2018-12-05 EDA Packet (3) - Laserfiche WebLink

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DOWNTOWN DESIGN GUIDELINES DESIGN PRINCIPLES New Construction: The basic principle for new construction in downtown White Bear Lake is to maintain the scale and character of present buildings. Generally, new structures should provide height, massing, setback, materials and rhythm compatible to surrounding structures. The reproduction of historic design and details is expensive, artificial and is recommended only in some special cases of infill or small scale construction. Restoration and Rehabilitation: General principles for restoration and rehabilitation are taken from the Secretary of Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation. • All work should be of a character and quality that maintains the distinguishing features of the building and environment. The removal of architectural features is not permitted. • Deteriorated architectural features should be repaired rather than replaced whenever possible. In the even of replacement, new materials should match the original in composition, design, color, texture and appearance. Duplication of original design based on physical or pictorial evidence is preferable to using conjectural or"period" designs or using parts of other buildings. • Distinctive stylistic features or examples of skilled craftsmanship characteristic of structures of a period should be treated sensitively. Furthermore, if changes in use of a building are contemplated, they should be accomplished with minimum alteration to the structure and fabric. • In general, it is expected that buildings will be restored to their original appearance. However, alterations to buildings are sometimes significant because they reflect the history of the building and the district. This significance should be respected and restoration to an "original" appearance may not always be desirable. Materials which mask the original features or character of the building may be recommended for removal. All buildings should be recognized as products of their own time. (Example: A building that was constructed in 1890 should resemble a building from 1890). DESIGN REVIEW PROCESS New development or remodels in the downtown planning area require a design review permit prior to commencement. A subcommittee of the Beautification Committee shall review the project site, architecture and landscape plans with these design guidelines to ensure consistency. The subcommittee shall then recommend approval, denial or approval with certain conditions to the City Housing and Redevelopment Authority staff. 1%