HomeMy WebLinkAbout05-13-2010 Historic Preservation Commissionlowd CI'*ty Historic preservation Commission
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IOWA CITY HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
Thursday, May 13, 2010
City Hall, 410 E. Washington Street
Emma J Harvat Hall
6:00 p.m.
A) Call to Order
B) Public discussion of anything not on the agenda
C) Certificate of Appropriateness
1.
617 N Johnson St
2.
1143 Maple St
3.
1207 Muscatine Ave
4.
1107 Clark Ct
5.
923 Dearborn St
6.
730 N Linn St
7.
604 Grant St
D) Public Discussion on the Historic Preservation Guidelines
(Paper copy included in Commission packet. Electronic copy available online)
E) Consideration of minutes for April 8, 2010
F) Other
G) Adjournment
Staff Report
May 13, 2010
Historic Review for 617 N Johnson St
District: Brown Street Historic District
Classification: Contributing
The applicant, Paul Bliss, is requesting approval for a proposed replacement project at 617 N Johnson St, a
contributing property in the Brown Street Historic District. The project consists of replacement of basement
windows.
Applicable Regulations and Guidelines:
0 Iowa City historic Ar rerurtion Guidelines forAlterations
4.7 Windows
Staff Comments
This house appears to be the forerunner of the American Foursquare, as that house form evolved in the 20th
century. Several elements of this house mark it as an earlier house — perhaps as early as the 1880s. The
hipped roof is shallow and truncated, reminiscent of Italianate structures. It also lacks the familiar dormers of
the Foursquare. Finally, the house sits on a raised foundation, a feature more related to Italianate houses than
Foursquare houses. This house reflects the transitional form between the square Italianate houses of the 19th
century and the popular American Foursquare of the early 20th. The owner is currently undertaking several
projects in the rehab of this house. The Commission has previously approved siding replacement, porch
reconstruction, and retaining wall reconstruction.
The applicant is seeking approval for window replacements that have occurred without a permit. The
applicant has replaced the basement windows with vinyl double hung windows. The original windows were 6
pane, wood windows that were either awning style or fixed. In order to mitigate the vinyl windows, the
applicant is proposing to install wood screen windows, as shown in the attached photo. The wood framed
screen has been designed to mimic the trim on the existing windows on the house.
The guidelines allow basement windows to be replaced with vinyl windows, but only if the property is non-
contributing in a historic district or in a conservation district and the foundation wall is not more than 18"
above grade. This property is contributing in the Brown Street Historic District and the foundation wall is
greater than 18" above grade. Storm windows and screens are not regulated by the HPC as the installation
or removal does not require a building permit. As proposed, the frames of the screens would protrude
beyond the foundation. Typically, historic windows would not have been installed in this manner.
The guidelines do allow for the replacement of deteriorated windows, but the replacement windows must
match the original windows in size, trim, use of divided -lights, and overall appearance. Replacement windows
must be either solid wood or metal clad solid wood.
The vinyl windows are not allowed by the guidelines. Staff believes that since the wood screens are not
regulated, there is no way to insure that they will remain in place. In addition, staff believes that the double
hung nature of the replacement windows does not retain the overall appearance of the original windows.
In Staff's opinion, the replacement basement windows should be wood or metal clad wood with the six -
divided light pattern. Staff believes that the basement windows should be either a fixed pane or an awning
style window.
RecommendedMotiom
The motion should be made in the affirmative, with a negative vote if the Commission agrees with staff's
opinion. If the proposed replacement is defeated, the Commission may then make a motion for window
replacement that meets the guidelines.
P.1
Application for Historic Review
Application for alterations to the historic landmarks or
properties located in a historic district or conservation
district pursuant to Iowa City Code Section 14-4C.
Guidelines for the Historic Review process, explanation of
the process and regulations can be found in the Iowa City
Historic Preservation Handbook, which is available in the
Planning & Community Development office at City Hall or
online at: �% v:�'.lc;^;.0['7/ :iS:JI"1L i'eSE'FV' 1=. ,il
For Staff Use: ?
Date submitted:
❑ certificate of No material Effect
c tifi to of Appropriateness
L�' Major review
❑ Intermediate review
❑ Minor review
The Historic Preservation Commission does not review applications for compliance with building
and zoning codes. Work must comply with all appropriate codes and be reviewed by the Building
Inspection Division prior to the issuance of a building permit.
Meeting Schedule: The HPC meets the second Thursday of each month. During the summer months, the
HPC may also meet on the fourth Thursday. Applications are due in the PCD office by noon on Thursday
two weeks prior to the meeting. See attached document for application deadlines and meeting dates.
Property Owner/Applicant Information
(Please check primary contact person)
❑ Property Owner Name: Bliss Properties Inc I paill Bliss
Email: adbliss@yahoo.com Phone Number: (415) 302-5432
Address: 1041 Canuchino Ave
City: Burlingame State: CA Zip Code: 94010
El Contractor / Consultant Name: _Jaz Jasa
Email: iazhotehotsQani rpm Phone Number: (319) 364-1253
Address: _5429 J St SW
City: Cedar Rapids State: IA Zip Code: _52404
Proposed Project Information
Address: _61 Z N. Johnson St
Use of Property:.income Date Constructed (if known):
Historic Designation
(Maps are located in the Historic Preservation Handbook)
❑ This property is a local historic iandmark.
OR
El This Property is within a historic or conservation district (choose location):
0 Brown Street Historic District
❑
College Green Historic District
❑ East College Street Historic District
❑
Longfellow Historic District
❑ Northside Historic District
❑
Summit Street Historic District
❑ Woodlawn Historic District
❑
Clark Street Conservation District
❑ College Hill Conservation District
❑
Dearborn Street Conservation District
❑ Governor -Lucas Street Conservation District
Within the district, this property is classified as:
0 Contributing ❑ Noncontributing 11 Nonhistoric
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Application Requirements
Choose appropriate project type. In order to ensure application can be processed, please include all listed materials.
Applications without necessary materials may be postponed.
❑ Addition
(Typically projects entailing an addition to the building footprint such as a room, porch, deck, etc.)
❑ Building Elevations ❑ Floor Plans ❑ Photographs
❑ Product Information ❑ Site Plans
Alteration
(Typically projects entailing work such as siding and window replacement, skylights, window opening alterations, deck or
porch replacement/construction, baluster repair, or similar. If the project is a minor alteration, photographs and drawings to
describe the scope of the project are sufficient.)
❑ Building Elevations it Photographs ❑ Product Information
❑ Construction of new building
❑ Building Elevations ❑ Floor Plans ❑ Photographs
❑ Product Information ❑ Site Plans
❑ Demoli 'on
(Projects entailing the demolition of a primary structure or outbuilding, or any portion of a building, such as porch, chimney,
decorative trim, baluster, etc.)
❑ Photographs ❑ Proposal of Future Plans
❑ Renair or restoration of an existing structure that will not change its appearance.
❑ Photographs ❑ Product Information
❑ Other:
Please contact the Preservation Planner at 356.5243 for materials which need to be included with application.
Proposed Project Details
Project Description:
Iinstall new external window frames on basement windows to match windows on rest of the house.
Materials to be Used:
Painted Wood box Frames, Crown moulding, screens, white paint
Exterior Appearance Changes:
Designed to match the rest of the house. Photo of prototype attached.
appforhistori creview-pdf
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Staff Report
Historic Review for 1143 Maple Stmet
District: Longfellow Historic District
Classification: Non -Historic
May 31, 2010
The applicants, Dennis Kirkwood and Marion Love, are requesting approval for a proposed new construction
project at 1143 Maple St, a non -historic property in the Longfellow Historic District. The project consists of
the construction of a garage.
Applicable Regulations and Guidelines:
6. o Iowa City historic Pzeserrataon Grsidelznes forlVew Constmction
6.2 New Outbuildings
Staff Comments
This is one of seven houses along the south side of Maple Street which were built between 1950 and 1970.
All fall within the broad category of "ranch" style, with five featuring a gable roof and two with a hip roof.
None of these houses met the 50-year requirement at the time of evaluation and all are considered non -
historic within the Longfellow Historic District.
The applicant is proposing the construction of a 1.5 story frame garage with a mezzanine storage loft. The
dimensions of the garage are 24 ft by 32 ft and over 20 ft in height to the peak. Materials to be used are
modern and will mimic the home's style and detail. These include smooth fiber -cement siding, matching
asphalt roof, wood trim, and aluminum gutters. The design features vinyl clad windows, an aluminum or
steel insulated walk through door, and aluminum -skin foam insulated overhead door with "clear panel"
windows that reflect the home's horizontal window style. The proposed garage is detached and located
beside and slightly behind the home along the existing driveway. Construction of the proposed garage will
have no impact on the home's exterior.
The guidelines recommend that outbuildings be placed to the rear of the building and constructed in a style
that reflects the primary structure. Furthermore, the guidelines recommend constructing garages and
outbuildings that are clearly subordinate in size to the primary structure. Although the height of the
proposed garage appears greater than the primary structure, the dimensions of the garage are subordinate to
the primary structure with regards to width and depth. The guidelines also state that garage doors should be
simple in design and discourage the installation of double -car garage doors.
In Staff's opinion, the proposed garage meets the requirements regarding the construction and design of new
outbuildings. The garage's intended use is workshop and storage space for autos and a large sailboat, making
the proposed height a necessary design element. Although the height of the garage is not subordinate to the
primary structure, the footprint is subordinate in size. Because the subject property, as well the neighboring
properties, is a non -historic structure in the Longfellow Historic District, Staff believes the project will have
no impact on the historic integrity of the house or neighborhood.
RecommendeelMoai .v
Move to approve a Certificate of Appropriateness for the project at 1143 Maple St as presented in the
application.
Application for Historic
Application for alterations to the historic landmarks or
properties located in a historic district or conservation
district pursuant to Iowa City Code Section 14-4C.
Guidelines for the Historic Review process, explanation of
the process and regulations can be found in the Iowa City
Historic Preservation Handbook, which is available in the
Planning & Community Development office at City Hall or
online at: www.icgov.org/HistoricPreservation
eview ;
For Staff Use:
Date submitted: -/X/ /P
,❑ rtificate of No material Effect
Lid Certii !;-ate of Appropriateness
0 Major review
❑ Intermediate review
❑ Minor review
The Historic Preservation Commission does not review applications for compliance with building
and zoning codes. Work must comply with all appropriate codes and be reviewed by the Building
Inspection Division prior to the issuance of a building permit.
Meeting Schedule: The HPC meets the second Thursday of each month. During the summer months, the
HPC may also meet on the fourth Thursday. Applications are due in the PCD office by noon on Thursday
two weeks prior to the meeting. See attached document for application deadlines and meeting dates.
Property Owner/Applicant Information
(Please check primary contact person)
Property Owner Name: De n l �� �l rk�x��� � ma }' 1 d yl Lo V i,f,
Email: �X _ll it)c�c�c� G'1�Z �� , CLvlione Number:
Address: _ i Pf S ►'Yjat2 .0
City: , V"L 011111` State:
Zip Code: `__�
❑ Contractor / Consultant Name:
Email:
Address:
City:
Phone Number: (
State:
Zip Code:
Proposed Project Information
Address: i% `f 3 -Si-
Use of Property: S l�t2± 1.� Date Constructed (if known): !�
Historic Designation
(Maps are located in the Historic Preservation Handbook)
❑ This property is a local historic landmark.
OR
This Property is within a historic or conservation district (choose location):
❑ Brown Street Historic District ❑ College Green Historic district
❑ East College Street Historic District Longfellow Historic District
❑ Northside Historic District ❑ Summit Street Historic District
❑ Woodlawn Historic District ❑ Clark Street Conservation District
❑ College Hill Conservation District ❑ Dearborn Street Conservation District
❑ Governor -Lucas Street Conservation District
Within the district, this property is classified as:
11 Contributing A ( Noncontributing ❑ Nonhistoric
Application Requirements
Choose appropriate project type. In order to ensure application can be processed, please include all listed materials.
Applications without necessary materials may be postponed.
❑ Addition
(Typically projects entailing an addition to the building footprint such as a room, porch, deck, etc.)
❑ Building Elevations ❑ Floor Plans ❑ Photographs
❑ Product Information ❑ Site Plans
(Typically projects entailing work such as siding and window replacement, skylights, window opening alterations, deck or
porch replacement/construction, baluster repair, or similar. If the project is a minor alteration, photographs and drawings to
describe the scope of the project are sufficient.)
❑ Building Elevations ❑ Photographs ❑ Product Information
Construction of new building r"-.cl c',)- ,`}
Building Elevations Floor Plans ,� Photographs
❑ Product Information Site Plans
❑ Demolition
(Projects entailing the demolition of a primary structure or outbuilding, or any portion of a building, such as porch, chimney,
decorative trim, baluster, etc.)
❑ Photographs ❑ Proposal of Future Plans
❑ Repair or restoration of an existing structure that will not change its appearance.
❑ Photographs ❑ Product Information
❑ Other:
Proposed Project Details
Project Description:
1.5 story frame garage, with mezzanine storage loft.
Dimensions: 24 'x32'x <20' high.
12' high overhead front door to accommodate sailboat storage.
10'x10' side door to accommodate shop access.
Rough -in for future electrical and plumbing.
Exterior to mimic home as much as contemporary materials/methods allow.
10' or 12' wide driveway that widens to garage -width parking pad.
Space between house and garage to prevent land -locked back yard (about 15).
Materials to be Used:
Modern materials that minic the home's style and details. Smooth fiber -cement siding, matching asphalt
roof, wood trim, aluminum gutters. Vinyl clad windows, aluminum or steel insulated walk-through door,
aluminum -skin foam -insulated overhead door with "clear panel" windows, to reflect home's horizontal
window style. Standard wood framing and trusses. Concrete driveway and floor. Standard gravel and
drainage materials.
Exterior Appearance Changes:
No changes to house exterior.
Garage will appear to be beside and behind the home, appear same height as home.
Driveway will follow the original plan's location.
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1143 MAPLE STREET
B I Z7o- _ NEW GARAGE AT 1143 MAPLE STREET, IOWA cITY I Untrauer Drafting Service, NEW GARAGE AT 1143 MAPLE STREET, I Untrauer Drafting Service, Inc.
17__Q'• _ 3. SITE PLAN FOR MARION LOVE AND DENNIS KIRKWOOD 2878 STERLING DRIVE, IOWA CITY, IOWA 52240 (319) 338-5966
Staff Report
May 13, 2010
Historic Review for 1207 Muscatine Ave
District: College Hill Conservation District
Classification: Contributing
The applicant, City of Iowa City, is requesting approval for several proposed projects at 1207 Muscatine Ave,
a contributing property in the College Hill Conservation District. The project consists of window and door
replacement, porch repairs, and possible garage demolition.
Applicable Regulations and Guidelines:
0 Iowa 0ty historic Pmseruxtion Gssidel.ves forAlterations
4.7 Windows
4.8 Doors
4.9 Porches
/.. 0 Iowa City historic Presenaztion Guidel nes forDemolition
Staff Comments
This house is a nice example of a foursquare house influenced by the Craftsman style, as seen in the divided
light pattern of the windows. This home was purchased by the City as part of the UniverCity Neighborhood
Partnership for rehab and resale as affordable owner occupied housing.
The projects to be done are explained in the attached memo from David Powers who is facilitating the rehab
project.
Door and lllndozca
The guidelines allow for the replacement of windows and doors, but in general recommends for new
windows and doors to retain the size of the existing windows unless required for egress. However, the
Commission has approved window alterations when necessaryto improve functionality. The existing door is
just under 6' tall, thus a taller door would be more functional for the residents of this home. Currently the
back of kitchen counter can be seen through the kitchen windows. In order to improve the appearance and
desirability of this house, a kitchen remodel is proposed. The bathroom is a long narrow room and the only
feasible location to place a shower is against the outer wall. Currentlythe shower is located in the middle of
the room and creates an undesirable layout.
In Staff's opinion, the changes to the windows and doors are compatible with the historic nature of this
house, provided the doors and windows are replaced with ones that match the foursquare/craftsman nature
of the house. Given that the changes are not on the street facing elevation, the impact to the historic integrity
will be minimal.
Ponh
The guidelines recommend repairing historic porches and replacement of badly deteriorated components
with new that match the historic components in design and material.
In Staff's opinion, the repairs to the porch will improve the appearance of the house and will not impact the
historic integrity of the house.
O;srthtd"ng
The guidelines state that the decision to approve a Certificate of Appropriateness for the demolition of
outbuildings on contributing and non-contributing properties will be made on a case -by -case basis. The
Commission should consider the condition, integrity, and architectural significance of the outbuilding. The
guidelines also recommend the removal of structurally unsound elements that present a safety hazard.
In Staff's opinion, the garage is in bad condition and the structural integrity is in a questionable state. It
would not be impossible to restore the building, but given the fact that the buried gas storage tank needs to
be removed for safety reasons, the likelihood of saving the garage is uncertain. Every effort will be made to
save the garage during the removal of the tank, but the City wanted to seek approval now rather than coming
to the Commission after the fact.
RecommendedMosion
Move to approve a Certificate of Appropriateness for the projects at 1207 Muscatine Ave with the condition
that window and door specifications be approved by staff.
r
�„w® CITY OF IOWA CITY
MEMORANDUM
Date: May 6, 2010
To: Christina Kuecker, Associate Planner
From: David Powers, Housing Rehabilitation Specialist
Re: 1207 Muscatine Ave
The home at 1207 Muscatine has been purchased through the City's UniverCity Neighborhood
Partnership for rehab and resale as affordable owner occupied housing. The UniverCity
Neighborhood Partnership is a cooperative effort of the City of Iowa City and the University of
Iowa focusing on neighborhoods located near the University of Iowa campus that retain a
single-family character and a demand for single-family housing but that also have a large
student renter population. The program is dedicated to ensuring that the University of Iowa
Campus and surrounding neighborhoods remain vital, safe, affordable, and attractive places to
live and work for both renters and homeowners. The program has received $1.25 million from
the State of Iowa I -Jobs program and has committed to doing work on at least 25 homes.
We are in the process of preparing bid documents for this home, but I wanted to submit several
items for review before the formal bid documents are released. The first and most important
change to this home concerns the garage. The garage is a small concrete block detached
structure that is currently having structural issues due to the lack of footings or proper
foundation. All of the walls are moving in separate directions and the block has developed stair
step gaps at the joints on all four sides. Our initial plan was to leave the garage alone and allow
the future owner to decide what they wanted to do with it because our budget would not allow
for repairs to be made. Unfortunately, during our survey of the home after we had the over
growth in the yard cleared, we discovered a buried gas storage tank partially under the slab and
front wall of the garage.
The tank has been drained and certified clean, but it must still be removed to ensure there was
no contamination of the surrounding soil. The process of removing the tank may cause the
garage to shift and become unsafe or even collapse as the digging is being done. Our
preference would still be to have the option of leaving the garage intact for the future owners,
but this may not be possible. We would like to make a formal request to demolish the garage in
the event that saving it is not possible as well as to give the future owner the option to remove it
or to have it saved if it does survive the removal of the tank.
In addition to the garage, we are looking at making several other changes and repairs to the
exterior of the home. We would be working with Christina on types of materials for these
changes. There is currently a short entrance door on the side of the home that opens onto the
driveway. We would like to remove the existing door and install an insulated door in its place.
This would necessitate making the opening approximately 8 - 10 inches taller. On the same side
of the home, there is a pair of windows in the kitchen that we would like to make slightly shorter
in order to accommodate base cabinets and countertop. Another problem that will affect the
exterior of the home is a window for the small second floor bath. The size and layout of the
room and create difficulties in making it into a usable full bath without the removal of the
window. We are currently working through options that hopefully alleviate the need to change or
remove the window. However, as this bathroom is the only space available for a full bath, we
may not have a choice if we can't arrive at a workable solution without taking out the window.
The last modification we are planning on at this time will be the repair of one corner post of the
front porch that is currently failing. The block footing will be repaired, the floor, post and roof will
be jacked back into position and new steps and hand rail will be added. Other repairs will be
done to the soffit, siding, and trim as needed before the home is painted.
i'lal
Staff Report
May 13, 2010
Historic Review for 1107 Clark Court
District: Clark Street Conservation District
Classification: Contributing
The applicant, Katherine Mossman, is requesting approval for a proposed alteration project at 1107 Clark
Court, a contributing property in the Clark Street Conservation District. The project consists of porch
repairs /replacement.
Applicable Regulations and Guidelines:
0 Iowa City Hastonz Preserraztaon Guidelines forAlterations
4.3 Wood
4.9 Porches
4.10 Balustrades and Handrails
Staff Comments
This two story gable roof house features a symmetrical facade on the long (or eave) side. It is basically a
Colonial Revival residence from the 1920s with cornice returns on the gable ends, a small classical entry
porch, and paired windows. The major alteration has been the application of wide replacement siding.
Although this alteration impairs the architectural integrity, this house is still considered a contributing
structure in the Longfellow Historic District.
The applicant is proposing to repair/replace the existing front porch and steps of the subject property. As
proposed, the existing front porch will be wrapped in wolmanized wood and the support columns will be
replaced with 6x6 posts. The wood wrap placed over the decaying concrete will in increase the width and
depth of porch, expanding the original dimensions. The applicant has not provided any dimensions of the
proposed alteration. Wood balustrades with handrails will surround the sides of the porch and continue
down the stairs. The stairs, as seen in the drawing, are now flush with the front edge of the support post and
will be constructed with either pine or cedar. The applicant indicated that the balustrade spindles will be
square to match the new support post. The flooring will be painted blue or green to match the trim on the
house.
The guidelines do not allow for the removal of a historic front porch, but do allow for the replacement of
deteriorated features with new ones that match the historic components in design and material. The
guidelines also recommend that masonry or concrete porches have masonry or concrete steps and wood
porches have wood steps. Additionally, the guidelines do not allow the removal of historic wood elements,
unless significantly decayed and require replacement that matches the historic elements.
In Staff's opinion, removal of the support columns for square posts is not permissible. The home is a
contributor to the Longfellow Historic because it represents the Colonial Revival style that is characterized, in
part, bythe classical entryporch. The entryporch is one of the few defining characteristics of this style;
therefore, the removal of the columns would damage the home's historic integrity. The columns appear to
have previously been altered to repair decay and should only be replaced with matching new columns upon
replacement. Increasing the area of the porch might also constitute an impact to the structure's integrity.
While the hand rails are required by building code upon alteration, changing the dimensions of the entry
porch and adding spindled balustrades could be considered a significant alteration that detracts from the
historic integrity. In Staff's opinion, extending the width of the entry porch beyond the existing columns
would significantly alter porch's character as well as the symmetry and style of the fa§ade. Staff believes that
the best alternative to the proposed repairs would be replacement of the existing concrete steps and porch
with similar concrete construction.
The proposed alterations would impact the historic integrity of the house. Provided the columns are replaced
with similar columns, the porch dimensions are not significantly increased, and the balustrades and handrails
are appropriately designed, the impact on the historic integrity of the structure would be minimized. If the
applicant wishes to replace and alter the deteriorating concrete porch/steps with another material, Staff
would need to review the design for compatibility with the historic and architectural character of the house.
Recommende,VMotion
Move to approve a Certificate of Appropriateness for the project at 1107 Clark Court with the following
conditions:
• The design of the balustrade and handrails being approved by staff
• The support column being repaired or replaced with a similar rounded columns and the column
design being approved by staff
• The width of the entry porch should not be significantly increased
• Replacement or alteration of the concrete porch/steps being approved by Staff
Ap ication for Historic Rev" w
Application for alterations to the exterior of historic landmarks or properties
located in a historic district or conservation district pursuant to Iowa City For Staff Use: Code Section 14-4C. Guidelines for the Historic Review process, explanation Date submitted .....f.1..-: :::1,. .....................
of the process and regulations can be found in the Iowa City Historic Preservation ❑ Certificate of No Material Effect
Handbook, which is available in the PCD office at City Hall or online at:
www.icgov.org/HPhandbook J9( Certificate of Appropriateness
Meeting schedule: The HPC meets the second ❑ Major reviewThursday of each month. During El Intermediate review
the summer months,the HPC may also meet on the fourth Thursday. Applications
are due in the PCD Office by noon on Thursday two weeks prior to the meeting. ❑ Minor review
See attached document for application deadlines and meeting dates.
Applicant Information
(Please check primary contact person)
iJ.--..-..
Owner ......................................................
Phone............. ......................... ................
Address10� Clca I k Gcu(
..........................
...................................
.... .4......................................zip...................
email....) � �ter(vxe - WN-0S' YeA i,3CCvtlio�vCL edt
.....................................I............................
Contractor................................................................................
Address..........................................................................................
.................................................................zip ...................
Phone..............................................................................................
email................................................................................................
Consultant.................................................................................
Address..........................................................................................
................................................................zip ...................
Phone..............................................................................................
email................................................................................................
Application Requirements
Attached are the following items:
® Site plan
® Floor plans
Building elevations
rl Photographs
Product information
Other ......Yo L,-3 i `A`}...
If the proposed project entails an addition, a new structure or
a significant alteration to an existing structure, please submit a
site plan, floor plans, building elevations and photographs.
If the proposed project is a minor alteration to a structure,
please provide drawings and photographs to sufficiently
describe the scope of the project.
Provide a written description of the proposed project on the
second page of this application.
Property Information
Address of property ......((I' (�''r lL L
.................................'�� �1�..�..... j.,.�...........�.2)'`�6..........
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Useof property ............................................... ..
Date constructed (if known)...............................................................
Historic Designation
® This property is a local historic landmark
OR
This property is located in the:
Brown Street Historic District
College Green Historic District
East College Street Historic District
Longfellow Historic District
Summit Street Historic District
0 Woodlawn Historic District
Clark Street Conservation District
College Hill Conservation District
Q Dearborn Street Conservation District
Q Governor -Lucas Street Conservation District
Within the district, this property is classified as:
D Contributing 7
Noncontributing
n Nonhistoric
Project Type
Alteration of an existing building (le. siding and window
replacement, skylights, window opening alterations, new
decks, porch reconstruction, baluster repair or similar)
Addition to an existing building (includes decks and ramps)
n Demolition of a building or portion of a building (ie. porch,
chimneys, decorative trim, baluster or similar)
Construction of new building
n Repair or restoration of an existing structure that will not
change its appearance
Other..............................................................................................
Project description
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Materials to be used
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Exterior appearance changes
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HODGE CONSTRUCTION COMPANY
BUILDERS/DEVELOPERS
711 S. GILBERT STREET
IOWA CITY, IOWA
Project: No.:
Subject:
Sheet_ of Date:
Prepared By: - Scale:
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REORDER # 9124823
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HODGE CONSTRUCTION
BUILDERS/DEVELOPERS
711 S. GILBERT STREET
IOWA CITY, IOWA
COMPANY
Project: No.:
Subject:
Sheet _ of Date:
Prepared By: Scale:
Doit
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REORDER h 9124823
Staff Report
May 13, 2010
Historic Review for 923 Dearborn Stmet
District: Dearborn Street Conservation District
Classification: Non -Contributing
The applicant, Annadora Khan, is requesting approval for a proposed alteration/ addition project at 923
Dearborn St, a non-contributing property in the Dearborn Street Conservation District. The project consists
of a second story addition.
Applicable Regulations and Guidelines:
4. 0 Iowa City Historic Pmsenavt n Gatdelnes forAlterations
4.4 Mass and Rooflines
4.7 Windows
S.0 Iowa Cityflastoni Pmrerrxataon Gsridelinesforfldditions
5.1 Expansion of the Building Footprint
Staff Comments
This one and one-half story gable roof house features the entrance on the gable end and appears to have
originally been the mirror image of 921 next door. It was built in c.1946. Windows are double hung.
Exterior alterations include the application of replacement siding, an area of decorative brick on the front
facade, and a small addition on the rear. A newer double car garage is located to the rear of the lot. The is
house is not representative of any particular style, but illustrates a very basic type, the simple gable roofed
cottage. It is not architecturally outstanding and is considered non-contributing in the Dearborn Street
Conservation District.
The applicant is proposing to raise the roof of the house approximately 7.5' and construct dormers on both
sides of the house in order to increase the amount of usable space in the attic level. The roof pitch will
remain the same, siding will be installed to match the existing siding, and new windows will be installed on
the second level. The windows are shown as casement windows.
The guidelines recommend that additions be consistent with the existing building. It is not recommended to
construct additions that expand the historic house vertically and increases its overall height. It is
recommended that dormers be added to make attic space inhabitable.
Staff believes that the non-contributing nature of this house allows the discussion of a vertical addition to
take place. If this house were non-contributing because of alterations to the historic structure, staff would
not recommend the roof to be raised because this would cause the house to be even further from being
considered contributing. However, since the house is considered non-contributing because of the lack of
architectural style and integrity to the district, the raising of the roof does not further detract from the
possibility of the property becoming contributing.
Given the non-contributing nature of this house and the non-contributing nature of the south end of
Dearborn St, staff believes that the increased height will not significantly impact the historic integrity of the
house or the district. However, in order to create a more balanced front fagade, staff recommends that the
second story windows on the front elevation be of the same type (double -hung) and size as the fast floor
windows. Staff also recommends that additional windows be added to the front facade to prevent large
uninterrupted areas of siding.
RecommendedJfotion
Move to approve a Certificate of Appropriateness for the project at 923 Dearborn St with the following
conditions:
The siding, trim, and other details matching the existing appearance of the house;
The new windows being either solid wood or metal clad solid wood windows; and
The front elevation including additional windows, with the final front elevation to be subject to
staff approval.
Application for Historic Review
Application for alterations to the historic landmarks or
properties located in a historic district or conservation
district pursuant to Iowa City Code Section 14-4C.
Guidelines for the Historic Review process, explanation of
the process and regulations can be found in the Iowa City
Historic Preservation Handbook, which is available in the
Planning & Community Development office at City Hall or
online at: www.icgov.org/HistoricPreservation
For Staff Use: j J
Date submitted: / / 0
❑,,Aeertificate of No material Effect
Rr Certif,tte of Appropriateness
17 Major review
❑ Intermediate review
❑ Minor review
The Historic Preservation Commission does not review applications for compliance with building
and zoning codes. Work must comply with all appropriate codes and be reviewed by the Building
Inspection Division prior to the issuance of a building permit.
Meeting Schedule: The HPC meets the second Thursday of each month. During the summer months, the
HPC may also meet on the fourth Thursday. Applications are due in the PCD office by noon on Thursday
two weeks prior to the meeting. See attached document for application deadlines and meeting dates.
-.-
(Please5,check primary contact person)
❑ Property Owner Name:
Email: Gl— a, W e ne Number: (,?/JJ f
Address:
City: D WA State: _ Zip Coder-
❑ Contractor / Consultant Name: /
Email:
Address:
City:
Address:
Use of Property:
Phone Number: (
State:
Proposed Project Information
Zip Code:
Date Constructed (if known):
Historic Designation
(Maps are located in the Historic Preservation Handbook)
❑ This property is a local historic landmark.
OR
This Property is within a historic or conservation district (choose location):
❑ Brown Street Historic District
❑ East College Street Historic District
❑ Northside Historic District
❑ Woodlawn Historic District
❑ College Hill Conservation District
❑ Governor -Lucas Street Conservation District
Within the district, this property is classified as:
Eln Contributing P Nocontributing
❑ College Green Historic District
❑ Longfellow Historic District
❑ Summit Street Historic District
❑ Clark Street Conservation District
earborn Street Conservation District
❑ Nonhistoric
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Staff Report
Historic Review for 730 N Linn Street
District: Brown Street Historic District
Classification: Contributing
May 13, 2010
The applicants, Scott & Thane Kading, are requesting approval for a proposed addition project at 730 N Linn
St, a contributing property in the Brown Street Historic District. The project consists of the construction of
an attached garage.
Applicable Regulations and Guidelines:
0 Iowa City historic Preservation Guidelines forAlterations
4.4 Mass and Rooflines
4.7 Windows
4.13 Site and Landscaping
_ . 0 Iowa City h'istoni Pmsenvtion Guidel nes for�4dditions
5.1 Expansion of Building Footprint
KO Iowa City Historic Preservation Guidelsnes forNew Construction
6.2 New Outbuildings
Staff Comments
This house is an Organic Cottage with Queen Anne style detailing. It is covered with narrow clapboards and
has a hip roof with projecting gable sections typical of the Organic Cottage form. There are two-story
projecting bays on the north and the south, with the southern bay having clipped corners. The front porch
fills the ell as well as covering the front facade. Turned porch posts, a spindle frieze, and turned balusters add
a Queen Anne feeling to the porch. The screened side porch was a later addition.
The applicant is proposing to construct a two-story addition to the south side of the property. The ground
floor is proposed to be an attached garage. A materials list has not been submitted, but the applicant
indicated that they would match everything to the existing.
The guidelines allow for the construction of compatible additions. The guidelines also recommend against,
but do not disallow, attached garages. Finally, the guidelines recommend for vehicular access to be provided
from an alley when available, only allowing for access from the street when alley access is not feasible.
In Staff's opinion, the scale and mass of the addition is not compatible with this house. Furthermore, the
proposed addition does not meet the guideline for vehicular access from an alley. Staff believes that there is a
way to construct an attached garage on this property, provided the design does not overwhelm or distract
from the historic character of the house. Staff also believes that a material list, including siding, roofing,
foundation, window, and door specification, should be submitted in order to evaluate the proposal fully.
Staff recommends for the applicant to work with a design professional to create a suitable garage addition for
this property.
The applicant has been made aware of staff's concerns, but chose to bring this design forward to gauge the
opinion of the Commission.
Recommendea'ffotion
Move to defer a Certificate of Appropriateness for the project at 730 N Linn St until a design that meets the
guidelines is submitted.
Application for Historic Review
Application for alterations to the historic landmarks or
properties located in a historic district or conservation
district pursuant to Iowa City Code Section 14-4C.
Guidelines for the Historic Review process, explanation of
the process and regulations can be found in the Iowa City
Historic Preservation Handbook, which is available in the
Planning & Community Development office at City Hall or
online at: www.icgov.org/HistoricPreservation
For Staff Use: y�
Date submitted: " 1 /2ci(/ lu
❑_, certificate of No material Effect
LH" Certificate of Appropriateness
❑ Major review
❑ Intermediate review
❑ Minor review
The Historic Preservation Commission does not review applications for compliance with building
and zoning codes. Work must comply with all appropriate codes and be reviewed by the Building
Inspection Division prior to the issuance of a building permit.
Meeting Schedule: The HPC meets the second Thursday of each month. During the summer months, the
HPC may also meet on the fourth Thursday. Applications are due in the PCD office by noon on Thursday
two weeks prior to the meeting. See attached document for application deadlines and meeting dates.
(Please check primary contact person)
❑ Property Owner Name: C Q-ff 4- i 0Af4 E jai 1 6—
Email: cc,,? Phone Number: (3o ) 4 7 (-' -
Address: 15 0
City: 10 0 A C l r y State: i A Zip Code: 5 Z 24.5"
❑ Contractor / Consultant Name: -ri t- Co ti► S 7+C U C. 7, d
Email: Phone Number: (3 l9) Iv j 1- 6 -7 4 L
Address:
City:
State:
Proposed Project Information
Zip Code:
Address: -73N 1_1 PJ /J
Use of Property: 1-10 V 5 6 Date Constructed (if known):
Historic Designation
(Maps are located in the Historic Preservation Handbook)
❑ This property is a local historic landmark.
OR
❑ This Property is within a historic or conservation district (choose location):
Brown Street Historic District ❑ College Green Historic District
❑ East College Street Historic District ❑ Longfellow Historic District
❑ Northside Historic District ❑ Summit Street Historic District
❑ Woodlawn Historic District ❑ Clark Street Conservation District
❑ College Hill Conservation District ❑ Dearborn Street Conservation District
❑ Governor -Lucas Street Conservation District
Within th district, this property is classified as:
Contributing tlif Noncontributing ❑ Nonhistoric
Scott and Thane Kading
730 N Linn Garage addition
April 28th, 2010
We respectfully request to be able to build a garage at 730 N Linn St.
This is a property that was completely run down and in horrible shape when we
purchased it in 2005. We have spent a lot of time and money to restore and update this
house. Gone are the bats and squirrels living in the house, rotted facia and siding,
broken windows and general disrepair. We strongly feel our work has made this house
a great improvement to the neighborhood.
In 2007 we were granted a certificate of appropriateness to construct a carriage house
on our property from the historical preservation commission. After much due diligence
and shopping this around to numerous contractors, every one of the bids came back as
too expensive. It is also important to note that there are virtually no carriage house
garages in the north side neighborhood.
After much debate, we finally settled on an attached garage as a less expensive way to
reach our goals and still maintain a very nice looking older house. To make sure we
weren't being too out of line, we did some research around neighborhood. Of the 42
houses on the same block as ours or on adjacent blocks to us and all in the historic
neighborhood, half of them have garages. Of those 21, 11 of them have attached
garages.
. L
Probably Wclosest example to what we would like to do is at 6 Bella Vista Place.
If you have any questions or concerned, please call me at (319)430-0606.
Sincerely,
tt Ka ino
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Staff Report
Historic Review for 604 Grant Street
District: Longfellow Historic District
Classification: Contributing
May 13, 2010
The applicant, Heidi Anderson, is requesting approval for a proposed addition project at 604 Grant St, a
contributing property in the Longfellow Historic District. The project consists of an addition to the rear, an
addition to the north, and alteration to the carport.
Applicable Regulations and Guidelines:
0 Iowa City Historic Preservation Guidelnes for,4lterations
4.4 Mass and Rooflines
4.7 Windows
4.9 Porches
S. 0 Iowa City Historic Preservation Guidel nes for,4dditaons
5.1 Expansion of Building Footprint
Staff Comments
This two-story house with gable roof is a simple example of the Colonial Revival style. The three bayfa§ade
features an offset, columned, and pedimented entrance. Windows are six over six double -hung. A carport
has been attached to the south side. The Commission has previously approved the porch construction, the
demolition of the carport, and the construction of a detached garage.
The applicant is proposing an addition to the rear of the property and an addition to the north side of the
house. The applicant is also proposing to retain the carport on the south elevation.
Carport
The applicant is proposing to install columns to hold up the carport roof and remove the chains that are
supporting it. The new columns would match the ones that are being created for the front porch. This
carport may have been a side porch at some point in history.
The guidelines recommend the reconstruction of historic porches and removing non -historic features that
detract from the house. In Staff's opinion, the removal of the non -historic chains will improve the
appearance of the house and the installation of the columns will bring the house closer to its original
appearance.
Rear addition
The applicant is proposing to construct a 9'10" extension to the rear of the house, with a 14' x 9'10" screened
porch behind. The addition will extend the rake of the existing house. New windows that match the
windows on the main house will be installed on the addition. The windows on the rear of the addition manic
the location of the existing windows on the rear elevation. The existing sunroom will be integrated into the
addition. The siding will be wood with an exposure to match the existing siding. The foundation will be
brick to match the existing foundation. The proposed addition also has a gabled dormer.
The rear porch will have a height and roof pitch to match the front porch and carport roof. The piers of the
porch will be brick to match the existing foundation, and wood lattice will be installed to match the existing.
All materials are going to match the existing materials.
The guidelines allow for additions to historic properties. It is recommended that the addition be designed to
mimic the historic features and not diminish the historic character of the structure. Materials used should be
similar to the historic materials.
In Staff's opinion, the addition has been designed to mimic the historic features of the house. Although
visible from the street, the impact on the historic appearance will be minimal. However, staff questions the
need and compatibility of the gable dormer. A more compatible dormer would be a small shed type dormer
or two symmetrically placed, smaller, gable type dormers.
Side addition
The applicant is proposing to construct a 9'8" x 9'10" mudroom addition to the north of the property. The
size, location, and proportions of the mudroom addition are designed to mimic the carport on the south and
to provide symmetry to the house. The mudroom roof will align with the front porch and has a pitch similar
to the carport. The siding, foundation, windows, and materials will match existing.
The guidelines allow for the construction of additions and recommends for additions to be placed to the rear
of the property. When additions are not on the rear of the property, it is recommended for the addition to be
set back at least 18" from the front fagade of the building. The proposed mudroom is set back much more
than 18" from the front of the house.
In Staff's opinion, the side addition has been designed to mimic the historic features of the house and takes
into account the symmetrical nature of the Colonial style. Although visible from the street, the emphasis on
the symmetrical will help the addition not impact the house greatly. However, staff believes that the
foundation of the mudroom should be brick to match the existing foundation on all elevations. Staff believes
the wood foundation would rot over time and is concerned that the change in foundation material would
detract from the compatibility of the addition.
RecommendedMo&L?v
Move to approve a Certificate of Appropriateness for the projects at 604 Grant St with the condition that the
dormer either be removed or redesigned to be more compatible with the Colonial style. The final dormer
design should be subject to approval by Staff and Chair.
Ap, 'ication for Historic Re ew
Application for alterations to the exterior of historic landmarks or properties
located in a historic district or conservation district pursuant to Iowa City
Code Section 14-4C. Guidelines for the Historic Review process, explanation
of the process and regulations can be found in the Iowa City Historic Preservation
Handbook, which is available in the PCD office at City Hall or online at:
www. icgov. org/HPhandbook
Meeting schedule: The HPC meets the secondThursday of each month. During
the summer months, the HPC may also meet on the fourthThursday. Applications
are due in the PCD Office by noon on Thursday two weeks prior to the meeting.
See attached document for application deadlines and meeting dates.
Applicant Information
(Please check primary contact person)
IEOwner .Heidi Anderson. .................................................................
Phone..............................................................................................
604 Grant Street
Address.........................................................................................
Iowa City, Iowa . 52240
.............................................................................zip ...................
email................................................................................................
ElContractor ................................................................................
Address..........................................................................................
.................................. I .............................................. zip ...................
Phone..............................................................................................
email................................................................................................
rol Consultant ,Owen W...agner.. ...........................................................
Address.841 Rundell Street
Iowa City, la 52240
.................................................................................zip ...................
Phone.............................................................................................
.........................................................................................................
email ojwagnered@gmail.com
Application Requirements
Attached are the following items:
Site plan
n Floor plans
Building elevations
E] Photographs
rl Product information
Other..............................................................................
If the proposed project entails an addition, a new structure or
a significant alteration to an existing structure, please submit a
site plan, floor plans, building elevations and photographs.
If the proposed project is a minor alteration to a structure,
please provide drawings and photographs to sufficiently
describe the scope of the project.
Provide a written description of the proposed project on the
second page of this application.
For Staff Use: g17-1 /�
Date submitted ..... ....J..........................
❑ Certificate of No Material Effect
/Certificate of Appropriateness
O�Major review
❑ Intermediate review
❑ Minor review
Property Information
Address of property 604 Grant Street
................................................
....................................................................................................................
Use of property.Single Family
...............................................................
Date constructed (if known).1931
.............................................
Historic Designation
E] This property is a local historic landmark
OR
0 This property is located in the:
rl Brown Street Historic District
College Green Historic District
East College Street Historic District
Q Longfellow Historic District
Summit Street Historic District
0 Woodlawn Historic District
rl Clark Street Conservation District
College Hill Conservation District
rJ Dearborn Street Conservation District
Governor -Lucas Street Conservation District
Within the district, this property is classified as:
rol Contributing
Noncontributing
rl Nonhistoric
Project Type
Alteration of an existing building (ie. siding and window
replacement, skylights, window opening alterations, new
decks, porch reconstruction, baluster repair or similar)
Addition to an existing building (includes decks and ramps)
Demolition of a building or portion of a building (ie. porch,
chimneys, decorative trim, baluster or similar)
E] Construction of new building
ri Repair or restoration of an existing structure that will not
change its appearance
rlOther..............................................................................................
Project description
The scope of this project entails an addition/extension of the rear facade eastward. This construction would add
.....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
approximately 120 square feet of space to the main level (level 1), mostly to the kitchen but also including a half bath off t
.....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
The addition on level 2 would add a master bed and bath of approximately 220 square feet.
.....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
The main exterior impact would be a 80 square foot mud room addition on the northern facade. This would be the
.....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
most visable element from the street. On the opposite side the existing carport would have structural columns added,
.....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
similar to the front porch columns. All three of these elements, (mud room, front porch and carport) would maintain an
.....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
even roof line across the front facade, aiding the unity of the houses appearance.
.....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
On the backside of the house a screened in porch, constructed in a similar manner as the front porch with matching
.....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
masonry piers to the existing brick, a low slope roof following the same lines as the others and painted, where necessary,
.....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
to match the exterior.
.....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
A dormer style extension would also be constructed to unify the east facade and internally provide for more storage.
.....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
This would extend from the existing roof peak eastward to meet the new addition and would be approximately 12 feet
........................................................................................................................................................................................................... .
wide, with 12 inch eaves.
............................................................................................................................................................................................................
Materials to be used
Materials while remain consistent with the prior and ongoing work. Wood siding, sized and painted to match
....................................................................................................................................................... ..
the existing. The windows will likely be Pella Pro -line with the appropriate grilles to match. Flooring on the
.....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
screened porch would be wood and a bead board ceiling, mimicking the front porch. A painted wood lattice
.....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
is shown as well. The interior materials would also match the existing; wood floors, trim -work milled to duplicate the
.....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
.origin....al.
................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
Exterior appearance changes
The major exterior change will be the addition of the mud room, it faces the street most directly. Paired with the existing
.....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
carport on the southern facade this addition should lend balance and symmetry to overall appearance. The second
.....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
exterior change that would have some impact is the 2 1 /2 story addition to the rear of the house. The visual impact to
.....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
street side will be minimized however by its relatively small scale, adding only 9 1/2 feet of interior space to the existing
............................................................................................................................................................................................................
east side of the house. Viewed obliquely from the street the northern facade will be enlarged and the roof extended,
............................................................................................................................................................................................................
the dormer atop the addition should not be obtrusive in any meaningful way. A small but significant change to the
............................................................................................................................................................................................................
exterior will be the removal of the large chains currently supporting the south carport with appropriate structural columns.
............................................................................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................................................................
i
NEW COLUMNS
LEVEL 2
1/8" = V-0"
604 Grant Street
I
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+676
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+674
+678
380
EXISTING
+671
:E LINE
,80
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"v
n Site Plan
604 Grant Street � ,-= N
MINUTES PRELIMINARY
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
APRIL 8, 2010
EMMA J. HARVAT HALL
MEMBERS PRESENT: Kent Ackerson, Esther Baker, Thomas Baldridge, Lindsay Bunting
Eubanks, William Downing, David McMahon, Pam Michaud, Dana
Thomann, Alicia Trimble, Frank Wagner
MEMBERS ABSENT: Ginalie Swaim
STAFF PRESENT: Christina Kuecker
OTHERS PRESENT: Jason Bradley, Suzanne Bradley, Pat Coyle, Mark Kennedy, Steve Miller
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: (become effective only after separate Council action)
None.
CALL TO ORDER:
Chairperson Bunting Eubanks called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. She welcomed Kent Ackerson as
the newest Commission member.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANYTHING NOT ON THE AGENDA:
There was none.
CONSENT AGENDA:
Certificate of Appropriateness:
604 Ronalds Street. Kuecker said this project involves the addition of a skylight on the north elevation,
the non -street side facing elevation. She stated that the house is on a corner, and the south and the west
elevations face the street.
1126 Burlington Street. Kuecker said this project is for the demolition of a chimney on a non-contributing
property in the College Hill Conservation District. She said the reason the property is non-contributing is
that it no longer has a porch and has therefore lost its historic character.
Kuecker stated that staff recommends approval of both applications as presented.
Coyle, the owner of 1126 Burlington Street, said he was available to answer questions. Michaud asked
what happened to the porch. Coyle said that the house had white aluminum siding, which he took off last
week. He said that after removing the siding, it appears that someone removed the porch, perhaps in the
60s or 70s. Coyle was not sure why it had happened.
MOTION: Baker moved to approve the consent agenda items as proposed. Trimble seconded the
motion. The motion carried on a vote of 9-0 (Swaim and Wagner absent).
Historic Preservation Commission
April 8, 2010
Page 2
CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS:
676 Governor Street.
Kuecker said this is the last house on South Governor before the railroad tracks. She said the property
was recently purchased by the applicant, who is proposing to remove two windows. Kuecker said that
one of the windows is a non -original octagon -shaped window on the front porch, and the other is a non -
original slider window on the south elevation. She said the owner would like to remove those windows
and install siding in their place.
Kuecker stated that the second part of the application is to remove the chimneys. She said the applicant
has indicated that one chimney is missing almost all of its mortar, and the other one has suffered quite a
bit of fire damage. Kuecker said the owner feels that the chimneys are therefore structurally unsound.
Kuecker said the third part of the proposal involves the lifting, stabilizing and moving of the outbuilding.
She said the outbuilding would be relocated to either the northeast or the southeast corner of the lot,
allowing for a more usable back yard.
Kuecker said the fourth part of the project is the construction of a fence along the north property line. She
referred to a sketch in the packet and said the fence would be a seven foot six inch privacy fence similar
to those on the neighboring properties.
Kuecker said that staff believes the changes proposed by the applicant will have minimal impact on the
house and property. She said the proposals comply with the guidelines, and the investment and
stabilization will benefit the property in the long term. Kuecker said staff recommends approval of the
application as presented, provided the openings to the removed windows be sided and painted to match
the existing siding.
Kennedy, the owner of the property, said that he would like to make the outbuilding into a potting shed.
He said that a chimney behind it is the only thing holding it up. Kennedy said he plans to shore the
outbuilding up and then pick the whole thing up and take it over to a new slab, set it up true, and repair
the siding. He said he thought it might have been built in the 1930s because of the metal roof.
Bunting Eubanks said it is wonderful to try to preserve an outbuilding, especially one that is historic.
Kennedy agreed that the building has a lot of character. Bunting Eubanks commented on how she liked
that this would also be recycling the materials.
Michaud asked about the height of the fencing. Kennedy said he set that height after he field measured
the fence on the next lot over. He said he would not have a problem bringing it down; it is something he
did not have an exact measurement on.
Michaud asked if the fence would be parallel to the easement or the unpaved alley. Kennedy replied that
he might turn it to follow the unpaved alley, but was not certain yet. Michaud said that if Kennedy
eventually plans to do this, it may look odd to have the fence so high. Kennedy said he thought that too.
He said he would not object to having a six-foot fence, and in fact, it would look better to him.
MOTION: Michaud moved to approve a certificate of appropriateness for the proposed
alteration/demolition project at 676 South Governor Street as presented in the application,
provided the openings of the removed windows be sided and painted to match the existing siding,
Historic Preservation Commission
April 8, 2010
Page 3
with the suggestion that the fence be lower than proposed. McMahon seconded the motion. The
motion carried on a vote of 9-0 (Downing and Swaim absent).
DISCUSSION OF 1127 MAPLE STREET.
Kuecker said the owners would like to build an addition on their house. She said the guidelines do not
really discuss additions on non -historic houses on non -historic streets. Kuecker said that Maple Street
was left out of the National Register nomination for the Longfellow Neighborhood. She stated that when
the City Council adopted the neighborhood, it had to be contiguous, so it included the Maple Street area.
Kuecker showed photographs of Maple Street, which is a street of ranch -style one and two-story
buildings. She said the area is an eclectic post -World War II street.
Bunting Eubanks asked why the street was designated non -historic. Kuecker answered that the street was
developed in the 50s and 60s, and when the area was nominated, none of the structures was more than 50
years old.
Bunting Eubanks asked if the Commission should treat this as a historic home, because it is now of an age
where it could classify. Kuecker replied that typically the Commission, when looking at additions on
non -historic homes, makes sure the addition is compatible with the home and makes sure it won't detract
from the other homes in the neighborhood and to the rear of the property, if possible. She said she feels
the Commission should look at these homes on Maple Street as non -historic homes, even though they
may be over 50 years old now. Kuecker said they are not of a style that is the same as the rest of the
properties within the Longfellow Neighborhood.
Bunting Eubanks asked the owners if they plan to go up or out with the addition. Suzanne Bradley said
they had discussed it both ways. Jason Bradley said they love the neighborhood and their location. He
said the house was meant to be a starter home, so that at this point, they have exceeded the space and will
either have to move or do something with the property.
Jason Bradley said that ideally, they would like to go over to the side and then back, where the driveway
is. He said it would be kind of an L shape.
McMahon said that to make this area of houses historic would make it a sore thumb in the neighborhood.
He said it is obviously a ranch and will always look like one, and the owners need to expand.
Suzanne Bradley said they are trying to get a clearer idea of what their. parameters are. Michaud asked
how many feet there are to work with from the east wall to the property line. Jason Bradley said that it is
about 22 feet. Suzanne Bradley said she left five or six feet as a buffer.
Bunting Eubanks said the thing is to be compatible with the neighborhood. Jason Bradley said his goal is
to find out if they should bother to go forward with their plans and design. The consensus of the
Commission was that the Bradleys should go forward with their plans.
Suzanne Bradley said that they would like to go up at least a half story if not two stories on the addition
part. Bunting Eubanks said that if this is not in an area of historic homes, the Commission is not as
worried, just as long as it doesn't dwarf the neighbors. Suzanne Bradley said she would not want this look
like some giant building.
Historic Preservation Commission
April 8, 2010
Page 4
Kennedy said what he is talking about is trying to go a story and one half or two stories, and because of
the natural slope of the back yard, possibly extending the basement into a walkout. Kuecker said the
owners are also interested in finding out if it would be okay to raise the roof on the current house, if it
goes to two stories, and if it is okay if the addition is one story or two stories. She said those are the sorts
of parameters the owners are interested in clarifying.
Bunting Eubanks asked Commission members if it is okay for the owners to raise the roof or change the
pitch of the roof. Michaud said she feels the pitch is a defining characteristic, and increasing it would not
look right on the house. She asked how many square feet the owners want to end up with. Suzanne
Bradley said they would like to have 1,800 to 2,000 square feet, and the house currently has about 800.
She said the yard is very big.
Suzanne Bradley asked about the possibility of a drive -under garage. Jason Bradley said they have
limited building space, and they have never had a garage so it would be nice to have a place to store their
car. There was no objection by Commission members to this.
Suzanne Bradley asked, if they do the addition and use reclaimed lumber of some sort, would it be
possible to match them to the addition so that there would be some cohesion. Bunting Eubanks said that
would be advisable. Michaud suggested fiber cement board, which she said would hold paint a lot longer
than siding.
Suzanne Bradley asked, if the foundation line that is sometimes stone or brick, would it be possible to put
that around the other. She said that the other is cinderblock. Bunting Eubanks said she thinks that would
make it look nicer. McMahon said the bottom line is that the Commission would only object if it is too
big and sticks out in some way.
DISCUSSION OF THE HISTORIC PRESERVATION GUIDELINES:
Kuecker said that the final draft is finished. She said that Baker has volunteered to review it for
grammatical and punctuation errors. Kuecker said that the formal process for adopting the guidelines is
somewhat vague. She stated that the Conunission votes on the guidelines, and then the City Council
votes on the guidelines, but there is often little public discussion.
Kuecker said one of the criticisms she has heard is that no one knows what is in the guidelines or is
allowed public comment. She suggested therefore sending out a letter to all the property owners with
properties in the historic and conservation districts for review of the final draft, inviting public comment,
and then having a formal public hearing about the guidelines at the Commission's next meeting. Kuecker
said the Commission would then make a recommendation to the City Council to adopt the guidelines.
Kuecker said the letter would reference the draft guidelines on the website and note that a copy would be
available at City Hall for review. The consensus of the Commission was to follow the procedure as
recommended by Kuecker.
Bunting Eubanks asked Kuecker to briefly discuss energy efficiency at the presentation she would give at
the Commission's public hearing. Kuecker said she was planning to have a short, 15-minute presentation
about what has changed in the guidelines, how they are more user-friendly, how more things do not have
to come before the Commission, and referring to the helpful tips within the guidelines.
Historic Preservation Commission
April 8, 2010
Page 5
CONSIDERATION OF THE MINUTES FOR FEBRUARY 11 2010.
MOTION: McMahon moved to approve the minutes of the Historic Preservation Commission's February
11, 2010 meeting. Baker seconded the motion. The motion carried on a vote of 9-0 (Downing and
Swaim absent).
ELECTION OF OFFICERS:
Trimble was elected Chair of the Commission by acclamation, and McMahon was elected Vice Chair by
acclamation.
OTHER:
Kuecker said that on May 8, Friends of Historic Preservation, the Historic Preservation Commission, the
Center on Sustainable Communities, and ECO Iowa City will be hosting Bob Yapp to hold a session at
the Public Library on restoring windows. Kuecker said she would send out more information as the date
nears.
ADJOURNMENT:
The meeting was adjourned at 6:51 p.m.
Minutes submitted by Anne Schulte
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Iowa City Historic Preservation Com.mission
Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
A resource for historic Iowa City
DRAFT
)ntains guidelines for the historic
view of properties in historic and
nservation districts and historic
idmarks; an explanation of the
:-)toric preservation process and
gulations; and information about best
actices for historic property owners.
Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
Table of Contents
1.0
Historic Preservation and Conservation in Iowa City ...................................
1
1.1
"Why should a community like Iowa City care about historic preservation?.............
1
1.2
The Iowa City Historic Preservation Commission ...............................
1
1.3
Districts and Landmarks ..................................................
2
1.4
Classification of Properties in Districts ........................................
2
1.5
Historic Designation Process ...............................................
4
2.0
Historic Review...............................................................
5
2.1
When is Historic Review Required? ..........................................
5
2.2
Historic Review Process ..................................................
6
2.3
Application for Historic Review .............................................
7
2.4
Certificates of No Material Effect ............................................
7
2.5
Minor Review, Pre -Approved Items and Certificates of Appropriateness .............
7
2.6
Intermediate Review and Certificates of Appropriateness .........................
8
2.7
Major Review and Certificates of Appropriateness ..............................
8
2.8
Certificate of Economic Hardship ............................................
9
2.9
Appeals...............................................................
9
3.0
About
the Guidelines for Historic Preservation .......................................
10
3.1
Iowa City Guidelines.....................................................
10
3.2
Exceptions to the Iowa City Guidelines .......................................
11
3.3
Additional Historic Preservation Guidelines ....................................
12
3.4
Building Code and Zoning Ordinances .......................................
13
4.0
Guidelines
for Alterations........................................................
14
4.1
Balustrades and Handrails .................................................
14
4.2
Chimneys..............................................................
16
4.3
Doors.................................................................
16
4.4
Energy Efficiency........................................................
18
4.5
Foundations..........................................................
20
4.6
Gutters and Downspouts ..................................................
21
4.7
Mass and Rooflines......................................................
22
4.8
Masonry...............................................................
24
4.9
Paint and Color.........................................................
25
4.10
Porches...............................................................
26
4.11
Siding.................................................................
28
4.12
Site and Landscaping....................................................
30
4.13
Windows..............................................................
31
4.14
Wood.................................................................
34
5.0
Guidelines
for Additions.........................................................
36
5.1
Expansion of Building Footprint .............................................
36
5.2
Decks and Ramps .......................................................
40
6.0
Guidelines
for New Construction..................................................
42
6.1
New Primary Structures ...................................................
42
6.2
New Outbuildings........................................................
46
7.0
Guidelines
for Demolition........................................................
48
7.1
Demolition of Whole Structures or Significant Features ..........................
48
7.2
Prevention of Demolition by Neglect .........................................
48
Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
8.0
Neighborhood District Guidelines ................................................
49
8.1 Longfellow Neighborhood ................................................
49
8.2 College Hill Neighborhood ...............................................
51
8.3 Woodlawn Historic District ...............................................
52
8.4 Northside Neighborhood .................................................
53
9.0
Design Guidelines for Multi -Family Buildings .......................................
54
9.1 Site Elements.........................................................
54
9.2 Architectural Elements ..................................................
55
10.0
The Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation ............................
59
11.0
Title 14: Iowa City Zoning Code .................................................
60
11.1 Chapter 2, Article B - Multi -Family Residential Zones ..........................
60
11.2 Chapter 3, Article B - Historic District and Conservation District Overlay...........
60
11.3 Chapter 7, Article A - Boards and Commissions ..............................
60
11.4 Chapter 8, Article E - Historic Preservation Commission Approval Procedures......
61
11.5 Chapter 9, Article B - Historic Preservation Definitions .........................
61
12.0
Residential Architectural Styles of Iowa City .......................................
62
12.1 American Foursquare ...................................................
62
12.2 Colonial Revival.......................................................
63
12.3 Craftsman............................................................
64
12.4 Craftsman Bungalow ....................................................
65
12.5 Eclectic..............................................................
66
12.6 Italianate.............................................................
67
12.7 Period Revival Cottages and Houses .......................................
68
12.8 Prairie School.........................................................
69
12.9 Queen Anne..........................................................
70
12.10 Vernacular............................................................
71
13.0
Landmark Properties and Districts ...............................................
72
13.1 Local Historic Landmarks ................................................
72
13.2 Historic and Conservation Districts .........................................
74
14.0
Historic and Conservation Districts Description and History ............................
75
14.1 Longfellow Neighborhood Districts .........................................
75
14.2 College Hill Neighborhood Districts ........................................
76
14.3 Woodlawn Historic District ...............................................
77
14.4 Northside Neighborhood Districts ..........................................
78
15.0
Historic and Conservation Districts ...............................................
79
16.0
Longfellow Neighborhood Districts ...............................................
80
17.0
College Hill Neighborhood Districts ..............................................
85
18.0
Woodlawn Historic District .....................................................
88
19.0
Northside Neighborhood Districts ................................................
89
A.0
Appendices.................................................................
92
A.1 Definitions............................................................
92
A.2 Architectural Terms .....................................................
94
A.3 Historic Preservation Documents ..........................................
97
Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
1.0 Historic Preservation and Conservation in Iowa City
1.1 "Why should a community like Iowa City care about historic
preservation?"
"The simple answer is that conserving old buildings and neighborhoods makes a good
community better. Iowa City is blessed with a collection of fine, well -maintained older
neighborhoods and individual landmarks which are recognized and appreciated by the entire
community. Historic preservation has the potential to enhance the quality of life and economic
well-being of current and future residents. "
Marlys Svendsen, Iowa City Historic Preservation Plan
In 2008, the Iowa City City Council adopted the Iowa City Historic Preservation Plan that was
prepared by architectural historian Marlys Svendsen. The plan carefully and thoughtfully
evaluated Iowa City's historic buildings and neighborhoods and set forth a plan of action for
their stewardship. Historic neighborhoods and buildings are protected by the designation of
historic districts, conservation districts and historic landmarks. Designation provides for the
careful management of these resources by the Iowa City Historic Preservation Commission
through the historic review process. The purpose of historic review is to preserve or conserve
historic architectural resources by discouraging alterations that either destroy the unique
characteristics of a building or alter the character of historic neighborhoods.
1.2 The Iowa City Historic Preservation Commission
The Iowa City Historic Preservation Commission was created by local ordinance in December
1982. Its mission statement as described in the Iowa City Historic Preservation Plan is "To
identify, protect, and preserve the community's historic resources in order to enhance the
quality of life and economic well-being of current and future generations." Its members are
citizen volunteers appointed by the City Council. Many of the members reside in historic
districts and have expertise in fields related to historic preservation.
The Purpose of the Historic Preservation Commission is to:
1. Promote the educational, cultural, economic and general welfare of the public through the
protection, enhancement and perpetuation of historic districts and historic and cultural
landmarks located in the city;
2. Safeguard the city's historic, aesthetic and cultural heritage by preserving districts, historic
landmarks and properties of historical, architectural and cultural significance;
3. Stabilize and improve property values by conserving historic properties;
4. Foster civic pride in the legacy of beauty and achievements of the past;
5. Protect and enhance the city's attractions to tourists and visitors and thereby support and
stimulate business;
6. Strengthen the economy of the city; and
7. Promote the use of districts of historic and cultural significance as sites for the education,
pleasure and welfare of the people of the city.
The Powers and Duties of the Historic Preservation Commission:
1. The Commission is authorized to conduct studies for the identification and designation of
"conservation districts", "historic districts" and "historic landmarks". The Commission may
proceed at its own initiative or upon a petition from any person, group or association.
2. The Commission reviews and acts upon all applications for Certificates of Appropriateness.
3. The Commission shall further the efforts of historic preservation in the city by making
recommendations to the City Council and City commissions and boards on preservation
issues when appropriate, by encouraging the protection and enhancement of structures
with historical, architectural or cultural value, and by encouraging persons and
organizations to become involved in preservation activities.
Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
1.3 Districts and Landmarks
Historic and conservation districts, and historic landmarks, are designated by ordinance by the
Iowa City City Council with recommendations from the Historic Preservation Commission, the
State Historical Society of Iowa, and the Planning and Zoning Commission. Recommendations for
the historic designation of districts and properties are also received from professional architectural
historians following an intensive survey and evaluation of a neighborhood's historic properties and
resources.
Historic Districts
Historic districts are geographically cohesive areas with significant concentrations of buildings and
other resources that possess a high degree of historic integrity. Historic districts are typically first
nominated to and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and then designated as local
historic districts. Designation as a local district provides the Historic Preservation Commission with
the authority to review changes to properties that may affect the historic character of the property
and the district. The overall character of a historic district must convey a distinct sense of time and
place.
Conservation Districts
Conservation districts are neighborhoods that appear similar to historic districts in character.
However, because they have fewer properties that retain a high degree of historic integrity or
contribute to a distinct sense of time and place within the neighborhood, they do not qualify as
historic districts based on State Code. Because they are still considered worthy of protection, City
Council may designate these neighborhoods for historic conservation.
Iowa City Historic Landmarks
Historic landmarks are buildings that are individually significant for their architectural and/or
cultural merits. Like historic districts, these properties are typically listed on the National Register
of Historic Places, or are eligible for listing on the National Register.
1.4 Classification of Properties in Districts
Properties in conservation and historic districts are classified based on their historic and
architectural significance and integrity. Because neighborhoods change over time, these districts
typically have some structures that are not historic or that have been severely altered. Buildings in
historic or conservation districts may range from outstanding historic landmarks to architecturally
incompatible, modern structures. Depending on the classification of a property, certain exceptions
to the guidelines or financial incentives may be applicable.
To determine the classification of a specific property in a historic or conservation district, refer to
the Table of Contents to locate the appropriate district map that indicates the property's
classification. To determine if a property has been designated a historic landmark, see section
13.0 Historic Landmarks.
Contributing and Noncontributing Properties
When districts are evaluated and nominated for preservation and conservation, individual
properties are classified as either contributing or noncontributing to the historic character of the
proposed district.
Contributing Properties
In historic districts, to be classified as a contributing property the primary building must (1) have an
architectural style and character that is clearly evident and (2) have been constructed during the
district's period of significance and relate to a significant historic context in the neighborhood's
history. The period of significance and the historic context(s) for each district are determined by
professional consultants prior to designation. Contributing properties in historic districts may be
eligible for Federal and State tax incentives for substantial rehabilitation.
(Continued on page 3)
Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
Conservation districts tend to exhibit a greater variety of building styles from different time
periods and are less architecturally cohesive, so their historic contexts are more loosely
defined. The primary determining factors in classifying a property in a conservation district are
(1) the historic integrity of the primary building and (2) the age of the primary building, which
typically must be at least 50 years old at the time a district is designated.
Noncontributing and Non -historic Properties
Properties that are not classified as contributing are classified as noncontributing.
Noncontributing properties have a primary building that has been significantly altered or that is
non -historic. Non -historic buildings are buildings constructed after a district's period of
significance or were less than 50 years old at the time the district was designated. Refer to
Section 14.0 for information on Iowa City's Historic and Conservation Districts.
These properties are NOT exempt from historic preservation regulations, but exceptions to the
guidelines are possible. The rehabilitation of noncontributing historic buildings is encouraged.
The demolition of existing non -historic buildings and construction of new, more architecturally
compatible buildings are allowed.
During the process of preparing the survey and evaluation for each historic neighborhood and,
for historic districts, the National Register of Historic Places nomination, each property is
visually inspected and historically researched by a professional architectural historian. The
Commission uses this information to determine the classification of each property. However,
the Commission may vote to change the classification of a property under the following
conditions:
1. Additional information is discovered that documents it has greater cultural significance than
originally determined.
2. It is determined that the original research and inspection did not conclusively or accuratelyL.
y
document the architectural or historic fabric of the property.
3. A property has been substantially altered since it was originally classified.
4. A property has reached the fifty-year threshold for determining historical significance.
Periodic surveys will be conducted to re-evaluate the integrity of all the buildings that have
changed and a report will be submitted for Commission consideration to reclassify such
properties. An owner may also submit a letter to the Preservation Planner requesting re-
evaluation, if he or she feels that their property has been incorrectly classified. The
Preservation Planner will submit the request, along with a report and recommendation, to the
Commission for a determination.
Landmarks and Key Properties
Landmarks are properties that are individually significant because of their architectural quality,
integrity and historic or cultural significance. Iowa City has over 40 local historic landmarks that
are subject to the historic preservation regulations. Properties classified as key are either
landmarks or are eligible for designation as landmarks. Key properties are subject to the same
historic preservation guidelines as contributing buildings in historic districts. Key properties and
landmarks may be eligible for Federal and State tax incentives for substantial rehabilitation.
See section 13.0 Historic Landmarks for a complete list of landmarks. Key properties are
illustrated on the district maps in sections 15.0 through 19.0. For a list of properties located
outside existing districts that are eligible for landmark designation, contact the Preservation
Planner.
Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
1.5 Historic Designation Process
.
I.
Property classiiicatlon
l�^�J
Letter from State`
I
State and Federal ap-
proval,
Historic Preservation Plan
Goals and objectives
Neighborhoods
Surveyed and evaluated
District and landmark recom-
mendations
guidelines & maps
icts only)'
I
Historic Preservation Commission
public hearing
State recommendation
* Planning & Zoning Commission public
discussion
** City Council public hearing
City Council votes (3)
Pass & adopt
Neighborhood or Com-
mission initiation
Reconnaissance survey`
* Neighborhood meetings
(1-2)
* Notification of property
owners by mail.
** Public notification printed in
newspaper
Historic Districts and Landmarks are designated by rezoning a properly or area to Historic District Overlay (OHD)
Z Conservation Districts are designated by rezoning an area to Conservation District Overly (OCD)
4
Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
2.0 Historic Review
The historic preservation guidelines contained in this handbook will be used by the Historic
Preservation Commission to determine if a proposed change to a landmark or property in a
district is compatible with the historic character of the district and property. The intent of the
historic review process is:
• To ensure that changes to landmarks and properties in districts do not substantially alter or
destroy the defining architectural character of the building, site or neighborhood.
• To provide property owners, contractors and consultants with technical assistance and
alternatives to ensure that proposed projects conform with the historic preservation
guidelines.
2.1 When is Historic Review Required?
Historic review by the Commission is required for all construction projects that require a
regulated permit, and change the exterior features of any property in a historic or conservation
district, or any historic landmark. The proposed project must be approved by the Preservation
Planner, Preservation Planner and Chair of the Historic Preservation Commission, or the full
Commission according to the level of review required before a building permit will be issued by
Housing and Inspection Services. Examples of common projects that require a regulated permit
and historic review are:
• Application or reapplication of new
siding.
• Construction of decks and ramps.
• Replacement or addition of windows.
(including sash replacement).
• Adding skylights.
• Demolition of a garage or other
outbuilding.
• Construction of new dormers.
• Porch construction, reconstruction or
replacement.
• Removal of porches, trim, brackets,
chimneys, dormers or other defining
architectural features.
• Construction of additions.
• Construction of a new garage.
• Reapplication of roof shingles on
commercial and multi -family buildings.
NOTE: The application of siding, window replacement, and demolition of portions of a building
require a building permit for properties within districts and landmarks. For properties that are
not within a historic or conservation district, and that have not been designated landmarks,
these actions do not require a permit.
Examples of common projects that may not require a regulated permit and need not be
reviewed by the Commission are:
• Exterior painting.
• Window repair (excluding sash
replacement).
• Construction of fences that are less
than 6 feet high (4 feet high in front
yard).
• Installation of new storm windows.
• Construction of accessory structures,
such as garden sheds, less than 144
square feet in area.
• Replacement of external gutters and
downspouts.
A complete list of work exempt from permit can be found in Amendments to: International
Residential Code, International Building Code, which is available through Housing and
Inspection Services.
3
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Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
2.2 Historic Review Process
Srtbtnit application
-evaI144pon
The Commission strongly recommends meeting
with the Preservation Planner prior to submitting
an application.
An application may be obtained from the Planning
Department or on the City's website at
www.icgov.orglHistoricPreservation.
The Preservation Planner will determine the type
of Historic Review required. Examples of projects
covered by review types can be found in sections
2.5-2.7 of the Handbook.
3
b Rev16w-by Commission Revie*by Planner RevieW by mmissio
Chair andPlanner Chair afapfler
0
N_
I May be forwarded for more
meeting py mail
.......................... y
OR
i
i
Copy transmitted to: i
Owner & Contractor
Building Inspection (HIS)
City Clerk
Appeatl
Continue Permitting
Process Applications for landmark properties or properties
within Historic Districts may be appealed to City
Council.
Enforced by Housing &
Inspection Services with Applications for properties within Conservation Districts
Final approval by Historic may be appealed to the Board of Adjustment.
Preservation Planner if
necessary
6
Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
2.3 Application for Historic Review
An application for historic review must be submitted to the Preservation Planner at City Hall,
410 E Washington St, Iowa City. The application should include dimensioned drawings,
sketches, photographs, text, product samples, or other exhibits that accurately portray the work
to be done. The Commission or Preservation Planner may request additional information if the
application cannot be fairly evaluated as submitted. A pre -application conference with the
Preservation Planner is recommended to help ensure that a proposed project will comply with
the guidelines. Application forms may be obtained from the Planning and Community
Development Department, Housing and Inspection Services, or on the web at www.icgov.org/
HistoricPreservation.
Once the application is received, the Preservation Planner will make a preliminary
determination regarding the appropriate level of review. The various levels of review — detailed
below — ensure expeditious handling of applications and the use of the full Commission's skills
and expertise when necessary. The criteria for determining the type of review include the effect
on the appearance of the significant architectural features, materials and processes proposed,
compliance with Guidelines, the scope and type of the project, and the significance of the
property the proposed project involves, among other considerations.
2.4 Certificates of No Material Effect
The Preservation Planner and the Commission Chair or the Chair's designee may issue a
Certificate of No Material Effect if the Preservation Planner's preliminary review reveals the
proposed work will not alter the appearance of significant architectural features and review by
the full Commission is not required. The Certificate of No Material Effect will be issued to the
owner and/or contractor, and will be filed with Housing and Inspection Services and the City
Clerk.
Generally, projects consisting only of repair work or replacement of existing damaged or
deteriorated features with like materials will be issued Certificates of No Material Effect.
3
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2.5 Minor Review, Pre -Approved Items and Certificates of Appropriateness
0
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The minor review process is utilized for the most routine project types that have in the past
garnered Commission consensus. In order to expedite the historic review process, the
Preservation Planner will review these applications independently to verify that proposals
comply fully with the Guidelines, require no exceptions to the guidelines, contain no problematic
elements, and involve only materials, processes, or work which have been pre -approved by the
full Commission. Contact the Preservation Planner for a list of projects that have been pre -
approved.
A Certificate of Appropriateness will be issued to the owner and/or contractor for projects that
satisfy the minor review requirements, and will be filed with Housing and Inspection Services
and the City Clerk. If the project does not meet the requirements for a Certificate of
Appropriateness under minor review, the applicant will be advised on corrective measures in
order to meet the minor review requirements, or the application will be forwarded to undergo
the intermediate or full review. The applicant may also request the application be forwarded to
the full Commission for review.
Pre -Approved Items
The alterations listed below qualify for a minor review. These alterations are ones that
meet the guidelines and have been approved by the Commission to be applicable to
most structures in historic and conservation districts. Staff approval may be given for:
* Window replacement of certain types * Handrails
* Siding replacement * Deck construction
The list of "pre -approved" items may expand as new products are introduced into the market
and new products are brought before the Commission. Please contact the Preservation
Planner at 356-5243 to discuss your project.
Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
2.6 Intermediate Review and Certificates of Appropriateness
An intermediate review is required for all applications except those involving landmark properties
and contributing properties in historic districts (which require a major review), and projects which
do not qualify for a Certificate of No Material Effect or a minor review (because they will alter the
exterior appearance of the structure, or because the project requires the use of materials or
processes which have not been pre -approved).
The intermediate review is conducted by the Preservation Planner and the Commission Chair or
the Chair's designee. Applications which comply fully with the Guidelines, require no exceptions to
the. Guidelines, and contain no problematic elements will be issued a Certificate of
Appropriateness, and will be filed with Housing and Inspection Services and the City Clerk.
Applicants are encouraged to continue working with the Preservation Planner until areas of the
application identified as problematic are sufficiently altered. The applicant may also request the
application be forwarded to the full Commission for review. The Preservation Planner and/or the
Commission Chair or Chair's designee may also recommend projects undergo full review if an
abbreviated review is seen as inappropriate given the scope and type of project proposed.
Examples of types of projects that qualify for Intermediate Review:
• Alterations: All alterations except changes in window type, pattern or dimension, relocations of
door openings and addition of dormers. See section 4.0 Guidelines for Alterations for a listing
of project types that qualify as alterations.
Additions: Decks located behind the primary structure.
• New construction: New outbuildings, provided they are located behind the rear plane of an
existing primary structure.
• Demolition: Non -historic outbuildings and non -historic features of a primary building.
'x
o Minor revisions to a previously approved Certificate of Appropriateness may also be eligible for
N intermediate review by Preservation Planner and Chair.
2.7 Major Review and Certificates of Appropriateness
A major review is required for applications involving landmark properties and contributing
properties in historic districts provided the proposed project does not qualify for a Certificate of No
Material Effect or a minor review. These applications will be reviewed by the Preservation Planner
or the Historic Review Subcommittee, which, if active, is composed of three members of the
Historic Preservation Commission. The Preservation Planner or the Subcommittee will make
recommendations to the Historic Preservation Commission and a quorum of the Commission will
consider the application at its next regularly scheduled meeting. If a majority of the Commission
votes to approve the application, a Certificate of Appropriateness will be issued to the owner and/
or contractor, and will be filed with Housing and Inspection Services and the City Clerk. Similarly, if
the application is denied, a Resolution of Denial will be issued.
Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
2.8 Certificate of Economic Hardship
After receiving written notification from the Commission of the Resolution of Denial, the owner
of record may apply for a Certificate of Economic Hardship, if he or she believes the
Commission's decision would result in economic hardship to the extent that the property in
question cannot yield a reasonable return. To apply for a Certificate of Economic Hardship, a
written letter stating case, and all supporting materials, must be filed with the Department of
Planning and Community Development. A public hearing will be held by the Commission within
sixty days of the receipt of the application and all supporting materials, which will result in the
approval or denial of the Certificate of Economic Hardship. The Commission will issue a written
decision setting forth the factual basis for the decision. If the Commission finds that
unreasonable economic hardship exists, a Certificate of Economic Hardship will be issued,
specifying the authorized material changes.
The review and approval procedures for a Certificate of Economic Hardship are set forth in
Article 14-8E of the Iowa City Zoning Code, Historic Preservation Commission Approval
Procedures. The applicant bears the burden of proof and must support each of the approval
criteria by a preponderance of the evidence.
A. The property in question cannot yield a reasonable return if required to comply with
the requirements and standards specified in this Article. It is not sufficient to show
that the potential return will be reduced as a result of these regulations, but rather it
must be demonstrated that the resulting reduction would be near confiscation
B. The owner's situation is unique or peculiar to the property in question, and the
situation is not shared with other landowners in the area nor due to general
conditions in the neighborhood
C. The hardship is not of the property owner's or applicant's own making.
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2.9 Appeals
Applicants may appeal decisions of the Commission to the City Council for landmarks and
properties in historic districts, and to the Board of Adjustment for properties in conservation
districts. The Certificate of Appropriateness, or the Resolution of Denial, which states the
reason for the decision, will be filed with the City Clerk within five days of the decision. The
applicant has 10 business days from the time the Resolution of Denial or Certificate of
Appropriateness is filed with the Clerk to file a letter with the City Clerk requesting an appeal.
The City Council or Board of Adjustment will determine if the decision of the Historic
Preservation Commission was arbitrary or capricious, but neither the Council nor the Board has
the authority to override a decision by the Commission if it is determined that it was not
arbitrary or capricious.
Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
3.0 About the Guidelines for Historic Preservation
The purpose of the historic preservation guidelines is to:
• Provide comprehensive design guidelines for construction projects to landmarks and
properties within each district.
• Provide property owners with design criteria that will be the basis for approving or denying
Certificates of Appropriateness.
• Identify the defining characteristics of individual historic or conservation district.
The Preservation Planner is available to answer any questions, assist an owner or contractor with
o` their project, and provide additional preservation information.
.@
oe 3.1 Iowa City Guidelines
These guidelines were written by the Iowa City Historic Preservation Commission to address
specifically the historic preservation issues in Iowa City and to provide more detailed guidance to
N property owners and builders as they design their construction projects. The guidelines are based
on The Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation, which can be found in section 10.0.
o The Iowa City Guidelines are the guidelines that will be used to evaluate most projects. If there are
issues that are not addressed in these guidelines, then the Historic Preservation Commission will
use The Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation and the Guidelines for
Rehabilitating Historic Buildings, which are guidelines for interpreting the standards.
Typically, there are four types of projects that modify the exterior of landmarks or properties within
districts. The Iowa City Guidelines are divided into four sections that correspond to these project
o types. These are:
Q 4.0 Guidelines for Alterations 5.0 Guidelines for Additions
6.0 Guidelines for New Construction 7.0 Guidelines for Demolition
o Alterations
M
Alterations are modifications to a site or to the exterior of a building that do not increase the size of
the building's footprint. Most maintenance and remodeling projects such as siding repair,
reconstruction or repair of historic porches, adding dormers to convert an attic space to a living
space, and replacing doors and windows are considered alterations. These projects will be
evaluated using 4.0 Guidelines for Alterations.
Additions
Construction that results in a larger building footprint, increases the building's overall height, or
adds an attached structure to a building is considered an addition. Additions include construction
of a new room, porch, or deck. These projects will be evaluated using 5.0 Guidelines for Additions
as well as 8.0 Neighborhood District Guidelines.
Setback Additions
A setback addition is constructed behind an existing building, opposite the street facade, and is set
back eight inches or more from the side walls. The roof of a setback addition can be no higher
than the roof of the existing building. This results in an addition that is narrower and no taller than
the building to which it is attached, and is therefore not highly visible from the street. Setback
additions are encouraged because they have less impact on a historic building and district.
Therefore, the Commission may allow some flexibility when reviewing such additions. Setback
additions will be evaluated using 5.0 Guidelines for Additions as well as 8.0 Neighborhood District
Guidelines.
New Construction
Although most lots in conservation and historic districts are developed, there may be occasions
where a new primary building or outbuilding is constructed. Outbuildings include garages, garden
sheds, gazebos and other accessory structures that require a building permit. Under most
circumstances, non -historic buildings and structures may be demolished and the lot redeveloped.
(Continued on page 11)
10
Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
However, the new building and the demolition must be approved by the Historic Preservation
Commission before any building or demolition permits are issued. These projects will be
evaluated using 6.0 Guidelines for New Construction, 8.0 Neighborhood District Guidelines and
if applicable 7.0 Guidelines for Demolition.
Demolition
Demolition involves the complete removal of a building or a portion of a building. Removal of
dormers, decorative trim, porches, balusters, chimneys and other significant features requires a
building permit for demolition, and therefore historic review. Demolition projects will be
evaluated using 7.0 Guidelines for Demolition and 8.0 Neighborhood District Guidelines. If a
demolition permit is sought in order to erect a new structure, the new building and the
demolition must be approved by the Historic Preservation Commission before any building or
demolition permits are issued. These projects will be evaluated using 6.0 Guidelines for New
Construction, 7.0 Guidelines for Demolition, and 8.0 Neighborhood District Guidelines.
3.2 Exceptions to the Iowa City Guidelines
In writing the historic preservation guidelines, the Historic Preservation Commission has made
every effort to clarify the criteria for historic review. However, not every situation can be
anticipated. Situations requiring exceptions to the Iowa City Guidelines will be considered by
the full Commission under major review unless the project conforms to the documented
exceptions listed in the guidelines, in which case the project may be approved by the
Preservation Planner or Preservation Planner and Chair.
The Commission is charged with interpreting and applying the guidelines in a fair and
consistent manner, but is afforded flexibility when reviewing applications in order to arrive at 0
historically and architecturally appropriate solutions in cases where a proposed construction w
project does not significantly affect the architectural character of a historic structure.
C
The Commission may consider granting the following types of exceptions: a
Documented Exceptions
0
A documented exception exists where the Commission has encountered and anticipated CO
acceptable alternative methods and materials to the guidelines. When these methods and
materials have found consensus with the Commission, they have been incorporated into the
guidelines. The nature of these exceptions is to acknowledge materials or project types that
are appropriate only in limited circumstances, the particular circumstances of which have been
clearly defined and explicitly listed at the end of each applicable section of the guidelines.
Non -Historic Structures
A number of the documented exceptions pertain to non -historic structures. Because the
historic preservation guidelines are intended primarily to protect the character and integrity of
historic properties and districts, exceptions have been crafted to accommodate non -historic
structures within the districts. While the great majority of properties located in historic and
conservation districts are historic properties, and were constructed in or before 1945, the
Historic Preservation Commission may grant exceptions to the Iowa City Guidelines for the
relatively small number of properties that are classified as non -historic properties and were
constructed after the period of significance of a district.
Specific criteria exist for evaluating non -historic structures. In order to qualify for an exception,
the proposed change to the exterior of a non -historic property must comply with the following
criteria:
1. The project will not further detract from the historic character of the district.
2. The project will not create a false historic character.
3. Alterations and new additions will be compatible with the style and character of the non -
historic structure. New Constructions will be compatible with the style and character of the
district.
(Continued on page 12)
Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
Uncommon Situations
During the course of historic review, it may be revealed that elements of the application warrant
special consideration. When this occurs, alternative design solutions to the Iowa City Guidelines
or the Neighborhood District Guidelines may be considered by the Historic Preservation
Commission. The intent in considering alternative designs is to allow architectural flexibility in
exceptional circumstances such as non -compliant structures, irregular lots, and projects which
satisfy the intent of the guidelines as interpreted by the Commission. The Commission may find
guidance in section 3.3 Additional Historic Preservation Guidelines. Alternatively, the Commission
may advise the applicant regarding appropriate solutions or accept the applicants' proposal with or
without amendments. When approving a project requiring an exception, the Commission shall
identify the guideline(s) for which the exception is being made, and the rationale for the exception.
Guidelines Silent/Unclear
Because the guidelines were written by the Iowa City Historic Preservation Commission to address
historic preservation issues in Iowa City, certain topics may not be covered extensively or at all
within the guidelines. Historic preservation practices may evolve. New technologies, materials
and practices which contribute to the preservation of historic properties may be introduced and
require individual treatment. To decide on applications involving issues not covered sufficiently
within the guidelines, the Commission may find guidance in 3.3 Additional Historic Preservation
Guidelines. When ruling on an application utilizing criteria other than those found within the
guidelines, the Commission will identify the criteria and rationale for the record. The
appropriateness of use for any new products or materials will also be clearly stated during historic
review.
The guidelines leave to the discretion of the Commission the particular calculus used to determine
the appropriateness of various projects. These considerations are largely determined by the
historical integrity of the structure, the various elements which would be impacted, the scope of
work, the materials used, etc., which vary from project to project.
3.3 Additional Historic Preservation Guidelines
Neighborhood District Guidelines
The size and location of a primary building on a site are some of the defining characteristics of his-
toric and conservation districts. The size of buildings, lots and yards, as well as the architectural
character of the buildings, varies by district. Section 8.0 Neighborhood District Guidelines deals
specifically with site, scale, structure location, and architectural style for properties within individual
historic or conservation districts.
The Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation
The Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation and the Guidelines for Rehabilitating
Historic Buildings are national standards for historic preservation. The Secretary of the Interior de-
fines rehabilitation as "the process of returning a property to a state of utility, through repair or al-
teration, which makes possible an efficient contemporary use while preserving those portions and
features of the property which are significant to its historic, architectural, and cultural value." The
goals of the Standards can be summarized as follows:
1. Identify and preserve those materials and features that are important in defining the building's
historic character.
2. Undertake routine maintenance on historic materials and features. Routine maintenance gen-
erally involves the least amount of work needed to preserve the materials and features of the
building.
3. Repair damaged or deteriorated historic materials and features.
4. Replace severely damaged or deteriorated historic materials and features in kind
The Iowa City Guidelines are based on the Standards, but they provide more specific guidance.
Occasionally, alterations are proposed to properties that were not anticipated in the Iowa City
Guidelines. When this occurs, the Historic Preservation Commission will refer to the Standards
when deciding on a Certificate of Appropriateness. The Standards are located in section 10.0.
(Continued on page 13)
IIPa
Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
Design Guidelines for Multi -Family Buildings
These guidelines are based on Site Development Standards in the Central Planning District of
the Iowa City Zoning Code and apply to the construction of buildings with three or more dwell-
ing units. Typically, a new multi -family building would be evaluated by the Staff Design Review
Committee. However, if it is located within a historic or conservation district, the Historic Preser-
vation Commission is responsible for design review and has adapted the original guidelines to
be more applicable to districts. Within districts, more weight is given to the architectural style of
the proposed building and its compatibility with other historic structures. The Design Guidelines
for Multi -Family Buildings are located in section 9.0.
3.4 Building Code and Zoning Ordinances
The requirements of the building code and the zoning ordinance must be met in addition to the
requirements of the Iowa City Guidelines. For certain requirements such as mass, scale, size,
site considerations, and setbacks from the street, the Iowa City Guidelines may be more
stringent than the building code or the zoning ordinance. The Historic Preservation Commission
does NOT review projects for compliance with the building code or zoning ordinance. Please
consult with Housing and Inspection Services to ensure the project complies with these
regulations. Sections of the Zoning Code that refer to historic preservation are detailed in
Section 11.0 Title 14: Iowa City Zoning Code.
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Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
4.0 Guidelines for Alterations
0
v
4.1
Most maintenance and remodeling projects such as siding repair, porch reconstruction or repair,
and changes to the doors and windows are considered alterations. Alterations to both contributing
and noncontributing properties, as well as landmarks, should be done in a manner that is
appropriate to the style and age of the building, as well as its neighborhood context. The historic
character and integrity of older buildings should be maintained by repairing historic components to
the extent feasible and using traditional materials and techniques.
Balustrades and Handrails
Balustrades (guardrails) and handrails serve as both decorative and functional elements on
porches, balconies, and steps. For historic properties, the design should be consistent with the
architectural style, but not at the expense of safety.
Recommended: solid. Spindles must be spaced so that
no gap between the spindles exceeds 4
Historic Balustrades and Handrails inches as required by the building code.
• Repairing historic balustrades and
railings.
Replacing badly deteriorated
components with ones that match the
historic components in design and
material.
New Balustrades and Handrails
• Constructing or replacing missing
balustrades by using historic
photographs or by choosing a style that
is consistent with the architectural style
of the building.
• Installing turned balusters in balustrades
that have an actual diameter of 2 inches
or greater, or square spindles that are 1-
1/2 inches or greater in width.
• Installing top and foot rails that are at
least 2 inches in thickness.
• On buildings where a spindled
balustrade would be most consistent with
the architectural style, spacing spindles
so that the balustrade is at least 40%
Providing handrails on porch steps as
required by the building code. Handrails
should match the historic balustrade
height on the porch unless otherwise
specified by the building code. The
handrail must have a continuous
member that can be easily gripped. The
handrail should either match the porch
balustrade or be made of round steel
pipe.
Providing balustrades on the porch as
required by the building code. When the
porch floor is more than 30 inches above
grade, the balustrade must be 42 inches
high except for single-family and duplex
structures where it may be as low as 36
inches.
• Sloping the top and foot rails slightly to
allow water to be shed from these
surfaces and help prevent deterioration
of these members.
(Continued on page 15)
14
Disallowed:
Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
New Balustrades and Handrails
Historic Balustrades and Handrails
• Removing historic balustrades or railings.
• Covering the historic balustrades or
railings with materials such as siding.
Exception
• Using unpainted treated wood for
elements that would have been
painted in the historic application.
• Using wrought iron elements unless
they were part of the historic design.
In order to provide flexibility for certain changes and certain properties, the Commission has
documented a number of exceptions to the Iowa City Guidelines. Projects requiring the
exceptions corresponding to the property type listed below may be approved by the
Preservation Planner or Preservation Planner and Chair. Projects requiring exceptions to the
guidelines that are not listed may be considered by the full Commission under major review.
The Commission is afforded flexibility when reviewing applications in order to arrive at
historically and architecturally appropriate solutions in cases where a proposed construction
project does not significantly affect the architectural character of a historic structure.
In deciding on a project requiring an exception to the guidelines, the Commission may find
guidance in the additional guidelines, outlined in section 3.2. When approving a project
requiring an exception, the Commission shall identify the guideline(s) for which the exception is
being made, and the rationale for the exception.
For more information on exceptions to the Iowa City Guidelines, please refer to section 3.2.
Applies to Noncontributing Properties in
Historic Districts
All Properties in Conservation
Districts
New Balustrades and Handrails
• On buildings where a spindled
balustrade would be most consistent with
the architectural style, spacing spindles
so that the balustrade is at least 30%
solid.
On buildings where turned spindles
would be most consistent with the
architectural style, installing square
spindles.
Applies to Non -Historic Properties in
All Districts
New Balustrades and Handrails
• Alternative baluster
and handrail designs
may be considered.
Sloping top and foot rails
allow water to shed and help
prevent deterioration
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Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
4.Z Gnimneys
Fireplace chimneys are often a defining architectural feature of historic houses. Chimneys may
have decorative brickwork and often are a distinguishing feature of the roof profile. Therefore,
historic chimneys should be preserved.
Recommended:
Historic Chimneys
• Adding a flue liner to historic chimneys
for safety reasons.
• Keeping flue caps as inconspicuous as
possible.
• Following the recommendations for
masonry repair in section 4.8 Masonry.
• Repairing and capping unused historic
chimneys in a manner that prevents
vermin from entering the chimney, but
allows air circulation.
0
0
New Chimneys
• Using masonry to construct full -height
exterior fireplace chimneys in a manner
Q that is consistent with the architectural
style of the building.
• Boxing and finishing new chimney pipes
that penetrate the roof with thin brick
veneer or stucco.
0
4.3
Doors
Disallowed:
Historic Chimneys
• Removing prominent chimneys that are
important to the historic architectural
character of the building.
• Plastering over masonry chimneys in
place of proper repair.
• Pointing with mortar that is too hard for
historic, soft brick.
• Using synthetic sealants, adhesives and/
or wraps to repair masonry chimneys.
Exception
For more information on exceptions to the
Iowa City Guidelines, please refer to section
3.2.
The original size and shape of door openings should be maintained. Many historic entrance doors
are of panel -type construction or solid frames with glass lights in the upper part of the door.
Historic storm doors are often wood doors with removable sashes and screens. These historic
door styles should be used when it is necessary to replace original doors. Historic garage doors
often possess distinctive design features and should be retained if possible.
Recommended:
Garage Doors
• Retaining and repairing historic garage
doors where practical.
• Installing new garage doors that
resemble the styles of historic ones, or
installing new garage doors which are
simple in design.
• Adding trim to garage door openings that
matches that of other doors and windows
in the garage.
• Installing two single -car doors instead of
a single door.
Historic Doors
• Repairing historic doors rather than
replacing them.
• Replacing badly deteriorated doors with
new or salvaged doors that are similar in
size, material, style, and appearance.
New Doors
• Installing a wood screen door that
accepts sashes with glass or screen.
• Adding new door openings that are
trimmed to match other doors and
windows in the building.
• Substituting a material in place of wood
for doors and screen doors only if the
substitute material retains the style and
appearance of the historic doors and
screen doors. The substitute material
must be durable, accept paint, and be
approved by the Historic Preservation
Commission.
l:7
(Continued on page 17)
Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
Disallowed:
New Doors
• Installing flush entrance doors or other
modern door styles.
Installing sliding patio doors if they were
not original to the building or consistent
with the architectural style.
Exception
• Installing natural aluminum storm
doors.
• Blocking down door openings to
accommodate standard door sizes.
In order to provide flexibility for certain changes and certain properties, the Commission has
documented a number of exceptions to the Iowa City Guidelines. Projects requiring the
exceptions corresponding to the property type listed below may be approved by the
Preservation Planner or Preservation Planner and Chair. Projects requiring exceptions to the
guidelines that are not listed may be considered by the full Commission under major review.
The Commission is afforded flexibility when reviewing applications in order to arrive at
historically and architecturally appropriate solutions in cases where a proposed construction
project does not significantly affect the architectural character of a historic structure.
In deciding on a project requiring an exception to the guidelines, the Commission may find
guidance in the additional guidelines, outlined in section 3.2. When approving a project
requiring an exception, the Commission shall identify the guideline(s) for which the exception is
being made, and the rationale for the exception.
For more information on exceptions to the Iowa City Guidelines, please refer to section 3.2
Applies to Noncontributing and Non -Historic
Properties in Historic Districts
All Properties in Conservation
Districts
Garage Doors
• Allowing one double door instead of two
single -doors. On a case -by -case basis,
the Commission may allow one double
garage door for garages not highly
visible from the street or which mimic the
appearance of two single -doors.
Applies to Non -Historic Properties in
Historic Districts
All Properties in
Conservation Districts
New Doors
Sliding patio doors or other modern -
style doors may be installed on the
rear of a primary building provided
that the openings are trimmed to
match the existing doors and/or
windows.
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3 ;
These traditionally styled doors are appropriate replacements for
many historic homes.
These modern style doors are generally poor choices
for historic homes, particularly on the fronts of the
house.
Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
0
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4.4 Energy Efficiency
Often the solution to energy leaks in an older home are simpler than imagined. A misconception
that some people have about Historic Preservation is that it is counter to the growing desire for
increased energy efficiency and green building practices. However, there are many green
practices that are appropriate or that are inherent in historic buildings. Many of the suggestions
listed below do not require historic review, but the small steps outlined can make a big difference
in cutting energy loss in an older home. The Commission also encourages new innovations and
ideas be brought to their attention for discussion and research as technologies change.
Start with an energy audit. Audits Make sure fireplace dampers,
can help pinpoint problem areas dryer vents, and bathroom
and measure energy savings. Ina fans are open only during
historic house, it is important to hire use. An open damper can let
a professional who's well as much as eight percent of the
acquainted with the idiosyncrasies heat in your house escape.
of older homes. Your local energy -�
j.x
company may also conduct `
complimentary energy audits. TheD4` �-- 1
audit should be done in the late fall Use light paint colors for your
or winter and may include a Blower house's exterior. Lighter colors104
Y'
Door Test or an infrared camera reflect heat better than darker ones.
evaluation. During a Blower Door x.
test your auditor will mount a fan on
�" .
an exterior door frame to pull air out -�
,�-"
of the house and determine hown u
airtight the home really is., ,
Add storm windows. Stormr r
windows improve energy efficiency
and personal comfort for a fractioniz '
of the cost of window replacement. _p
Decorate for cold -weather
efficiency. Use lined '
draperies, working shutters,
and insulated window shades
to significantly cut heat loss.,
Check your heating system. Have
your furnace serviced for maximum
efficiency. Bleed radiators and clean. .`Han
forced -air registers to ensure proper - Restore porches and awnings
operation. Change furnace filters 1 Porches, awnings, and shutters .
monthly or as recommended by the were intended for shade and
manufacturer. insulation. The restoration of
porches requires historic review. --_
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Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
In summer, open the windows
and use fans and
dehumidifiers, which consume
less energy than air-conditioning.
Many old houses were designed
with good cross -ventilation; take
advantage of your home's layout.
Insulate the attic, basement, and
crawl space. About 20% of energy
costs come from heat loss in those
areas. Inadequate insulation
results in heat loss, and forces your
furnace to work overtime. Make
certain the attic hatch is as well
insulated as the attic floor.
PA
Plant trees and other landscaping.
Evergreen trees on the north and
west sides of your house can block
winter winds, and leafy trees on the
south and west provide shade from
the summer sun. It may be possible
to use old photos to match the
historic landscaping of your house.
Keep original windows intact.
Older windows perform extremely
well when properly maintained.
s Don't replace — repair! Seal gaps
with caulk, apply new glazing
` compound, replace broken panes,
repair loose wood parts, and install
weather stripping. You'll reduce
landfill waste and the demand for
vinyl, a non -biodegradable material
that gives off toxic byproducts
when made.
Install a programmable
7
thermostat to keep your house
warm when you are home, and
cooler when no one's there.
Insulate ductwork and hot water
pipes travelling through cool
spaces. Caulk holes around mail
chutes, cable television and utility
entrances, and outdoor faucets.
Keep doors airtight by
weather stripping, caulking,
and painting them regularly.
Reuse old materials, such as
brick, stone, glass, and slate when
making home improvements. This
prevents these materials from
ending up in the landfill and does
not require the resources to
harvest or produce new materials.
Make a visit to the Salvage Barn at
the Iowa City Landfill to find
reusable materials of every sort.
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Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
4.5 Foundations
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Foundations provide a base for a building and make a transition from the walls above ground to
the walls or supports below ground. The amount of exposed foundation varies with historic
structures, but is typically 12 to 30 inches. On brick or stone structures the foundation material
may be different in color and texture than the wall material, and the two are often separated by a
belt course of yet another material or pattern. On many occasions correcting all sources of
moisture and other circumstances that may cause damage to the foundation wall and footings is
necessary prior to the repairs. Maintaining a slope away from the foundation to prevent standing
water or drainage toward the foundation is also essential for the long-term stability.
Recommended:
Historic Foundations
• Correcting all sources of moisture and
other circumstances that may cause
damage to the foundation wall and
footings.
• Repairing historic foundations rather than
replacing them.
• Removing all non -historic materials and
repairing or replacing, if necessary,
foundations with materials that appear
similar to the existing materials in size,
color, texture, composition, and joint
profile.
• Repairing stucco with a mixture that
matches the existing in texture, color,
and composition.
• Retaining the size, shape and location of
historic door openings, window openings,
and storm cellar entrances in the
Exception
foundation. If new window wells are
required, the materials used must appear
similar to the existing foundation
material.
New Foundations
• Using a smooth faced concrete
foundation for new primary buildings and
outbuildings
Disallowed:
Historic Foundations
• Covering exposed brick, stone, and
textured concrete block foundations with
a cement plaster or stucco.
• Raising the adjacent grade at the
foundation to cover what was historically
exposed.
Painting masonry or concrete
foundations that were originally
unpainted.
In order to provide flexibility for certain changes and certain properties, the Commission has
documented a number of exceptions to the Iowa City Guidelines. Projects requiring the
exceptions corresponding to the property type listed below may be approved by the Preservation
Planner or Preservation Planner and Chair. Projects requiring exceptions to the guidelines that
are not listed may be considered by the full Commission under major review. The Commission is
afforded flexibility when reviewing applications in order to arrive at historically and architecturally
appropriate solutions in cases where a proposed construction project does not significantly affect
the architectural character of a historic structure.
In deciding on a project requiring an exception to the guidelines, the Commission may find
guidance in the additional guidelines, outlined in section 3.2. When approving a project requiring
an exception, the Commission shall identify the guideline(s) for which the exception is being made,
and the rationale for the exception.
For more information on exceptions to the Iowa City Guidelines, please refer to section 3.2.
Applies to Noncontributing Properties in
Historic Districts
All Properties in Conservation
Districts
New Foundations
The Commission may allow use of
concrete or rock -face concrete block for
replacement foundation walls and piers
in place of masonry units that appear
similar to the existing.
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Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
4.6 Gutters and Downspouts
Original built-in gutters are important design features of some historic buildings. Removing
these requires a building permit and must be approved by the Historic Preservation
Commission. A building permit and Certificate of Appropriateness are not required for replacing
external gutters.
Recommended:
New Downspouts
• Installing metal downspouts placed
vertically near the corners. They should
be painted to match the background wall
or trim color.
• Covering original built-in gutters and
applying exterior gutters only if the
roof slope at the gutter is not altered.
This can be accomplished with
horizontal blocking and flashing
above the old gutter.
Original Built -In Gutters
Disallowed:
• Repairing original built-in gutters. EPDM Roof Pitch
rubber sheeting is an economical Altering the roof pitch when covering
replacement material for the original tin historic built-in gutters.
flashing.
Exception
C
In order to provide flexibility for certain changes and certain properties, the Commission has 2
documented a number of exceptions to the Iowa City Guidelines. Projects requiring the
exceptions corresponding to the property type listed below may be approved by the c
Preservation Planner or Preservation Planner and Chair. Projects requiring exceptions to the o
guidelines that are not listed may be considered by the full Commission under major review. N
The Commission is afforded flexibility when reviewing applications in order to arrive at
historically and architecturally appropriate solutions in cases where a proposed construction a
project does not significantly affect the architectural character of a historic structure.
In deciding on a project requiring an exception to the guidelines, the Commission may find
guidance in the additional guidelines, outlined in section 3.2. When approving a project
requiring an exception, the Commission shall identify the guideline(s) for which the exception is
being made, and the rationale for the exception.
For more information on exceptions to the Iowa City Guidelines, please refer to section 3.2.
Applies to All Properties
Original Built -In Gutters
• Removal of original built-in gutters
unable to be repaired. On a case -by -
case basis, the Commission may
consider allowing removal of original
built-in gutters if documentation is
provided to establish evidence of need.
This may include damage to the roof
itself or inability to repair built-in gutters
to proper working condition.
11=7 7
FRT
Original Roofline with the built-in
gutters. Simply covering the built-in
gutters does not allow for adequate
roof drainage.
Roof Pitch
• Minor changes to the roof pitch to
address drainage concerns. On a
case -by -case basis, the Commission
may consider allowing minor changes
to the roof pitch if documentation is
provided to establish evidence of
need. Work should be done to
ensure other significant architectural
features such as trim and brackets
are not altered.
Modified roofline, built-in gutters
covered/removed, a slight slope has
been added to allow for drainage. A
slight modification of the roof pitch at
the built-in gutter is allowed to
accommodate drainage.
Modified roofline, built-in gutters
have been removed and the roofline
straightened. This alters the character
defining flared roof edge and lowers
the cornice of the building.
Dramatically altering the roof pitch at
the built-in gutter is not allowed.
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Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
4.7 Mass and Rooflines
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Mass and roof pitch are defining characteristics of historic architectural styles. Most of the roofs in
historic neighborhoods were originally sawn cedar shingles, although standing seam metal was
sometimes applied. The texture of the wood shingles on the steep -pitched roofs was a prominent
feature of historic neighborhoods during the 19th and early 20th centuries. A building permit is not
required for simply replacing shingles and historic review is not required.
Recommended:
Materials
• Preserving historic trim such as crown
molding, skirt and frieze boards, and
decorative metal.
• Consider unoriginal materials that may
have achieved significance, such as
metal roofs.
• Maintaining metal roofs rather than
replacing.
• Painting metal roofs dark colors, usually
dull red or green, or a natural metallic
silver color.
• Replacing a special historic shingle with
one of a similar style when the old
shingles need replacing. If quality
replacement items cannot be obtained,
metal roofs should be replaced with a
high -quality wood shingle or with asphalt
shingles.
• Using asphalt shingles that resemble the
texture and color of weathered wood
shingles for roofs that had wood shingles
historically.
• Using metal framed skylights where
allowed.
New Dormers
• Designing new dormers to be of a size,
scale and proportion that is consistent
with the architectural style.
• Designing new dormers such that the
face of the dormer is primarily composed
of window area.
• Adding dormers to an existing roof in a
manner that does not significantly alter
the character of the historic building.
• Adding dormers that are in proportion to
the roof's overall size. The width of the
dormers in proportion to the roof on
which they are located should be
consistent with the architectural style.
• Adding dormers that are no closer than 3
feet to an existing gable end or hip. The
intent is to avoid significantly altering the
original roof lines.
• Constructing gabled and hipped dormers
that have roof pitches similar to the pitch
of the main roof.
Original Roofline and Mass
• Preserving the original roof pitches and
spans.
Preserving the original walls and vertical
corners that define the massing of a
historic building.
Disallowed:
New Dormers
• Adding dormers that are wider than ones
commonly found in the neighborhood or
on buildings of a similar architectural
style.
• Adding dormers that extend above the
existing peak of the roof.
Original Roofline and Mass
• Substantially altering the roof pitch of a
historic building on one or both sides of
the roof to gain headroom below the
rafters.
Not Recommended:
Mechanical Devices
• Installing antennas, vents, solar
collectors, skylights, satellite dishes, or
other mechanical devices on prominent
street elevations.
(Continued on page 23)
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Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
Exception
In order to provide flexibility for certain changes and certain properties, the Commission has
documented a number of exceptions to the Iowa City Guidelines. Projects requiring the
exceptions corresponding to the property type listed below may be approved by the
Preservation Planner or Preservation Planner and Chair. Projects requiring exceptions to the
guidelines that are not listed may be considered by the full Commission under major review.
The Commission is afforded flexibility when reviewing applications in order to arrive at
historically and architecturally appropriate solutions in cases where a proposed construction
project does not significantly affect the architectural character of a historic structure.
In deciding on a project requiring an exception to the guidelines, the Commission may find
guidance in the additional guidelines, outlined in section 3.2. When approving a project
requiring an exception, the Commission shall identify the guideline(s) for which the exception is
being made, and the rationale for the exception.
For more information on exceptions to the Iowa City Guidelines, please refer to section 3.2.
Applies to All properties
Replacement of metal roofs.
On a case -by -case basis, the
Commission may consider allowing
replacement of metal roofs with an
approved alternative material if
documentation is provided to establish
evidence of need and of efforts to repair
existing damage.
Roof Pitch
Minor changes to the roof pitch to
address drainage concerns. On a
case -by -case basis, the Commission
may consider allowing minor changes
to the roof pitch if documentation is
provided to establish evidence of
need. Work should be done to
ensure other significant architectural
features such as trim and brackets
are not altered.
THipped roof I Gambrel rooi Mapsard roof
TGable roof Shed roof
Flat roof
i
Commercial flat roof
Types of rooflines commonly found in Iowa City
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Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
4.8 Masonry
Masonry is designed to resist weathering without paint or any other protective coating while
retaining an appealing appearance. As such, it is a relatively maintenance -free material. When
there is deterioration of masonry, the single most important step is to locate and repair the cause
of the problem before going to the expense and trouble of repairing the masonry. When repairing
masonry, four important properties should be considered: color, texture, dimension, and hardness
of the masonry units.
Recommended:
Historic Masonry
• Removing all vines. Vines cause the
masonry to retain moisture. Their root-
like holdfasts can cause damage to
mortar joints.
• Removing deteriorated mortar by hand.
Raking the joints with hand tools is less
likely to damage the masonry. The
Historic Preservation Commission may,
at its discretion, allow for the use of
electric grinders by a qualified
professional to remove mortar.
Replacing deteriorated masonry units
with ones that appear similar to the
existing masonry units in color, texture
and size, and that have an appropriate
hardness.
Using mortar that is similar in hardness
to the original mortar. A recommended
mix for historic masonry contains 1 part
white Portland cement, 3 parts lime, and
9 parts sand. If necessary, dye should be
added to the new mortar to match the
color of the original mortar. This mix is
suitable for both laying and pointing
masonry walls.
• Making mortar joints that match the
dimensions of the original joints. Historic
mortar joints are often narrower than
those commonly used today.
Cleaning new mortar smears from the
masonry face with a mild acid designed
for that purpose.
• Cleaning historic masonry using a
natural bristle brush and mild, water -
based detergent. Sometimes a gentle
chemical method may be appropriate,
but only if it does not damage the
masonry.
Disallowed:
Historic Masonry
• Sandblasting, water blasting, or any
other abrasive cleaning method. Blasting
can cause very serious damage by
destroying the protective exterior surface
and exposing the softer interior to rapid
deterioration. This damage cannot be
repaired.
• Pointing soft historic masonry with a
strong Portland cement mix or synthetic
caulking compound. Hard mortars will
damage soft historic masonry such as
brick.
• Painting or sealing historic masonry that
has not been painted.
Exception
For more information on exceptions to the
Iowa City Guidelines, please refer to section
3.2.
Flexible Mortar
(Lime)
1 1
Average temperatures Hot (Bricks expand) Cold (Bricks contract)
No movement Mortar compresses Mortar flexes
Inflexible Mortar
(Cement) j, d
1
Average temperatures Hot (Bricks expand) Cold (Bricks contract)
No movement Spalding Cracks open up
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Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
4.9 Paint and Color
Paint schemes should be simple. Colors should be selected to complement the style and period
of the building. The Iowa City Historic Preservation Commission has literature that recommends
historically appropriate paint colors and schemes. For information please contact the
Preservation Planner. A building permit is not required for painting and historic review is not
required, though, the Commission may include provisions regarding paint and, color for certain
projects which do require a permit and historic review.
Recommended:
Paint Color
Choosing a color scheme that is
consistent with the architectural style of
the building. Typically, this would be one
color for the body of the building, one or
two colors for the trim, and black or dark
green for the storm sashes. If a
horizontal board delineates the upper
floor of the building, a second color may
be used for the upper floor walls.
Pressure Treated Lumber
• Pressure treated lumber should be
allowed to cure for a period of six months
to one year prior to painting or staining
due to high moisture content
Repaintinq
Removing loose and peeling paint and
cleaning the surfaces to be painted in
accordance with pertinent State and
Federal guidelines. Practices that help
reduce the potential for the creation of
lead dust, such as misting surfaces with
water when scraping, are encouraged.
Old paint that is sound and reasonably
smooth should be left in place as a
foundation for the new paint.
• Taking all recommended safety
precautions, including using a proper
respirator to avoid breathing the
fumes or dust from lead -based paint.
• Covering the ground and plants
adjacent to the work area with plastic
tarps to catch lead -based paint chips
and dust
• Collecting and properly disposing of
paint chips and other waste.
• Priming, caulking, and finishing with
high -quality products.
• Removing any grayed surface of
weathered wood by sanding.
• Treating dry wood with linseed oil and
priming with an oil -based primer.
Windows
Finishing approved non -wood
windows in a dark color such as black
or dark green.
(Continued on page 26)
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Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
4.11 Siding
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Wood siding is prevalent throughout the historic neighborhoods in Iowa City. Most often it is plain
clapboard siding with an exposure between 3 and 5 inches; however, it is sometimes tongue and
groove, shiplap, or wall shingle siding. Wood siding along with the trim details and a variety of
paint colors combine to make one of the most important defining characteristics of historic districts.
This display of detail and color is essential to the character of the older neighborhoods, and
therefore siding is protected by the design guidelines.
The primary threat to the traditional appearance of older neighborhoods has been the application
of synthetic siding. This has been installed in an effort to avoid periodic painting. While synthetic
siding may last longer than an application of paint, it does deteriorate over time and does need to
be replaced when it fades, cracks, dents, or deteriorates. The application of synthetic siding covers
many architectural details of a building, damages the historic siding and trim, traps moisture within
the walls, and in some cases, necessitates the removal of historic elements altogether. For all of
these reasons the covering of historic properties with synthetic siding is not allowed.
Recommended:
Historic Sidina
• Repairing historic wood siding and trim.
• Replacing deteriorated sections of wood
siding with new or salvaged wood siding
that matches the historic wood siding.
• Removing synthetic siding and repairing
historic wood siding and trim.
Synthetic Siding
• Replacing synthetic siding with siding to
match the original siding of the structure.
• Matching synthetic siding may be used to
repair damage to small sections of
existing synthetic siding.
Wood Substitutes
Substituting a material in place of wood
siding only if the substitute material
retains the appearance and function of
the original wood. The substitute material
must be durable, accept paint and be
approved by the Historic Preservation
Commission. In many applications, fiber
cement board with a smooth finish is an
approved wood substitute.
Typical Siding Types found in Iowa City
Clapboard siding
d and Batten Siding
Disallowed:
Historic Trim
• Removing historic trim pieces such as
door and window trim, skirt and frieze
boards, and corner boards.
• Covering historic trim such as door and
window trim, skirt and frieze boards, and
corner boards.
Synthetic Siding
• Applying synthetic siding such as
aluminum, vinyl, or false masonry siding.
(Continued on page 29)
Staggered edge shingle siding
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Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
Exception
In order to provide flexibility for certain changes and certain properties, the Commission has
documented a number of exceptions to the Iowa City Guidelines. Projects requiring the
exceptions corresponding to the property type listed below may be approved by the
Preservation Planner or Preservation Planner and Chair. Projects requiring exceptions to the
guidelines that are not listed may be considered by the full Commission under major review.
The Commission is afforded flexibility when reviewing applications in order to arrive at
historically and architecturally appropriate solutions in cases where a proposed construction
project does not significantly affect the architectural character of a historic structure.
In deciding on a project requiring an exception to the guidelines, the Commission may find
guidance in the additional guidelines, outlined in section 3.2. When approving a project
requiring an exception, the Commission shall identify the guideline(s) for which the exception is
being made, and the rationale for the exception.
For more information on exceptions to the Iowa City Guidelines, please refer to section 3.2.
Applies to Non -Historic Properties in
Historic Districts
Noncontributing and Non -
Historic Properties in
Conservation Districts
Noncontributing and Non -
Historic Outbuildings in
Conservation Districts.
Synthetic Siding May be Considered
Provided the Following Conditions:
• Noncontributing and non -historic
structures be evaluated on a case -by -
case basis to determine the architectural
merit of the property under consideration.
Some noncontributing and non -historic
structures were classified according to
an architectural style or construction
period inconsistent with the district, but
nevertheless remain important properties
and worthy of preservation.
For structures already possessing
synthetic siding, other factors besides
the presence of synthetic siding should
exist which prevents the structure from
being considered a contributing structure
to the district. Otherwise, alterations
should be encouraged which will enable
the property to become contributing to
the district.
All sources of moisture that have
caused damage to the structure are
corrected and the damage repaired
prior to the application of the siding.
Historic architectural features such as
window trim, brackets, moldings,
rafter tails, columns, balusters and
similar details are not covered,
removed, cut or otherwise damaged.
Unless severely deteriorated, historic
wood siding must not be removed.
To the extent possible, the synthetic
siding appears similar to the original
wood siding in exposure, texture and
design.
• Trim boards extend in front of the face
of the siding.
The synthetic siding does not have a
simulated wood grain
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Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
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4.12 Site and Landscaping
Site features and landscaping can contribute significantly to the character of a neighborhood,
streetscape or property. Accommodating parking, site access and other modern outdoor needs
should be done in a discreet manner. To the extent possible, these modern site features should be
located in the backyard and accessed from an alley.
Recommended:
Disability Access
• Following the recommendations for
ramps in 5.2 Decks and Ramps.
Fences
• Installing fences between the street and
the front facade that are 4 feet or less in
height.
• Designing fences to be similar to historic
fence styles, such as wood picket
fences, and wrought iron or metal
fences.
• Painting wood fences.
Parking
• Providing parking behind the primary
structure on a lot where possible. If
parking must be located along the side of
an existing or new primary structure, it
must be set back from the front plane of
the building a minimum of 10 feet and be
screened by a decorative fence,
landscaping, or a combination of a
decorative fence and landscaping, and
approved by the Historic Preservation
Commission.
• Providing a minimum of 5 feet setback
from all property lines for parking areas
of 4 or more spaces
Pedestrian Access
• Providing a sidewalk that connects the
entrance door or porch to the public
sidewalk.
Sidewalks. Streets. and Walls
• Repairing historic brick paving materials
and masonry retaining walls.
• Constructing new driveways to be similar
to historic driveways in the
neighborhoods. Typically these
driveways are 8-10 feet in width and may
have only a three foot section for each
track paved, leaving grass in the center
of the drive.
Vegetation
• Removing large trees that are planted
closer than 20 feet to historic buildings
and shrubs planted closer than 5 feet.
Trees, shrubs and other substantial
plantings can increase the moisture and
mold at the exterior walls and the roots
can damage foundations.
(Continued on page 31)
Minimum 5 feet setback
from property line if
more than 4 spaces
y
Decorative fence and
landscape screen Street
Minimum 10 feet Sidewalk connecting
setback behind front aftentrance door to
of primary building public sidewalk
Y
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8-10 feet wide
driveway
Street
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Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
Vehicular Access
• Providing vehicular access from an alley
when available. Driveways leading from
the street to garages or parking at the
rear of the property should be one lane in
width, but can be widened toward the
back of the lot to provide access to multi
stall garages or parking spaces.
Disallowed:
Fences
• Removing historic metal fences.
Parking
• Providing parking spaces between the
primary structure and the street.
Not Recommended:
Fences
• Installing chain link, wire mesh or rail
fences in locations highly visible from
the street.
Sidewalks Streets. and Walls
• Replacing historic brick paving with
concrete.
Vegetation
• Removing mature trees, unless tree is
causing damage to a building, is
diseased, or is structurally unsound,
as determined by a professional
arborist.
Vehicular Access Exception
• Adding curb cuts and driveways from the
street when access is available from an For more information on exceptions to the
alley. Iowa City Guidelines, please refer to
section 3.2.
4.13 Windows
Windows are one of the most important elements that define a building's architectural
character. Important window characteristics and elements include the window type, size,
proportion, trim —lintels, sills, decorative hoods and pediments, pattern of divided lights,
mullions, sash and decorative glass. Most often, historic windows are double -hung, but
casements were occasionally used. Except for small decorative windows, historic windows are
generally taller than they are wide, and the lower and upper floor windows are often aligned
vertically. The Commission recommends repair of historic windows before replacement is
considered, and requires documentation of the extent of deterioration in order to approve
replacement of windows.
Recommended:
Attic Windows, Vents, Window Air -Condition Units and
Other Similar Openings
• Preserving historic attic windows, their trim and
installing traditional wood vents.
• Locating new attic openings in a manner that is
compatible with the historic window pattern.
• Locating window air-conditioning units on a building
elevation which is not highly visible from the street.
Historic Windows
• Preserving the historic windows by repairing sashes
and frames.
• Retaining historic window frames and replacing badly
deteriorated sashes with new sashes that match the
historic ones.
New Windows
• Adding windows that match the type, size, sash
width, trim, use of divided lights, and overall
appearance of the historic windows.
• Adding new windows in a location that is consistent
with the window pattern of the historic building or
buildings of similar architectural style.
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(Continued on page 32)
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Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
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Outbuilding Windows
• Windows on outbuildings should be
relatively small and rectangular or
square.
Relocation and Closing Window Openinas
• If an opening is to be relocated, it should
not detract from overall fenestration
pattern.
If an opening is to be closed on a brick
structure, it should be recessed to
express the original opening and lintels
and sills should be maintained. On a
framed structure, appropriate siding that
matches the existing should be used with
its members being placed across and
randomly extended beyond the opening.
Replacement Windows
Replacing badly deteriorated windows
with new ones that match the type, size,
sash width, trim, use of divided lights,
and overall appearance of the historic
windows. Mullions are significant
features of historic windows that must be
retained.
Using new wood windows and sashes, if
necessary, to replace historic wood
windows and sashes. The use of metal -
clad, solid -wood windows is acceptable.
Replacement windows and trim must
accept paint. In order to maintain the
importance of historic window sashes,
non -wood windows will be finished in a
dark color, preferably black.
Divided lights may be created with
muntin bars that are adhered to both
sides of the glass, but not with snap -in
muntin bars.
• Replacing a bedroom window, if required
for egress by the Building Code, with a
new one that matches the size, trim, use
of divided lights, and overall appearance
Typical window types:
1
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of the previous bedroom window or other
windows in the house.
Storm Windows and Shutters
• Installing traditional wood storm windows
and screens on older buildings. Storms
should fit the opening exactly, without the
use of spacers.
Installing wood -frame combination storm
windows with screens that resemble
traditional wood storm windows. The use
of metal -clad, wood -frame combination
storm windows is acceptable. Storm
windows must accept paint and should
be painted the same color as the sash of
the main windows, preferably black.
• Any new shutters should be
proportionate so that they cover the
windows if closed. The shutters should
be compatible with the style of the
historic house and should be louvered or
paneled wood construction.
Disallowed:
New and Replacement Windows
• Installing modern types of windows
including sliding, awning, casement, and
bay windows when they were not original
to the building, consistent with the
architectural style, or required for egress.
• Installing metal, vinyl -clad or vinyl
windows on primary structures or on
contributing outbuildings when they were
not original to the building.
• Using snap -in muntin bars to achieve
the appearance of divided lights.
• Introducing new window openings into
primary elevations.
Shutters
• Installing shutters on windows on a
structure that did not historically have
shutters.
(Continued on page 33)
Double Hung window I Casement window I Awning window I Slider window
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Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
Exception
In order to provide flexibility for certain changes and certain properties, the Commission has
documented a number of exceptions to the Iowa City Guidelines. Projects requiring the
exceptions corresponding to the property type listed below may be approved by the
Preservation Planner or Preservation Planner and Chair. Projects requiring exceptions to the
guidelines that are not listed may be considered by the full Commission under major review.
The Commission is afforded flexibility when reviewing applications in order to arrive at
historically and architecturally appropriate solutions in cases where a proposed construction
project does not significantly affect the architectural character of a historic structure.
In deciding on a project requiring an exception to the guidelines, the Commission may find
guidance in the additional guidelines, outlined in section 3.2. When approving a project
requiring an exception, the Commission shall identify the guideline(s) for which the exception is
being made, and the rationale for the exception.
For more information on exceptions to the Iowa City Guidelines, please refer to section 3.2.
Applies to All Properties
New and Replacement Windows
• Fiberglass windows may be considered
for basement windows with
moisture problems.
• Modern window types may be
considered on a case -by -case basis in
situations where multiple window types
exist on a building.
• Glass block may be considered in
situations where the glass would not be
visible from the street, or where privacy
issues exist.
• Change in window size may be allowed
for egress requirements. The change of
window size should be considered a last
resort.
Applies to Non -Historic Properties in all
Districts
New and Replacement Windows
• Vinyl or vinyl -clad wood windows may be
considered for replacement windows
provided they match historical
proportions.
Applies to Noncontributing and Non -
Historic Properties in all
Districts
Outbuilding Windows
• Vinyl or vinyl -clad wood windows may
be considered, provided they match
appropriate historical outbuilding
window proportions.
Applies to Noncontributing and Non -
Historic Properties in
Historic Districts
All Properties in Conservation
Districts
New and Replacement Windows
• Vinyl or vinyl -clad wood windows may
be used for replacement of basement
windows provided the foundation wall
is no more than 18 inches above
grade.
• Vinyl or vinyl -clad wood windows may
be considered for primary buildings in
if existing windows are vinyl or vinyl -
clad wood.
• Vinyl or vinyl -clad wood windows may
be considered for additions provided
they match historical proportions.
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Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
4.14 Wood
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Most of the structures in Iowa City's historic neighborhoods are of wood frame construction and
have wood siding. Many dwellings have wood elements such as trim, windows, doors, porches,
cornices, decorative elements, and pediments. While most wood is relatively inexpensive, durable,
and easy to work with, it must be maintained properly to have a long life.
Recommended: provided the fiber cement board is
smooth faced with no simulated wood
Historic Wood grain
• Repairing historic wood elements rather
than replacing them.
• Using epoxy products, such as Wood
Epox and Liquid Wood by Abatron, to
consolidate deteriorated wood
components, and fill or reconstruct
missing wood.
• Duplicating and replacing historic wood
elements when they cannot be repaired.
• Replacing damaged wood components
with new or salvaged wood components
that match the historic ones.
• Monitoring wood surfaces for signs of
excessive water damage, rot, or pest
infestation. Keeping all surfaces primed,
painted and appropriately caulked in
order to prevent wood deterioration.
• Eliminating excessive moisture problems
CD such as leaky roofs, gutters, and
downspouts. The improper venting of
baths, kitchens, basements, and dryers
may cause moisture problems.
• Removing vegetation that is growing
against the wood elements or siding.
Wood Substitutes
• Substituting a material in place of wood
only if the substitute material retains the
appearance and function of the original
wood. The substitute material must be
durable, accept paint, and be approved
by the Historic Preservation Commission.
• For many applications, fiber cement
board is an approved substitute for wood
• MiraTech and similar materials have
been approved for above -grade
applications on a case -by -case basis.
• Polyethylene/sawdust composite
materials, such as Trex, are appropriate
on a case -by -case basis
Deck and Porch Materials
• Pressure treated lumber should be
allowed to cure for a period of six months
to one year prior to painting due to high
moisture content.
Disallowed:
Historic Wood
• Covering original wood siding, soffits and
eave boards with another material such
as vinyl or aluminum siding.
• Using destructive and dangerous paint
removal methods such as sandblasting,
water blasting, or burning with a propane
or butane torch.
• Removal of historic wood elements such
as trim, porches, cornices, and
decorative elements.
Wood Substitutes
• Substituting a material in place of wood
that does not retain the appearance,
function, and paintability of the original
wood.
(Continued on page 35)
7Original balusters are repaired
and repainted retaining the
original material and integrity
34
Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
Exception
For more information on exceptions to the Iowa City Guidelines, please refer to section 3.2.
Worn Paint, Wood in good condition
35
Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
5.0 Guidelines for Additions
An addition to a historic house is often required to accommodate an expanding family, home office
or modern lifestyle. These guidelines are for additions that expand the interior living space or
building footprint, as well as for other attached structures such as new porches, decks and ramps.
5.1 Expansion of Building Footprint
When planning an addition that expands the building footprint, consider first how a new exterior
form and roof can be added to the existing house in a manner that is compatible with the design of
the historic building. Often, the desired interior space dictates the location and size of the addition,
and the resulting roofline and form appear awkward and inconsistent with the historic structure.
The Historic Preservation Commission strongly recommends using a design professional to help
evaluate space needs and plan a compatible addition. Additions to structures in districts must also
comply with the guidelines in section 8.0 Neighborhood District Guidelines.
Recommended:
Balustrades and Handrails
Following the guidelines for new
o
balustrades and handrails in section 4.1
Balustrades and Handrails.
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Chimneys
• Constructing new exterior fireplace
chimneys of masonry or stucco if the
chimney is highly visible from the street.
Buildina Facade
o
• Unique surface area guidelines exist for
LO
street elevations in the Longfellow
Neighborhood, generally restricting
surface area to no more than 800 square
feet. For Governor, Bowery, and Court
Streets the total surface area of the
street elevation must be no more than
1200 square feet for a new primary
building or for an existing building
including a new addition. For Summit
Street the total surface area of the street
elevation must be no more than 1500
square feet for a new primary building or
for an existing building including a new
addition, and no more than 750 square
feet for a new outbuilding building. For
the Moffitt Cottage National Register
Historic District the street elevation must
be no more than 450 square feet for a
new primary building or an existing
building including a new addition. Refer
to 8.0 Neighborhood District Guidelines.
• Unique surface area guidelines exist for
street elevations in the College Hill
Neighborhood, generally restricting
surface area to no more than 1200
square feet. Refer to 8.0 Neighborhood
District Guidelines.
• Unique surface guidelines exist for street
elevations in the Northside
Neighborhood., generally restricting
36
surface area to no more than 1200
square feet. Refer to 8.0 Neighborhood
District Guidelines.
Building Height and Mass
Unique height and mass guidelines exist
for single-family houses or duplexes in
the Longfellow Neighborhood, restricting
the height to no more than two stories.
For the Summit Street Historic District
single-family houses must have two full
stories in the principal portion of the
building. For the Moffitt Cottage National
Register Historic District single-family
houses must be one story in height.
Refer to 8.0 Neighborhood District
Guidelines.
Unique height and mass guidelines exist
for single-family houses or duplexes in
the College Hill Neighborhood, restricting
the height to no more than two stories in
height. For College Street single-family
houses and duplexes must be two
stories in height. Refer to 8.0
Neighborhood District Guidelines.
• Unique height and mass guidelines exist
for single-family houses or duplexes in
the Northside Neighborhood, restricting
the height to one -and -a -half or two
stories. Refer to 8.0 Neighborhood
District Guidelines.
Design
• Preserving significant historic materials
and features of the original structure
such as decorative windows, brackets,
porches, and trim.
• Designing an addition so that it does not
diminish the character of the historic
structure.
(Continued on page 37)
Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
• Distinguishing between the historic
structure and the new addition. This may
be accomplished easily by offsetting the
walls of the addition from the walls of the
original structure or by connecting
additions with a breezeway.
Recommended: Connecting additions with a breezeway. This
provides for an easy way to distinguish the original house from
the addition.
• Matching key horizontal "lines" on the
existing building, such as water table,
eave height, window head height and
band boards, in order to provide
continuity between the addition and the
historic structure.
• Using a palette of materials that is similar
to that used on the historic structure.
Placing building additions at the rear of a
property, if possible. Additions at or near
the front of an existing building must be
set back at least 18 inches from the front
plane of the historic building, and must
be differentiated by a change in the
roofline or other means.
Recommended: Additions matching the roof pitch and type as
the original structure. Key horizontal lines, such as eaves, are
carried into the new addition.
Doors
• Installing doors in additions that match
the material of historic doors, and have a
similar style and appearance as the
historic doors in the existing building.
• Installing French doors, or doors of a
similar type, in additions where a large
opening is desired.
• Following the guidelines for new doors in
section 4.3 Doors.
Foundations
• Constructing an addition foundation that
appears similar to the historic foundation
in color, texture, unit size, and joint
profile.
Masonry
• When using masonry on an addition,
using new masonry that appears
similar in color, texture, unit size, and
joint profile to the historic masonry.
Mass and Roofline
Constructing additions that are
consistent with the massing and
roofline of the historic building. This
requires that the wall areas and
corners, as well as the roof pitches
and spans are all consistent with the
existing building and have a
proportion that is similar to that of the
existing building.
Constructing the roof overhang, soffits
and eaves of the addition so that they
match the roof overhang, soffits and
eaves of the existing building. When
the eaves of an addition intersect the
eaves of the existing building, care
should be taken to assure that the two
eaves align properly. The trim details
of a new eave should match the eave
details of the existing building.
New Porches
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• Constructing new porches that are
consistent with the historic building or a
similar to porches of the same L6
architectural style.
• Constructing new porches that are
more than 18 inches above grade
using traditional porch construction
with wood joists and wood flooring.
Adding skirting to fill the space
between the porch floor and grade if
this space is 24 inches or greater.
The skirt should be constructed
between the porch piers.
Paint and Color
• Painting additions to match the
existing historic building.
Setbacks
Unique setback guidelines exist for
Summit Street, located within the
Summit Street Historic District and the
Longfellow Neighborhood. On this
street the rear wall of the primary
structures must not extend deeper
than 125 feet from the front street.
This restriction preserves the
openness of the rear yards. Refer to
8.0 Neighborhood District Guidelines.
(Continued on page 38)
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Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
Siding
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• Applying siding to a new addition that
appears similar in size, shape, texture,
and material to the existing siding on the
historic building.
Windows
• Using windows that are of a similar type,
proportion and divided light pattern as
those in the original structure.
• Following the guidelines for new
windows in section 4.13 Windows.
n...
• Constructing additions with materials that
appear similar to the historic siding, trim,
moldings, and other details of the original
building.
Disallowed:
Design
• Constructing an addition between the
historic building and the street.
• Leaving large expanses of wall surface
uninterrupted by windows or doors.
• Constructing an addition that is not
distinguishable from the historic building.
• Constructing an addition that expands a
historic house vertically and increases its
overall height. Remodeling an attic space
and adding dormers is acceptable.
Porches
• Adding space to a structure by enclosing
a historic front or side porch.
• Unique porch guidelines exist for the
Moffitt Cottage National Register Historic
District. In this district traditional front
porches were not used and are not
permitted. Refer to 8.0 Neighborhood
District Guidelines.
Unique setback guidelines exist for the
Summit Street Historic District, located
within the Longfellow Neighborhood. In
this district attached garages are not
allowed. Garages must be located at the
rear of the property whenever possible.
Refer to 8.0 Neighborhood District
Guidelines.
Siding
• Using synthetic siding on an addition
instead of the historic siding type or a
substitute material approved by the HPC,
unless an exception is provided by the
HPC.
Disallowed: Constructing additions that are taller than
the original structure or that alter the roofline.
Disallowed: Constructing additions that alter the
roofline of the original structure, use a differing roof
pitch, or do not match up key horizontal lines.
Disallowed: Constructing an addition that increases the
height of the original structure or alters the roofline.
Disallowed: Constructing additions between the front of
the house and the street or that alter the historic street
facing elevation.
38
Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
Exceptions
In order to provide flexibility for certain changes and certain properties, the Commission has
documented a number of exceptions to the Iowa City Guidelines. Projects requiring the
exceptions corresponding to the property type listed below may be approved by the
Preservation Planner or Preservation Planner and Chair. Projects requiring exceptions to the
guidelines that are not listed may be considered by the full Commission under major review.
The Commission is afforded flexibility when reviewing applications in order to arrive at
historically and architecturally appropriate solutions in cases where a proposed construction
project does not significantly affect the architectural character of a historic structure.
In deciding on a project requiring an exception to the guidelines, the Commission may find
guidance in the additional guidelines, outlined in section 3.2. When approving a project
requiring an exception, the Commission shall identify the guideline(s) for which the exception is
being made, and the rationale for the exception.
For more information on exceptions to the Iowa City Guidelines, please refer to section 3.2.
Applies to Setback Additions in Historic Pretreated porch decking or
Districts dimensional lumber may be used
All Additions in Conservation provided the gaps between the
Districts floorboards do not exceed 1/8 inch.
Gutters and Downspouts
• Additions need not have built-in gutters
unless the new gutters align with the
built-in gutters of the existing building.
For instance, a one-story addition need
not have built-in gutters if it is attached to
a two-story wall.
New Foundations
For additions to foundations, concrete or
textured concrete block may be used in
place of masonry units that appear
similar to the original masonry.
• For additions to foundations, it is
acceptable to match the color of the
original foundation by using paint or
masonry stain rather than matching the
material and appearance of the original
foundation material.
New Masonry
Additions to masonry structures may be
sided with wood. The siding type must be
consistent with the age and architectural
style of the historic building. The trim
must be consistent with both the siding
type and the architectural style of the
building. Any substitute materials must
be durable, accept paint, and be
approved by the Historic Preservation
Commission.
Porches
• Porch floors may be concrete if the floor
is no more than 18 inches above grade.
Porches with floors that are more than 18
inches above grade must be built using
traditional porch construction with wood
joists and wood flooring.
• Porches on rear elevations need not
reproduce historic details.
Windows
Modern window types, such as
casement windows, may be used in
additions provided they have overall
proportions comparable to those
found on the historic building, and a
similar divided light pattern. The
windows must be trimmed to match
the historic windows in the building.
The windows may be installed side -
by -side, but they must have a mullion
between them if mullions were used
between windows on the historic
building. Transom -like or half -round
fixed glass units may be used if they
create a traditional -looking window
arrangement consistent with the
historic building style.
N 0 0•
• Window trim, door trim, fascia and
frieze boards, and corner and band
boards on additions must be similar to
those on the historic building.
However, other details of the historic
building may be omitted, simplified, or
enhanced on additions as long as
they are compatible with the existing
structure.
(Continued on page 40)
ILU
39
Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
Applies to Noncontributing and Non -
Historic Properties in
Conservation Districts
Noncontributing and Non -
Historic Outbuildings in
Conservation Districts
Synthetic Siding May be Considered
Provided the Following Conditions:
• Noncontributing and non -historic
structures be evaluated on a case -by -
case basis to determine the architectural
merit of the property under consideration.
Some noncontributing and non -historic
structures were classified according to
an architectural style or construction
period inconsistent with the district, but
nevertheless remain important properties
and worthy of preservation.
For structures already possessing
synthetic siding, other factors besides
the presence of synthetic siding should
exist which prevents the structure from
being considered a contributing structure
to the district. Otherwise, siding for
additions should be encouraged which
will not further degrade the property.
• To the extent possible, the synthetic
siding appears similar to the original
wood siding in exposure, texture and
design.
• Trim boards extend in front of the face of
the siding.
Applies to Non -Historic Properties in
All Districts
New Balustrades and Handrails
0
• Alternative baluster and handrail designs
Q may be considered.
y 5.2 Decks and Ramps
_- Decks and ramps are features that are not typical to historic structures. They are modern inven-
tions designed to meet the needs of our modern lifestyle and building codes. As such, it is not
0 necessary that they duplicate the details of the building to which they are attached. However,
they should be as unobtrusive as possible. These guidelines shall also be used for multi -family
structures.
0
LO Ramps may be approved that accommodate reasonable access and use by disabled occu-
pants provided they do not significantly alter or detract from the historic character of the build-
ing. The Historic Preservation Commission will work with applicants to find designs that will ac-
commodate their needs and that are compatible with the historic character of the building.
Recommended: Ramps
Decks Designing ramps so they do not detract
• character
Locating a new deck on the back of a from the To theoric extent pose lof the build-
rd
primary building, opposite the street- should be graded to create a' the n portionoffacing facade and set in from the side the incline of the ramp.
walls at least 8 inches.
• Designing decks so that the size, scale
and location do not detract from the char-
acter of the district's rear yards, if signifi-
cant to the district.
• Attaching decks to the building in a man-
ner that will not damage a historic exte-
rior wall or, other historic materials, or
cause wood siding to deteriorate.
• Following the guidelines in section 4.1
Balustrades and Handrails.
• If creating a screened porch structure,
following the guidelines for porches in
section 5.1 Expansion of Building Foot
print.
• Locating a new ramp, or as much of the
new ramp as possible, on the side of the
building.
• Incorporating a ramp into a porch.
• Landscaping around a ramp to soften the
visual impact of the structure from the
street.
• Following the guidelines in section 4.1
Balustrades and Handrails.
(Continued on page 41)
40
Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
Disallowed:
Decks
• Constructing a deck between the street
and the street -facing facade if it detracts
from the neighborhood or is not compati-
ble with the architectural style of the ex-
isting building.
• Leaving balusters and railings unpainted
if they are highly visible from the street.
Exception
Ramps
• Constructing a ramp that extends
more than 8 feet in front of the pri-
mary, street -facing facade.
In order to provide flexibility for certain changes and certain properties, the Commission has
documented a number of exceptions to the Iowa City Guidelines. Projects requiring the excep-
tions corresponding to the property type listed below may be approved by the Preservation
Planner or Preservation Planner and Chair. Projects requiring exceptions to the guidelines that
are not listed may be considered by the full Commission under major review. The Commission
is afforded flexibility when reviewing applications in order to arrive at historically and architec-
turally appropriate solutions in cases where a proposed construction project does not signifi-
cantly affect the architectural character of a historic structure.
In deciding on a project requiring an exception to the guidelines, the Commission may find
guidance in the additional guidelines, outlined in section 3.2. When approving a project requir-
ing an exception, the Commission shall identify the guideline(s) for which the exception is being
made, and the rationale for the exception.
For more information on exceptions to the Iowa City Guidelines, please refer to section 3.2.
41
Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
6.0 Guidelines for New Construction
These guidelines are intended to ensure that new buildings are compatible with the character of
the neighborhood where the new construction is to occur. Although most of the lots in Iowa City's
historic neighborhoods are developed, occasionally the opportunity to construct a new primary
structure on a vacant lot may arise, or to replace a non -historic building that has been destroyed.
Most of the new structures built are garages or other outbuildings.
Proposed new buildings must also comply with 8.0 Neighborhood District Guidelines and with 7.0
Guidelines for Demolition, if applicable. The content of 8.0 Neighborhood District Guidelines is
used to determine the appropriate size, scale, site location and architectural style of the new
building. These factors are dependent on the character of the surrounding neighborhood and
district. 7.0 Guidelines for Demolition requires approval for demolition and of new building plans
prior to issuance of a demolition permit.
6.1 New Primary Structures
Recommended:
0
Balustrades and Handrails
o . Following the guidelines for new
L) balustrades and handrails in section 4.1
a) Balustrades and Handrails.
z
o . If second -story porches are constructed,
iv placing them above first -story porches or
s first -floor interior spaces.
Building Facade
• Unique surface area guidelines exist for
street elevations in the Longfellow
Neighborhood, generally restricting
surface area to no more than 800 square
feet. For Governor, Bowery, and Court
Streets the total surface area of the
street elevation must be no more than
1200 square feet for a new primary
building or for an existing building
including a new addition. For Summit
Street the total surface area of the street
elevation must be no more than 1500
square feet for a new primary building or
for an existing building including a new
addition. For the Moffitt Cottage National
Register Historic District the street
elevation must be no more than 450
square feet for a new primary building or
an existing building including a new
addition. Refer to 8.0 Neighborhood
District Guidelines.
42
Unique surface area guidelines exist for
street elevations in the College Hill
Neighborhood, generally restricting
surface area to no more than 1200
square feet. Refer to 8.0 Neighborhood
District Guidelines.
• Unique surface are guidelines exist for
street elevations in the Northside
Neighborhood., generally restricting
surface area to no more than 1200
square feet. Refer to 8.0 Neighborhood
District Guidelines.
Building Height and Mass
Unique height and mass guidelines exist
for single-family houses or duplexes in
the Longfellow Neighborhood, restricting
the height to no more than two stories.
For the Summit Street Historic District
single-family houses must have two full
stories in the principal portion of the
building. For the Moffitt Cottage National
Register Historic District single-family
houses must be one story in height.
Refer to 8.0 Neighborhood District
Guidelines.
MM
6un
Inappropriate
new construction
New construction shall be of an appropriate size, scale, site location, and architectural style
compared to the existing historic structures in the neighborhood.
(Continued on page 43)
Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
Unique height and mass guidelines exist
for single-family houses or duplexes in
the College Hill Neighborhood, restricting
the height to no more than two stories.
For College Street single-family houses
and duplexes must be two stories in
height. Refer to 8.0 Neighborhood
District Guidelines.
• Unique height and mass guidelines exist
for single-family houses or duplexes in
the Northside Neighborhood, restricting
the height to one -and -a -half or two
stories. Refer to 8.0 Neighborhood
District Guidelines.
Decks and Ramps
• For guidelines on constructing decks and
ramps, see 5.2 Decks and Ramps.
Design
• Designing a new primary structure in a
similar style to the architectural styles
prevalent in the district. See the 8.0
Neighborhood District Guidelines for the
architectural styles that are appropriate
for each district.
Once an architectural style for a new
primary building is selected, following the
specifications in section 12.0 Residential
Architectural Styles of Iowa City. This
section describes the massing, roofline,
siding, windows, doors, porches and
other architectural features for each
historic style.
Doors
• Adding exterior doors on front or side
elevations of buildings that have half- or
full -light windows and/or raised panel
construction, and are consistent with the
architectural style.
Dormers
• Following the guidelines for new dormers
in section 4.7 Mass and Rooflines.
Masonry
• Using masonry that has a similar
appearance to the masonry on historic
buildings of a similar architectural style.
Paint and Color
• Where synthetic siding is allowed, using
a color scheme that is consistent with the
architectural style of the building.
Porches
• Constructing front porches that are
consistent with the architectural style
of the building. Front porches are a
character -defining element in Iowa
City districts.
• Using vertical -grained fir porch
flooring for the porch decking.
• Using wood or an approved wood
substitute that accepts paint for porch
posts, trim and other components.
• Constructing new porches that are
more than 18 inches above grade
using traditional porch construction
with wood joists and wood flooring.
• Adding a skirting to fill the space
between the porch floor and grade if
this space is 24 inches or greater.
The skirt should be constructed
between the porch piers.
Setbacks
• For new primary buildings, locating
the building a distance from the street
so that the setback is consistent with
the setbacks of existing principal
buildings located along the same
frontage.
• Unique setback guidelines exist for
Summit Street, located within the
Summit Street Historic District and the
Longfellow Neighborhood. On this
street the rear wall of the primary
structures must not extend deeper
than 125 feet from the front street.
This restriction preserves the
openness of the rear yards. Refer to
8.0 Neighborhood District Guidelines.
RM
• Using siding that is consistent with the
architectural style of the new building.
Most historic siding in Iowa City is
wood. Fiber cement siding with a
smooth finish is an acceptable
substitute for wood siding in most
circumstances.
(Continued on page 44)
I
43
Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
Windows
• Specifying the window type, proportion,
shape, profile, divided light pattern, and
placement based on the architectural
style of the new structure and
contributing structures of a similar style.
• Using windows that are made of wood.
The use of metal -clad, solid -wood
windows is acceptable. Windows and
trim must accept paint. Divided lights
must be created with muntins that are
adhered to both sides of the glass.
• Placing small decorative windows in the
attic level of front gable ends if consistent
with the architectural style.
• Adding wood (or an acceptable wood
substitute) window trim that is three to
four inches in width if the exterior walls
are sided with wood.
LT • • •
• Using wood or an approved wood
substitute for building trim and features
such as corner boards, window trim,
frieze boards, columns, brackets and
similar features.
Wood Substitutes
• Substituting a material in place of wood
only if the substitute material retains the
appearance and function of wood. The
substitute material must be durable,
accept paint, and be approved by the
Historic Preservation Commission. For
many applications, fiber cement board
with a smooth finish is an approved wood
substitute.
Disallowed:
Doors
• Installing sliding glass patio doors in any
location that is highly visible from the
street.
• Constructing balconies that protrude
from the walls without vertical supports
on the front or sides of the building.
Masonry
Using synthetic masonry materials such
as artificial stone.
Porches
• Unique porch guidelines exist for the
Moffitt Cottage National Register Historic
District. In this district traditional front
porches were not used and are not
permitted. Refer to 8.0 Neighborhood
District Guidelines.
Constructing a new front porch that is
entirely enclosed with walls and/or
windows. Only a portion of a front porch
may be enclosed with screens to provide
a sitting area that is to the side of the
steps and front entrance of the house.
The screens should be set behind the
columns and balustrades to create an
appearance that is consistent with the
architectural style.
Windows
Using snap -in muntin bars to create the
appearance of divided lights.
Not Recommended:
Attached Garages
• Constructing attached garages.
However, if constructed, they should be
set back at least 20 feet from the street -
facing plane of the building.
Masonry
Using thin veneer masonry.
Shutters
Adding shutters if shutters are not
consistent with the architectural style of
the building.
(Continued on page 45)
44
Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
Exceptions
In order to provide flexibility for certain changes and certain properties, the Commission has
documented a number of exceptions to the Iowa City Guidelines. Projects requiring the
exceptions corresponding to the property type listed below may be approved by the
Preservation Planner or Preservation Planner and Chair. Projects requiring exceptions to the
guidelines that are not listed may be considered by the full Commission under major review.
The Commission is afforded flexibility when reviewing applications in order to arrive at
historically and architecturally appropriate solutions in cases where a proposed construction
project does not significantly affect the architectural character of a historic structure.
In deciding on a project requiring an exception to the guidelines, the Commission may find
guidance in the additional guidelines, outlined in section 3.2. When approving a project
requiring an exception, the Commission shall identify the guideline(s) for which the exception is
being made, and the rationale for the exception.
For more information on exceptions to the Iowa City Guidelines, please refer to section 3.2.
Applies to All Properties in Conservation
Districts
Porches
• Porch floors may be concrete if the floor
is no more than 18 inches above grade.
Porch floors that are more than 18
inches above grade must be built in a
traditional way with wood joists and wood
flooring.
• Pretreated porch decking or dimensional
lumber may be used provided the gaps
between the floorboards do not exceed
1/8 inch.
• Porches on rear elevations need not
reproduce historic details.
Applies to Non -Historic Properties in
All Districts
New Balustrades and Handrails
• Alternative baluster and handrail
designs may be considered.
Applies to Non -Historic Properties in
Conservation Districts
Sidin 0
• Synthetic siding may be used on new
primary structures, provided all o
window and door trim, corner boards, C°
band boards or other trim are wood or
an approved wood substitute.
Windows
• Vinyl and vinyl -clad wood windows
may be used on new primary
structures.
45
Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
6.2 New Outbuildings
0
Recommended:
Building Facade
Unique surface area guidelines exist for
street elevations for Summit Street.,
located within the Summit Street Historic
District and the Longfellow
Neighborhood. On this street the total
surface area of the street elevation must
be no more than 750 square feet for a
new outbuilding building. Refer to 8.0
Neighborhood District Guidelines.
Desi n
• Placing new outbuildings, including
garages, to the rear of the primary
building.
• Constructing garages and other
outbuildings that are clearly subordinate
in size and ornamentation to the primary
structure.
Constructing new outbuildings that reflect
the style of the primary structure. The
primary structure will typically reflect a
style of architecture prevalent within the
district. See the 8.0 Neighborhood
District Guidelines for the architectural
styles that are appropriate for each
district.
Garage Doors
• Installing garage doors that are simple in
design. Smooth or simple panel -type
garage doors may be used. Carriage -
style doors in a style appropriate to the
property may also be used.
• Adding trim around the garage door
openings that matches the trim of other
doors and windows on the building.
• Installing single -car garage doors.
Double -car garage doors are
discouraged.
Windows
• Incorporating windows into the design
that are relatively small and rectangular.
Disallowed:
Attached Garages
Unique outbuilding guidelines exist for
the Summit Street Historic District,
located within the Longfellow
Neighborhood. In this district attached
garages are not allowed. Garages must
be located at the rear of the property
whenever possible. Refer to 8.0
Neighborhood District Guidelines.
Siding
• The use of synthetic siding such as
aluminum, vinyl, or false masonry siding
for an outbuilding in a historic district.
Not Recommended:
Attached Garages
• Constructing garages attached to the
primary building.
(Continued on page 47)
Asphalt Shingles
Gable Vent or Window
Lap Siding (3-5" reveal)
-
Frieze Board (6-8"
Corner Boards
Door and Window trim
Single garage doors
= -
(either simple or a
compatible style)
Simple garage designs that are appropriate on most properties in Iowa City
46
Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
Exceptions
In order to provide flexibility for certain changes and certain properties, the Commission has
documented a number of exceptions to the Iowa City Guidelines. Projects requiring the
exceptions corresponding to the property type listed below may be approved by the
Preservation Planner or Preservation Planner and Chair. Projects requiring exceptions to the
guidelines that are not listed may be considered by the full Commission under major review.
The Commission is afforded flexibility when reviewing applications in order to arrive at
historically and architecturally appropriate solutions in cases where a proposed construction
project does not significantly affect the architectural character of a historic structure.
In deciding on a project requiring an exception to the guidelines, the Commission may find
guidance in the additional guidelines, outlined in section 3.2. When approving a project
requiring an exception, the Commission shall identify the guideline(s) for which the exception is
being made, and the rationale for the exception.
For more information on exceptions to the Iowa City Guidelines, please refer to section 3.2.
Applies to All Properties in Conservation Districts
Design
• New outbuildings may reflect the historic outbuilding styles in the neighborhood or the style
of the primary building.
Siding
• Synthetic siding may be used on new outbuildings.
Windows
• Vinyl or vinyl -clad wood windows may be used on new outbuildings.
A
47
Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
7.0 Guidelines for Demolition
C
0
0
E
0
a
a
CD
Demolition involves the complete removal of a building or a portion of a building. Removal of
dormers, decorative trim, porches, balusters, chimneys and other significant features requires a
permit for demolition, and therefore historic review. The Historic Preservation Commission will act
to ensure the prevention of demolition by neglect and to ensure historically appropriate steps are
taken during the remediation of dangerous conditions.
7.1 Demolition of Whole Structures or Significant Features
A Certificate of Appropriateness for the demolition of any primary building on a contributing prop-
erty within a conservation or historic district, or any landmark, will be denied unless the applicant
can demonstrate that the building is structurally unsound and irretrievable. A decision to approve a
Certificate of Appropriateness for the demolition of outbuildings on contributing and noncontribut-
ing properties, and primary buildings on noncontributing and non -historic properties, will be made
on a case -by -case basis. For these cases, the Commission will consider the condition, integrity
and architectural significance of the outbuilding or noncontributing building.
A Certificate of Appropriateness is also required for the removal of any portion of a building, such
as a porch, porch balustrade, decorative brackets and trim, dormers, chimney or other architectur-
ally significant components on any structure within a district, or on any landmark.
Before a Certificate of Appropriateness for demolition will be approved for a primary building, the
Iowa City Historic Preservation Commission must approve a Certificate of Appropriateness for the
building that will replace the one being demolished. These projects will also be evaluated using 6.0
Guidelines for New Construction and 8.0 Neighborhood District Guidelines
Recommended: Designing replacement
g g p garages to be
compatible in design with the primary
• Removing additions or alterations that structure and/or other outbuildings in the
are not historic and that significantly neighborhood. See 6.0 Guidelines for
detract from the building's historic New Construction.
character or that are structurally unsound
and are a safety hazard Disallowed:
• Removing non -historic buildings and
structures that detract from the historic
character of a district. Such buildings
should be replaced with buildings that
are more compatible with the district.
• Saving and storing on site any historic
architectural features such as windows,
doors and trim that are removed from a
building or structure.
• Retaining historic garages. If the period
garage is insufficient for modern-day ve-
hicles, efforts should be made to con-
struct a new garage on another portion of
the site.
7.2 Prevention of Demolition by Neglect
• Demolishing any primary building on a
contributing property within a conserva-
tion or historic district, or any Iowa City
Historic Landmark.
• Removing any historic architectural fea-
ture, such as a porch, chimney, bay win-
dow, dormer, brackets or decorative trim,
that is significant to the architectural
character and style of the building.
Not Recommended:
• Removing significant historic site fea-
tures on the property such as brick drive-
ways and iron fences.
All buildings and structures that contribute to a Conservation or Historic District; or that are
listed or are eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places, regardless of whether
they are in a designated Historic or Conservation District, must be preserved against decay,
deterioration, and kept free from structural defects. Accordingly, all such buildings and
structures must be maintained in accordance with the provisions of Section 17-5-19 of the
Housing Code, Responsibilities of Owners Relating to the Maintenance and Occupancy of
Premises.
The Historic Preservation Commission may file a petition with the Building Official requesting
investigation of any applicable building or structure suspected of neglect or deterioration. The
Building Official will proceed with investigation and may take any enforcement action necessary
to correct or prevent further violation. Failure to comply with the stated corrective action may
result in penalties and/or legal action.
48
Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
8.0 Neighborhood District Guidelines
The size of a primary building on a site, the size of the yard, as well as the architectural
character of the building are defining characteristics of historic and conservation districts, and
vary according to the neighborhood. This section deals specifically with site, scale, structure
location, and architectural style standards unique to properties within certain Iowa City
neighborhoods.
Proposed projects on buildings within a neighborhood listed in this section must meet the
respective Neighborhood District Guidelines in addition to the other applicable standards of
the Iowa City Preservation Handbook. The provisions of this section will supersede provisions
found elsewhere in the handbook if the provisions conflict.
8.1 Longfellow Neighborhood
The Longfellow Neighborhood District Guidelines apply to the Summit Street Historic District,
Longfellow Historic District (including the Moffitt Cottage National Register Historic District),
Governor -Lucas Street Conservation District, Clark Street Conservation District, and Dearborn
Street Conservation District. They apply to single-family, duplex and multi -family buildings in
these neighborhood districts. Proposed new multi -family buildings must also comply with 9.0
Design Guidelines for Multi -Family /
BURLINGTON ST /'J7 - 1 �
Buildings. �7i�� ; i
Site and Scale Guidelines
Setback, Front
On Summit Street only: The rear wall of the
primary structures must not extend deeper
than 125 feet from the front street. This
restriction preserves the openness of the
rear yards.
. Llf� s
Building Facade
;r
g
The total surface area of the street f r 6W17
t
elevation of a new primary building must be ❑ Raw,r °_°£
no more than 800 square feet. Existing I �❑1
R w000 vE �o
primary structures must not be expanded in ❑❑ x
such a manner that the total surface area - ❑❑
exceeds 800 square feet. For the purposes
of enforcing this guideline, the total surface area of the street elevation is defined as a figure
derived by calculating the surface area of all wall and roof surfaces, including window and door
openings that are visible in a measured drawing of the building's street elevation.
On Governor, Bowery, and Court Streets only: The total surface area of the street elevation
must be no more than 1200 square feet for a new primary building or for an existing building
including a new addition.
On Summit Street only: The total surface area of the street elevation must be no more than
1500 square feet for a new primary building or for an existing building including a new addition,
and no more than 750 square feet for a new outbuilding.
In the Moffitt Cottage National Register Historic District only: The surface area of the street
elevation must be no more than 450 square feet for a new primary building or an existing
building including a new addition.
Outbuildings
In the Summit Street Historic District only Attached garages are not allowed. Garages must be
located at the rear of the property wherever possible.
(Continued on page 50)
0
49
Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
Architectural Guidelines for New Primary Structures
5.
Building Styles
Architectural style is a defining characteristic for historic and conservation districts. A new primary
structure must reflect the historic styles of its neighborhood. Although new construction may adapt
and mix some elements of different styles, a single style must dictate the height and mass,
rooflines, fenestration, and overhangs for the new building. Please refer to section 12.0 Residential
Architectural Styles of Iowa City for examples of historic building styles. The architectural styles
represented in each district are given below.
In the Summit Street Historic District only A new building must reflect the Italianate, Queen Anne,
Colonial Revival, American Foursquare, Prairie School, Vernacular, or Eclectic style.
In the Longfellow Historic District only: A new building must reflect the Queen Anne, Colonial
Revival, Craftsman, Craftsman Bungalow, American Foursquare, Prairie School, Period Revival
Cottage, Vernacular, or Eclectic style.
In the Governor -Lucas Street Conservation District only: A new building on Governor Street must
reflect the Italianate, Queen Anne, American Foursquare, or Vernacular style. A new building on
Lucas Street must reflect the Queen Anne, Craftsman, Craftsman Bungalow, American
Foursquare, Prairie School, or Vernacular style.
In the Clark Street Conservation District only: A new building must reflect the Queen Anne,
Colonial Revival, Craftsman, Craftsman Bungalow, American Foursquare, Vernacular, or Eclectic
style.
In the Dearborn Street Conservation District only: A new building must reflect the Craftsman,
Craftsman Bungalow, American Foursquare, Vernacular, or Eclectic style.
In the Moffitt Cottage National Register Historic District only: A new building must reflect the Period
Revival Cottage style.
Building Height and Mass
New structures must be one, one -and -a -half, or two stories in height except as noted below.
In the Summit Street Historic District only: New single-family houses must have two full stories in
the principal portion of the building.
In the Moffitt Cottage National Register Historic District only: New single-family houses must be
one story in height.
Porches
In the Moffitt Cottage National Register Historic District only: Traditional front porches were not
used in this district and are not permitted
Exception
In order to provide flexibility for certain changes and certain properties, the Commission has
documented a number of exceptions to the Iowa City Guidelines. Projects requiring the
exceptions corresponding to the property type listed below may be approved by the Preservation
Planner or Preservation Planner and Chair. Projects requiring exceptions to the guidelines that
are not listed may be considered by the full Commission under major review. The Commission is
afforded flexibility when reviewing applications in order to arrive at historically and architecturally
appropriate solutions in cases where a proposed construction project does not significantly affect
the architectural character of a historic structure.
In deciding on a project requiring an exception to the guidelines, the Commission may find
guidance in the additional guidelines, outlined in section 3.2. When approving a project requiring
an exception, the Commission shall identify the guideline(s) for which the exception is being made,
and the rationale for the exception.
For more information on exceptions to the Iowa City Guidelines, please refer to section 3.2.
50
Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
8.2 College Hill Neighborhood
The College Hill Neighborhood District Guidelines apply to the College Green Historic District,
East College Street Historic District, and the College Hill Conservation District. They apply to
single-family, duplex and multi -family buildings in these neighborhood districts. Proposed new
multi -family buildings must also comply with 9.0 Design Guidelines for Multi -Family Buildings.
Site and Scale Guidelines
Building Facade
The total surface area of the street
elevation of a new primary structure must
be no more than 1200 square feet. Existing
primary structures that were historically
single-family houses must not be expanded
in such a manner that the total surface area
exceeds 1200 square feet. For the
purposes of enforcing this guideline, the
total surface area of the street elevation is
f' d ' A I IC
IOWA AVE
BURLINGTON ST
defined as a figure erive y ca cu a mg
the surface area of all wall and roof surfaces, including window and door openings that are
visible in a measured drawing of the building's street elevation.
Architectural Guidelines for New Primary Structures
Building Styles
Architectural style is a defining characteristic for historic and conservation districts. A new
primary structure must reflect the historic styles of its neighborhood. Although new construction
may adapt and mix some elements of different styles, a single style should dictate the height
and mass, rooflines, fenestration, and overhangs for the new building. Please refer to section
12.0 Residential Architectural Styles of Iowa City for examples of historic building styles.
In the College Hill Neighborhood: A new building must reflect the Italianate, Queen Anne,
Colonial Revival, Craftsman, American Foursquare, Prairie School, Period Revival House, O
Vernacular or Eclectic style. c6
Building Height and Mass
New single-family houses or duplexes must be one -and -a -half, or two stories in height, except
as noted below. New multi -family structures must be compatible in height and mass with the
surrounding neighborhood.
On College Street only: New structures must be two stories in height.
Exception
In order to provide flexibility for certain changes and certain properties, the Commission has
documented a number of exceptions to the Iowa City Guidelines. Projects requiring the
exceptions corresponding to the property type listed below may be approved by the
Preservation Planner or Preservation Planner and Chair. Projects requiring exceptions to the
guidelines that are not listed may be considered by the full Commission under major review.
The Commission is afforded flexibility when reviewing applications in order to arrive at
historically and architecturally appropriate solutions in cases where a proposed construction
project does not significantly affect the architectural character of a historic structure.
In deciding on a project requiring an exception to the guidelines, the Commission may find
guidance in the additional guidelines, outlined in section 3.2. When approving a project
requiring an exception, the Commission shall identify the guideline(s) for which the exception is
being made, and the rationale for the exception.
For more information on exceptions to the Iowa City Guidelines, please refer to section 3.2.
51
Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
8.3 Woodlawn Historic District
These guidelines apply to single-family, duplex and multi -family buildings in the Woodlawn Historic
District. Proposed new multi -family buildings must also comply with 9.0 Design Guidelines for
Multi -Family Buildinqs.
Site and Scale Guidelines
Due to the unique site characteristics of this district,
standard Site and Scale Guidelines are difficult to
apply. Therefore, the Historic Preservation
Commission will use section 10.0 The Secretary of
the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation for these
guidelines.
Architectural Guidelines for New Primary
Structures
Building Styles
Although it is unlikely that a new primary structure will
be constructed in the Woodlawn Historic District, in
the event that this should happen, projects will be
evaluated using section 10.0 The Secretary of the
Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation. Please refer to
section 12.0 Residential Architectural Styles of Iowa
City for examples of historic building styles.
a HOTZ ST
JEFFERSON ST
G-
IOWA AVE oo lawn ve
Is QIiC Mstrct
i
WASHINGTON T
E. WASHINGTON ST
z
LLJ
;I; w
> COLLEGE ST a
= o�T
In the Woodlawn Historic District: A new building must
reflect the Gothic Revival, Italianate, Queen Anne, SticWEastlake, Tudor Revival or Eclectic style.
Exception
o In order to provide flexibility for certain changes and certain properties, the Commission has
00 documented a number of exceptions to the Iowa City Guidelines. Projects requiring the
exceptions corresponding to the property type listed below may be approved by the Preservation
Planner or Preservation Planner and Chair. Projects requiring exceptions to the guidelines that
are not listed may be considered by the full Commission under major review. The Commission is
afforded flexibility when reviewing applications in order to arrive at historically and architecturally
appropriate solutions in cases where a proposed construction project does not significantly affect
the architectural character of a historic structure.
In deciding on a project requiring an exception to the guidelines, the Commission may find
guidance in the additional guidelines, outlined in section 3.2. When approving a project requiring
an exception, the Commission shall identify the guideline(s) for which the exception is being made,
and the rationale for the exception.
For more information on exceptions to the Iowa City Guidelines, please refer to section 3.2.
52
Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
8.4 Northside Neighborhood
The Northside Neighborhood District Guidelines apply to the Brown Street Historic District and
Northside Historic District. They apply to single-family, duplex and multi -family buildings in
these neighborhood districts. Proposed new multi -family buildings must also comply with 9.0
Design Guidelines for Multi -Family Buildings.
Site and Scale Guidelines
Building Facade
The total surface area of the street elevation of a
new primary structure must be no more than 1200
square feet. Existing primary structures that were
historically single-family houses must not be
expanded in such a manner that the total surface
area exceeds 1200 square feet. For the purposes
of enforcing this guideline, the total surface area of
the street elevation is defined as a figure derived
by calculating the surface area of all wall and roof
surfaces, including window and door openings that
are visible in a measured drawing of the building's
street elevation.
On Bella Vista Drive only: Due to the unique site
characteristics of this area, standard Site and
Scale Guidelines are difficult to appYI Therefore
1
F
_Hi'si'oi
!
eRo Brown Str s tot ST—
—
- I-1
f
1 -, ].
H
- __� - r - - --
�u
"Sim or C C C
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U?RM'FT IT IIAIK
• ,
the Historic Preservation Commission will use section 10.0 The Secretary of the Interior's
Standards for Rehabilitation for these guidelines.
Architectural Guidelines for New Primary Structures
Building Styles z
Architectural style is a defining characteristic for historic and conservation districts. A new
primary structure must reflect the historic styles of its neighborhood. Although new construction o
may adapt and mix some elements of different styles, a single style should dictate the height 06
and mass, rooflines, fenestration, and overhangs for the new building. Please refer to section
12.0 Residential Architectural Styles of Iowa City for examples of historic building styles.
In the Northside Neighborhood: A new building must reflect the Italianate, Queen Anne,
Colonial Revival, Craftsman, American Foursquare, Prairie School, Vernacular, or Eclectic
style.
Building Height and Mass
New structures must be one -and -a -half or two stories in height.
Exception
In order to provide flexibility for certain changes and certain properties, the Commission has
documented a number of exceptions, to the Iowa City Guidelines. Projects requiring the
exceptions corresponding to the property type listed below may be approved by the
Preservation Planner or Preservation Planner and Chair. Projects requiring exceptions to the
guidelines that are not listed may be considered by the full Commission under major review.
The Commission is afforded flexibility when reviewing applications in order to arrive at
historically and architecturally appropriate solutions in cases where a proposed construction
project does not significantly affect the architectural character of a historic structure.
In deciding on a project requiring an exception to the guidelines, the Commission may find
guidance in the additional guidelines, outlined in section 3.2. When approving a project
requiring an exception, the Commission shall identify the guideline(s) for which the exception is
being made, and the rationale for the exception.
For more information on exceptions to the Iowa City Guidelines, please refer to section 3.2.
53
Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
9.0 Design Guidelines for Multi -Family Buildings
Compliance with 14-213-6 Multi -Family Site Development Standards of the Iowa City Zoning Code
must be demonstrated prior to the issuance of a Certificate of Appropriateness. The standards of
this section will be administered by the Historic Preservation Commission concurrently with review
of the proposed development as defined in 14-213-6 Multi -Family Site Development Standards.
The provisions of this section will supersede the provisions of 14-213-6 Multi -Family Site
Development Standards if the provisions conflict. New structures must also meet the provisions of
8.0 Neighborhood District Guidelines. Please be advised building permit requirements are unique
for multi -family structures. Please contact the Building Department at 356-5120 before beginning
work to inquire about your property.
9.1 Site Elements
Building Access, Entrances and Orientation
m Buildings must have at least one door on the exterior of the building that provides pedestrian
access to dwelling units within the building. A pedestrian circulation system must be provided that
CU connects residential entrances to adjacent public rights -of -way, and to parking areas and other on -
site facilities. Guidelines for disability access can be found in 5.2 Ramps and Decks.
The "front" of the building must have at least one main entrance to the building, or may contain
separate main entrances to the ground level dwelling units. Main entrances to a building require
certain architectural treatments which emphasize the entrance. These can be found in 9.2
Architectural Elements.
Orientation of the "front" of the building must be to the street or interior courtyard in a manner
similar to existing buildings in the neighborhood
U)
o Lighting
All exterior lighting, including balcony and porch lighting, must be carefully placed, downcast and
shielded so that entrances, sidewalks and stairways are well lit, but the lighting is non -obtrusive to
neighboring properties. No exterior light source should be located on poles more than 15 feet high.
When lights mounted on buildings are intended to provide site lighting rather than corridor or exit
lighting, they must be mounted no higher than 15 feet. For requirements on the use of lighting to
highlight architectural elements, see 9.2 Architectural Elements.
Parking and Garages
Parking lots, including detached garages and carports, must not be located between the principle
building and the street. Parking must be located behind a building, below grade, or under a
building. On corner lots parking may be located alongside the building, but not within a required
front or side yard and no closer than 20 feet to the sidewalk. Landscaped screening consisting of
densely planted evergreen shrubs, a hedge, a combination of evergreen and deciduous shrubs, or
a decorative masonry wall in combination with landscaping must be used to screen the parking
from the street and adjacent properties.
Where parking is located below a building, any exposed portions of the exterior walls of the
parking area visible from a street must appear to be a component of the facade of the building.
The use of similar building materials, window openings, and providing facade detailing similar to
the upper levels are examples of how this can be achieved. In no case shall a building have the
appearance from the street of being elevated above a parking level, or "on stilts."
(Continued on page 55)
54
Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
When parking is provided within the primary structure, garage doors should not be located on
any side of a building facing a street. When located on a side wall or on a rear wall on a corner
lot, landscaping, masonry walls, or elements of the building should be used to help screen the
garage doors from view from the street.
t
Acceptable Acceptable Unw-ptaWe
Location of surface parking for properties with multiple buildings
Setback, Front
The front yard setback must comply with the setback requirements established within the
appropriate individual district guidelines. If no setback requirement is established within the
district guidelines, the following standard must apply. The front setback for new buildings must
not deviate more than 5 feet from the average setback of existing principal buildings along the
same frontage. A new building may not be located closer to the street than the existing
principal building that is closest to the street along the same frontage.
9.2 Architectural Elements
Architectural Details
The building should include architectural details to add interest to building elevations visible
from the public street, including but not limited to the following: Quoins, dentils, cornice
moldings, brackets, arches, corner boards, keystones, decorative lintels and sills, double -hung
windows, soldier courses, belt courses, bay windows, and other decorative features as
appropriate for the design of the overall building and materials being used. The use of these
elements must be reviewed in the context of the overall building design and the character of the
historic district, and not simply based on the provision of these architectural details.
Architectural Style
The purpose of requiring an architectural style is to ensure that the mass, roof form, window
style and configuration, and the basic architectural details of a building are generally compatible
with the historic character of the historic or conservation district. New buildings should appear
similar to a large house or a small historic apartment building.
Any building elevation that is within public view (visible from a public street, public sidewalk,
public access easement, or other public way, or from a public park or other public open space
area.), must be designed in a manner that is consistent with a historic architectural style typical
of residential buildings in the historic and conservation districts. However, building facades that
are visible only from public alleys are not subject to these standards.
The applicable architectural styles are outlined in 8.0 Neighborhood
District Guidelines, and include: Italianate; Queen Anne; Colonial
Revival; Craftsman; Craftsman Bungalow; American Foursquare;
Prairie School; Period Revival; and Eclectic. The applicant must
indicate in detail how each of the following architectural elements in
the proposed building are consistent with one of these architectural Frieze board
styles as described in 12.0 Residential Architectural Styles of Iowa Corner board
City: Window trim
1. Form and mass of the building;
2. Roof configuration and pitch; Masonry
base
3. Style and placement of windows and doors;
4. Window and door trim, eave boards, frieze boards, and other trim;
5. Porch and entrance features;
6. Building details and ornamentation. Building Materials
Alternative designs that have been prepared by a licensed architect
may be acceptable and will be reviewed on a case -by case basis.
(Continued on page 56)
I
55
Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
Balconies, Decks, Exterior Stairways, Corridors Lifts and Ramps
Balconies, decks, exterior stairways, corridors, lifts and ramps should be designed so that they are
integrated into the overall design of the building. Methods of integrating these elements into the
building design may include, but are not limited to, fully or partially recessing them into the facade
of the building, placing them under a roof that is integrated into the overall roof plan, utilizing
supports that are compatible with the rest of the building in terms of materials and design, and
utilizing supports that reach to the ground rather than append on the exterior of the building.
For purposes of this subsection the term, "exterior stairways," refers to stairways that lead to floors
of a building that are above the first or ground -level floor of a building. "Exterior corridors refers to
unenclosed corridors located above the first or ground -level floor of a building. Balconies and
exterior stairways, exterior corridors and exterior lifts must comply with the following standards:
1. Exterior stairways, exterior lifts and exterior corridors must be covered with a roof similar in
design and materials to the roof over the rest of the structure. Said roof should be
incorporated into the overall roof plan of the structure. Alternatively, such features may be
recessed into the facade of the building. Exterior corridors may not be located on a street -
facing wall of the building or within 20 feet of a street -facing wall.
2. Unenclosed or partially enclosed stairways may not be used as the primary means of access
to dwelling units located above the ground -level floor of the building (see 14-2B-6D-6 of the
Iowa City Zoning Code).
3. Balconies, exterior stairways, exterior lifts and exterior corridors may not be located on any
side of a building that is adjacent to a property that is zoned Single Family Residential or that
contains an existing Single Family Use. Buildings that are set back at least 40 feet from any
such property are exempt from this standard.
4. The design of any balcony, exterior stairway, exterior lift or exterior corridor must utilize
columns, piers, supports, walls, and railings that are designed and constructed of materials
that are similar or complementary to the design and materials used for the rest of the building.
5. Decks and ramps should be designed according to the guidelines set out in section 5.2 Decks
and Ramps.
Unacceptable
C
Acceptable
Balconies and exterior corridors
i i n "� fir., .1 i
Acceptable
Building Height and Mass
Measures should be incorporated into the design of a new building that help to reduce its "visual
mass" and overall height. In historic and conservation districts the width of the front facade of new
buildings must not exceed 40 feet unless the horizontal plane of any street -facing facade of the
building is broken into modules that give the appearance of smaller, individual buildings. Each
module must meet the following standards:
Each module must be no greater than 30 feet and no less than 10 feet in width and must be
distinguished from adjacent modules by a variation in the wall plane of at least 16 inches in
depth. For buildings that are 3 or more stories in height, the width of the module may be
increased to 40 feet.
2. Each module must have a corresponding change in the roofline.
3. Each module must be distinguished from the adjacent module by at least one of the following
means:
(Continued on page 57)
56
Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
a) Variation in Material colors, types or textures;
b) Variation in the building and/or parapet height;
c) Variation in the architectural details such as decorative banding, reveals, stone, or tile
accents;
d) Variation in window pattern.
e) Variation in the use of balconies and recesses.
/•�
III III III 111 III III III III III �� ��.
�Y� ... ■ ■ ... .. .
III■I���' III III III ,I-I�I I : I ��-I, III nl III �!r�!r.�!f'1!I
Module ��odule� Mo Module
Building modules that break up the horizontal plane
Unacceptable Acceptable
Acceptable Acceptable
Building articulation I
Entrances
Main entrances to a building, including main entrances to ground level individual dwelling units
must be clearly demarcated by one of the following means: covered porch or canopy, transom
and sidelight windows, pilasters and pediment, or other significant architectural treatments that
emphasize main entrances.
®=m
a. Canopy a. Porch b. Transom & c. Pilasters &
sl&hght windows pediment
Main entrance features
Lighting
Lights intended to architecturally highlight a building or its features must use a limited pattern of
light that does not extend beyond the wall of the building.
(Continued on page 58)
I
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Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
Roofline
Rooflines should reflect the predominant roof type, orientation, scale and pitch of existing buildings
within the neighborhood.
Windows/Fenestration
The placement of windows and doors on street elevations should be consistent with the window
and door patterns found on other properties in the surrounding neighborhood, and of a similar size,
scale and proportion to the windows of other buildings in the neighborhood. Individual window
units that are located in primary living spaces, such as living rooms, dining areas, and bedrooms,
must have a height that is at least 1.5 times greater than the width of the window unit. Individual
window units may be located side -by -side in a wider window opening. Bathroom, kitchen,
skylights, and decorative windows, such as stained-glass and ocular windows, are not required to
meet this standard. The use of trim and moldings must be similar in width and character to
surrounding buildings.
width
t
x
Window proportions
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Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
10.0 The Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation
The Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation (Standards) were originally written
to determine the appropriateness of proposed project work on properties that were listed on the
National Register of Historic Places. The Standards are accompanied by instructions
concerning methods, materials, historical character, and other considerations that relate to the
historical significance of the particular property and its surroundings. The Standards have been
widely accepted by state, county, and city governments.
The Iowa City Historic Preservation Commission uses the Standards to determine the cc
appropriateness of exterior changes to historic landmarks and properties located in historic and
4
conservation districts. The Iowa City Guidelines are based on and comply with the Standards, IC
and were written to provide more specific guidance for owners, contractors and consultants in c
Iowa City as well as the Historic Preservation Commission.
The Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation (1990) are listed below. n
0
1. A property 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 o
materials or alteration of features and spaces that characterize a property shall be avoided.
Q)
3. Each property shall be recognized as a physical record of its time, place, and use. Changes L)
that create a false sense of historical development, such as adding conjectural features or
architectural elements from other buildings, shall not be undertaken.
4. Most properties change over time; those changes that have acquired historic significance in o
their own right shall be retained and preserved.
5. Distinctive features, finishes, and construction techniques or examples of craftsmanship
that characterize a property 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.
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Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
11.0 Title 14: Iowa City Zoning Code
The Iowa City Zoning Code is a document to ensure proper implementation of the Comprehensive
Plan for the city of Iowa City. All development, including work on historic structures, must comply
with the rules and regulations set out in the Zoning Code. Certain procedures, standards,
regulations, guidelines, incentives, definitions, and noncompliance violations exist for historic
preservation. The sections of the Zoning Code below detail the preponderance of administrative
procedures and rules which relate to projects involving historic structures. The Zoning Code may
be found at http://www.icgov.org/zoning, or may be viewed or purchased from the Department of
Planning and Community Development.
11.1 Chapter 2, Article B — Multi -Family Residential Zones
Multi -Family Site Development Standards
Chapter 2, Article B, Section 6 of the Iowa City Zoning Code deals with the requirements of multi-
family structures and the requisite parking and driveway requirements, architectural styling,
building materials and minor modifications to existing structures.
111.2 Chapter 3, Article B — Historic District and Conservation District
Overlay
O
N
Historic District Overlay Zone
Chapter 3, Article B, Section 1 of the Iowa City Zoning Code discusses the purpose of an overlay
o zone, defines an overlay zone as well as a historic district, provides maps of Iowa City historic
v
districts and lists designated local historic landmarks.
Conservation District Overlay Zone
Chapter 3, Article B, Section 2 of the Iowa City Zoning Code discusses the purpose of an overlay
zone, defines an overlay zone as well as a conservation district, and provides maps of Iowa City
conservation districts.
Historic Review
Chapter 3, Article B, Section 3 of the Iowa City Zoning Code discusses the purpose of the historic
review, when a historic review is required, the application process, and appealing historic review
decisions.
Certificate of Economic Hardship
Chapter 3, Article B, Section 4 of the Iowa City Zoning Code discusses the preconditions for
application of a Certificate of Economic Hardship and the approval criteria.
Compliance with Certificate Required
Chapter 3, Article B, Section 5 of the Iowa City Zoning Code discusses violations of work
authorized by permits and penalties for violating the parameters of work authorized.
Remedy of Dangerous Conditions
Chapter 3, Article B, Section 6 of the Iowa City Zoning Code grants the Historic Preservation
Committee a chance to provide input into the remedy of historic structures deemed to be
dangerous to life, health, or property.
Prevention of Demolition by Neglect
Chapter 3, Article B, Section 7 of the Iowa City Zoning Code mandates property owners maintain
buildings against deterioration, decay, structural defects and provides for penalties in the case of
violation.
11.3 Chapter 7, Article A — Boards and Commissions
Historic Preservation Commission
Chapter 7, Article A, Section 3 of the Iowa City Zoning Code determines the makeup of the
membership of the Historic Preservation Commission. It further elaborates the purpose,
powers and duties of the Commission, and provides for the establishment of the Design Review
Subcommittee.
roll]
Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
11.4 Chapter 8, Article E — Historic Preservation Commission Approval
Procedures
Designation of Historic Districts, Conservation Districts, and Local Historic Landmarks
Chapter 8, Article E, Section 1 of the Iowa City Zoning Code discusses the procedures for
designation of historic districts, conservation districts, and local historic landmarks including
application requirements and provisions for public hearings.
Historic Review
Chapter 8, Article E, Section 2 of the Iowa City Zoning Code discusses the application
requirements for a Historic Review, the various levels of review, and the approval and appeals
procedure.
Certificate of Economic Hardship
Chapter 8, Article E, Section 3 of the Iowa City Zoning Code discusses the circumstances
which qualify for a Certificate of Economic Hardship, the application requirements and the
approval procedure.
11.5 Chapter 9, Article B — Historic Preservation Definitions
This section of the code provides definitions to terms used throughout the code and which refer
to historic preservation.
a�
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0
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Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
12.0 Residential Architectural Styles of Iowa City
The following is a guide to the most typical architectural styles found in Iowa City's historic and
conservation districts. Building styles are characterized by the mass and proportions of the
building, the style and placement of windows and doors (fenestration), and style of trim and other
ornamentation. New construction in historic and conservation districts should reflect the size,
proportions, fenestration, trim, and other ornamentation of a building style typical of that district.
These guidelines will be used in evaluating new single-family houses and multi -family buildings.
12.1 American Foursquare
The American Foursquare style is typified by its
cubical mass and hipped roof. Roof pitches vary
from 6/12 to 10/12. Often, the roof pitch at the
eave will be less than the pitch of the main roof
forming a "sweep" at the roof edge. Overhangs
are often 24 inches or more with boxed -in soffits
and a wide frieze board. Foursquare houses have
hipped, wide attic dormers on one or more sides.
Windows tend to have wider proportions than
other styles, but they are still taller than they are
wide. Although not always strictly symmetrical, the
front facade is very regular. Ornamentation is
typically simple and is usually expressed in the
design of the porch. There may be two types of
siding used, similar to a Craftsman house.
Foursquare porches typically extend the entire
width of the front facade and have a low-pitched
hip roof. The porch may have two or three large,
o square columns on masonry piers to support the
roof. Other Foursquare porches have Classic
Revival style details with round tapered columns.
The porch railing may be constructed of solid
panels, rails with square spindles, or a solid wall
covered with the siding material.
The American Foursquare originated as a design
for single family residences with four rooms on
each of two floors. However, it may be adapted for
multi -family buildings. The square plan may be
elongated or designed as two attached houses to
form a duplex.
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Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
13.0 Historic Landmarks, Properties, and Districts
13.1 Local Historic Landmarks
*Historic review is only required for changes to properties listed as Iowa City landmarks
or located within
Historic or Conservation Districts.
Year
Iowa City
National
Address
Built
Style
Landmark
Register
Downtown
First Congregational Church
30 N. Clinton St.
1869
Gothic Revival
Sep-96
Jun-73
College Block Building
125 E. College St.
1883
Italianate
Sep-96
Jul-73
Carnegie Library
307 E. College St.
1903
Classic Revival
Jul-01
----
�,
Trinity Episcopal Church
320 E. College St.
1871
Gothic Revival
Sep-96
Dec-74
a
Franklin Printing House
115 S. Dubuque
1856
Commercial Brick
Sep-96
Apr-86
Van Patten House
9 S. Linn St.
1873
Victorian Eclectic
Sep-96
Jan-83
Hohenshuh Mortuary
13 S. Linn St.
1917
Colonial Revival
Oct-00
----
Old Post Office
28 S. Linn St.
1904
Classic Revival
----
Apr-79
2
Paul --Helen Building
207-215 E. Washington
1910
Commercial Brick
Sep-96
Apr-86
YEnglert
Theatre
221 E. Washington St.
1912
Renaissance Revival
----
Aug-01
Boerner-Fry Company/
E
Davis Hotel
332 E. Washington St.
1899
Classic Revival
----
Jan-83
co
L)
University Landmarks
o
Old Capitol
Pentacrest
1842
Greek Revival
----
May-72
Pentacrest
Capitol St. & Iowa Ave.
1902-24
Classic Revival
----
Mar-78
o
Dubuque/Linn Street Neighborhood
`n
Jackson -Swisher House &
Carriage House
120 E. Fairchild St.
1877
Gothic Revival
Sep-96
Nov-82
Northside Neighborhood
Arthur Hillyer Ford House
228 Brown St.
1908
Mission Revival
----
Apr-86
Charles Berryhill House
414 Brown St.
1868
Italianate
----
May-79
Queen Anne
Bohumil Shimek House
529 Brown St.
1893
Vernacular
----
Dec-91
Emma J. Harvat House
332 E. Davenport St.
1916
Classic Revival
----
May-00
Letovsky-Rohret House
515 E. Davenport St.
1881
Greek Revival
Sep-96
Apr-82
William Bostick House
115 N. Gilbert St.
1851
Greek Revival
Sep-96
Mar-96
Jacob Wentz House
219 N. Gilbert St.
1847
Greek Revival
Sep-96
Aug-74
Windrem House
604 Iowa Ave.
ca 1850
Vernacular
Sep-96
Sep-77
St. Mary's Church and
Rectory
220 E. Jefferson St.
1867
Gothic Revival
Sep-96
Feb-80
Park House Hotel
130 E. Jefferson St.
1852
Sep-96
Dec-78
St. Mary's Rectory
610 E. Jefferson St.
1854
Greek Revival
Sep-96
Jul-95
Economy Advertising
Company
119-123 N. Linn
1923
Commercial Brick
Sep-96
Apr-86
127-131 N. Linn and
Union Brewery
221-227 E. Market
1856-57
Italianate
Sep-96
Apr-86
Schindheim--Drews House
410 N. Lucas St.
1855
Greek Revival
Sep-96
Jan-94
North Presbyterian Church
20 E. Market St.
1856
Romanesque Revival
Sep-96
Aug-73
Henry C. Nicking House
410 E. Market St.
ca 1854
Vernacular
Sep-96
Apr-75
Vogt-Unash House
800 N. Van Buren St.
1889
Queen Anne
----
Jul-78
72
Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
Goosetown Neighborhood
F. X. Rittenmeyer (Burger)
House
Czecho Slovakian
Association Hall
Cavanaugh-Zetek House
Isaac Wetherby House
College Hill Neighborhood
Thomas C. Carson House
Linsay House
Stevenson -Baker House
Crum -Overholt House
Haddock House "The Crag"
630 E. Fairchild St.
524 N. Johnson St.
704 Reno St.
611 N Governor St
906 E. College St.
935 E. College St.
30 S. Governor St.
726 Iowa Ave.
802 E. Washington St.
Longfellow Neighborhood
Oakes -Wood House 1142 E. Court St.
Summit Apartment Building 228 S. Summit St.
Manville Heights Neighborhood
Ned Ashton House 820 Park Rd.
Kirkwood Neighborhood
Plum Grove
Bethel AME Church
Clark House
Samuel Kirkwood House
Westside Neighborhood
Cyrus S. & Georginia
Ca 1875
Anglo-Italianate
1900
Colonial Revival
1870
Gothic Revival
Ca.1860
Vernacular
1875
Second Empire
1893
Queen Anne
1882
Italianate
ca 1840
Greek Revival
1891
Gothic Revival
1858 Italianate
1916 Prairie/Sullivan
1947 Modern Movement
Sep-96
Sep-96
Sep-96
Sep-96
Sep-96
May-03
May-03
May-03
Sep-96
Sep-96
1030 Carroll Ave.
1844
Greek Revival ----
411 S. Governor St.
1868
Vernacular ----
829 Kirkwood Ave.
1874
Victorian/Italianate Sep-96
1101 Kirkwood Ave.
1864
Anglo-Italianate Sep-96
Ranck House
747 W. Benton St.
Wilbur D. and Hattie
Cannon House
320 Melrose Ave.
A. W. Pratt House
503 Melrose Ave.
Billingsley -Hills House
629 Melrose Ave.
Near Southside Neighborhood
Johnson County Courthouse
S. Clinton St.
C.D. Close House
538 S. Gilbert St.
Chicago, Rock Island & Pa-
cific Railroad Passenger
Station
115 Wright St.
Outlying Properties
Rose Hill 1415 E. Davenport St.
McCollister Farmstead 2460 S. Gilbert St.
ca 1905 Late Queen Anne Aug-02
1884
Italianate
Sep-96
1885
Italianate
Sep-96
Italianate/
1870
Greek Revival
Sep-96
Richardsonian
1901
Romanesque
----
1874
Italianate
Sep-96
1898
Victorian Eclectic
Sep-96
1849
Greek Revival
Sep-96
1864
Anglo-Italianate
Sep-96
May-79
Nov-76
Sep-77
Mar-09
Sep-82
Aug-77
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Apr-78
Sep-83
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Jan-01 Y
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May-73 3
Sep-00 0
May-96 Ln
Sep-74 =
Oct-94
Feb-83
Jan-83
Mar-75
May-74
Dec-82
Apr-92
Oct-76
73
Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
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13.2 Historic and Conservation Districts
Address
Iowa City Local
National
District
Register
South Summit Street Historic District
Roughly 300-800 blocks of South Summit
Mar-84
Oct-73
Street
Woodlawn Avenue Historic District
Irregular pattern along Woodlawn Avenue
Mar-84
Mar-79
Roughly Brown Street from west of Linn
Brown Street Historic District
Street to Governor Street and adjacent parts
May-94
Sep-94
of intersecting streets
Moffitt Cottage Historic District
1322-1330 Muscatine Avenue
May-95
May-93
East College Street Historic District Roughly bounded by Muscatine Avenue, Mar-97 Jul-97
Summit, Washington, and Burlington Streets
College Green Historic District
Roughly bounded by Burlington, Summit,
Washington, and Van Buren Streets
Mar-97 Jul-97
Roughly bounded by Burlington, South Lu-
Governor-Lucas Conservation District cas, South Governor and Burlington Streets,
May-01 ----
and the Iowa Interstate Railway
Roughly bounded by Court and Rundell
Longfellow Historic District
Streets, Sheridan Avenue, and the west
Jan-02 Sep-02
boundary of Longfellow School
Clark Street Conservation District
Roughly 400-800 blocks of Clark Street, and
Jan-02 ----
portions of Roosevelt and Maggard Streets
Dearborn Street Conservation District
Roughly 500-900 blocks of Dearborn St, and
Jan-02 ----
800-900 blocks of Rundell Street
Roughly bounded by Iowa Avenue, Johnson
College Hill Conservation District
and Burlington Streets, and Muscatine Ave-
May-03 ----
nue
Longfellow -Moffitt Cottage
Combines the previous, separate Longfellow
Combination Historic District
and Moffitt Cottage Historic Districts
Jun-03 ----
Brown Street Historic District
Roughly 500-800 blocks of East Ronalds
(Increase)
Street
Dec-04 Sep-04
Jefferson Street Historic District
Portions of 100-400 blocks of East Jefferson
---- Sep-04
Portions of Melrose Avenue, Melrose Court,
Melrose Historic District
Melrose Circle, Brookland park Drive, Brook-
---- Dec-04
land Place, and Myrtle Avenue
Gilbert -Linn St. (Northside) Historic
Portions of 300-600 North Gilbert and North
District
Linn Streets
Ma 09
Y- Apr-05
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Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
14.0 Historic and Conservation Districts Description and History
�4. LongreiioW Nelgnbornood Districts
Governor -Lucas Street Conservation District
Turn -of -the -century houses and tree -lined streets characterize the Governor -Lucas
Conservation District with houses dating from the late 19'h century through the 1930s.
Governor Street's unusually wide lots and deep set -backs on the east side create a sense of
spaciousness that is similar to portions of Summit Street and not found in most Iowa City
residential districts. Examples of vernacular house forms and architectural styles from the
1860s through the 1930s are present, with many good examples of Craftsman Style, American i
Four -Squares and Bungalows intermixed with earlier Victorian styles.
The Governor -Lucas Conservation District was Iowa City's first conservation district. It includes
139 residential properties and one church, the Bethel AME Church (National Register). The
neighborhood saw its transition to rental occupancy begin in 1961 when the majority of the a
district was rezoned for dense multifamily occupancy. In the wake of this rezoning, blocks to
the west saw houses razed and new apartment buildings erected. Measures to designate the
area for protection began with a reconnaissance survey of the neighborhood and blocks to the
west completed in 1990. In 1996 and 1998, a smaller area was included in the intensive level
survey completed for the Longfellow Neighborhood. In May 2000, owner -occupants and long- C
term renters, aware of the pressure to construct dormitory -style apartment buildings in the z neighborhood, successfully petitioned the City Council to down -zone the neighborhood. Work a
on establishment of a conservation district paralleled the rezoning measure.
Summit Street Historic District M
The neighborhood's three blocks include Iowa City's best collection of well-preserved Victorian- M
era and turn -of -the -century American Revival style residences. Houses along the broad street o
are set well back on deep, wooded lots with many properties containing carriage houses, 0
fences, carriage blocks, and historic landscaping features. The ambiance of the Summit Street
Historic District is park -like. Construction dates for the district's building stock primarily range
from the 1860s-191Os. o
The Summit Street blocks were recognized through the years as having a sense of time and
place. Individual houses were prominently featured in Margaret Keyes' early book on Iowa City
architecture. Early threats to the neighborhood posed by apartment house construction were
thwarted by neighborhood activism and subsequent down zoning and historic district protection.
In 1973, residents sought and received a designation for the area as a National Register
historic district — the first historic district established in Iowa City. A decade later, the district
was also the first to be listed as a local historic district, along with the Woodlawn Avenue
Historic District.
The health of Summit Street is evidence of the long term community benefits fostered by
historic preservation. A neighborhood that was threatened with redevelopment in the 1960s is
now a stable and well -regarded residential anchor for the near east part of the city. Buildings in
the district have been rehabilitated at a rate commensurate with or ahead of other older
neighborhoods in the city. Property values have kept pace with or exceeded appreciation in the
balance of the community. Traffic increases are still perceived by current residents; and others,
as the principal threat to the neighborhood.
For many, the Summit Street Historic District is an example of the idiom "If it ain't broke, don't
fix it!" The area has a well -recognized historic image in the community and the district's
addresses are sought after in spite of an increasingly competitive market for preserved historic
residences
Clark Street Conservation District
The Clark Street Conservation District includes residences constructed as worker housing for
the nearby Kelly Manufacturing Company and Oakes Brickworks during the late 19th and early
20th centuries as well as homes built for what became an early 20th-century commuter suburb.
Modest one- to two-story houses in styles and vernacular house forms typical of the period
characterize the district. Scattered examples of earlier domestic architectural styles and forms
appear on the west edge adjacent to the Summit Street Historic District. Narrow, tree -lined
streets contribute to the historic sense of time and place of this neighborhood.
75
Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
At the time the Clark Street Conservation District was designed in 2001, 57 of the district's 76
properties, approximately 75 percent, were considered to be contributing to the character of the
conservation district.
Longfellow Historic District
The Longfellow Historic District includes portions of the original Rundell Addition, Oakes Addition
and East Iowa City. The northern fringe of the Longfellow neighborhood was developed before
World War I while the balance of the area extending south of Court St. and east of Clark St. was
not fully developed until World War II. Good examples of vernacular house forms and architectural
styles from before and after World War II survive throughout the neighborhood, with construction
occurring c. 1910 — 1940. Facing blocks have a homogeneous scale of buildings with uniform
setbacks. The neighborhood has a high level of physical integrity, including many historic garages.
The Longfellow Elementary School is an important landmark anchoring the neighborhood, which
was originally conceived as a streetcar suburb.
The former Moffitt Cottage district, combined with the Longfellow district in 2003, is made up of the
group of five buildings in the 1300 block of Muscatine Avenue. These are single-family, one or
one -and -a -half story, stone -veneered buildings with Period House stylistic forms and details in the
English cottage variation. They were constructed in 1939 and 1940.
Since 1992, major progress has been made on the preservation objectives for the Longfellow
Historic district. In 1996 and 1998, historical and architectural survey work was completed.
Parallel designation tracks saw the Longfellow Historic District listed as a local ordinance district in
early 2002 and on the National Register later the same year. The Moffitt Cottage district was
combined with the Longfellow Historic District in 2003. Fears of residents expressed in 1992
regarding incompatible exterior remodeling of pristine bungalows and period cottages has been
replaced by carefully planned historic rehabilitations. Removal of the district's small period garages
has been slowed, and where replacement buildings have been erected the design review has
mitigated their loss by requiring more compatible design for new garages. The continuing loss of
original garages is a challenge for the neighborhood.
Dearborn Street Conservation District
o The Dearborn Street area developed primarily during the 1930s and post -World War II years. A
number of the district's houses are based on standardized small house plans popularized during
the pre -World War II period. By this time the automobile was more common and many homes
have small historic garages that are similar to the houses or are incorporated into the house
structure.
The area was surveyed in 1996. A number of the houses have been altered, diminishing the
neighborhoods architectural integrity and eligibility for designation as a historic district. At the time
the Dearborn Street Conservation District was designated in 2002, 105 of the district's 147
properties, approximately 75 percent, were considered to be contributing to the character of the
conservation district.
14.2 College Hill Neighborhood Districts
College Hill Conservation District
The district adjoins three historic districts — College Green, East College Street, and Woodlawn.
The neighborhood takes its name from the topographic rise in the center of the area occupied by
College Green Park and the ladies seminary that was once located in the park. The neighborhood
includes a mix of single-family and multifamily residential buildings dating from the late 19th
through the early 20th century. The neighborhood traditionally had a strong association with the
University, housing students in rooming houses, in scattered fraternity and sorority houses, and
more recently, in apartment buildings. Private residences housed University faculty and staff as
well as many business and civic leaders. Construction of apartment complexes and the
unsympathetic renovations of other buildings have diminished the appearance of some of the
streetscapes.
The College Hill Conservation District was evaluated in two separate surveys — the intensive level
survey of the College Hill Neighborhood completed in 1994 and the reconnaissance level survey of
Iowa Avenue in 2003. The district became a local conservation district in 2003. The College Hill
Conservation District, particularly Iowa Avenue, was one of the most seriously damaged
neighborhoods in the tornado of 2006. The repairs of damaged structures was reviewed by the
Historic Preservation Commission to assure the long-term preservation of the neighborhood.
These efforts were recognized by an Award for Hard Won Victories from the Iowa Chapter of the
American Planning Association.
76
Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
College Green Historic District
The College Green Historic District is a residential area in east Iowa City deriving its name from
a square -block park known as College Green. Substantial houses were built surrounding the
park, their styles typical of house forms and designs from late 19th and early 20th century (c.
1860 — 1930s). The block where the green is located was the site for an unsuccessful effort to
establish the "Iowa Female Collegiate Institute" college in the 1850s and reverted to park use
thereafter. College Green Park serves as a neighborhood focal point. The neighborhood has a
strong association with the development of the University with residences in the area having
served as homes for faculty and staff as well as rooming houses. z
The College Green Historic District is a residential area in east Iowa City deriving its name from N
a square -block park known as College Green. It includes the residential neighborhood
including houses which faces College Green and those structures in an area extending south
and east of the green. The district enjoys a high degree of visual continuity through similar o
scale and massing (single family residential), age (1860s — 1930), and stylistic influences Q
(Nineteenth Century Revival Styles and early Twentieth Century Styles)... The district retains b
its mature tree canopy. Cn,
0
The College Green Historic District was one of two residential districts identified in the historical
and architectural survey of the College Hill Neighborhood completed in 1994. In 1997 the
district became a local historic district, and a short time later was listed on the National Register in
of Historic Places The mature landscape elements which contributed to the identity of the o
district in and around College Green Park were destroyed or damaged in the tornado of 2006
East College Street Historic District
Substantial houses were built along the street, primarily between 1880 and 1920, manifesting
the architectural styles and vernacular house popular in Iowa City during those decades.
Queen Anne Revival, Craftsman and American Four -square house forms predominate in three-
quarters of the district's 28 buildings. Several properties in the district have historical
associations with early business leaders, while others were faculty members at the University.
The architectural styles, period of construction, similar lot setbacks and siding, along with the
presence of a high canopy of mature trees unify the district.
The East College Street Historic District was one of two districts identified in the historical and
architectural survey of the College Hill Neighborhood completed in 1994. In 1997 the district
became a local historic district, and a short time later was listed on the National Register of
Historic Places Several buildings and the mature landscape elements along East College Street
which contributed to the identity of the district were damaged in the tornado of 2006 but most in
the district avoided serious destruction.
14.3 Woodlawn Historic District
Woodlawn is an enclave of 14 well-preserved late 19th and early 20th century residences (c.
1880 — 1900). Cohesion, seclusion and continuity of form are the principal characteristics
which make the Woodlawn Historic District significant in the architectural and natural landscape
of Iowa City. This essentially late 19th Century enclave of upper middle-class residential
structures is distinguished by its large lots, deep setbacks, and the presentation of prominent
front gables, each with its own particular decorative details, to the narrow, unpaved oval of
Woodlawn Avenue. "Governor's Square" located southwest of Woodlawn, was originally
planned as the location for the governor's residence. After the capital relocated to Des Moines
in 1857, these plans were abandoned and Governor's Square was repatted for house lots. In
1889 S.M. Clark's Sub -division, which contains Woodlawn, was platted east of the terminus of
Iowa Avenue. Beginning in the 1880s houses were built along Woodlawn Avenue's spacious
lots featuring Gothic Revival, Italianate, Queen Anne, Stick/Eastlake, and Tudor Revival styles.
Through the years, a Woodlawn address, like that of South Summit Street, connoted prestige.
The Woodlawn Historic District was listed on the National Register in 1979 and became a local
historic district in 1984. Several buildings and mature landscape elements on Woodlawn were
seriously damaged in the April 2006 tornado.
77
Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
14.4 Northside Neighborhood Districts
Brown Street Historic District
This Historic District is located along the north edge of Iowa City's "North Side" neighborhood and
is comprised of residences representative of architectural styles, house forms, decorative details,
and materials used in Iowa City from c. 1850 - 1935. Brown Street residences range in size from
small one and two-story gable cottages to medium sized Gabled -Ell Cottages and to large hipped -
roofed, two-story Four -Squares, and sprawling asymmetrical organic cottages, both one and two-
story forms. The district's record of architectural styles, the densely landscaped private lawns, and
the intact brick street create a distinct sense of place. This visual quality as well as the historic
importance of Brown Street as an early transportation route and its association with faculty and
staff of the University all serves to create a distinct neighborhood identity and historic significance.
Since the 1960s this area of Iowa City has been the subject of intense debate and neighborhood
planning. During the 1980s, efforts were unsuccessful to designate a large mixed -use historic
district in the North Side that included portions of Brown Street. After completion of the 1992
Historic Preservation Plan, the Historic Preservation Commission made its first priority the
designation of Brown Street and portions of adjacent side streets (Bella Vista, Linn, Gilbert, Van
Buren, Johnson, Dodge and Governor) as a separate National Register and local ordinance
historic district. These efforts were successfully completed with strong neighborhood support in
1994 following considerable debate, organizing, and promotion efforts led by the Commission. In
2004, the district boundaries were expanded to include a section of Ronalds Street. Changing
housing trends and the appeal of older houses as single-family residences have demonstrated the
capacity of North Side neighborhoods such as Brown Street to rejuvenate and prosper.
Northside Historic District (Gilbert -Linn Street National Register District)
@ The Northside Historic District (Gilbert -Linn Street National Register District) is locally significant
because of its association with an important era of population growth and intense residential
y development in Iowa City's North Side residential area at the end of the 19th century and the
beginning of the 20th century. Iowa Citians built private residences for their growing families while
small-scale developers constructed housing to meet the demand of a brisk rental market during
o these decades. The Northside Historic District's (Gilbert -Linn Street National Register District)
organic development followed this pattern of residential development.
Additional significance is gained from the fact that the Northside Historic District (Gilbert -Linn
Street National Register District) represented a cross section of middle and upper income
households with prominent business and professional leaders living next door to middle income
and working class families. Individuals who resided in this neighborhood highlight several
important themes in the city's history in the decades before and after the turn of the 20th century.
Primary among these were the growing prosperity of Iowa City's German -American and Czech -
American communities and the growth in importance of the State University of Iowa. The
construction of new houses, the brisk rental of existing houses, and the infill construction pattern
that produced a dense residential district from ca. 1895 through ca. 1925 testify to the
neighborhood's significance.
The Northside Historic District (Gilbert -Linn Street National Register District) also exhibits a
representative collection of the residential architectural styles and vernacular house forms that
appeared in Iowa City neighborhoods from the 1860s through the 1930s. From modest Bohemian
cottages to pattern book houses and elaborate multi -story mansions, the Northside Historic District
(Gilbert -Linn Street National Register District) reflected the architectural character and best local
residential building practices of the period. The District derives added architectural significance
because of the large number of well-preserved residences designed by Iowa City's most
productive early 20th century architect, O.H. Carpenter, between 1900 and 1918.
The combination of visual qualities and historical associations gives the Northside (Gilbert -Linn
Street National Register) Historic District its distinct identity and significance. The boundaries
of the Northside Historic District are larger than the boundaries of the Gilbert -Linn Street
National Register District. This arose from the neighborhoods desire to protect a larger
number of intact historic resources in the neighborhood.
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Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
15.0 Historic and Conservation Districts (Citywide map)
0
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79
Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
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16.0 Longfellow Neighborhood Districts (Maps)
16.1 Governor -Lucas Street Conservation District
COLLEGE ST
- - ------- ------ ------- i
— - ----------------- ---------- -------
------------ ....... ... ...........
........ ..... . ---------
- ------ - - - --- - ---- -------
COURTST
L------------- -
-------------
...... .. .. .............
-------- - - -
. . .......................... .............. . . U
------------ - - - -
- -- ------------
- - -----------
Legend
------------------------
Key Contributing
----------
----------------- Contributing
Non-contributing
----------- - - -
Non -historic
80
Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
Appendices
A.1 Definitions
Addition: A structure that is attached to an existing building and that increases the size of its
footprint. Rooms, new porches, decks and ramps are examples of additions.
Alteration: A modification to the exterior of a building that does not increase the building footprint.
Certificate of Appropriateness: The document that is evidence of approval by the Historic
Preservation Commission of a proposal to make a change in appearance. A Certificate of
Appropriateness must be obtained before a Regulated Permit may be issued.
Certificate of No Material Effect: The document, issued in lieu of a Certificate of Appropriateness,
that signifies that the work contemplated in the application will have no effect on any significant
features of a historic landmark, or property within a historic or conservation district.
Change in appearance: Any alteration, addition, demolition, new construction or other change that
modifies the site of or exterior of a structure on a landmark property or a property located within a
district.
Conservation district: An area that contains abutting pieces of property under diverse ownership,
the built portions of which by majority are at least fifty (50) years old and which:
1. According to a historic resources survey, no more than sixty percent (60%) of the primary
structures and/or sites are of a quality, integrity and condition that qualify as contributing to a
National Register of Historic Places multi property listing; and
2. Represent the traditional character of Iowa City neighborhoods through architectural
characteristics, building scale, building setback, and streetscape design; or
3. Exemplify a pattern of neighborhood settlement or development significant to the cultural
a history or tradition of Iowa City; or
a
a 4. Represent a unique or unusual physical character that creates distinctiveness.
Contributing property: A property within a district that is an integral part of the historic context and
character of the district.
Demolition: Any act or process that destroys a structure or building or any architecturally
significant component of a structure or building.
District: A historic district or conservation district.
Exception: A statement in the Iowa City Guidelines that allows for a less stringent application of a
historic preservation guideline for specified properties, usually buildings that are within a
conservation district, noncontributing or non -historic.
Exterior features: The architectural style, general design and arrangement of the exterior of a
building, including the kind and texture of building material and the type and style of all windows,
doors, light fixtures, trim and brackets, porches, chimneys, signs and other appurtenant fixtures.
Highly visible from the street: A building, object or feature is "highly visible from the street" if it can
be easily noticed or viewed from the street right-of-way. Such features are usually located within
20 feet of the street -facing facade of a primary building.
Historic district: An area that does not exceed 160 acres in area, and contains abutting pieces of
property under diverse ownership which:
1. Are significant to American and/or Iowa City history, architecture, archaeology and culture; or
2. Possess integrity of location, design, setting, materials and workership; or
3. Are associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad patterns of
our history; or
92
Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
4. Are associated with the lives of persons significant in our past; or
5. Embody the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, method of construction; represent
the work of a master; possess high artistic values; represent a significant and
distinguishable entity whose components may lack individual distinction; or
6. Have yielded or may likely yield information important in prehistory or history.
Historic landmark: Any building, structure, object, archaeological site, area of land or element of
landscape architecture with significance, importance or value consistent with the criteria
contained in subsections one through six of the definition of "Historic District," which has been
designated as a historic landmark by the Iowa City City Council.
Key arogerty: A property that is individually eligible to be listed on, or is listed on the National
Register of Historic Places, and/or is designated a historic landmark. A list of key properties is
available from the Preservation Planner.
National Reaister of Historic Places (NRHP): A list of U.S. places of significance in American
history, architecture, archeology, engineering and culture on a national, state, or local level and
maintained by the U.S. Department of the Interior.
Noncontributing property: Any property within a district that is not listed as a contributing
property.
Non -historic property: Any noncontributing property within a district that was less than 50 years
old at the time the district was designated and/or was not constructed during the district's
period of significance.
Outbuilding: A building on a lot that is smaller than the primary building and typically located
behind the primary building. Examples of outbuildings are garages, barns, garden sheds,
greenhouses and gazebos. Cn
a)
Primary building: The inhabited building on a lot that is normally the largest and faces the
street. Most often a house is the primary building in historic and conservation districts. a
Pro ert: The site features, buildings, landscaping, and other structures that are located within Q
the property lines of a particular lot or parcel.
Setback addition: An addition built behind the existing structure, opposite the street facade, that
has a setback of eight or more inches from the side walls and a roof that is no higher than the
existing roof. When viewed from the street, the addition must be narrower and no taller than the
existing structure. Little or no part of the setback addition is visible on the street elevation.
Street elevation: All roof and wall surfaces that face the street. These would be depicted in an
architectural drawing called a street "elevation."
Structure: Any man-made feature that has been constructed on a site or property.
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Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
A,2 Architectural Terms
Baluster: An upright member supporting a railing or
banister.
Balustrade: A railing composed of a handrail
supported by balusters. In exterior applications,
balustrades typically have a top and bottom rail.
Band board: A continuous horizontal wood band on
an exterior wall.
Barge board: A wide ornamental fascia board hung
from the eaves or in a gable.
Belt course: A continuous horizontal masonry band on
an exterior wall.
Brackets: Supporting members of wood, stone or
metal often used for both decorative and structural
purposed and generally found under projecting
features such as eaves, cornices, bay windows, and
canopies.
Ca no : A small projecting roof structure that shelters
an entrance.
Casement window: A window that is hinged on one
side and swings in or out to open.
Clapboards: Wood siding of overlapping horizontal
boards.
Column: A slender vertical element that supports part
of a building or structure.
Corner boards: Vertical trim boards installed at the
outside and inside corners of a wall covered with
wood siding.
Cornice: The projecting moldings forming the top
band of a wall, eave, or other element.
Cornice return: The extension of a cornice in a new
direction, especially where the rake of a gable end
returns horizontally a short distance.
DD-: In the cornice of a classically detailed building,
one of a series of small blocks that alternate with a
blank space.
Divided light: A window in which the glass is divided
into several small panes with muntin bars. The
nomenclature for divided lights is the number of lights
in the upper sash over the number of lights in the
lower sash, e.g. 3/1.
Double -hung window: A window with two sashes that
slide past each other vertically.
E_: The part of a roof that projects beyond the wall
below the roof.
Facade: Any of the exterior faces of a building.
Typically refers to the side that faces the street and
has the main entrance.
Fascia board: A finish board attached to the ends of
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A.3 Historic Preservation Documents
Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
Preservation Plan
Iowa City Historic Preservation Plan
Iowa City Historic Preservation Plan —Appendices
Surveys and Evaluations of Iowa City Historic Neighborhoods
Survey and Evaluation of the Manville Heights Neighborhood
Survey and Evaluation of the Central Business District
Survey and Evaluation of the Goosetown Neighborhood
(Original Town Plat Phase 111)
Survey and Evaluation of the Original Town Plat Phase II
Survey and Evaluation of the Longfellow Neighborhood I & II
Survey and Evaluation of a Portion of the
Original Town Plat of Iowa City (Phase 1)
Survey and Evaluation of the Dubuque/Linn Street Corridor
Survey and Evaluation of College Hill Neighborhood
Brown Street Historic District
Feb 2008 Svendsen Tyler, Inc.
Clarion Associates LLC
Feb 2008 Svendsen Tyler, Inc.
Clarion Associates LLC
Feb 2010 Svendsen Tyler, Inc
Apr 2001 Svendsen Tyler, Inc.
June 2000
Svendsen Tyler, Inc.
June 1999
Svendsen Tyler, Inc.
July 1998
Molly Myers Naumann
Apr 1997
Tallgrass Historians
July 1996
Molly Myers Naumann
July 1994
Tallgrass Historians, Inc.
Jan 1994
Svendsen Tyler, Inc.
Reconnaissance Surveys
Reconnaissance Survey of the Manville Heights Neighborhood Dec 2008
Reconnaissance Survey of Iowa Avenue in the
College Hill Neighborhood Jan 2003
Governor -Lucas Street Conservation District Site Information Form Aug 2000
Historic District Summaries
East College Street Historic District
College Green Historic District
Moffitt Cottage Historic District
Brown Street Historic District
Feasibility Studies
Montgomery -Butler House Feasibility Study Report
Svendsen Tyler, Inc.
W
U
C
c
a)
a
a
2
Historic Preservation Commission
Historic Preservation Commission
Nov 1996
Arborgast & Eckhardt
Nov 1996
Arborgast & Eckhardt
Nov 1996
Jan Nash
Jan 1994
Svendsen Tyler, Inc.
Sep 2001 Svendsen Tyler, Inc.
National Register of Historic Places
The National Register of Historic Places Registration Forms for historic landmarks and districts in Iowa City are
available from the Preservation Planner in the Department of Planning and Community Development.
MA