11. Related Spaces and Sequences of Spaces
Are there adjoining rooms that are visually and physically related
with large doorways or open archways so that they are perceived
as related rooms as opposed to separate rooms? Is there an important
sequence of spaces that are related to each other, such as the
sequence from the entry way to the lobby to the stairway and to
the upper balcony as in a theatre; or the sequence in a residence
from the entry vestibule to the hallway to the front parlor, and
on through the sliding doors to the back parlor; or the sequence
in an office building from the entry vestibule to the lobby to
the bank of elevators?
Notes on the Related Spaces and Sequences of Spaces:
____________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________
12. Interior Features
Are there interior features that help define the character of
the building, such as fireplace mantels, stairways and balustrades,
arched openings, interior shutters, inglenooks, cornices, ceiling
medallions, light fixtures, balconies, doors, windows, hardware,
wainscoting, panelling, trim, church pews, courtroom bars, teller
cages, waiting room benches?
Notes on the Interior Features:
____________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________
13. Surface Finishes and Materials
Are there surface finishes and materials that can affect the design,
the color or the texture of the interior? Are there materials
and finishes or craft practices that contribute to the interior
character, such as wooden parquet floors, checkerboard marble
floors, pressed metal ceilings, fine hardwoods, grained doors
or marbleized surfaces, or polychrome painted surfaces, or stenciling,
or wallpaper that is important to the historic character? Are
there surface finishes and materials that, because of their plainness,
are imparting the essential character of the interior such as
hard or bright, shiny wall surfaces of plaster or glass or metal?
Notes on the Surface Finishes and Materials:
____________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________
14. Exposed Structure
Are there spaces where the exposed structural elements define
the interior character such as the exposed posts, beams, and trusses
in a church or train shed or factory? Are there rooms with decorative
ceiling beams (nonstructural) in bungalows, or exposed vigas in
adobe buildings?
Notes on the Exposed Structure:
____________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________
This concludes the three-step process of identifying the visual
aspects of historic buildings and is intended as an aid in preserving
their character and other distinguishing qualities. It is not
intended as a means of understanding the significance of historical
properties or districts, nor of the events or people associated
with them. That can only be done through other kinds of research
and investigation.