Architectural Features

Architectural details vary widely by architectural style, time period of construction, and preservation status. Architectural details are important characteristics of buildings that convey a sense of place, contribute to the style of the structure, and highlight the craftsmanship of previous generations of builders. Examples include cornices, modillions, brackets, engravings, pilasters and columns, and entablatures.

 

Preserve, maintain, and repair significant stylistic and architectural features.

  • Do not remove or alter significant architectural details which would change the architectural style of the building.
  • To avoid repair and replacement, employ preventative maintenance measures such as rust removal, caulking, and repainting.
  • Use proven restoration techniques to clean and/or repair architectural details.
  • Only repair the portion of the material that is deteriorated, using the same kind of material as the original detail when feasible. Alternate materials may be acceptable if the size, shape, texture, and finish are similar to the original material appearance.

Yates (Charle) House (720 S 16).JPG

The Hurlbut-Yates home picture above is an excellent local example of significant architectural details as seen in the barge board, porch pediment, and delicate spindles that should be preserved through preventative maintenance.

 

Do not add details that are not original to the building. New architectural details should be based on pictorial, physical, or other historic evidence.

  • Where a detail is missing, use existing components as a pattern to replicate the missing detail. Where evidence is limited, a new design that is a simplified interpretation of a similar feature may be acceptable.
Repair missing details based on evidence.jpg

Remaining portions of the cornice details on these two buildings can be used to repair or replace damaged portions of the rest of the cornice lines.

 

Do not cover or conceal architectural details.

Fire escape on front_cropped.jpg

The fire escape on this historic commercial building is obscuring the date and the cornice line of the building and should be avoided by relocating the exit on a side or rear facade.

  

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