Conclusion

A major goal of our technical assistance program is a heightened awareness of significant materials and the historic character prior to construction of a new exterior addition so that essential change may be effected within a responsible preservation context. In summary, then, these are the three important preservation questions to ask when planning a new exterior addition to a historic resource:

1. Does the proposed addition preserve significant historic materials and features?

2. Does the proposed addition preserve the historic character?

3. Does the proposed addition protect the historical significance by making a visual distinction between old and new?

If the answer is YES to all three questions, then the new addition will protect significant historic materials and the historic character and, in doing so, will have satisfactorily addressed those concerns generally held to be fundamental to historic preservation.

New Exterior Additions to Historic Buildings

Preserve Significant Historic Materials and Features.

Avoid constructing an addition on a primary or other character- defining elevation to ensure preservation of significant materials and features.

Minimize loss of historic material comprising external walls and internal partitions and floor plans.

Preserve the Historic Character

Make the size, scale, massing, and proportions of the new addition compatible with the historic building to ensure that the historic form is not expanded or changed to an unacceptable degree.

Place the new addition on an inconspicuous side or rear elevation so that the new work does not result in a radical change to the form and character of the historic building.

Consider setting an infill addition or connector back from the historic buildings wall plane so that the form of the historic building--or buildings--can be distinguished from the new work.

Set an additional story well back from the roof edge to ensure that the historic building's proportions and profile are not radically changed.

Protect the Historical Significance--Make a Visual Distinction Between Old and New