Quick Guide for Developers: Applying the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards
Quick Guide for Developers: Applying the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards
This guide offers a concise overview of the four primary treatment approaches defined by the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the treatment of historic properties—Preservation, Rehabilitation, Restoration, and Reconstruction. It includes practical tips and examples to help developers plan projects that respect the historical significance of properties while meeting modern needs.
1. Preservation
Preservation focuses on maintaining and protecting the existing form, materials, and features of a property as it has evolved over time.
When to Use:
The property is largely intact and retains its historic character.
Minimal changes are needed for continued use.
Key Actions:
Retain original materials and features (e.g., windows, siding, masonry).
Conduct regular maintenance to prevent deterioration.
Use methods that avoid damage to historic fabric.
Example: A historic church with intact interior and exterior features receives periodic maintenance to ensure its longevity.
2. Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation allows for updates to a property to meet modern needs while retaining significant historic features.
When to Use:
The property requires updates to improve functionality (e.g., HVAC, accessibility).
Historic character can be retained while accommodating new uses.
Key Actions:
Identify and preserve character-defining features.
Ensure that new additions or alterations are compatible but distinguishable from the original.
Use reversible methods when possible.
Example: An old industrial warehouse is converted into modern office space while retaining its exposed brick walls, wooden beams, and large windows.
3. Restoration
Restoration focuses on accurately depicting a property at a specific point in time by removing later additions and reconstructing missing features.
When to Use:
There is significant historical documentation available to guide accurate restoration.
The goal is to represent the property as it appeared during a specific period.
Key Actions:
Remove non-historic elements.
Replace missing or damaged features using historically appropriate materials and techniques.
Document all changes thoroughly.
Example: A historic hotel is restored to its 1920s appearance using archival photographs and original blueprints.
4. Reconstruction
Reconstruction involves rebuilding a property that no longer exists, using new materials and historically accurate designs.
When to Use:
The property is of significant historical importance, but no longer exists or is beyond preservation.
Reconstruction is essential for educational or interpretive purposes.
Key Actions:
Base the design on solid historical evidence.
Clearly identify the structure as a reconstruction to avoid confusion.
Use modern materials only when necessary for structural integrity.
Example: A historic fort is reconstructed for use as a living history museum, based on archaeological evidence and old photographs.
Why Developers Should Call CHRIS
Ignoring or improperly handling a historic resource during development can result in delays, increased costs, or even legal issues. Tossing aside an annoying historic property may seem like the quickest route—but it’s a costly mistake in the long run. CHRIS helps developers turn potential obstacles into opportunities by:
Streamlining compliance: We ensure your project meets all regulatory requirements, including Section 106, so you avoid costly penalties.
Adding value to your project: Properly managed historic resources can enhance the appeal of a development and even qualify for tax credits or grants.
Preventing delays: Our expertise in cultural resource management helps keep your project on schedule by identifying and resolving issues early.
Minimizing risk: With our thorough documentation and preservation planning, we reduce your exposure to unforeseen complications.
Practical Tips for Developers
Engage with professionals early: Work with architects, archaeologists, and preservation specialists who understand the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards.
Document existing conditions: Before starting any work, thoroughly document the property through photos, drawings, and written descriptions.
Plan for compliance: Ensure that project plans meet local, state, and federal preservation regulations, including Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act.
Select appropriate materials: Use materials that match or are compatible with original materials in appearance, durability, and composition.
Consider reversibility: When making alterations, prioritize reversible methods that allow future restoration of original features.
Contact CHRIS for Assistance
Cultural Heritage Resource Impact Solutions, Inc. (CHRIS) offers consulting services to help developers navigate these standards, from initial planning through project completion. Whether you need guidance on surveys, historic research, or compliance, CHRIS ensures that your project respects the past while meeting today’s needs. Don’t let a historic property slow you down—let us help you turn it into an asset.
Ready to start your project?
Contact us at info@chris3inc.com or visit our website for more resources.