HomeMy WebLinkAbout2003-06-23 Public hearing NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
Notice is hereby given that the City Council of
Iowa City will hold a public hearing on the 23rd
day of June, 2003, at 7:00 p.m. in the Emma
Harvat Hall of the Civic Center of the City of Iowa
City, 410 E. Washington Street, Iowa City, Iowa,
or if said meeting is cancelled, at the next meeting
of the City Council thereafter as posted by the City
Clerk; regarding the appeal to City Council of the
decision of the Historic Preservations Commission
to deny the Certificate of Appropriateness for the
application of vinyl siding at 815-17 S. Summit
Street, which appeal was filed with the City Clerk
on May 16, 2003 by Frank Fleming. Persons
wishing to make their views known for Council
consideration are encouraged to appear at the
above-mentioned time and place.
MARIAN K. KARR, CITY CLERK
City of Iowa City
MEMORANDUM
TO: City Council
FROM: Eleanor M. Dilkes, City Attorne
DATE: June 16, 2003
RE: Appeals from Historic Preservation Commission's denial of applications for
Certificates of Appropriateness; 815-17 S. Summit Street (Frank Fleming)
520 Grant Street (Connie Webb & Shelley A. Brighi)
The purpose of this memorandum is to set forth the rules that govern your consideration of
the above-referenced appeals. In deciding each appeal you must first determine:
1. Whether the Commission exercised its powers and followed the guidelines
established by law and the Historic Preservation regulations of the City Code;
and
2. Whether the Commission's action was patently arbitrary or capricious.
You will receive a memo from Planning staff regarding each appeal, outlining the applicable
guidelines that govern the Historic Preservation Commission's decision. Element No. 1
above requires you to determine whether the Commission followed (used/relied on) these
guidelines. Element No. 2 requires you to determine whether the Commission's decision to
deny the application was patently arbitrary and capricious. A decision is "arbitrary" or
"capricious" when it is made without regard to the law or the facts of the case. Arora v. Iowa
Board of Medical Examiner%_564 N.W. 2d 4, 7 (Iowa 1997).
The above-stated "standard of review" is a narrow one. Council is not entitled to substitute
its judgment for that of the Commission. In other words, you may not reverse the
Commission's decision merely because you disagree with it. Rather, if you find that the
Commission exercised its powers and followed the guidelines established by law, and that
its decision was not patently arbitrary or capricious then you must affirm the Commission's
decision.
If you find that the Commission did not exercise its powers and follow the guidelines
established by law or did act patently arbitrarily and capriciously you may, in conformity with
the provisions of the Historic Preservation regulations, affirm (for a different reason), wholly
or partly; reverse, wholly or partly; or, modify the decision of the Commission to deny the
application. You may make such decision as ought to have been made, and to that end you
will have the powers of the Commission. In other words, you will stand in the shoes of the
Commission and are bound by all the guidelines and rules that govern the Commission's
decisions on applications for certificates of appropriateness and may make a decision in
accordance with those guidelines and rules.
With respect to your deliberations in connection with the above, it is essential that you read
the entire record of the proceedings before the Commission and all information submitted to
you as part of the public hearing process. You are required to decide the appeal within a
"reasonable time." if, at Monday night's meeting, you are in need of any additional
June 16, 2003
Page 2
information in order tb make a decision then you should continue the public hearing and
defer a decision. The agenda is only intended to give notice that a motion to decide the
appeal may be made. The substance of that motion is, of course, unknown at this point. If,
on Monday night, you decide that you have all the information you need and no further time
for deliberation is necessary you should close the public hearing and decide the appeal. The
motion to decide the appeal will be in the form of a motion to affirm or reverse, wholly or
partly, or modify the decision of the Historic Preservation Commission concerning the
application. The reasons for your decision must be clearly articulated.
If you have any questions, please contact me.
cc: Shelley McCafferty
Karin Franklin
Steve Atkins
Marian Karr
Frank Fleming, 2602 Rochester Ave., Iowa City, IA 52245
Connie S. Webb & Shelley A. Brighi, 520 Grant Street, Iowa City, IA 52240
MitchlB/HPC- Fleming COA AppeallEMD memo
City of Iowa City
MEMORANDUM
TO: City Council
FROM: Shelley McCafferty, Associate Planner
Michael Maharry, Chair, Historic Preservation Commission
DATE: June 9, 2003
RE: Pertinent guidelines regarding Appeal of Historic Preservation Commission
denial of a Certificate of Appropriateness for the application of vinyl siding
at 815-817 S. Summit Street.
At its September 26, 2002 meeting, the Historic Preservation reviewed an application from
Sueppel's Vinyl Siding for the installation of vinyl siding to the duplex at 815-17. S. Summit
Street, which is located in the Summit Street Historic District. The Commission voted 8-0 to
deny the issuance of a Certificate of Appropriateness for said alteration. G.T. Karr,
Sueppers Vinyl Siding, and Frank Flemming, property owner, were present at this
deliberation. Mr. Flemming has requested to appeal this decision.
This property is a non-contributing properly located in the Summit Street Historic District. A
property may be classified as non-contributing if it has been significantly altered, or if it does
not fit the historic context of the district due to its age, architectural style or other attributes.
Nonetheless, exterior alterations to both contributing and non-contributing structures are
subject to the preservation guidelines.
With respect to the application of siding, the Iowa City Historic Preservation Guidelines
disallow "Applying synthetic siding such as aluminum, vinyl or false masonry siding., "to
both contributing and non-contributing properties in a historic district. The Secretary of
Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation states "Each property will be recognized as a physical
record of its time, place, and use. Changes that create a false sense of historical
development, such as adding conjectural features or elements from other historic properties,
will not be undertaken."
APPLICATION
CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS
APPLICATION FOR WORK TO BE DONE ON PROPERTY WITHIN
AN IOWA CITY HISTORIC PRESERVATION OR CONSERVATION OVERLAY ZONE
PURSUANT TO IOWA CITY CODE SECTION 14-4C
IOWA CITY HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISION
Address of Property: 815-17 Summit Street
Use of Property: Single Family Residental
Owner of Property: Frank Flemming
Telephone: 688-0679
Comractor: Sueppel's Vinyl Siding, LLC
Comact: G.T. Karr
Telephone: 337-2246
Address: 2103 Rochester Avenue
Iowa City, IA 52240
Describe below work to be carried out, including methods and materials to be used and appearance
changes that will result.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION:
The proposed project is to install vinyl siding and aluminum soffitt and fascia on the exterior of the
house. The vinyl siding will be installed over the existing wood siding thus maintaining the historical
integrity of the 8" siding below. Windows and doors will be built out with wood before they are
wrapped in aluminum trim to maintaining the original appearance of the trim.
MATERIALS TO BE USED:
· 3/8" fanfold foam insulation
· D4 ivory vinyl siding
· ivory colored vinyl channel and accessories
· royal brown trim coil to wrap window and door trim
· royal brown aluminum soffitt and fascia
· 1" x 4" dimension lumber to build out window and door trim
APPEARNACE CHANGES:
The appearance of the exterior structure will change drastically. The existing peeling paint and faded
aluminum soffitt will be replaced with vinyl building products guaranteed not to fade of peel like
traditional painted wood siding. The overall appearance of the house will be greatly improved and
provide the owner with decades of maintenance fxee enjoyment. The proposed project may even make
the circa 1960 ranch ( the only such house in the entire Summit Street Historical District) blend into the
neighborhood a bit more. Currently the house has 8" lap siding, a style and dimension of siding not
found in any of the 18 residential architectural styles of Iowa City given in the Iowa City Historic
Preservation Handbook. The installation of 4" siding would help the existing ranch duplex blend in with
its "Eclectic" and "Queen Anne" neighbors.
Historic Preservation Commission Minutes
September 26, 2002
Page 4
MOTION: Gunn moved to approve a certificate of appropriateness for the addition of a porch as
drawn for the property at 220 South Johnson Street, with the porch to be approximately eight feet
by eighteen feet or smaller, with a wood deck, a hip roof, a painted plywood ceiling, and turned
posts to have a nominal dimension of five inches, with details to be approved by staff. Jochimsen
seconded the motion. The motion carried on a vote of 8-0.
815-17 Summit Street. McCafferty said this is an application for approval of vinyl siding on a non-
contributing structure in the Summit Street Historic District. Karr said he is the contractor for this project,
and Frank Flemming is the property owner.
Karl said his proposal is to install vinyl siding. He cited the "siding page" of the Historic Handbook and
said he claims that the siding will retain the appearance and function of the original work, will be durable,
and will accept paint. Karr said he will not remove any details and stated that this will actually allow the
house to fit into the neighborhood more. He said the house currently has eight-inch siding.
Karl stated that the house does not below in the Summit Street Historic District. He said the house is a
duplex ranch built in 1957 and is right on the end; he said it never should have been built there.
Karr asked why there is a synthetic siding exception in a conservation district and not in an historic
district. Gunn said that all the historic districts are national historic districts. He said they follow quite
closely the Secretary of the Interior Standards for Historic Preservation, which would not approve of vinyl
siding. Gunn said conservation districts are strictly locally designated, and the standards are more flexible
in a number of places.
Karr asked how the boundaries for the Summit Street Historic District were originally determined and why
this property was included. Gunn responded that no one currently on the Commission was on the
Commission at the time the boundaries of that district were determined. He said he believes the boundary
went to the railroad tracks, because that was an obvious boundary. Gunn said there is a contributing
structure on the east side. Gunn stated that not every property in the district has to be a contributing
property; if that were the case, there would not be many historic districts.
Karr said because this house was built on the edge of the historic district, even though it is non-
contributing, the historic district designation mandates that the homeowner will not be able to install
synthetic siding. Gunn confirmed this.
Karl asked what he would have to do to appeal this decision. He said the duplex in question is a rental
unit and has been cited by the City to be painted. Karl said the house will no longer hold paint, and the
owner would like to side it. Maharry asked for clarification of the citation. Flemmin9, the owner of the
property, said the City inspects rental properties every three years, and at the most recent inspection, the
City said he would have to side or paint the house.
Maharry said he walked by the house and felt the wood looked pretty good. He asked if the wood could
be scraped and painted. Karr said then you're in the same boat in ten, five, or maybe fifteen years. He
said the point is that the owner wants to side the house.
Gunn said the house has not been painted in at least ten years. He also felt the wood appeared to be in
good shape and said that scraping and painting would be in order in the same fashion as is done all over
the City. Gunn said an appeal regarding property in an historic district would go to the City Council. He
said Karl should send a letter of appeal, along with any pertinent drawings. McCafferty provided Karl with
the appropriate information regarding an appeal to City Council.
MOTION: Gunn moved to deny a certificate of appropriateness for the application of vinyl siding
to the duplex located at 815-817 Summit Street. Enloe seconded the motion. The motion to deny
carried on a vote of 8-0.
725 Clark Street. McCafferty said this is an application for a porch reconstruction, and it came to her
through HIS. She said the owners applied for a permit and did not realize they would need a certificate of
appropriateness.
Iowa City Historic
Preservation
Commission ,.o
1982
RESOLUTION
DENIAL OF CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS
815-17 S. Summit Street
A meeting of the Iowa City Historic Preservation Commission was held in the Iowa City Civic
Center on September 26, 2002 at 5:30 p.m. The following members were present: Michael
Maharry, Chair; Richard Carlson, Vice-chair; Michael Gunn; James Enloe; Peter Jochimsen,
Mark McCallum; James Ponto; and Amy Smothers.
The Commission denied an application for a Certificate of Appropriateness for alterations to
815-817 S. Summit Street, which is a noncontributing structure in the Summit Street Historic
District. A Certificate of Appropriateness was requested for the application of vinyl siding. The
Iowa City Historic Preservation Guidelines disallows "Applying synthetic siding such as
aluminum, vinyl or false masonry siding."
On the basis stated above, by a vote of 8-0, the Iowa City Historic Preservation Commission
denied the Certificate of Appropriateness for 815-817 S. Summit Street. If you wish to appeal
this decision, you may do so by filing a written appeal with the City Clerk no later than 10 days
after the date of this letter, which is the date that the decision is filed with the City Clerk.
Michael ~aharry Chair /~]
Iowa City Historic Preservatr~h Commission
.~Lh~y..M.~,.Ca. ffe. rt~ ~/3¢' ,~y. _ . .
iowa ~,l[y Mis[orlc I-'[,~,~erva[ion L;ommlsslon
Date
Ilacbman / Heming Ilentals
Frank W Reining
2602 Rochester Ave
Address Une 2
Iowa CRy, ~ 52245
Fao( 319.-688-0680
Email fra(Ik-fleming@uiowa.edt~
Iowa City Historic Preservation Commission
Michael Maharry and Shelley McCafferty
410 E Washington St.
Iowa City, Iowa 52240
RE: Denial of Certificate of Appropriateness 815-17 S Summit Street
I am requesting an appeal of the above decision by the Commission.
It is not clear to me why it took seven months to make this decision and file it with the
City Clerk. Can you share with me where I can find the guidelines within which you are
to function~
The delay in response is costly to my business. Further, the Housing Authority has sited
me and approved vinyl siding installation in order to re-issue my rental permit. One of
the tenants also participates in the Federal rental assistance program for low income
housing. This program has yet another inspection agency which would accept vinyl
siding for compliance with its guidelines.
Frank Fleming
CC:
Joe Holland
City of Iowa City Housing Inspection Service
Iowa City Housing Authority
sVs
Sueppel's Vinyl Siding. L.C.
2103 Rochester Avenue
Iowa City, IA 52245
(319)337-2246
To: City Council
From: G. T. Karr
Re: 815-817 South Sununit Sffeet Appeal June 23,2003
My nmne is G.T. Karr and I am the General Manager for Sueppel' s Vinyl Siding, here in Iox~a City. I have
over ten years of practical siding and construction experience as well as a Bachelor of Science degree from the
University of Northern Iowa in Construction Management. I have come hem today to discuss my many' experiences
with the Historic Preservation Committee and more importantly how these experiences relate to Mr. FlenUng's
property located at 815-817 South Sununit Street.
Personally I an~ all for historic preservation and conunend much of the work that the City and the Historic
Preservation Committee has done thus far. Our company takes pride in the fact that we have the experlise to install
vinyl siding proporly and in a manner that does not detract from the architectural details of the home. We routinely
paint existing cornice and trim pieces rather than removing them and simply siding over them. We also take pride in
the fact that we follow all of the guidelines and regulahons set by the city and do our part to work with the city as
responsible local contractors. Which makes it all the more frustrating when cooperation with the City seems to
continually put our company at a competitive disadvantage as the following instances demonstrate.
On Ma}' 31, 2002 we signed a contract to side 220 South Jolmson Street. Upon signing the contract Paul
Sueppel went to the Inspection Department to see if the project required a permit and was told that it did not. The
project was started the following week and work progressed for the next two weeks. Two days from completion a
City Inspector came on the job to deliver a stop work order citing the fact that the property was in the College Hill
Historic District and that vinyl siding was not allowed. We were then forced to stop work, send our eight employees
home, and delay' paymem for the project because we did uot pull a permit for the job.
One month later we were approached by the same homeowner to reinstall a large overhang over the back
door of the propetty. I consulted with the HPC Associate Planner on what specific steps needed to be taken to
comply with the HPC's guidehnes. I was given a handbook that outlined what materials were approved and told
that the proposed overhang would be considered a porch. The Associate Planner assisted me in drafting a set of
plans for the porch, and I was assured that the $ 8,000 project would easily pass the HPC's review process. I then
submitted the plans to thc HPC and was told that in order to get approval 1 must change the roof style, pitch, add a
porch floor, change the column size. and add two sets of stairs. Changes that only added $ 4,000 to the project cost.
Needless to say the homeowner was happy to hear that the HPC could not regulate the attractive 15' white
aluminum awnings that were eventually installed on the house.
Finally in March of this year we signed a contract to side 717 Iowa Avenue before the proposed district was
approved. We were told by membcm of the Inspections Department that the house had to be significantly started
before thc moratorium went into affect. We were subsequeutly contacted by two other homeowners in thc proposed
district to side their properties before the moratorium went into effect, but were told by the Inspections Department
that we could not complete the projects because thc moratorium had alrea~' started. Only after the new' districts
were approved did we find out that the momtoritm~ that prevented us from siding the houses was not legal.
What docs all of this have to do with 815-817 South Sunm~it Street? It's simple, while everyone at the
I-[PC and the Ci.ty are working hard and doing their job it seems that no one is on the same page. We have City
employees informing thc City Council and the public that vinyl siding traps moisture inside the walls of old homes
and that fibor cement board and solid wood siding somehow allow the house to breath. The reality is that vinyl
siding has a hollow hack and weep holes that provide amble avenues for any moisture to escape, and that fiber
cement and solid wood siding actually trap moisture fi.om the house, which is why the paint peels in the fa'st place.
Sadder still is that vinyl siding is not allowed to be installed over existing wood siding, but fiber cement board is
acceptable. In order to install fiber cement board the existing cedar or redwood siding, which is no longer made.
must be removed and thrown into the landfill. The alternative is much simpler and more economical why not side
over the existing wood siding with vinyl and ten, twenty, or fifty years down the road let the homeowner have the
option of restoring the old wood siding by removing the existing vinyl siding and filling in a few nail holes.
The property located at 815-817 South Summit Street has no business being in a historic preservation
district. Vinyl siding would not lower the property value of any of the properties located in the district. All of the
vinyl siding that we install has a full lifetime warranty on material and labor, and is transferable for an additional
fifty years. It doesn't make sense for the HPC to require a 1957 duplex ranch house to be painted every three years
when it can be sided and look good for the next thirty years.
I ask the council to seriously examine the information I have presented. I realize that you have limited
power to do an>nthing about this specific case, but you do have the power to take an objective look at the way the
process is working now'. The current system is too complex and leaves too much open to individual interpretation.
Clearly, there is a lack of communication between the Historic Preservation Commission~ the Inspections
Department, and the City Attorney's office all of which gives the City itself a black eye. Without clarification of the
guidelines we will continue to have a counterproductive situation and eventually the City will loose the support of
contractors and homeowners who want to see historic preservation continue.
Why not take a step back now and evaluate just how well the system has worked thus far. Make sure the
HPC has all of its facts about the building materials and construction methods it requires correct before the situation
gets worse. Make sure that the people in inspections understand the HPC guidelines. And please make sure that the
guidelines set are legal and within the City's jurisdiction. It is not fair to the City to have guidelines that pick and
choose appropriate materials based on opinions and false information while ignoring the scientific evidence and
years of practical construction experience available today. If vinyl siding did cause the damage to old homes in the
manner that the commission claims than wouldn't it be in the City's best interest to ban vinyl siding installation on
all homes in the city.
I appreciate your time in considering this manner. If you need any clarification or references for any of the facts l
have mentioned please feel free to contact me at 631-4342. I welcome any comments you may have and look
forward to hearing from you in the future.
Thank you,
/&
G. T. Kan'
General Manager
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
Notice is hereby given that the City Council of
Iowa City will hold a public hearing on the 23rd
day of June, 2003, at 7:00 p.m. in the Emma
Harvat Hall of the Civic Center of the City of Iowa
City, 410 E. Washington Street, Iowa City, Iowa,
or if said meeting is cancelled, at the next meeting
of the City Council thereafter as posted by the City
Clerk; regarding the appeal to City Council of the
decision of the Historic Preservations Commission
to deny the Certificate of Appropriateness for the
enclosure of a sun pomh at 520 Grant Street,
which appeal was filed with the City Clerk on June
2 , 2003 by Connie Webb and Shelley Brighi.
Persons wishing to make their views known for
Council consideration are encouraged to appear
at the above-mentioned time and place.
MARIAN K. KARR, CITY CLERK
City of Iowa City
MEMORANDUM
TO: City Council
FROM: Shelley McCafferty, Associate Planner
Michael Maharry, Chair, Historic Preservation Commission
DATE: June 9, 2003
RE: Pertinent guidelines regarding Appeal of Historic Preservation Commission
denial of a Certificate of Appropriateness for the enclosure of a sun porch at
520 Grant Street
At its April 24 meeting, the Historic Preservation Commission reviewed an application for a
Certificate of Appropriateness from Home Town Restyling to enclose a sun porch at 520
Grant Street. This is a contributing property in the Longfellow Historic District. The proposal
was to remove the existing screens and storm windows, infill the porch sides with 2x4
construction, and add double-hung windows. The Historic Preservation Commission found
that this proposed alteration did not comply with the Iowa City Historic Preservation
Guidelines or the Secretary of Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation. The Iowa City
Guidelines recommend "Adding windows that match proportions, trim, and appearance of
the original windows." In this case, the HPC found that any new windows should be similar
in appearance to the existing storm windows.
The applicant for the COA, Home Town Restyling, did not attend the April 24 meeting. The
HPC met with the owners of the house, Connie Webb and Shelley Brighi, at their May 22
meeting. Staff had prepared a sketch of the sun porch, illustrating enclosure of the porch in
a manner that was more similar to its original appearance with the removable storm
windows. After much deliberation, the HPC voted to approve the concept proposed by Staff
subject to the windows being approximately the same dimension as the original storm
windows. The owners indicated that the proposed concept was not acceptable to them.
Please find attached the Ietter sent to the owners.
....... E. Washington Street
· BUILDING PERM ~a City, IA 52240
-- (319) 356-5009
HOUSING & INSPECTION SERVICEs
IOWA C~T'Y, ~OWA
· Site Address: 520 Grant Street ____
OR
Lot & Subdivision:
· Owner/Tenant: Connie Webb & Shelly Bright
Address: 520 Grant Street
City: Iowa City State IA Zip 52240
Daytime Phone: 319/338-4706 Other Phone:
· Contractor: Home Town Restyling, Inc.
Address: 1205 N. Center Point Rd.
City: Hiawatha State IA Zip 52233
Daytime Phone: 319/378-1221 Other Phone:
· ProjectDeseription: Enclose existing 9' x 14' porch under existinq roofr and
construct a 4' x 4' landing w./steps & railing to code.
· Total Value of Project: $ 7,757.00
(Exclude cost of land)
· Permit Value of Project: $ 87.00 Foundation Exception Used:
(Exclude cost of plumb., mech., elec.& land) 1 2 3
Contact Person: /4,4/t~ Phone: ~ - I~' ~
Is project subject to: TO BE COMPLETED BY STAFF:
Yes
Iowa Architectural law? ................ []
Formal site plan review? ............... []
Lot
Area:
Fees/Escrows Required:
Pict plan review? ......................... ,,~ []
Energy Code review? [] '~ []
Other:
Historic preservation review? ......... ~ []
Flood plain reg,ulations? /~ []
CS"~.C+[..~C... ,g rtof- (~',:~;~'"~¢'~ Staff Initials:
MUUNi'
[--J n~Movl~ ~X~S'r~NG
~ASCIA
STUDIO C6THEDRAL
FIION'I' LEFT.. IllGII'I' ~OOF SYSTEM
Connie Webb / Shelly Bright Sc(31e: 1/4" = 1'-0" I ~ I 1205 N. Center Point Rd.
520 Gront St April 18, 2003 ~ Hiewetho, IA 52402
low(3 City IA 52240 Designer; Micheel Deutmeyer (319) 3?8-1221
NOW 5HOYV'~]
520 Grant St April 18, 2003 Hiawatha, IA 52402
Iowa City IA 52240 Designer: Michael Deutmeyer (519) $78-1221
Approved
MINUTES
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
THURSDAY, APRIL 24, 2003
CITY MANAGER'S CONFERENCE ROOM
MEMBERS PRESENT: Richard Carlson, Michael Maharry, Mark McCallum, Jim Ponto, Amy Smothers,
Paul Sueppel
MEMBERS ABSENT: James Enloe, Michael Gunn, Tim Weitzel
STAFF PRESENT: Shelley McCafferty
OTHERS PRESENT: Patrick Hogan, Patricia Kane
CALL TO ORDER:
Chairperson Maharry called the meeting to order at 7:02 p.m.
PUBLIC DfSCUSSION OF ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA:
Maharry said that the College Hill Conservation District passed its first reading at Tuesday's City Council
meeting by a vote of 4-2, with Kanner and Pfab voting no and Vanderhoef abstaining. Maharry said the
City Council members had questions to be answered before the next vote. He said he would probably
attend the work session on Monday to answer questions, as he thought it would be more efficient than
answering questions at the formal meeting.
CERTIFICATES OF APPROPRIATENESS:
19 Evans Street. McCafferty said this is an application by Hogan and Kane to put a Iow deck with no
railings on the back of their house, which is in the Woodlawn Historic District. She showed a photograph
of the rear of the property, stating that the deck would come to just below the existing skid. McCafferty
said the owners also want to reconfigure the stairs with the landing so that the stairs come down to the
side.
McCafferty said Gunn called her to relay his opinion regarding this application. She said Gunn feels that
because the deck would be Iow to the ground, would not be obtrusive, and would have no railing on it, it
would be fine. She said Gunn also stated that the stairs should be done in an historic manner.
Kane stated that they would like to make the stairs match the stairs on the other side of the porch. Hogan
added that they want to make the spindles match the wood spindles that are on the front porch. Kane
said they want to make the deck as Iow as they possibly can.
Ponto asked if the screen door would remain in the same location. Kane responded that it would.
Carlson asked if any original material would be removed as part of the project. Hogan said the latticework
might be removed. Kane said they would like to use a crisscross lattice, because that it what is on the
front of the house. Hogan said everything else would be the same.
Carlson said as long as the stairs and latticework would be redone in an historically appropriate matter,
this would be acceptable to him. McCafferty said she could specify in the certificate that the crisscross
lattice would be acceptable.
MOTION: Smothers moved to approve a certificate of appropriateness for a deck to the rear of the
house at 19 Evans Street. Sueppel seconded the motion. The motion carried on a vote of 6-0.
826 Rundell Street. McCafferty said a project at this address was reviewed at the Commission's last
meeting. She stated that when the applicant came back to the Building Department, he included plans for
a pre-fabricated greenhouse to be attached to the side of the two-car garage that was approved by the
Commission at the last meeting.
Historic Preservation Commission Minutes
April 24, 2003
Page 2
McCafferty said the previous application involved replacing the aluminum siding on the house with vinyl
and the removal of the single-car garage to be replaced with a two-car garage. She said the Commission
set some standards that said that the original material on the house should be preserved and that the
new garage should look like the garages in the neighborhood.
McCafferty said the new application includes the lean-to type greenhouse on the side of the garage. She
said the owners did not think they would need a building permit for this, because an accessory structure
that is under 144 square feet does not require a permit. McCafferty stated, however, that if this is to be
attached to the garage, it would need a building permit.
McCafferty said Gunn informed her that greenhouses are not uncommon in historic areas. She said Gunn
felt that as long as the greenhouse is done in such a manner that it could be removed without damaging
the garage and its siding, then it would be acceptable.
Smothers asked, referring to the floor plan, how the concrete would be poured for the flooring, assuming
that the greenhouse would have a concrete floor. McCafferty said the Commission could say that the
slabs for the garage and the greenhouse have to be separate, with a seam between them so that the
slabs could be removed without damaging the foundation of the garage. Smothers said if the slabs are
separated, she would have no problem with the greenhouse going on the garage.
McCafferty stated that if the owners don't attach the greenhouse to the garage, they would build a
detached greenhouse, although it would be at a greater expense. Smothers said the concrete could be
poured all at once and then one could just slide a saw down the seam. Sueppel said he thinks they will
almost have to pour the slabs separately anyway. He said he doesn't see anything wrong with making
them separate the slabs, with separate footings for both the garage and the greenhouse.
Carlson asked if greenhouses were historically built onto garages. McCafferty said one could see this as
a garden structure attached to the garage. Carlson said a new structure in an historic district should be
something that you could have seen, historically.
Smothers said she has seen farmhouses at which smaller barns have been made into the garage and
then the lean-to is for wood storage.
Carlson said that since both greenhouses and garages by themselves would be acceptable here, he did
not have a problem with a greenhouse against the garage. He said he just wanted to ensure that this is
within the guidelines.
MOTION: Ponto moved to approve a certificate of appropriateness for the addition of a
greenhouse to be attached to a two-car garage at 826 Rundell Street. Sueppel seconded the
motion.
Sueppel asked if the Commission could disapprove this, if there is anything to disapprove. McCafferty
said with this particular project, the Commission would look to the Secretary of the Interior Standards.
McCafferty said if this were disapproved, the owners could build this as a freestanding structure of under
144 square feet which would not require a permit or COA.
The motion carried on a vote of 5-1~ with McCallum votin,q no.
520 Grant Street. McCafferty said this application for alterations to a sun porch on a contributing structure
in the Longfellow Historic District came through the Building Department. She said the proposal is to
remove all the existing screens and windows, filling in with walls and smaller new windows.
McCafferty said the windows now on the pomh appear to be the original windows. She said this is a
three-season pomh, where windows could be added. McCafferty stated that she doesn't think this project
would meet the guidelines. She said this significantly alters the character of the house. Smothers said she
considers this an alteration to the principal structure. McCafferty agreed that this is part of the original sun
porch.
McCafferty read from the applicable section of the guidelines, "repairing existing porches and conserving
as much of the original material as possible." Maharry said this wouldn't be a repair project, since nothing
Historic Preservation Commission Minutes
April 24, 2003
Page 3
is broken here. McCallum added that this project basically involves making a three-season porch into a
four-season porch.
McCallum asked if the door-like structures are removable panels that could come out so this can be an
open porch or a closed porch, with screens and storm windows that can be alternated every year.
McCafferty confirmed this.
Sueppel said he doesn't think the Commission has enough information to go on. He said it is still
unknown what will happen on the side that isn't shown - if there are to be windows there, if they want to
close the whole thing off, and what they want to put on as replacements.
McCallum asked if the building still has the original wood siding. McCafferty said she believed that was
correct.
Smothers suggested the Commission deny this application, based on the proposal to alter the
fenestration of a contributing structure. She said the Commission could come up with suggestions, for
whatever the owners want to use this for, that wouldn't alter the fenestration and that would allow them to
have privacy.
MOTION: Smothers moved to deny a certificate of appropriateness for a project involving a sun
porch at 520 Grant Street. Carlson seconded the motion. The motion carried on a vote of 5-0, with
McCallum abstaining.
Sueppel asked if this application could be resubmitted with more complete plans, and McCafferty
confirmed this.
DESIGN REVIEW SUBCOMMITTEE.
Amendments to the Bylaws.
Maharry said the possibility of this subcommittee has arisen again because the Commission has an ever-
increasing amount of design review to do as historic and conservation districts ara added. He said the
official rules are that the final determination has to be made by a quorum of the Historic Preservation
Commission.
McCafferty said that at the Commission's previous meeting there were three fairly complicated certificates
to consider. She said the Commission may want to consider putting a Design Review Subcommittee
(DRS) in place in case it is needed in the future. McCafferty said the DRS would review the projects and
make recommendations to the full Commission.
McCafferty said the DRS cannot make a final decision without a quorum of the Historic Preservation
Commission. She said there would have to be an amendment to the Commission's by-laws, and there
has to be public notice of the DRS meetings.
McCafferty referred to minor amendments to the by-laws, along with the proposed DRS amendment. She
said one amendment would concern the membership and expiration of membership terms. McCafferty
said there has also been a recommendation for an amendment to allow ex parte contacts, so that there
may be discussion regarding projects between Commission members or Commission members and
owners, etc., and such discussion would be acceptable if the whole quorum is informed of the discussion.
She said she has proposed a resolution for consideration, and the resolution has to be approved by the
, th
City Council. McCafferty said she hopes to have the resolution on the City Council s May 6 agenda so
that it would be in place for the summer construction season.
Sueppel asked about the change in terms for members. McCafferty replied that the term expiration date
of March 29th had always been used, although it had not been defined in the past. She said this would
clarify the issue.
Carlson said he had a couple of typographical corrections to submit. He also said that in Section 1 under
Article II, the first sentence could end with at-large, and the rest of the sentence could be deleted, since
City of Iowa City
MEMORANDUM _
TO: Connie Webb and Shelly Bright
FROM: Shelley McCafferty, Preservation Planner
DATE: May 21,2003
RE: Sun porch alterations
Please find attached elevation drawings illustrating a more appropriate alternative to the
enclosure of your existing sun porch.. As we discussed on the phone, the sun porch should
retain its historic character, however the Historic Preservation Guidelines do not prohibit
replacing the removable window panels with permanent, insulated wall system. The
guidelines recommend the use of wood or metal-clad wood windows with simulated true
divided lights (interior, snap-on grids are disallowed). The windows may have insulated,
Iow-e glass, which will should substantially improve the energy efficiency of the room.
Casement and/or fixed windows would most accurately retain the look of the original storm
windows.
Although only the Historic Preservation Commission may approve your plans for the
sunroom, ~ feel that wall below the windows may be raised to between 24" and 30" and still
retain the general proportions of the original windows. The lower wall may be constructed
of wood studs and insulated. I would recommend that you consider using fiber cement
board (Hardiplank) to side these walls in a manner that looks similar to the panels in the
storm windows. Fiber cement board is a durable material that will retain paint for 15 to 20
years. This product may also be used for the corner boards and trimming the mullions.
I realize that this design does not fully address your concern for additional privacy in this
room, however, I do not feel that the size and area of the windows may be reduced any
further and still comply with the guidelines. One option that may be acceptable would be
the use of a frosted or obscured glass on the west elevation. You may also want to
consider the use of caf6 curtains or blinds to further address privacy.
The Historic Preservation Commission will be meeting Thursday, May 22 at 7:00 pm in the
City Manager Conference Room. This is located off of Emma Harvat Hall in the Iowa City
Civic Center at 410 E. Washington Street. I hope you find these recommendations helpful,
and at this time the Commission can work with you further to find a solution that will meet
your needs and comply with the guidelines.
Approved
MINUTES
IOWA CITY HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
THURSDAY, MAY 22, 2003 - 7:00 PM
CITY MANAGER'S CONFERENCE ROOM
Members Present: Richard Carlson, James Enloe, Michael Gunn, Michael Maharry, Mark McCullum,
Jim Ponto, Amy Smothers, Tim Weitzel
Members Absent: Paul Sueppel
Staff Present: Shelley McCaffedy
Others Present: Marcia Klingaman, Connie Webb, Shelley Brighi
CALL TO ORDER
Chairperson Maharry called the meeting to order at 7:05 PM.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA
None.
Maharry mentioned the third reading of the College Hill Conservation District was Tuesday evening at the
City Council meeting and the vote was unanimous, 6-0, with Vanderhoef abstaining due to a conflict of
interest.
CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS
1) 732 Rundell Street
McCafferty said this is an application for a certificate of appropriateness for a Moffitt house, in the
Longfellow District. The applicant, Mamia Klingaman, is proposing to add a deck onto the rear of the
home. The proposed deck will cover and slightly extend beyond an existing concrete pad. There are
pictures included in the commission member's agenda packet that detail the area where the deck is to be
constructed. Klingaman explained and McCafferty clarified that the deck would run up to a current chain
link fence that will be removed and the new guardrail on the deck would replace the fence and would also
replicate the existing railing on the home.
Enloe questioned if there is a set back requirement for decks. McCafferty replied the plans have been
approved by Housing Inspection Services and are now awaiting approval of the Commission.
Carlson noted they have yet to come up with deck guidelines, and feels they are acting in the dark with
this subject. There are guidelines for porches and new additions but these do not really apply. The only
guideline that would seemingly be appropriate is the Secretary of Interior Standard number 9 that states
"new additions and 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". Carlson stated the deck would not destroy any historical materials but questioned if it is
compatible with the existing structure in size and scale. Historically, the idea of decks did not exist; homes
had covered porches, so the issue of decks will warrant further discussion when the Commission
addresses deck guidelines. Carlson asked what the finish of the deck would be when completed.
Klingaman responded the deck would most likely be stained.
Enloe stated his major concern is the visibility of the deck from the street. In the past, individuals have
been required to in-set an addition as to not change the street view.
McCafferty noted the guidelines of the Secretary of Interior standards concerning entrances and pomhes.
This guideline states when designing or installing additional entrances or porches it should be in a manor
that preserves the historic character of the building, i.e.: limiting such alterations to non-character defining
elevations.
Enloe said he thought the deck would be a character defining elevation as it could be seen from the
street.
Historic Preservation Commission Minutes
May 22, 2003
Page 2
Gunn said the guideline was clearly written for front porches and the deck, especially if unpainted, would
be inappropriate if on the front of the house. This is a rear deck and is unsure of what to do.
McCafferty stated the deck is only 10 inches off of the ground and the wooden railing will be replacing the
chain link fence and would be more appropriate and typical of the era.
McCallum noted the rail would look like a wooden fence if painted. Klingaman said painting is an option,
but maintenance is a concern. It was also noted that the wood would need to dry out and be left untreated
a year before being painted, and stain can be applied immediately.
MOTION: Smothers moved to approve the certificate of appropriateness for the addition of a deck
to the rear of a house at 732 Rundell Street. McCullum seconded the motion.
DISCUSSION: Maharry asked if the deck/railing adds to the character of the neighborhood if left in an
unpainted state. The commission informally discussed the paint vs. stain issue and agreed that either
would be preferable to untreated.
AMENDED MOTION: Smothers moved to approve the certificate of appropriateness for the
addition of a deck to a house at 732 Rundell Street subject to the baluster and handrail being
either painted or stained. Enloe seconded the motion. All in favor, motion passed 8-0.
-'~-~'2) 520 Grant Street
McCafferty stated this is an application that the commission has reviewed previously and denied. The
project came to her via the contractor and building department. The contractor applied for a building
permit to enclose a sun porch that currently has removable storm windows/screens system that acts as a
three-season porch. The proposal that was denied was to remove all screens and add three double-hung
windows on two sides of the porch and to add siding to the porch. The contractor's argument was that the
proposed remodel looks more like the house than the current sun porch. McCafferty has had telephone
conversations with the homeowners, Connie Webb and Shelley Brighi. They stated they want to alter the
porch for ease of not having to change the windows/screens seasonally, to increase insulation, to add
privacy and to make the space more functional all year round.
Maharry asked if the porch was original to the house. The homeowners believe it to be an addition made
sometime soon after the home was built in 1949. The homeowners also stated they do not wish to restore
the porch but remodel it to become a more useable space and still preserve the feel and history of the
house.
Smothers explained why she denied the original application. She said she sees the porch as a sun porch
and they would be altering the fenestration, the opening of the windows, and changing the elevation on
three sides. This is very dramatic and changing the character of the home. The owners said they thought
by maintaining the same roof, siding and windows as the rest of the house, they would be increasing the
home aesthetically and pull the look together.
McCafferty explained the commission uses the Secretary of the Interior Standards for Rehabilitation and
Guidelines. She referred to what the guidelines say and recommend concerning windows, specifically the
changing and altering of windows. These guidelines do not recommend "Removing or radically changing
windows which are important in defining the overall historic character of the building so that, as a result,
the character is diminished,;" and "Changing the number, location, size or glazing pattern of windows
through cutting new openings, blocking-in windows, and installing replacement sash which does not fit the
historic window opening."
The homeowners stated they are looking for options and suggestions as to how to make their plan work.
Maharry noted many sun porches use casement style windows, which appears to be the style of window
opening currently on the sun porch. McCafferty drew a quick sketch overlay to demonstrate what
casement windows would look like instead of the proposed double hung windows. Gunn commented the
issue is historical correctness, the proposed drawing still alters the home and they need to stick to the
guidelines. Enloe stated a compromise could be reached. The homeowners would need to use the same
size windows, sills etc, the process would probably be more expensive but it would allow the porch to be
Historic Preservation Commission Minutes
May 22, 2003
Page 3
livable. McCafferty noted that by using some fixed windows and some operational, the cost could be
reduced. Smothers said air conditioning and heat could be added fairly easily through the floor of the
porch.
McCafferty summarized the homeowner's options. They could talk to their contractor and come up with
something similar to the sketch that keeps the original character of the porch. Or, they could submit the
proposal as it is currently, the commission would deny it, but they could appeal this decision to the City
Council.
The homeowners asked for names of local architects. McCafferty said she knows of several individuals
and to please call and she will provide the names. The homeowners also asked what the benefit would be
if another architect provides a proposal and the commission would not approve that proposal either.
Maharry said this new proposal would really be somewhat of a compromise and twisting the interpretation
of the guidelines, but it is still much better than the original submission. He also said that unfortunately,
the commission is bound by the guidelines and they do not get to change the rules on request of a
homeowner.
Webb and Brighi questioned if property owners are usually notified when their proposal is up for
discussion, they would have been to the previous meeting had they known. McCafferty answered that
either the contractor; homeowner or both are involved in the process. This particular case was different,
McCafferty incorrectly assumed the contractor was in contact with the homeowners, as is typically the
case when the contractor submits the application. She has taken measures with H.I.S. to keep this from
happening again, revised the application, and apologized to Webb and Brighi.
Gunn asked if the commission is going to vote on the sketch concept by McCafferty and is this truly an
option for the homeowners.
Enloe asked if the windows are really windows or storm windows. His feeling is that they are storm
windows. The difference being if the storm window is taken out, there is not a window behind it, just an
opening in the wall. Storm windows are not permanently affixed. Gunn noted there is nothing in the
guidelines about keeping storm windows in place.
Enloe and Gunn said if windows are to be installed they should be the size and dimension of the original
openings of the storm windows and replicate what is currently there, adhering to the guidelines to keep
the look or character the same.
MOTION: Gunn moved, in order to give the applicant an option, to approve a concept similar to
what McCafferty has sketched, with the original storm window dimensions. Enloe seconded the
motion.
DISCUSSION: Carlson asked if this meets pomh guidelines. Enloe and Carlson noted there is nothing
disallowed in the current guidelines. Carlson questioned if the window type should be defined. Enloe
thought casement would be the most appropriate because they look the most historically correct.
VOTE: All in favor, motion carried 8-0.
GOOSETOWN AND NORTHSIDE DISTRICT RECOMMENDATIONS
McCafferty referred to the additional maps included in the commission member's agenda bookret. She
explained 2 new maps have been discovered in a computer file. They are similar, both from December
2000, and the solid areas on the map are definitive recommendations, and the crosshatch areas are to be
evaluated for potential conservation districts. What makes this
map unique is that it includes all of the original town plat and consolidates it into a single
recommendation.
Maharry asked who completed the maps and recommendations. McCafferty responded Marlys Svensen
had done much of the survey work.
Connie Webb and Shelley Brighi ~
520 Grant Street
Iowa City, IA 52240 ~ Cit~ 0~1~
May 27, 2003 ~I~
Dear Ms. Webb and Ms. Brighi;
Please find attached a copy of the resolution denying a Certificate of Appropriateness for 520 Grant
Street. Following the initial decision of the Historic Preservation Commission on April 24 to deny the
application from Home Town Restyling to remodel the sun porch at 520 Grant Street, a resolution
denying this application was sent to Home Town Restyling and filed with the City Clerk. To appeal the
Commission's denial, please file a letter stating your reason for appeal with the City Clerk. If your letter
is received by June 2, the City Council will be able to set a public hearing for the appeaI for June 24. If
the letter is received later then June 2, the public hearing will be held July 15. The appeal must be
submitted no later than June 6.
As further discussed at the May 22 meeting of the Commission, the application was denied because the
proposal did not comply with the following standards and guidelines:
· "Adding windows that match proportions, trim, and appearance of the original windows." - Iowa City
Guidelines
· "The historic character of a property will be retained and preserved. The placement of intact or
repairable historic materials or alteration of features, spaces, and spatial relationships that characterize
a property will be avoided." Secretary of the Interior Standards'for Rehabilitation
· "Removing or radically changing windows which are important in defining the overall historic
character of the building so that, as a result, the character is diminished." Secretary of the Interior
Standards for Rehabilitation and Guidelines for Rehabilitating Historic Buildings
· "Changing the number, location, size or glazing pattern of windows through cutting new openings,
blocking-in windows, and installing replacement sash which does not fit the historic window
opening." - Secretary of the Interior Standards for Rehabilitation and Guidelines for Rehabilitating
Historic Buildings
The Historic Preservation Corrm~ission did approve the concept of enclosing the porch per thc sketch
delivered to you on May 21. However, construction drawings would need to be submitted before a
Certificate of Appropriateness could be approved for this concept design.
Please contact me at 356-5243 or shelley-mccafferty(~iowa-city.org if you have any questions.
Associate Planner
Iowa City Historic
Preservation
Commission st.
Iowa City, Iowa 52240
1982
RESOLUTION
DENIAL OF CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS
520 Grant Street
A meeting of the Iowa City Historic Preservation Commission was held in the Iowa City Civic
Center on April 24, 2003 at 7:00 p.m. The following members were present: Michael Maharry,
Chair; Richard Carlson, Vice-chair; Mike Gunn; Mark McCallum; James Ponto; Amy Smothers;
Paul Suppel and Tim Weitzel
The Commission denied a Certificate of Appropriateness to change the windows in the three-
season porch on 520 Grant Street, which is a contributing property in the Longfellow Historic
District. The Commission determined because the application did not include elevations of all
three sides of the porch and the materials to be used were not specified, that there was not
sufficient information to grant a Certificate of Appropriateness. Based on the one elevation
provided, the Commission determined that the proposed alteration would substantially change
the appearance of the windows on the porch. This alteration does not comply with the following
Iowa City Historic Preservation Guidelines which recommends "Adding windows that match the
proportions, trim, and appearance of the original windows."
On the basis state, d above, by a vote of 8-0, the Iowa City Historic Preservation Commission
denied the Certificate of Appropriateness for 520 Grant Street. The Commission recommended
that applicant consult with staff and the Commission for design assistance with this project in
the future.
Michael M"aharry Chai~ ~
Iowa City Historic Preservatid~'Commission
ey ~ a fe~y//~:,'~cre{ary
Iowa Oity Historic ~'reservation Gommission
Date
June 2, 2003
Members of the City Council of Iowa City, Iowa:
Shelley Brighi and I are the homeowners of the property at 520 Grant Street, Iowa City,
Iowa. We write this in order to request approval of plans to remodel our property. In accordance
with the rules set forth by the Historic Preservation Commission we wish to appeal the decision
made to refuse our application to remodel our sun room Our property is listed as a contributing
structure in the Longfellow Historic District. The property was constructed in 1949, hardly a
relic.
Shelley and I live in a 2 bedroom home of less than 1000 square feet. Upstairs we have a
full bath and two bedrooms. Downstairs, we have a kitchen, half bath, a dining area and living
room. Off the living room, we have a small sun room. It is our desire to remodel the existing
sun room into a room that is useable for three seasons. This area is set back from the front of our
home and is located to the side but is visible from the street. At present, it is a room with storm
windows that must be changed to screens seasonally. Presently window sill height is
approximately 20 inches and outside walls are constructed of plywood like material. At present,
this area of our home can be utilized for only about 4 weeks of the year. The outside walls have
no insulation. With its multiple windows and low sills we have little privacy, no sound
insulation and for all practical purpose no protection from heat or cold. As Shelley and I age, we
find it more and more difficult to ascend and descend ladders two times a year in order to switch
storms and screens. We also wish to increase our privacy, achieve better energy efficiency and
increase the usefulness of this space to us.
Homes in our neighborhood were designated as the Longfellow Historic District recently.
When we purchased this property, there were no restrictions placed by the city as far as
remodeling our home. When the Longfellow Historic District was proposed, we were in favor of
this. After all, having lived in Iowa City during urban renewal, I am well aware of what can
happen when older building are destroyed in order to erect parking ramps and malls which
promise to revitalize downtowns. I would be unhappy if some of the stately homes along
Summit Street were torn down in order to erect 10 unit apartment buildings. With recent
decisions made by the Historic Commission, I do regret my lack of opposition to being included
in a historic neighborhood.
It has been our desire to remodel this space in such a way as to match the rest of the
house and not be an eyesore. Neither the foundation nor the roof would be changed from existing
structures. While I have been unable to find the original building plans for our home, it was not
uncommon for houses constructed about the same time as ours to have had a side room,
accessible from the main house.
We contacted a contractor, discussed our desires with him and approved a design which
would include double hung windows, (windows that would match the rest of the house), fewer
windows, with higher sills than now present and more wall space. We found a source for metal
siding that would match the rest of our house, and our supplier is looking forward to its removal
from his property. We have not found a source for lead based paint as was commonly used in
houses constructed during the period, but will continue to search in order to maintain historical
integrity if that is deemed necessary.
After our contractors plans were approved by us, we made a substantial down payment
and waited for construction to begin. The building permit was denied to the contractor because
of the Historic Commission's ruling April 24. As homeowners we were not informed that our
property would be discussed at the April 24 meeting of the Historic Commission nor were we
informed of the denial of the building permit in a timely manner. We were informed of the May
22 meeting of the Historic Commission three days prior to that meeting during a phone call we
initiated. With a great deal of shifting of our schedules we were able to attend in order to present
our case. Our contractor had appointments with other clients that could not be changed on short
notice and was unable to attend. Again our proposal was denied. Members of the Historic
Commission said that we could change the windows to casement type rather that interchangeable
screens and storms but that no change to the look of that room could be made. Sills must remain
at mid calf, and windows had to remain the same shape and size. Instead of the six double hung
windows we have paid for (and yes they were ordered and have been delivered to our
contractor), the Commission, or as we have heard them called, the porch Nazis, insisted that the
same number of windows that come out must be put back in. Changing to casement type
windows might add slightly to energy efficiency but would not compare to the energy saving
potential of insulated walls and fewer, smaller, windows. Our objectives to increase our privacy
or insulate against sound would not be met either.
We wish to have the city council address our concerns about remodeling our property.
We want to be able to modify our home.
We would also urge property owners or potential property owners to inform themselves
of the restrictions and lack of individuality associated with having property designated as being
in a historical district. In a homeowners association or gated community, property owners have
an opportunity to vote on the covenants; the rules in an area designated as being historical seem
to be left to the desires of commissions without input from property owners.
Thank you for your consideration.
Connie S. Webb
Shelley A. Brighi
Iowa City Historic
Preservation Handbook
Adopted June 20, 2000
(contains design guidelines for review of applications for Certificates of Appropriateness
within historic and conservation districts and for historic landmarks.)
CITY OF I0 WA CITY
Iowa City Historic Preservation Commission
A FEW WORDS ABOUT HISTORIC PRESERVATION IN IOWA CITY
· 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 Historic Preservation Commission, the City Council, and individual property owners are
in the process of implementing the Iowa City Historic Preservation Plan that was adopted in
December of 1992. Respecting the unique character of each neighborhood in Iowa City,
the plan calls for the study of twelve separate neighborhoods to determine if sufficient
historic resources exist to allow the establishment of historic or conservation districts. The
purpose of these districts is to preserve historic architectural resources by discouraging
alterations that either destroy the unique characteristics of a buildin9 or alter the character of
historic neighborhoods.
· Within historic and conservation districts, the Historic Preservation Commission reviews any
exterior changes that require a regulated buildin9 permit. Changes requiring the
Commission's approval include alterations, additions, new construction, and demolition. In
making its decisions, the Commission considers the appropriateness of design features such
as mass and scale, architectural details, type of building materials, and the relationship of the
building to others along the street.
· Designation as a historic or conservation district can help to stabilize and improve
neighborhoods. The commitment of a neighborhood to historic preservation can lead to the
improvement of existing buildings and prevent development that is inconsistent with the
historic character of the neighborhood.
· Several neighborhoods identified in the Iowa City Historic Preservation Plan have already
been established as historic districts, and more will be considered in the near future. In all,
these districts contain hundreds of historic properties that line the streets and create the
pedestrian urban spaces that define our neighborhoods. The Commission believes that the
implementation of the Historic Preservation Plan is vital to protecting and preserving our
city's rich architectural heritage, and we urge your support and cooperation as this process
moves forward.
ppdadm/hp¢-handbkdoc 1
TABLE OF CONTENTS '
The Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook ......................................................................................... 3
Purpose of the Handbook ......................................................................................................................... 3
Where The Iowa City Guidelines Apply .................................................................................................... 3
Building Code and Zoning Ordinances ..................................................................................................... 3
Historic Landmarks .................................................................................................................................... 3
Alternative Designs ................................................................................................................................... 3
Definitions of Key Terms ........................................................................................................................... 4
Categories of Compliance ......................................................................................................................... 5
Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation ........................................................................... 7
Iowa City Guidelines ...................................................................................................................................... 8
Foundations ............................................................................................................................................... 9
Masonry .................................................................................................................................................... 10
Wood ........................................................................................................................................................ 11
Mass and Roof Lines ................................................................................................................................ 12
Siding ........................................................................................................................................................ 13
Paint and Color ......................................................................................................................................... 14
Windows ................................................................................................................................................... 15
Doors ........................................................................................................................................................ 16
Gutters and Downspouts, Chimneys ....................................................................................................... 17
Porches ..................................................................................................................................................... 18
Balustrades and Handrails ....................................................................................................................... 19
Handicap Accessibility ............................................................................................................................. 20
Demolition ................................................................................................................................................. 20
Multi-Family Construction Guidelines ........................................................................................................ 21
Architectural Styles in Iowa City ................................................................................................................. __
Individual Historic District Guidelines Individual Conservation District Guidelines
Summit Street (1983)
Woodlawn (1983)
Brown Street (1994)
Moffitt Cottage {1995)
East College (1997)
College Green (1997)
ppdadr~hpc-handbkdoc 2
THE IOWA CITY HISTORIC PRESERVATION HANDBOOK
Purpose of the Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
The purpose of the handbook is to:
· Identify the defining characteristics of each individual historic or conservation district.
· Provide comprehensive design guidelines for construction projects within each district.
· Provide property owners with design criteria that will be the basis for approving or denying
certificates of appropriateness for their construction drawings.
Where the Iowa City Guidelines Apply
These guidelines apply to all buildings within historic districts and conservation districts as well as
to historic landmarks. All construction projects that change the exterior features of a building and
require a regulated permit must comply with these guidelines. For the construction of new
buildings that contain three or more dwelling units, the Iowa City Historic Preservation
Commission uses the section of this book entitled Multi-Family Construction Guidelines as a basis
for approving or denying certificates of appropriateness.
Building Code and Zoning Ordinances
The requirements of the building code and the zoning chapter must be met in addition to the
requirements of the historic preservation guidelines. For certain criteria such as mass, scale, size,
siting considerations, and setback from the street, the historic preservation guidelines may be
more stringent than the building code or the zoning chapter.
Historic Landmarks
Alterations and additions to Historic Landmarks must comply with the Iowa City Guidelines.
Alternative Designs
Alternative design solutions or exceptions to the Iowa City Guidelines, the Multi-Family
Construction Guidelines, or the individual district guidelines may be considered by the Iowa City
Historic Preservation Commission. The intent in considering alternative designs is to allow
architectural flexibility in exceptional circumstances. The intent is not to reduce the scope or
quality of work required by these guidelines.
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Definitions of Key Terms "
Historic District: An area that contains contiguous properties under diverse ownership that:
A. Are significant to American history, architecture, archaeology and culture, or Iowa City's
history, architecture, archaeology and culture; or
B. Possess integrity of location, design, setting, materials and workership; or
C. Are associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad patterns
of our history; or
D. Are associated with the lives of persons significant in our past; or
E. 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
F. Have yielded or may be likely to yield information important in prehistory or history.
Conservation District: An area that contains contiguous pieces of property under diverse
ownership in which the majority of the structures are at least fifty (50) years old and in which no
more than sixty percent (60%) of the structures are of a quality, integrity, and condition that would
qualify for historic district designation. The area must also:
A. Represent the traditional character of Iowa City neighborhoods through architectural
characteristics, building scale, building setback, and streetscape design; or
B. Exemplify a pattern of neighborhood settlement of development significant to the cultural
history or tradition of Iowa City; or
C.Represent unique or unusual physical character that creates distinctiveness.
Contributinq Structure: A structure that is an integral part of the historic theme in a historic or
conservation district. The Historic Preservation Commission determines which structures are
contributing and lists them in the individual district guidelines.
Noncontributinq Structure: Structures not listed as contributing structures.
Primary Structure: The inhabited building on a lot that is normally the largest and faces the street.
Most often a house is the primary structure in historic districts.
Street Elevation: All roof and wall surfaces that face the street. These would be depicted in an
architectural drawing called a street "elevation".
Alteration: A modification to the exterior of a building that does not increase its size.
ppdadrWhpc-handbk doc 4
Setback Addition: An addition built behind the existing structure, opposite the street facade, that
has a setback of eight or more inches on the sides 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. No part of the setback addition is visible on the street elevation.
Categories of Compliance
The architectural character of each historic and conservation district in Iowa City is unique. Not all
of the properties within each district are historic. In order to address the individual nature of the
districts and also to be as flexible as possible with non-historic properties, the Historic
Preservation Commission has developed four different categories of compliance. This makes it
possible for owners and contractors to identify those guidelines that are applicable to a particular
project. The chart on the next page shows the type of project in the first column and the
guidelines that apply in the last four columns. These are the guidelines the Commission uses
when considering certificates of appropriateness. The four categories of compliance are listed
below.
· Iowa City Guidelines (Category I): This category provides guidelines for maintenance,
alterations, and additions to historic landmarks and contributing structures in historic districts.
The guidelines for this category were written by the Iowa City Historic Preservation
Commission and are based upon the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation.
· Iowa City Guidelines with Exceptions (Category II): This category provides guidelines for
alterations and additions to noncontributing structures in historic districts, for properties that lie
within conservation districts, and for setback additions to historic properties that meet the
setback addition requirements (page 5) to visually distinguish the addition from the historic
property.
· Architecture Compatible to Individual District (Category III): This category provides guidelines
for new structures within historic or conservation districts. The guidelines establish
architectural design criteria based upon the defining characteristics of each individual district.
To locate the individual district guidelines, refer to the Table of Contents.
Site and Scale Compatible to Individual District (Category IV): This category provides
guidelines for additions and new buildings within historic or conservation districts and is written
to accommodate any architectural style or age. The guidelines establish scale and site
considerations based upon the defining characteristics of each individual district. To locate the
individual district guidelines, refer to the Table of Contents.
Note: If the guidelines for an individual district (Category III & IV) have not yet been approved,
then the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation will serve in their place.
ppdadrn/hpc handbk doc 5
Categories of Compliance (continued)
To use the table below, locate the appropriate type of project in the first column and move across
the mw to determine the categories that apply depending on whether the structure is located in a
historic district or in a conservation district. The project need conform to only those categories
indicated. Within each district's individual guidelines, one can find a listing of all contributing
structures. To locate the individual district guidelines, refer to the Table of Contents. Example: an
alteration to a primary structure, i.e., a main house, considered a contributing structure would
need to comply with the Iowa City Guidelines in a historic district and with the Iowa City Guidelines
with Exceptions in a conservation district.
I II III IV
Type of Project Iowa City Guidelines Iowa City Architecture Site and Scale
Guidelines with Compatible to Compatible to
Exceptions Individual District Individual District
Alteration: Primary Structure Historic Conservation
(contributing structure) District District
Alteration: Primary Structure Conservation and
(noncontributing structure) Historic District
Addition: Street Elevation Historic Conservation Conservation and
(contributing structure) District District Historic District
Addition: Street Elevation Conservation and Conservation and
(noncontributing structure) Historic District Historic District
Setback Addition Conservation and Conservation and
(contributing structure) Histodc District Historic District
Setback Addition Conservation and Conservation and
(noncontributing structure) Historic District Historic District
Alteration or Addition: Historic Conservation Conservation and
Outbuilding (contributing) District District Historic District
Alteration or Addition: Conservation and Conservation and
Outbuilding (noncontributing) Historic District Histodc District
New Primary Structure Conservation and Conservation and
Historic District Historic District
New Outbuilding behind Conservation and Conservation and
Contributing Structure Historic District Histodc District
New Outbuilding behind Conservation and Conservation and
Noncontributing Structure Historic District Historic District
Note: New structures of three or more dwelling units should comply with Multi-Family Construction
Guidelines that begin on page 21.
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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 Iisted 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
appropriateness of exterior changes to Historic Landmarks and properties that are designated
as contributing structures in historic districts. The Standards apply to all maintenance,
alteration, and additions to contributing structures in historic districts except for setback
additions as defined on page 5.
· The Standards served as a starting point for writing the Iowa City Guidelines.
· The Standards are listed below.
(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
materials or alteration of features and spaces that characterize a property shall be avoided.
(3) Each property shall be recognized as a physical record of its time, place and use. Changes
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
their own right shall be retained and preserved.
(5) Distinctive features, finishes, and construction techniques or examples of craftsmanship that
characterizes a historic 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
design, color, texture, and other visual qualities and, where possible, materials. Replacement
of missing features shall be substantiated by documentary, physical, or pictorial evidence.
ppdadr~hpc-handbk.doc 7
(7) Chemical or physical treatments, such as sandblasting, that cause damage to historic
materials shall not be used. The sun'ace 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.
IOWA CITY GUIDELINES
· The Iowa City Historic Preservation Commission relied upon the Standards while writing the
guidelines that compdse the category Iowa City Guidelines. These guidelines were written to
provide more detailed guidance to property owners and builders as they design their
construction projects. The Commission believes that the Iowa City Guidelines will be
complete enough to address most projects; however, there may be occasions when the
Commission refers to portions of the Standards and their accompanying instructions in
determining certain issues.
· Most sections of Iowa City Guidelines include provisions that apply only to those projects that
fit into the category Iowa City Guidelines with Exceptions. Those projects are: additions and
alterations to noncontributing structures in historic districts, setback additions to contributin9
structures in historic districts that meet the setback addition requirements (page 5), and
projects in conservation districts. These exceptions are intended to make it easier and less
expensive to undertake projects that do not directly affect the appearance of contributing
structures. However, since the exceptions define only the minimum requirements, property
owners are encouraged to follow the Iowa City Guidelines whenever possible. The exceptions
are listed within each section to which they apply.
· The Iowa City Guidelines are organized into fourteen sections that follow.
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FOUNDATIONS
Foundations provide a base for a building and make a transition from the walls above ground to
the walls or suppods 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.
Recommended: Disallowed:
· Retaining the size and shape of original door Covering exposed brick, stone, and rusticated
openings, window openings, and storm cellar masonry foundations with a cement plaster or
entrances in the foundation. If new window wells stucco.
are required, they should match the existing
foundation material. Not Recommended
· Removing all non-original materials. · Raising the adjacent grade at the foundation to
· Repairing foundations to match the original coverwhat.was originally exposed.
materials in size, color, texture, composition, and Painting masonry or concrete foundations that
joint profile, were originally unpainted.
Repairing stucco with a mixture that matches the
original in texture, color, and composition.
· Maintaining a slope away from the foundation to
prevent standing water or drainage toward the
foundation. The following apply to Category II,
Constructing additions that match the original
foundations in color, texture, unit size, and joint Iowa City Guidelines with Exceptions
profile.
· For additions to foundations, concrete or rusticated
concrete block may be used in place of the original
masonry units.
· 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.
ppdadm/hpc-handbkdoc 9
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 to repair the masonry. When repairing
masonry, three important properties should be considered: hardness, dimension, and color.
Recommended: Disallowed:
· Removing all vines. Vines cause the masonry to · Sandblasting, waterblasting, or any other abrasive
retain moisture. Their root-like holdfasts can cleaning method. Blasting can cause very serious
causedamagetomodarjoints, damage by destroying the protective exterior
· Removing deteriorated mortar by hand. Raking surface and exposing the softer intedor to rapid
the joints with hand tools will not damage the brick, deterioration. This damage cannot be repaired.
Replacing deteriorated masonry units with ones Removing mortar with electric grinders or
that match the color, texture, size, and hardness of hammers. Use of such tools leads to chipping and
the original, breaking of masonry.
Using mortar that is similar in hardness to the Pointing with a strong Portland cement mix or
original. A recommended mix for old masonry synthetic caulking compound.
contains 1 part white Portland cement, 3 parts Painting or sealing historic masonry that has not
lime, and 9 parts sand. If necessary, color may be been painted.
added to match the original mortar. This mix is
suitable for both laying and pointing masonry
walls.
· Making modar joints that match the dimensions of
the original. Old mortar joints are often narrower The following apply to Category II,
than those commonly used today. Iowa City Guidelines with Exceptions
· Cleaning new mortar smears from the masonry
face with a mild acid designed for that purpose.
· Additions to masonry structures may be sided with
Cleaning old masonry using a natural bristle brush
wood. The siding type must be appropriate to the
and mild, water-based detergent. Sometimes a
age of the original building. The trim should be
gentle chemical method may be appropriate, but
appropriate to both the siding type and the original
only if it does not damage the masonry.
building. Any substitute materials must be
· Constructing additions to match the color, texture,
durable, accept paint, and be approved by the
unit size, and joint profile of the original masonry.
Historic Preservation Commission.
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WOOD
Most of the structures in Iowa City's historic districts 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 wood is relatively inexpensive, durable, and
easy to work with, it must be maintained properly to have a long life.
Recommended: Disallowed:
· Repairing wood elements rather than replacing · Covering original wood siding with another
them. material such as vinyl or aluminum siding.
· Duplicating and replacing original wood elements · Using destructive and dangerous paint removal
when they cannot be repaired, methods such as sandblasting, waterblasting, or
Replacing damaged wood siding with new or burning with a propane or butane torch.
salvaged wood siding that matches the original. · Removal of wood elements such as tdm, porches,
· Monitoring wood surfaces for signs of excessive cornices, and decorative elements.
water damage, rot, or pest infestation. Keeping all · Substituting a material in place of wood that does
surfaces caulked, primed, and painted in order to not retain the appearance, function, and
prevent wood deterioration, paintability of the original wood and/or that does
· Eliminating excessive moisture problems such as not accept paint.
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 The following apply to Category II,
wood elements or siding. Iowa City Guidelines with Exceptions
· Constructing additions with materials that match
the siding, trim, moldings, and other details of the
The window trim, door trim, skid and fdeze boards,
original building, and corner boards on additions must be similar to
· Substituting a material in place of wood only if the
those on the existing building. However, other
substitute material retains the appearance and
details of the original building may be omitted,
function of the original wood. The substitute
simplified, or enhanced on additions as long as
material must be durable, accept paint, and be
they are compatible with the existing structure.
approved by the Historic Preservation
Commission.
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MASS AND ROOF LINES
Mass and roof pitch are essential in defining historic styles. Most of the roofs in historic
neighborhoods were originally sawn cedar shingles. The texture of the wood shingles on the
steep-pitched roofs was a prominent feature of historic neighborhoods early in the last century. A
building permit is not required for replacing shingles and therefore the color of shingles is not
enforced by city ordinance.
Recommended: Disallowed:
· Preserving the original roof pitches and spans. · Reducing the pitch on one or both sides of a roof
· Preserving the original walls and vertical corners to gain headroom below the rafters.
that define the massing of the original building. Adding dormers that are wider than ones
· Constructing additions that reflect the massing of commonly found in the neighborhood.
the original structure. This requires that the wall · Adding dormers that extend above the existing
areas and vertical corners as well as the roof peak of the roof.
pitches and spans all be consistent with the · Adding dormers that are closer than 3 feet to an
existing structure, existing gable end or hip. The intent here is to
Matching the roof overhang of the existing building avoid interrupting the odginal roof lines.
when constructing additions. When the eave of an
addition intersects the eave of an existing Not Recommended:
structure, care should be taken to assure that the
· Installing antennas, vents, solar collectors,
two eaves align properly. The trim details of a new
skylights, or other mechanical devices on
overhang should match those of the existing prominent streetelevations.
structure.
· Preserving original triro such as crown mold, skirt
and frieze boards, and decorative roetal. When
adding to an existing building, the original trim
The following apply to Category II,
should be matched on the sides and roof of the
new addition, Iowa City Guidelines with Exceptions
Adding dormers in a manner that does not
significantly alter the character of the existing · Dormers may be larger than those commonly
building, found in the neighborhood provided that the
Replacing a special shingle style with a similar dormer does not seriously alter the character of
style when the old shingles need replacing, the building.
Using asphalt shingles that resemble the texture
and color of weathered wood shingles for roofs
that had wood shingles originally.
· Painting metal roofs dark colors, usually dull red or
green.
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SIDING
Wood siding is prevalent throughout the historic neighborhoods in Iowa City. Most often it is plain
bevel type with an exposure between 3 and 5 inches; however, it is sometimes tongue and
groove, shiplap, or shingle type. This wood siding along with the trim details and a multitude of
paint colors combine to make one of the most important defining characteristics of the historic
districts. This display Of detail and color is essential to the character of the old neighborhoods,
and therefore must be protected by the design guidelines.
The primary threat to the traditional appearance of the old neighborhoods has come with the
application of synthetic siding. This has been installed in an effort to avoid periodic painting.
While synthetic siding will last longer than a paint job, 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 original siding and trim, and in some
cases, necessitates the removal of historic elements altogether. For all of the reasons stated
above, the covering of historic properties with synthetic siding is not allowed.
Recommended: Disallowed:
· Repairing existing wood siding and trim. · Applying synthetic siding such as aluminum, vinyl,
or false masonry siding.
· Replacing deteriorated sections of wood siding
· Removing trim pieces such as door and window
with new wood siding that matches the original,
trim, skid and frieze boards, and corner boards.
·Removing synthetic siding and repairing original
· Covering trim such as door and window trim, skirt
wood siding and trim.
and frieze boards, and corner boards.
· Applying siding to a new addition that matches the
· Using synthetic siding on additions instead of the
size, shape, texture, and material of the original original siding or a substitute material approved by
siding, the Historic Preservation commission.
Substituting a material in place of wood siding only
if the substitute material retains the appearance Synthetic Siding Exception
and function of the original wood. The substitute
material must be durable, accept paint, and be Synthetic siding may be used on new structures
and on noncontributing structures within
approved by the Historic Preservation
Commission. conservation districts.
· Matching synthetic siding may be used in repairing
damage to existing synthetic siding.
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PAINT AND COLOR
Paint schemes should be simple. One color for the body of the house, one for the trim, and one
for accent is usually enough. 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. For information please contact the planning office. A building
permit is not required for painting and these recommendations are not enforced by city
ordinances.
Recommended: Not Recommended:
· Removing loose and peeling paint and cleaning · Dry sanding, dry scraping, sandblasting or using
the surfaces to be painted in accordance with high-pressure sprayers to remove paint from
pertinent State and Federal guidelines. Practices masonry or wood.
that help reduce the potential for the creation of · Using high heat or open flames for paint removal.
lead dust, such as misting surfaces with water · Using paint strippers containing methylene
when scraping, are encouraged. Old paint that is chloride.
sound and reasonably smooth should be left in · Other practices that involve a high potential to
place as a foundation for the new paint, create lead dust are discouraged by State and
· Using a proper respirator to avoid breathing the Federal guidelines.
fumes or dust from lead-based paint. · Choosing bright, obtrusive colors.
· Collecting and properly disposing of paint chips Painting a building entirely white.
and other waste.
· Pdming, caulking, and finishing with high-quality
products.
· Choosing a scheme of 2 or 3 colors that is
appropriate to both the building and to the
immediate neighborhood.
· Painting additions to match the original building.
WINDOWS
The type, proportion, and trim of windows create one of the most important defining
characteristics of the buildings in historic neighborhoods. Most often these windows are double-
hung, but the trim varies depending on the architectural style and materials of the building.
Generally these windows are considerably taller than wide, and they are aligned vertically between
floors.
Recommended: Disallowed:
Preserving the existing windows by repairing Installing modern types of windows including
sashes and frames, sliding, awning, casement, and bay windows when
· Retaining original window frames by replacing they were not original to the building.
badly deteriorated sashes with new sashes. Installing metal or vinyl windows when they were
Replacing badly deteriorated windows with new not original to the building.
ones that match the size, trim, use of divided Installing metal or vinyl storm windows.
lights, and overall appearance of the original ,, Using snap-in muntin bars to achieve divided
windows. The replacements for wood windows lights.
must be made of wood. The use of metal-clad, Installing shutters on windows that did not
solid-wood windows is acceptable. Replacement originally have shutters.
windows and trim must accept paint. Divided Leaving large expanses of wall surface
lights may be created with muntins that are uninterrupted by windows.
adhered to both sides of the glass, but not with
snap-in muntin bars. The following apply to Category II,
· Adding windows that match the propodions, trim,
and appearance of the original windows. Iowa City Guidelines with Exceptions
· Aligning vertically the windows on different floors
· Modern window types may be used in additions
of a building where appropriate. Often historic
buildings had windows of the same width "stacked" provided that they have overall proportions
one above the other, comparable to those found in the existing building.
The windows must be trimmed to match the
·Installing traditional wood storm windows and
screens on older buildings, original ones in the building. The windows may be
installed side by side, but they must have trim
· Installing wood-frame combination storm windows
between them if that was the method used on the
with screens that resemble traditional wood storm
windows. The use of metal-clad, wood-frame existing building. Transom-like or half-round fixed
combination storm windows is acceptable. Storm glass units may be used if they create a traditional-
windows must accept paint, looking window arrangement consistent with the
original building style.
Replacing deteriorated or missing shutters with
ones that match the original in appearance and
size, They must be installed in a position to look
as if they were hinged and operable.
15
DOORS
The original size and shape of door openings should be maintained. Many older entrance doom
are of panel-type construction or solid frames with glass lights in the upper part of the door. Old
storm doors are often wood doom with removable sashes. These old door styles should be used
when it is necessary to replace original doom. Old garage doors often possess distinctive design
features and should be retained wherever possible.
Recommended: Disallowed:
· Repairing original doors rather than replacing · Installing flush entrance doors or other modem
them. door styles.
Replacing badly deteriorated doors with new ones · Installing sliding patio doors when they were not
that are similar in size, material, style, and odginal to the building.
appearance. Installing natural aluminum storm doors.
Installing doors in additions that match the · Blocking down door openings to accommodate
material, style, and appearance of original doors in standard door sizes.
the building. · Installing a double garage door where two single
Installing French doors (or doors of a similar style) doors are possible.
in additions where a large opening is desired.
· Installing a wood screen door that accepts sashes
with glass or screen. The following apply to Category II,
Substituting a material in place of wood for doors
and screen doom only if the substitute material Iowa City Guidelines with Exception,~
retains the style and appearance of the original
doors and screen doors. The substitute material · Installing sliding patio doors provided that the
must be durable, accept paint, and be approved openings are trimmed to match the existing doom
by the Historic Preservation Commission. and provided that they am not installed on the
· Retaining and repairing original garage doors street elevation.
where practical.
· Installing new garage doors that mimic the styles
of traditional ones.
· installing new garage doors that are simple in
design. Smooth or simple panel-type doors may
be used. Openings should be trimmed to match
other doors and windows in the building. Two
single doors are preferred to one double door.
ppdadrrVhpc-handbk.doc 16
GUTTERS AND DOWNSPOUTS
Original built-in gutters are important design features of historic buildings. Removing these
requires a building permit that must be approved by the Historic Preservation Commission. A
building permit is not required for replacing external gutters.
Recommended: Disallowed:
· Repairing original built-in gutters. EPDM rubber · Altering the roof slope near the gutter when
sheet is an economical replacement material for covering old built4n gutters.
the original tin flashing.
Constructing built-in gutters in additions to existing
buildings that have built-in gutters. The following apply to Category II,
· Covering original built-in guttem and applying Iowa City Guidelines with Exceptions
exterior gutters only if the roof slope at the gutter is
not altered. This can be accomplished with Additions need not have built-in gutters unless the
horizontal blocking and flashing above the old
new gutters align with the built-in gutters of the
gutter, existing building. For instance, a one-story addition
Installing metal downspouts to rue vedically near need not have built-in gutters if it is attached to a
the corners. They should be painted to match the two-story wall.
background color.
CHIMNEYS
Chimneys are subject to severe weathering conditions and generally need more frequent
maintenance than other masonry on a building. The methods for preserving masonry chimneys
are the same ones used for other masonry.
Recommended:
Disallowed:
· Adding a flue liner for safety reasons,
· Keeping flue caps as inconspicuous as possible. · Removing prominent chimneys that are important
· Following the recommendations for masonry tothe historical character of the building.
repair in the section on masonry. Plastering over masonry in place of proper repair.
Constructing new chimneys in masonry that are · Pointing with pre-mixes that are too hard for old,
consistent with chimneys that were built in the soft brick,
neighborhood originally.
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PORCHES
Porches are the focus of many historic buildings and help define their overall character. In historic
residential neighborhoods, porches help to establish a sense of community. Porches should be
preserved for both their architectural and social value.
Recommended: Disallowed:
Repairing existing porches and conserving as · Removing a historic froot porch.
much of the original material as possible. · Changing the original roof pitch. Newer materials
Replacing badly deteriorated pieceswith newones including EPDM rubber sheet and heat-sealed
that match the originals in design and material, asphalt products make the maintenance of Iow-
Custom fabrication of columns, brackets, pitched roofs easier than in years past.
pedestals, and moldings may be necessary, but · Using wrought iron elements unless they were pad
many porch components can be ordered through of the original design.
lumber yards. · Using unpainted treated wood for elements that
Vertical-grained fir porch flooring should be used would have been painted in their original
for its resistance to weathering, applications.
· Reconstructing missing balustrades and handrails · Using pre-cast concrete steps.
using old photographs or in a s~/le that is
· Substituting a material in place of wood that does
appropriate to both the building and neighbor-hood not retain the appearance, function, and
(the next section has more details), paintability of the original wood.
· Using wood steps for a wood porch and tile, bdck,
or concrete steps for a masonry porch.
· Showing the lower suppod pillars below the porch
columns. Lattice or skirting should be positioned
between pillars. The following apply to Category II,
· Enclosing only a portion of a front porch with Iowa City Guidelines with Exceptions
screen to provide a sitting area that is away from
the steps and front entrance of the home. The
Porch floors may be concrete if the floor is no
screening should be set behind the columns and
more than 18 inches above grade. Porch floors
balustrades to preserve the original appearance of
the porch, that are more than 18 inches above grade must be
built in a traditional way with wood joists and wood
Constructing new porches that are compatible with
flooring.
the existing building or similar to those original
porches in the neighborhood.
· Substituting a material in place of wood only if the
substitute material retains the appearance and
function of the original wood. The substitute must
be durable, accept paint, and be approved by the
Historic Preservation Commission.
podadnVhpc-handbkdoc 18
BALUSTRADES AND HANDRAILS
Balustrades and handrails serve as both decorative and functional elements on porches,
balconies, and steps. For historic properties, the design should reflect historic styles, but not at
the expense of safety.
Recommended: Disallowed:
· Repairing existing balustrades and railings. Removing original balustrades or railings.
Replacing badly deteriorated pieces with ones that Covering the original balustrades or railings with
match the originals in design and material, materials such as siding.
· Reconstructing missing balustrades by using old · Usin9 unpainted treated wood for elements that
photographs or by choosing a style that is would have been painted in the historic
appropriate to both the building and neighborhood, application.
· Installing turned spindles in balustrades that have · Using wrought iron elements unless they were part
an actual diameter of 2" or greater or square of the original design.
spindles that are 2" or greater in width.
· Installing handrails and footrails that are at least 2"
in thickness. These can be made with ~ -inch and
5/4-inch stock added together. The following apply to Category II,
· Spacing spindles so that no point between the Iowa City Guidelines with Exceptions
spindles exceeds 4 inches. This is for child safety.
· Providing handrails on porch steps as required by
Square spindles may be installed in place of
code. Handrails should match the balustrade
turned spindles in balustrades. These must be 2"
height on the porch unless otherwise specified by
or greater in width.
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 iron pipe.
ppdadm/hpc-handbkdoc 1 9
HANDICAP ACCESSIBILITY
The Iowa City Historic Preservation Commission will approve certificates of appropriateness for
modifications that accommodate reasonable access and use by disabled occupants provided
those modifications do not significantly alter the historic character of the building. The Historic
Preservation Commission will work with applicants to find designs that will accommodate their
needs consistent with the historic character of the building.
DEMOLITION
· Unless otherwise provided in individual conservation district guidelines, a certificate of
appropriateness for the demolition of any primary contributing structure will be denied unless
the applicant can demonstrate that the building is structurally unsound and irretrievable. A
certificate of appropriateness for the demolition of a contributing outbuilding will be determined
on a case by case basis.
· Before a cedificate of appropriateness for demolition will be approved for a particular site, the
Iowa City Historic Preservation Commission must approve a certificate of appropriateness for
the structure that will replace the one being demolished. This is true for both contributing and
noncontributing structures.
ppdad,Whpc-handbkdoc 20
Proposed Design Standards for Multi-Family Buildings Proposed Within Historic and
Conservation Districts
Draft: March 28, 2000
A. Mandatory Compliance Items: Compliance with the following design standards must
be demonstrated prior to the issuance of a Certificate of Appropriateness.
Setback, Front: The front yard setback shall 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 shall apply. The
building setback shall not deviate from the average setback of existing structures on its
street frontage by more than 5 feet, and in no case shall a new building be located closer
to the street than the existing principle building on its frontage with the shallowest
setback. The setbacks of existing buildings shall be measured at the first floor wall of the
main living area or commercial floor area of the building, excluding a covered or enclosed
porch. If front porches are prevalent on existing structures, the new building may contain
a covered front porch that extends into the front yard, provided it is located no closer to
the street than any of the other porches on its block.
Lighting: All exterior lighting, including balcony and porch lighting, shall 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 shall be mounted no higher
than 15 feet. Lights intended to architecturally highlight a building or its features shall use
a limited pattern of light that does not extend beyond the wall of the building.
Parking: Parking lots, including detached garages and carports, shall not be located
between the principle building and the street. Parking shall 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 shall be used to screen the parking from the street and
adjacent properties.
Parking Below Buildings: Where parking is located below a building, any exposed portions
of the exterior walls of the parking area visible from a street and extending more than
three feet above the ground shall 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."
Garages: 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.
ppdadrWhpc-handbk doc 21
Building Orientation: Orientation of the "front" of the building shall be to the street in a
manner similar to existing buildings in the neighborhood, including an entrance with some
architectural emphasis provided on the front of the building. Architectural treatments which
emphasize the entrance include, but are not limited to, front porches, transom and sidelight
windows, decorative trim and moldings, and/or arches.
Pedestrian Access: A sidewalk shall be provided that connects the entrance door or porch
to the public sidewalk.
Balconies/Decks: Balconies and decks should be designed so that they are integrated into
the overall design of the building. Methods of integrating balconies into the building design
may include, but are not limited to, fully or partially recessing them into the fa,cade 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. When designed in such a manner, balconies and decks may encroach into the
required front yard, provided they are located no closer to the street than any porches on
the street frontage. Balconies and decks shall be placed adjacent to the front or rear yard
rather than the side yard.
Mechanical Equipment/Utility Meters: Outdoor dumpsters, mechanical equipment and
meters shall be placed at the rear of the property whenever possible. If this cannot be
achieved, they may be located along the side of the building provided that extensive
landscaping, a decorative masonry wall, a combination of the two, or another approved
material is used to screen these items. In no case shall these items be located along the
street side of a building.
Building Height/Mass: Measures should be incorporated into the design of a new building
that help to reduce its "visual mass" and overall height. Examples include 1) holding the
height of the eave line down by making the upper floor of a building a "half" story and
utilizing dormers to accommodate the use of floor area; 2) stepping the height of a taller
building down to two stories at ends adjacent to existing buildings that are two-stories or
lower in height; and 3) providing significant variations in the roofline and front building
plane which help to reduce the scale of the building along the streetscape.
Roofline: Rooflines should reflect the predominant roof type, orientation, scale and pitch
of existing buildings within the neighborhood.
Building Modulation: The street elevation setback should be varied such that no
continuous wall plane or surface exceeds 35 feet in length, and such that variations
between wall planes or surfaces are at least 18 inches in depth. Variations in wall planes
should be accompanied by corresponding changes in the roofline and other architectural
elements of the building.
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, scape and proportion to the windows of other buildings
in the neighborhood. The use of trim and moldings shall be similar in width and character to
surrounding buildings.
ppdadm/hpc-handbk doc 22
Building Styles: Design elements from existing architectural styles found on contributing
structures within the district, such as building form, rooflines, window patterns, building
materials, entranceways, and architectural detailing, shall be incorporated into the design
of new buildings to help them fit within the context of the district,
B. Design Point Items: A total of 20 points from the following design options must be
obtained prior to the issuance of a Certificate of Appropriateness.
Vehicular Access: The use of alley access to the parking area, thus minimizing paving
within front yards. This may necessitate the improvement of the public alley in order to
provide a suitable access to the site. (3 points)
Paving Materials: The use of textured paving, such as stamped and colored concrete,
exposed aggregate, brick, or cobblestone patterns, to improve the appearance of paved
areas and to designate pedestrian walkways. (0-3 points)
Setback, Side: The provision of a side yard of 10 feet or more from both side lot lines, or
an interior side lot line on a corner lot. (5 points)
Porches: The incorporation of a covered front porch (or porches, where appropriate) of an
appropriate size and scale in areas where porches are prevalent on existing structures
within the surrounding neighborhood. A front porch helps provide a transition between
the public street and the private residential use of the interior of the building, and can help
a building fit within an existing neighborhood by adding detail and interest to the facade of
the building. Front porches must be covered by a roof that is compatible with the roof
over the rest of the structure. The evaluation of a proposed porch shall take into
consideration its compatibility with the design of the proposed structure, its "usability",
and its compatibility with other porches in the surrounding neighborhood. (O-10 points)
Building Height: The provision of a building height along the street elevation of 27 feet or
less. (5 points)
Architectural Details: The provision of 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,
decorative site lighting and other decorative features as appropriate for the design of the
overall building and materials being used. In awarding points under this guideline, the use
of these elements shall 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. (0-10 points)
Building Base/Exposed Foundation: Incorporating a raised foundation or a "base" into the
design of a new building. The utilization of a material that differs from the primary
exterior building material at the base of the building, such as stone, brick of a different
color or size than that used for the overall building, or other durable masonry material, can
be used to give the appearance cfa raised foundation. (0-2 points)
ppdadmfnpc-handbk doc 23
Building Materials: The use of quality exterior building materials historically used within
Iowa City's older neighborhoods is preferred.
1) Building materials will be evaluated as follows.
ALL MASONRY: The use of brick, stone, or other masonry product(s) as the exterior
finish material for the entire building, with the exception of trim and decorative
elements that may consist of alternative but compatible materials. The term masonry
shall not include concrete block or poured concrete materials, except when rusticated
concrete block or decorative concrete is used as a base or exposed foundation
material. (7-10 points)
PREDOMINANTLY MASONRY WITH STUCCO OR WOOD: The use of brick, stone, or
other masonry product(s) as the primary exterior building material in combination with
the less substantiat use of stucco, wood, or fiber cement siding. (5-10 points)
PREDOMINANTLY STUCCO OR WOOD WITH MASONRY: The use of brick, stone, or
other masonry product(s) as a secondary exterior building material in combination
with primary materials consisting of stucco, wood, or fiber cement materials as
discussed below. (3-8 points)
ALL STUCCO OR WOOD: The use of stucco or other similar material(s) that conveys a
stucco appearance, or wood or fiber-cement products that are wood-like in
appearance, as the exterior finish material for the entire building. Acceptable wood
or fiber-cement products include shakes, shingles, or painted horizontal clapboard
siding composed of three (3) to eight (8) inch wide boards. (3-7 points)
PREDOMINANTLY MASONRY WITH VINYL OR METAL: Vinyl or metal siding is not
permitted on new buildings within historic districts. Within conservation districts, the
use of brick, stone, or other masonry product(s) as the primary exterior building
material in combination with the less substantial use of vinyl or metal lap siding. (3-5
points)
PREDOMINANTLY VINYL OR METAL WITH MASONRY: Vinyl or metal siding is not
permitted on new buildings within historic districts. Within conservation districts, the
use of brick, stone, or other masonry product(s) as a secondary exterior building
material in combination with primary materials consisting of vinyl or metal lap siding
in a clapboard pattern. (0-2 points)
2) Materials or material combinations not listed above may be approved, provided that it is
determined that the material wilt add interest to the facade of the building and that it is
compatible with or similar in appearance to materials found on other buildings within the
neighborhood. (0-5)
3) The following guidelines shall be used to evaluate building designs that incorporate
more than one exterior finish material:
ppdadrrJ/hpc-ha~dbk doc 24
Material changes to the vertical plane of the building should be separated by a belt
course, soldier course, or some other trim to provide a transition from one material to
the other.
Material changes to the horizontal plane of the building should not occur along flat
planes of any street fa,cade of the building, but rather at interior corners or at major
reveals.
Where a material change from masonry to a different material is proposed at a front
corner of the building, the masonry shall be extended onto the secondary fa,cade at
least 2 feet.
C, Alternative Designs: Alternative design solutions or exceptions to the mandatory
standards will be considered if it is demonstrated by the applicant that strict compliance
with a specific standard is not practical, and/or the alternative being proposed will help in
achieving a development that is compatible with the district or would provide some
environmental benefit.
ppd~drWhp¢-handbkdoc 25
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 ornamenta-
tion. New construction in historic and conservation districts should reflect the size, proportion, fenes-
tration, trim, and other ornamentation of a building style typical of that district.
Italianate
~ "~'" "~ "~ ............ i~ =1~ Building Materials
~.1 i~ ~ ! r~! [.~,?-~! i-~ [ ! ~.. i r~ ! i~-~I Exterior Wa~Is
, ~:! ~ Wood clapboa[d and
~' ~ common brick
~' -- ' Roo£
Metal, asphalt shingles
acceptable
Windows:
Narrow and vertical with
divided lights - 2/2 or
The Italianate building style emphasizes verticality, often being two or three stories tall with each 4/4.
story having a ceiling height of at least nine feet. Plans are rectangular or L-shaped, and frequently Doors:
will have a kitchen addition at the rear of the house, fialianate roofs are most commonly gabled with a Tall panel doors with
hipped cornice return. The roof pitch is between 6/12 and 8/12. Distinctive of this style is the decora-vertical lights.
rive cornice with intricate brackets beneath the wide overhang. Windows are narrow and tall, and first
and second floor windows are typically aligned and evenly spaced. Italianate buildings often have Shutters:
decorative bay windows and double-wide narrow windows in lieu of a wider single window. Fenestra- Some ltalianate house
tions are often arched with decorative "hoods" and sills, have vertical, board
shutters - must appear
Italianate porches are ornate with turned or boxed posts, porch rails, and turned or square operable
spindles in a variety of patterns. They often have decorative friezes with spindles just below the eave.
Porches often extend the entire width of the front facade and may wrap around to the side.
Queen Anne
Building Materials
Exterior Walls
Narrow wood clapboard
with decorative wood
shingles.
RooL'
Metal, wood shingles -
asphalt shingles
acceptable
Windows:
Queen Anne houses range from the great "painted ladies" to more modest homes of 1-1/2 stories. Largo double hung
They have an asymmetrical building foot print with projections and intersecting masses in the roofs and windows typical Upper
wails, Roof pitches are at least 10/12 or greater and may be hipped or gable in a variety of combina- sash may have divided
tions. The gables are emphasized with decorative wood shingles, intricate ornament and trim. lights. May also have
Round turrets are common on the most elaborate Queen Anne houses. Facades frequently include a ornamental windows
large picture window, slightly taller than wide, surmounted by a fixed pane of ornamental glass, and transoms
Queen Anne porches are ornate with turned or round posts, porch rails, and turned, cut or square Doors;
Panels doors with
spindles in a variety of patterns. Porches are large and gracious, often wrapping around the house windows
Shutters:
26 None
Colonial Revival
Exterior Walls;
. Wood clapboard - wood
wall shingles and brick
are less common
;,~:~,~ · ~ materials
Roof
Asphalt shingles
Windows'
Divided lights - main
Colonial Revival style houses are distinctive for the formal, often symmetrical arrangement of the house windows are
facade and plan. The plan is a simple rectangle often with a single story sunporch on one side. The double-hung 6/1 of 6/6,
main house is 1-1/2 stories to 2-I12 stories in height. The eaves are boxed and they have a wide sun porch may have
frieze board beneath the eave. More elaborate houses will also have dentils at the frieze. Theydivided light casements.
frequently have small dormers that are symmetrically placed. The Dutch Colonial Revival style houses Doors:
have a gambrel roof with shed dormers at the front and rear of the house. Ornamentation is limited to Panels doors with
simple columns at the porch and shutters. The width of the two shutters at a window should equal the transom and/or side
width of the window opening to give the appearance they are operable, lights. Entryway
Colonial Revival porches are small porticos that are symmetrically located on the front entrance, classically trimmed with
pediment and pilasters
The porch roof is a simple gable supported by round classical columns. The columns should taper and
have capitals and bases. Some Colonial Revival houses have no porches Shutters:
Typical - Iouvered or
vertical board shutters
Craftsman
Building Materials
....... : 1 xtenor Wal s:
~ Wood clapboard of
~ii~,,~ ' varying widths, wood
stucco,shingles,Roof' brick and
Asphalt shingles
Windows.
Double-hung w/divided
tighls in upper sash.
Craftsman style houses are two stories with a simple rectangular floor plan, Roof pitches are Iow
in the range of 5/12 to 8/12 with 18 to 24 inch overhangs. The soffits are open, leaving the rafter tails Panel or flush door with
exposed. The siding material often changes between the first and second floor. When wood clapboard window.
or wall shingles are used, a wide band board will delineate the change in materials. A water board is
located at the top of the foundation wall. Other ornamentation is relatively simple with square wood Shutters:
brackets, upper sash divided lights, and square porch columns. Noue
Craftsrnan porches are most often small and may only be wide enough to provide a covered entry
Porch railings are either wood panels, solid with siding on either side or they may have rails with
square spindles. Porch ornament is similar to the main house.
27
Craftsman Bungalow
Building Materials
Exterior Walls:
Wood clapboard of
varying widths, wood
shingles, brick and
stucco.
RooL'
Asphalt shingles
Windows:
Double hung w/divided
lights in upper sash
Bungalows are a subset of the Craftsman style house. Although similar in materials and oma Doors:
merit, Bungalows are only one or 1-1/2 stories in height and have more variety in their massing. The Panel or flush door wgh
plan is also rectangular and they may have a number of "bump-outs" and dormers. Like the Crafts lights in the upper 1/3.
man house, the have square columns, brackets, open eaves and a lower roof pitch. Shulters:
There are also more variations of the Bungalow porch. The porch roof will often be integrated None
with the main roof and may extend the entire width of the facade.
American Foursquare Building Materials
; ~ ~- Wood clapboard of
' ~ ~ ~, q; ~L~;;~ ~J varying widlhs, wood
-: ~- ..... --:~:i '~ shingles, brick and
[~ ~; ~_~ ;: :~ stucco
'-- ~, to: ~ Asphalt shingles, less
~~~:., ~:] commonly melal
Windows:
D~ble-hung w/or wlo
divide lighls (upper
sash)
The American Foursquare style is 2 to 2-1/2 stories, has a cubical mass and a hipped roof. Roof
pitches va~ from 6/~ 2 to 8/12. Often, the roof pitch at the eave will be less than the pitch of the main Ooors:
roof foxing a "sweep" at the roof edge. Overhangs are o~n 24 inches or more with boxed-in so~ts Panel door w/window.
and a wide frieze hoard. They have hipped a~ic dormers on one or more sides. Windows tend to have Shutter:
wider propodions than other styles, however they are still taller than they are wide. Although not None
always strictly symmetrical, the [ront facade is ve~ regular. Ornamentation is typically simple and is
usually expressed in the design of the porch. There may two types of siding used, similar to a Crafts*
man house.
Foursquare porches often exlend the entire width of the front facade and have a Iow-pitched hip
roof. The porch may have two or three large, square columns on mason~ piers to suppo~ the roof.
Other Foursquare porches have Classic Revival style details with round tapered columns. The porch
railing may be solid panels, have rails with square or [urned spindles, or may be solid and covered
with the siding material.
28
Period Cottages
Building Materials
Exterior Walls'
Wood clapboard, wall
shingles, bdck, stucco
and stone
Root~
Wood shingles- asphalt
shingtes acceptable
Wiodows:
Period Cottages are modest, picturesque, houses that revive the style of historic English cottages. Double-hung wilh small
They are one to 1 1/2 stories in height and tend to have irregular plans, roof lines, and facades. Roof divided lights
pitches vary from 8/12 to 16/12 or steeper. Houses with very steep gables are more evocative of
Tudor cottages. Period cottages are distinctive more for their use of materials, massing and roofline Doors:
Panel or flush door wi
than applied ornament. The root may be gabled or hipped with small dormers interrupting the roofline
small window
Most of the fenestrations are small, often arched and may have wood shutters that appear to be
operable They often have a stone or brick chimney protruding from the exterior wall. Shutters:
May have shutters
Period Cottages typically do not have porches, They have a brick or stone front stoop and a small
entry vestibule. Some cottages may have a simple bracketed canopy at the entry.
Vernacular
Building Materials
Exterior Walls.
Wood clapboard,
fieldstone for very early
houses.
Roof
Wood shingles or metal
- asphalt shingles
acceptable
Vernacular buildin9 tend to be relatively small in size, reflecting the modest means of their early Windows:
occupants. Their massing is often simple and they are one to two stories in height. Many vernacular Double hung
houses have no ornamentation, Other houses however, have modest ornamentation that is a simpli- Doors.
fled design of the "high" style that may have been popular at the time the house was built. The high- Panel doors w/or w/o a
style may also influence the massing, roof pitch, porch design and fenestrations of the vernacular window
house.
Shutters:
Eclectic Typically none.
.....
Building Materials
Building materials vary -
depends on what styles
are being used.
Eclectic houses are characterized by the incfusion of two or more different styles in the same
building. Architectural characteristics of these houses may include any combination of the styles
described above, however for new construction, it is best to use only two styles in an Eclectic house
with one style dominating.
29
Administrative Procedures for Design Review
Design Review: The Historic Preservation Commission must review the plans for all con-
struction projects that change the exterior features of a building and require a regulated
permit. Constructing additions, adding or replacing windows, applying siding, removing
porches, altering or removing trim, and adding dormers are examples of projects that rem
quire a regulated permit and must be reviewed by the Commission. Before a building
permit can be issued, an applicant must receive either a certificate of no material effect or
a certificate of appropriateness from the Comnrission.
Examples of projects that do not require a regulated permit and need not be reviewed by the
Commission are painting, reapplyin9 shingles, and repairing windows. A complete list of
work exempt from permit can be found in Amendments to: Uniform Building. Code.
Certificate of No Material Effect: The chair and the secretary of the Commission or their
designees may issue a certificate of no material effect if the work contemplated in the
application will have no effect on significant architectural features.
Certificate of Appropriateness: All certificates of appropriateness for historic landmarks
and properties in historic districts must be approved by the full Commission at its regular
meetings. In conservation districts, however, there are two alternative types of review that
shorten the design review process. Intermediate review and minor review may be used to
approve certificates of appropriateness for certain types of projects. The applicant, staff, or
Commission members may request that a minor review be treated as an intermediate
review or that an intermediate review 9o to the full Commission.
Intermediate Review: A certificate of appropriateness may be approved by the
Commission's staff person and the Chair or designee for the followin9 projects:
Roof replacement with a different material from the existing
Window replacement on contributing structures
Alterations to the rear elevation of an existin9 building
Alterations to an existin9 9ara9e or outbuildin9 located behind the rear plane of an exist-
in9 primary structure
Construction or replacement of balconies or decks that are not visible from the street
Replacement of deteriorated buildin9 features with new features of the same materials
and design
D The construction of new outbuildings provided that they are located behind the rear
plane of an existing primary structure
Minor Review: A certificate of appropriateness may be approved by tile Commission's
staff person for the following projects:
Roof replacement with like materials
Window replacement for noncontributin9 structures
[] Siding application on noncontributin9 structures
Minor replacement of individual building components, such as a porch post or rail, with
new components of the same materials and design
Application Documents: Applicants must submit drawings, sketches, photos, text, or other
exhibits to accurately portray the work to be done. The Commission may request additional
information if it cannot fairly evaluate the application as submitted.
Appeals: Applicants may appeal decisions of the Commission to the City Council for prop-
erties in historic districts and to the Board of Adjustment for properties in conservation
districts.
30
(These guidelines will be included within the Iowa City Historic Preservation. All five districts in Ihe Longfellow
neighborhood share many similar characteristics. The guidelines pertain to all districts except where otherwise noted.
These guidelines replace, without substantive change, the guidelines already adopted for the Governor-Lucas
Conservation District.)
DISTRICT GUIDELINES FOR THE LONGFELLOW NEIGHBORHOOD (Appendix A)
(Single-Family and Duplex Buildings)
Including: Summit Street Historic District, Longfellow Historic District, Lucas-Governor
Street Conservation District, Clark Street Conservation District, and Dearborn Street
Conservation District.
Site and Scale Guidelines (Additions, New Primary Structures, and Outbuildings)
Setback, Front: For new primary structures, the building setback from the street should
be established based upon the setbacks of existing buildings located adjacent to the
proposed building. The setback of the new primary structure should conform with the
average of the setbacks of the four nearest primary structures located within the same
block and along the same street frontage. The setbacks of existing buildings shall be
measured at the first floor wall of the main living area of the building, excluding a
covered or enclosed porch. Front porches are prevalent on existing buildings within the
districts. New buildings may contain covered front porches that extend into the front
yard, provided they are located no closer to the street than any of the other porches
along the same street frontage.
Building additions should be placed at the rear of a property if possible. Additions at or
near the front of an existing building shall be set back at least 18 inches from the front
plane of the existing building and shall be differentiated by a change in the roofline or
other means.
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.
Building Facade: The total surface area of the street elevation of a new primary
structure should be no more than 8,00 square feet. Existing primary structures should
not be expanded in 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
shall be 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 an accurate street
elevation drawing of the building.
On Governor1 BoweD/, and Court Streets only: The total surface area of the street
elevation should be no more than 1200 square feet for a new building or for an existing
building including a new addition.
On Summit Street only: The total surface area of the street elevation should be no more
than 1500 square feet for a new building or for an existing building including a new
addition, and not less than 750 square feet for a new building.
A-1
Outbuildings: Outbuildings, including garages, should be placed to the rear of the
primary building whenever possible. Attached garages are discouraged, but if
constructed should be set back at least 20 feet from the front plane of the building.
In the Summit Street Historic District only: Attached garages are not allowed. Garages
must be located at the rear of the property wherever possible.
Garages and other outbuildings should be clearly subordinate in size to the primary
structure.
Pedestrian Access: A sidewalk shall be provided that connects the entrance door or
porch to the public sidewalk.
Vehicular Access: Vehicular access should be provided from an alley if available.
Driveways leading from the street to garages or parking at the rear of the properly
shoutd 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.
Parking: Parking spaces are not permitted between the primary structure and the
street. Parking should be provided behind the primary structure on a lot wherever
possible. If parking must be located along the side of an existing or new primary
structure, it shall 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.
Architectural Guidelines for New Outbuildinqs
Building Styles: New outbuildings behind contributing primary structures should reflect
the style of the primary structure. New outbuildings behind noncontributing primary
structures should reflect historic outbuilding styles in the neighborhood.
Garage Doors: Garage doors visible from the street should be simple in design.
Smooth or simple panel-type garage doors may be used. Garage door openings should
be trimmed to match other doors and windows in the building. Single-stall garage doors
are preferred to double-stall garage doors.
Architectural Guidelines for New Primary Structures
Building Styles: Architectural style is a defining characteristic for historic and
conservation districts. A new primary structure should 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 the section entitled "Architectural
Styles in Iowa City" for examples of historic building styles. The architectural styles
representative of each district are given below.
In the Summit Street Historic District on[y: A new building should reflect Italianate,
Colonial Revival, Queen Anne, Vernacular, Foursquare, or Eclectic style.
A-2
In the Lonclfellow Historic District only: A new building should reflect Colonial Revival,
Queen Anne, Vernacular, Foursquare, Bungalow, Craftsman, Period Cottage, or Eclectic
style.
In the Lucas-Oovenor Conservation District only: A new building on Governor Street
should reflect Italianate, Queen Anne, Vernacular, or Foursquare style. A new structure
on Lucas Street should reflect Queen Anne, Vernacular, Foursquare, Bungalow, or
Craftsman style.
In the Clark Street Conservation District only: A new building should reflect either
Colonial Revival, Queen Anne, Vernacular', Foursquare, Bungalow, or Craftsman style.
In the Dearborn Street Conservation District only: A new building should reflect
Vernacular, Foursquare, Period Cottage, Bungalow, Craftsman, or Eclectic style.
Building Height and Mass: New single-family houses or duplexes shall be one, one-
and-a-half, or two-stories in height.
In the Summit Street Historic District only: New single-family houses shall have two full
stories in the principle portion of the building.
Rooflines: Rooflines should follow one of the historic building styles identified as
appropriate for this district.
Dormers: Dormers must be in proportion to the roof's overall size. Cumulatively, they
should interrupt the roof plane no more than one third of the length of that roof measured
at the eave. They should be no closer than 3 feet to an existing gable end or hip. The
face of the dormer should be narrow, rather than wide, and be composed primarily of
window area. Dormers in new construction should have roof pitches similar to the pitch
of the main roof.
Overhangs: New construction should include overhangs appropriate to the historic
style guiding the overall design of the building.
Windows/Fenestration: Window placement on the fagade a new building should follow
patterns established by contributing structures within the district. Window shape and
placement must be consistent with other elements of the building style of the new
structure. Long wall spaces without windows are inappropriate. Small decorative
windows in the attic level of front gable ends are encouraged. Window trim shall be
between three to four inches in width. Shutters are discouraged.
In historic districts only: Windows must be double-hung or fixed-sash with an
appearance and profile similar to those windows original to the district. Window design
should be appropriate to the building style.
Doors: Exterior doors on front or side elevations of new single and duplex structures
must include half or full lights and/or raised panel construction in keeping with the
historic building style of the new structure. Sliding patio doors are uncharacteristic of
any of the historic styles of the neighborhood and should appear only on rear elevations.
A-3
In historic districts only: Sliding patio doors may not be used. Other more appropriate
door styles that accommodate large glass area are available.
Porches and Balconies: Single-story, covered front porches are a key element in the
Longfellow neighborhood. New single-family and duplex structures should include a
porch typical for the style of the house. Front porches must be roofed and supported
with posts or pillars of appropriate dimensions. They may be partially screened or
unscreened, but shall not be entirely enclosed with walls and/or windows. Porch flooring
should be vertical-grained fir porch flooring. Posts and other accents may be wood or
other durable material that accepts paint. Where a spindled railing is used, there must
be a top and bottom rail and the spindles must be centered on the horizontal rails. If the
space below the porch floor and above the grade is greater than 24 inches, the porch
must be skirted with lattice or grilles.
In conservation districts only: Dimensional lumber may be used, but the gaps between
the floorboards should not exceed one-eighth inch.
In conservation districts only: Poured concrete floors are permitted within conservation
districts provided that the porch floor is not more than 18 inches above grade.
In conservation districts only: Porches on rear elevations need not reproduce historic
details.
Balconies: Balconies that protrude from the walls of buildings without vertical suppod
were not common in the Longfellow neighborhood, and should not be included on the
front or sides of buildings. If second-story porches are included, they must be placed
above first-story porches or first-floor interior spaces.
Wood Substitutes: Substituting a material in place of wood is acceptable 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.
Siding: Horizontal siding like clapboards or cedar shingles are the preferred claddin9
materials for new buildings. Wood products for sidin9 include shakes, shingles, and
painted horizontal clapboard siding from three to six inches in width. Fibrous cement
siding is an acceptable substitute for wood siding.
Brick was sometimes used in the Longfellow nei9hborhood and may be an acceptable
sidin9 material where historic brick buildings are nearby. Synthetic masonry surfaces
such as adificial stone are not acceptable.
In conservation districts only: Synthetic sidin9 may be used on new structures and on
noncontributin9 structures.
A-4
College Hill Neighborhood District Guidelines January 2003
The College Hill Neighborhood District Guidelines would apply to the College Green Historic District, East College Historic District, and the
proposed College Hill Conse[vation District for exterior alterations to properties in these districts. If adopted, these guidelines would be
added to the Iowa City Historic Presen/ation Handbook, Currently, neighborhood district guidelines have only been adopted for districts
within the Longfellow Neighborhood.
Site and Scale Guidelines for Additions, New Primary Structures, and Outbuilding
Setback, Front
For new primary structures, the building setback from the street should be established based upon the setbacks of existing buildings
located adjacent to the proposed building. The setback of the new primary structure should conform with the average of the setbacks of
the four nearest primary structures located within the same block and along the same street frontage. The setbacks of existing buildings
shall be measured at the first floor wall of the main living area of the building, excluding a covered or enclosed porch. Front porches are
prevalent on existing buildings within the districts. New buildings may contain covered front porches that extend into the front yard,
provided they are located no closer to the street than any of the other porches along the same street frontage.
Building additions should be placed at the rear of a property if possible. Additions at or near the front of an existing building shall be set
back at least 18 inches from the front plane of the existing building and shall be differentiated by a change in the roofline or other means.
Building Facade
The total surface area of the street elevation of a new primary structure should be no more than 1200 square feet. Existing primary
structures that were historically single-family houses should not be expanded in such a manner that the total surface area exceeds 1200
square feet. If the primary structure is accidentally destroyed or is a noncontributing structure that the owner wishes to demolish, and if the
structure had/has a street elevation surface area of 1200 square feet or greater, it may be reconstructed with a street elevation area not to
exceed the area of the pre-existing primary structure._For the purposes of enforcing this guideline, the total surface area of the street
elevation shall be 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 elevation.
Outbuildings
Outbuildings, including garages, should be placed to the rear of the primary building whenever possible. Attached garages are
discouraged, but if constructed should be set back at least 20 feet from the front plane of the building.
Garages and other outbuildings should be clearly subordinate in size to the primary structure.
Pedestrian Access
A sidewalk shall be provided that connects the entrance door or porch to the public sidewalk.
Vehicular Access
Vehicular access should be provided from an alley if 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.
Parking
Parking spaces are not permitted between the primary structure and the street. Parking should be provided behind the primary structure
on a lot wherever possible. If parking must be located along the side of an existing or new primary structure, it shall 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.
Architectural Guidelines for New Outbuildings
Building Styles
New outbuildings behind contributing primary structures should reflect the style of the primary structure. New outbuildings behind
noncontributing primary structures should reflect historic outbuilding styles in the neighborhood.
Garage Doors
Garage doors should be simple in design. Smooth or simple panel-type garage doors may be used. Garage door openings should be
trimmed to match other doors and windows in the building. Single-stall garage doors are preferred to double-stall garage doors.
Architectural Guidelines for New Primary Structures
Building Styles
Architectural style is a defining characteristic for historic and conservation districts. A new primary structure should 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 the section entitled "Architectural Styles in
Iowa City" for examples of historic building styles. In the College Hill Neighborhood, a new building should reflect Italianate, Colonial
Revival, Queen Anne, Vernacular, Craftsman, Foursquare, or Eclectic style.
Building Height and Mass
New single-family houses or duplexes shall be one-and-a-half, or two stories in height.
On Cotleqe Street only: New single-family houses and duplexes shall be two stories in height.
Rooflines
Rooflines should follow one of the historic buitding styles identified as appropriate for this district.
Dormers
Dormers must be in proportion to the roof's overall size. Cumulatively, they should interrupt the roof plane in which they are located no
more than one third of the length of that roof. measured at the eave. They should be no closer than 3 feet to an existing gable end or hip.
The face of the dormer should be narrow, rather than wide, and be composed primarily of window area. Dormers in new construction
should have roof pitches similar to the pitch of the main roof.
Overhangs
New construction should include overhangs appropriate to the historic style guiding the overall design of the building,
Windows/Fenestration
Window placement on the fagade a new building should follow patterns established by contributing structures within the district. Window
shape and placement must be consistent with other elements of the building style of the new structure. Long wall spaces without windows
are inappropriate. Small decorative windows in the attic level of front gable ends are encouraged. Window trim shall be between three to
four inches in width. Shutters are discouraged.
In historic districts only: Windows must be double-hung or fixed-sash with an appearance and profile similar to those windows original to
the district. Window design should be appropriate to the building style.
Doors
Exterior doors on front or side elevations of new single and duplex structures must include half or full lights and/or raised panel
construction in keeping with the historic building style of the new structure. Sliding patio doors are uncharacteristic of any of the historic
styles of the neighborhood and may be used only on rear elevations in conservation districts.
In historic districts onl,~: Sliding patio doors may not be used. Other more appropriate door styles that accommodate large glass area are
available.
Porches and Balconies
Single-story, covered front porches are a key element in the College Hill neighborhood. New single-family and duplex structures should
include a porch typical for the style of the house. Front porches must be roofed and supported with posts or pillars of appropriate
dimensions, They may be partially screened or unscreened, but shall not be entirely enclosed with walls and/or windows. Porch flooring
should be verticakgrained fir porch flooring. Posts and other accents may be wood or other durable material that accepts paint. Where a
spindled railing is used, there must be a top and bottom rail and the spindles must be centered on the horizontal rails. If the space below
the porch floor and above the grade is greater than 24 inches, the porch must be skirted with lattice or grilles.
In the conservation district only: Dimensional lumber may be used, but the gaps between the floorboards should not exceed one-eighth
inch.
In the conservation district only: Poured concrete floors are permitted within conservation districts provided that the porch floor is not more
than 18 inches above grade.
In the conservation district only: Porches on rear elevations need not reproduce historic details.
Balconies
Balconies that protrude from the wails of buildings without vertical support were not common in the Longfellow neighborhood, and should
not be included on the front or sides of buildings. If second-story porches are included, they must be placed above first-story porches or
first-floor interior spaces,
Wood Substitutes
Substituting a material in place of wood is acceptable 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.
Siding
Horizontal siding like cfapboards or cedar shingles are the preferred cladding materials for new buildings, Wood products for siding include
shakes, shingles, and painted horizontal clapboard siding from three to six inches in width. Fibrous cement siding is an acceptable
substitute for wood siding.
8rick was sometimes used in the College Hill neighborhood and may be an acceptable siding material where historic brick buildings are
nearby. Synthetic masonry surfaces such as artificial stone are not acceptable.
In the conservation district only: Synthetic siding may be used on new structures and on noncontributing structures.
Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
Historic Landmarks & Districts
Historic Landmarks in Iowa City
Year Iowa City National
Downtown Address Built Style Landmark Register
Congregational Church 30 N. Clinton Street 1869 Gothic Revival Sep-96 Jun-73
College Block Building 125 E. College Street 1883 Italianate Sep-96 Jul-73
Old Carnegie Library 307 E. College Street 1903 Classical Revival Jul-01 .....
Trinity Episcopal Church 320 E. College Street 1871 Gothic Revival Sep-96 Dec-74
Franklin Printing House 115 S. Dubuque 1856 Commercial Brick Sep-96 Apr-86
Hohenshuh Morturary 3. S. Linn Street 1917 Colonial Revival Jul-00 .....
Van Patten House 9 S. Linn Street 1873 Victorian Eclectic Sep-96 Jan-83
Old Post Office 28 S. Linn Street 1904 Classical Revival Apr-79
Paul--Helen Building 207--215 E. Washington 1910 Commercial Brick Sep-96 Apr-86
Englert Theater 221 E. Washington 1912 Renaissance Revival ..... May-01
Boerner-Fry Company/Davis Hotel 322 E, Washington Street 1899 Classical Revival ..... Jan-83
University Landmarks
Old Capitol Pentacrest 1842 Greek Revival ..... May-72
Pentacrest Capitol St. & IowaAve. 1902-24 Classic Revival ..... Mar-78
Shambaugh House 219 N. Clinton Street 1901 Classic Revival ..... Aug-96
Bubuque/Linn Street Neighborhood
Jackson-Swisher House 120 E. Fairchild Street1877 Gothic Revival Sep-96 Nov-82
& Carriage House
Northside Neighborhood
Arthur Hillyer Ford House 228 Brown Street 1908 Mission Revival ..... Apr-86
Charles Berryhill House 414 Brown Street 1868 Italianate ..... May-79
Shimek Bohumil House 529 Brown Street 1893 Queen Anne Vernacular .... Dec-91
Emma J. Harvat House 332 E, Davenport Street1916 Classic Revival ..... May-00
Letovsky-Rohret House 515 E. Davenport Street1881 Greek Revival Se)-96 Apr-82
Bostick William House 115 N. Gilbert Street 1851 Greek Revival Se )-96 Mar-96
Jacob Wentz House 219 N. Gilbert Street 1847 Greek Revival Se ~-96 Aug-74
Windrem House 604 IowaAve. ca. 1850 Vernacular Se ~-96 Sep-77
St, Mary's Church and Rectory 220 E. Jefferson Street1867 Gothic Revival Se 3-96 Feb-80
Park House Hotel 130 E. Jefferson Street1852 Se 3-96 Dec-78
St. Mary's Rectory 610 E. Jefferson Street1854 Greek Revival Se 3-96 Jul-95
Economy Advertising Company 119--123 N. Linn 1923 Commercial Brick Se~-96 Apr-86
Union Brewery 127-131 N. Linn & 1856-57 Italianate Sep-96 Apr-86
221-227 E. Market
Schindhelm--Drews House 410 N. Lucas Street 1855 Greek Revival Sep-96 Jan-94
North Presbyterian Church 26 E. Market Street 1856 Romanesque Revival Sep-96 Aug-73
Henry C. Nicking House 410 E. Market Street ca. 1854 Vernacular Sep-96 Apr*75
Vogt-Unash House 800 N. Van Buren Street1889 Queen Anne ..... Jul-78
Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
Year Iowa City National
Goosetown Neighborhood Address Built Style Landmark Register
F X. Rittenmeyer (Burger) House 630 E Faimhild Street 1857 Anglo-ltalianate Sep-96 May-79
Czecho SIovakian Association Hall 524 N. Johnson Street 1900 Colonial Revival Sep-96 Nov-76
Cavanaugh-Zetek House 704 Reno Street 1870 Gothic Revival Sep-96 Sep-77
College Hill Neighborhood
Thomas C. Carson House 906 E, College Street 1875 Second Empire Sep-96 Sep-82
Lindsay House 935 E College Street 1893 Queen Anne Sep-96 Aug-77
Longfellow Neighborhood
Oakes-Wood House 1142 E. Court Street 1858 Italianate Sep-96 Apr-78
Summit Apartment Building 228 S. Summit Street 1916 Prairie/Sullivan Sep-96 Sep-83
Manville Heights Neighborhood
Ned Ashton House 820 Park Road 1947 Modern Movement Sep-00
Kirkwood Neighborhood
Plum Grove 1030 Carroll Ave. 1844 Greek Revival May-73
Bethel AME Church 411 S. Governor St. 1868 Vernacular Sep-00
Clark House 829 Kirkwood Ave. 1874 Victorian/Italianate Sep-96 May-96
Samuel Kirkwood House 1101 Kirkwood 1864 Anglo-ltalianate Sep-96 Sep-74
Westside Neighborhood
CyrusS.&GeorginiaRancKHouse 747 W. Benton St. c. 1905 Late Queen Anne Aug-02
Wilbur D. Cannon. & Hattie House 320 Melrose Ave. 1880 Italianate Sep-96 Oct-94
A. W. Pratt House 503 Melrose Ave. 1885 Italianate Sep-96 Feb-83
Billingsley-Hills House 629 Melrose Ave. 1870 Italianate/Greek Revival Sep-96 Jan-83
Near Southside Neighborhood
Johnson County Courthouse S. Clinton Street 1901 Richardson Romenesque Mar-75
C. D. Close House 538 S. Gilbert Street 1874 Italianate Sep-96 May-74
Chicago Rock Island & 115 Wright Street 1898 Victorian Eclectic Sep-96 Dec-82
Pacific Railroad Passenger Station
Outlying Properties
Rose Hill 1415 E. Davenport Street 1849 Greek Revival Sep-96 Apr-92
Sylvanus House 2155 Prairie du Chien Rd. Dec-90
McCollister Farmstead Jjct. of U.S. 6 &U.S. 218 1864 Anglo-ltalianate Sep-96 Oct-76
Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook
Iowa City Historic Districts
Location Local National
District Register
Brown Street Historic District Roughly Brown Street from W of Linn Street to Governor Sep-94 Sep-94
Street and adjacent parts of intersecting streets
College Green Historic District Roughly bounded by Burlington, Summit, Washington Jul-97 Jul-97
and Van Buren Sts.
East College Historic District Roughly bounded by Muscatine Ave., Summit, Jul-97 Jul-97
Washington and Burlington Sts.
Longfellow Nieghborhood Roughly bounded by Cour[, Rundell and Sheridan Sts. Jan-02 Jun-02
and Longfellow School
Moffltt Cottage Historic District 1322--1330 Muscatine Ave. May-93 May-93
South Summit Street District 301-818 S. Summit Street Oct-73 Oct-7
Woodlawn Historic District Irregular pattern along Woodlawn Ave. Mar-79 Mar-79
Johnson County Historic Properties
Location City National
Register
Washington Township Center High School NE of Amish Amish Bec-79
Coralville Public School 402-404 5th Street Coralville Jan-74
Coralville Union Ecclesiastical Church 405 2ndAve. Coralville Apr-77
Secrest Octagon Barn W of Downey Downey Nov-74
First Johnson County Asylum W of Iowa City Iowa City Aug-78
First Welsh Congregational Church 5 mi. SW of Iowa City off IA 1 Iowa City Apr-77
Sutliff Bridge Sutliff Rd. over Cedar River Solon vicinity May-98
St. John's Lutheran Church N of Ka[ona Kalona Apr-77
White H. A. General Store & House 10 W. Cherry Street North Liberty Jan-84
Old State Quarry 0.1 mi S of S end of Rice Ridge North Liberty Feb-98
Ln NE Coralville Lake vicinity
Oxford Commercial Historic District RoughlyAugustaAve. between Oxford May-97
Wilson Street & Center Street
Miller Round Barn CR F62 Sharon Center Jun-86
Roberts Octagon Barn CR W62 Sharon Center Jun-86
Cottage at Rock and Dubuque Streets Rte. 4 Box 3 Solon Jan-85
Buresh Farm W of Solon off IA 382 Solon Apr-77
Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church 1165 NE. Taft Ave. Solon Jul-97
Polygonal Barn Lincoln Township Off US 6 West Liberty Jun-86
Brown Street Historic District
College Green Historic District
WASHINGTON
~L,,RL~NGTON
~ ,
Key structure
Contributing str~ctur¢ N
Noncontributing structure
Moffit Historic District
BURLNG-QN ST
COURT ST
Contributing structure N
Noncontributing structure ]
Longfellow Historic District
BURLINGTON ST
CENTER
SEYMOUR AVE 7u ' ?i* ;~n 7a~
7~ ~7 0 736 735-7
' _ SHERIDAN ~ AVE'
Key *~tc~e ~
Con~bu~ng *~c~tre ~
Noncon~b~ng ~c~re ~
Summit Street Historic District
BURLING-[ON ST
COURT ST
MAPLE ST
LONGFELLOW
BOWERY %T
-__ __~ SHERIDAN AVE
Contributing structure N
Noncontributing structure I
Woodlawn Historic District
HOTZ ST ~--
JS_F?~R$ON ST ~...~, j ~1 I I~
I
~ Contn'buting structure
~ Noncontributingstructure
Clark Street Conservation District
MAPLE ST__ ~ GRANT CT
HENRY
_ONGFELLOW
]~ SCHOOL
BOWERY ST
CENTER AX
SEYMOUR AVE --
-- SHERIDAN AVE
Key $~¢t~re
Contributing s~c~re
No~on~bu~ng s~cmre ~
Dearborn Street Conservation District
GRANT CT
I
CENTER AVE
BOWERY ST
Contributing structure
Noncontributing structure
Lucas-Governor Street Conservation District
COUFRT
COLJFR
January 2002
Key structure
Contributing structure
Noncontributing structure