concrete block, or tile.
Material. As related to the determination of "integrity" of a property, material
refers to the physical elements that were combined or deposited in a particular
pattern or configuration to form a historic property.
Module. The appearance of a single fagade plane, despite being part of a larger
building. One large budding can incorporate several building modules.
Molding. A decorative band or strip of material with a constant profile or section
designed to cast interesting shadows. It is generally used in cornices and as trim
around window and door openings.
Mothballing. The process of temporarily closing up a building to protect it from
the weather as well as to secure it from vandalism.
Muntin. A bar member supporting and separating panes of glass in a window or
door.
Ordinary Maintenance and Repair. Any work, the sole purpose of which is to
prevent or correct deterioration, decay, or damage, including repair of damage
caused by fire or other disaster and which does not result in a change in the
existing appearance and materials of a property.
Orientation. Generally, orientation refers to the manner in which a building
relates to the street. The entrance to the building plays a large role in the
orientation of a building; whereas, it should face the street.
Original. Belonging or pertaining to the origin or beginning of something, or to a
thing at its beginning.
Panel. A sunken or raised portion of a door with a frame -like border.
Design Guidelines
City of Georgetown
A-3
Exhibit A
Parapet. A low protective wall or railing or wall-like barrier along the edge of a
raised structure such as a roof, bridge, terrace, or balcony. Where extending
above a roof, it may simply be the portion of an exterior wall that continues
above the line of the roof surface, or may be a continuation of a vertical feature
beneath the roof such as a fire wall or party wall.
Pediment. A triangular section framed by a horizontal molding on its base and
two sloping moldings on each of its sides. Usually used as a crowning member
for doors, windows and mantles.
Preservation. The act or process of applying measures necessary to sustain the
existing form, integrity, and materials of an historic property. Work, including
preliminary measures to protect and stabilize the property, generally focuses
upon the ongoing maintenance and repair of historic materials and features
rather than extensive replacement and new construction. New exterior additions
are not within the scope of this treatment; however, the limited and sensitive
upgrading of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems and other code -
required work to make properties functional is appropriate within a preservation
project.
Proportion. The relationship between actual dimensions of elements to each
other and to the overall fagade. Often proportions are expressed as mathematical
ratios drawn from architectural theories of ancient Greece and Renaissance Italy.
A design element such as a window may have the same shape as adjacent
windows, but may appear out of proportion because the dimensional
relationships are not the same.
Post. A piece of wood, metal, etc., usually long and square or cylindrical, set
upright to support a building, sign, gate, etc.; pillar; pole.
Property. Area of land containing a single historic resource or a group of
resources.
Quoin. (pronounced koin) Dressed stones or bricks at the corners of buildings,
laid so that their faces are alternately large and small. Originally used to add
strength to a masonry wall, later used decoratively.
Reconstruction. The act or process of depicting, by means of new construction,
the form, features, and detailing of a non -surviving site, landscape, building,
structure, or object for the purpose of replicating its appearance at a specific
period of time and in its historic location.
Rehabilitation. The act or process of making possible a compatible use for a
property through repair, alterations, and additions while preserving those
portions or features which convey its historical, cultural, or architectural values.]
Design Guidelines
City of Georgetown
A-4
Exhibit A
Restoration. The act or process of accurately depicting the form, features, and
character of a property as it appeared at a particular period of time by means of
the removal of features from other periods in its history and reconstruction of
missing features from the restoration period. The limited and sensitive
upgrading of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems and other code -
required work to make properties functional is appropriate within a restoration
project.]
Rhythm. The spacing and repetition of building facade elements, such as
windows, doors, belt courses, and the like, give an elevation its rhythm. The
space between freestanding buildings in towns, as well as the height of roofs,
cornices, towers, and other roof projections establishes the rhythm of a street.
Sash. See window parts.
Seasonal Banner. Any sign generally designed for temporary, long-term or
seasonal use mounted to a light standard.
Scale. a. The perceived size of a building relative to the size of its elements and to
the size of elements in neighboring buildings. The overall shape and massing of
buildings is significant to defining character. In order to retain the character of a
community, maintaining a balance between landscaping and building scale in
relation to space available is essential. A building built to the legal limits
established for height, building scale, and setbacks may result in a building,
which is not compatible with the character of its neighborhood. b. An indication
of the relationship between the distances or measurements on a map or drawing
and the corresponding actual distances or measurements.
Sconce. A decorative wall bracket for holding lights, and other sources of
illumination. A light fixture patterned on a candle sconce.
Shape. The general outline of a building or its facade.
Should. For the purposes of these Design Guidelines should means shall.
Side Light. A usually long fixed sash located beside a door or window; often
found in pairs.
Sidewalk Furniture. Any item used to embellish the facade of a building or the
streetscape (including statues, planter boxes, pots or vases, benches, trash
receptacles, art, or signs).
Siding. The narrow horizontal or vertical wood boards that form the outer face
of the walls in a traditional wood frame house. Horizontal wood siding is also
referred to as clapboards. The term "siding' is also more loosely used to describe
any material that can be applied to the outside of a building as a finish.
Design Guidelines A-5
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
Sign. Any device that uses letters, numerals, emblems, pictures, outlines,
characters, spectacle delineation, announcement, trademark, logo, illustrations,
designs, figures, or symbols for advertising purposes. The term "sign" shall also
include any use of color such as bands, stripes, patterns, outlines, or delineations
displayed for the purpose of commercial identification (corporate colors) that
comprises more than twenty percent (20%) of any facade or visible roof face. This
term shall also include all flags other than Governmental Flags.
Sign Area. The area of a sign inclusive of the sign face, sign base, and sign
cabinet.
Sign, Awning . Any sign painted or applied to the face, valance, side, or top
panel of an awning, or any sign made by removing material from an awning.
Sign Base. The structure supporting a sign. The sign base is a part of the sign,
unless otherwise specified in Chapter 10 of the UDC.
Sign Cabinet. The sign cabinet is the structure or border used to differentiate a
sign face from the structure on or against which a sign face is placed.
Sign, Changeable Copy. A sign designed to allow the manipulation of messages
through manual or mechanical means.
Sign, Canopy. Any type of sign attached to in any manner or made a part of a
canopy.
Sign, External Illumination. A sign utilizing an artificial or reflective light
source mounted or operated from the outside of the frame of the sign, for the
purpose of lighting the sign.
Sign Face. The area of a sign where the name of the business or facility is
advertised and the background on which it is placed. Does not include the sign
cabinet or frame.
Sign, Flush -mounted . Any flat sign mounted or applied to a building
facade.
Sign, Hanging &**. Any sign suspended from an awning, canopy, bracket, or
brace.
Sign, Identification. An incidental sign of identification or of informational
nature bearing no advertising, unless otherwise specified in Chapter 10 of this
Code.
Sign, Illuminated. A sign utilizing an artificial or a reflective light source.
Sign, Interior Illuminated . Any sign designed to be lit from the inside
(including awning, canopy, hanging or flush -mounted signs).
Design Guidelines
City of Georgetown
A-6
Exhibit A
Sign, Incidental. A sign, generally informational, that has a purpose secondary
to the use of the lot on which it is located, such as "no parking," "entrance,"
"loading only," "telephone," an address, and other similar directives.
Sign, Internal Illumination. A sign utilizing an artificial or a reflective light
source mounted or operated from the inside of the frame of the sign, for the
purpose of lighting the sign.
Sign, Low Profile Pole. A sign that is mounted on one or more freestanding
poles or other support so that the bottom edge of the sign face is not in direct
contact with a solid base or the ground.
Sign, Marquee. Any sign attached to, in any manner, or made a part of a
marquee.
Sign, Monument. A sign which is attached directly to the ground or is
supported by a sign structure that is placed on or anchored in the ground and is
independent from any building or other structure.
Sign, Pedestrian. Any sign oriented to pedestrians at street level visibility
(including window, awning or hanging signs, as well as nameplates, plaques or
sandwich boards).
Sign, Pole. A sign that is mounted on one or more freestanding poles or other
support so that the bottom edge of the sign face is not in direct contact with a
solid base or the ground.
Sign, Portable. Any sign not permanently attached to the ground or other
permanent structure, or a sign designed to be transported, including, but not
limited to, signs designed to be transported by means of wheels; signs converted
to A or T frames; sandwich board signs; balloons used as signs; umbrellas used
for advertising; and signs attached to or painted on vehicles parked and visible
from the public right of way, unless said vehicle is used in the normal day to day
operations of the business.
Sign, Primary. A medium to large -size, horizontally oriented sign attached flat
against the building, above the awning, printed on one side only. Or, a medium-
size sign that projects from the building above the awning(s) or canopy(es),
printed on both sides. Or, a medium-size sign that is mounted on a free-standing
pole or post.
Sign, Projecting. Any sign affixed to a building wall in a nonparallel manner.
Sign, Sandwich Board. Any sign designed for placement on the sidewalk, of A -
frame construction, generally two-sided.
Design Guidelines A-7
City of Georgetown
Exhibit A
Sign, Secondary. A small, horizontally-oriented, rectangular sign that protrudes
from a building below the awnings or canopies but above pedestrian's heads,
and is printed on both sides. Or, a small to medium, free-standing sign mounted
on a pole or post.
Sign, Temporary. Any sign that is not intended to be permanent.
Sign, Wall. A sign which is fastened to or painted on the wall of a building or
structure in such a manner that the wall becomes the supporting structure for, or
forms the background surface of, the sign. Wall signs shall not project more than
eight (8) inches from the building or structure, may have only one (1) sign face,
and must be parallel to the wall on which it is attached.
Sign, Window. Any sign that is placed inside a window or upon the window or
upon the window panes or glass and is intended to be visible from the exterior of
the window. Merchandise displays shall not be considered window signs.
Sill. The lowest horizontal member in a frame or opening for a window or door.
Also, the lowest horizontal member in a framed wall or partition.
Size. The dimensions in height and width of a building's face.
Special Event Banner. Same as Seasonal Banner.
Stile. A vertical piece in a panel or frame, as of a door or window.
Streetscape. Generally, the streetscape refers to the character of the street, or how
elements of the street form a cohesive environment.
Thematic Banner. Same as Seasonal Banner.
Traditional. Based on or established by the history of the area.
Transom Window. A small window or series of panes above a door, or above a
casement or double hung window.
Visual Continuity. A sense of unity or belonging together that elements of the
built environment exhibit because of similarities among them.
Window farts. The moving units of a window are known as sashes and move
within the fixed Frame. The sash may consist of one large pane of glass or may
be subdivided into smaller panes by thin members called muntins or glazing
bars. Sometimes in nineteenth-century houses windows are arranged side by
PI
side and divided by heavy vertical wood members called mullions.
Ward, Front. The area that lies between the established front building line of the
principal building and the front lot line.
Design Guidelines q_g
City of Georgetown
The Standards (Department of Interior regulations, 36 CFR 67) pertain to historic
buildings of all materials, construction types, sizes, and occupancy and encompass the
exterior and the interior, related landscape features and the building's site and
environment as well as attached, adjacent, or related new construction. The Standards
are to be agplied to specific rehabilitation projects in a reasonable manner, taking into
consideration economic and technical feasibility.
1. A rrooperty shall be used for its historic purpose or be placed in a new use that
requires minimal change to the defining characteristics of the building and its site
and environment.
2. The historic character of a property shall be retained and preserved. The removal of
historic materials or alteration of features and spaces that characterize a property
shall be avoided.
3. Each property shall be recognized as a physical record of its time,Ip ace, and use.
Changes that create a false sense of historical development, such as adding
conjectural features or architectural elements from other buildings, shall not be
undertaken.
4. Mostrrooperties change over time; those changes that have acquired historic
significance in their own right shall be retained and preserved.
5. Distinctive features, finishes, and construction techniques or examples of
craftsmanship that characterize a pro e�rty shall be preserved.
6. Deteriorated historic features shall be repaired rather than replaced. Where the
severity of deterioration requires replacement of a distinctive feature, the new
feature shall match the old in design, color, texture, and other visual qualities and,
where possible, materials. Replacement of missing features shall be substantiated by
documentary, physical, or pictorial evidence.
7. Chemical or physical treatments, such as sandblasting, that cause damage to historic
materials shall not be used. The surface cleaning of structures, if appropriate, shall
be undertaken using the gentlest means possible.
8. Significant archeological resources affected by a project shall be protected and
preserved. If such resources must be disturbed, mitigation measures shall be
undertaken.
9. New additions, exterior alterations, or related new construction shall not destroy
historic materials that characterize the property. The new work shall be
differentiated from the old and shall be compatible with the massing, size, scale, and
architectural features to protect the historic integrity of the property and its
environment.
10. New additions and adjacent or related new construction shall be undertaken in such
a manner that if removed in the future, the essential form and integrity of the
historic property and its environment would be unimpaired.
Design Guidelines B-9
City of Georgetown