1.8 Historic preservation in urban planning
10 min read•august 21, 2024
Historic preservation in urban planning balances protecting cultural heritage with modern development needs. It emerged as a response to rapid urbanization, aiming to maintain urban character and through the conservation of historic buildings, districts, and landscapes.
Preservation strategies range from strict to , considering cultural significance, economic benefits, and environmental . Legal frameworks, stakeholder collaboration, and are crucial for successful urban preservation efforts, which face challenges like development pressure and gentrification.
Origins of historic preservation
- Historic preservation emerged as a response to rapid urbanization and industrialization in the 19th century
- Preserving historic buildings and sites became crucial for maintaining cultural identity and urban character
- Early efforts focused on individual landmarks, later expanding to encompass entire districts and landscapes
Early preservation movements
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Top images from around the web for Early preservation movements
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- Began in Europe during the 18th century with antiquarian societies documenting historic structures
- Mount Vernon Ladies' Association formed in 1853 to save George Washington's home
- William Morris founded the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings in 1877 in England
- John Ruskin's writings influenced the philosophy of minimal intervention in historic structures
Emergence in urban planning
- City Beautiful movement in the early 20th century emphasized preserving historic architecture
- Incorporation of preservation into urban renewal projects starting in the 1960s
- Historic preservation became a tool for economic revitalization and community development
- Shift from preserving individual buildings to entire and cultural landscapes
Importance of historic preservation
- Preserving historic resources maintains a tangible connection to the past and cultural heritage
- Historic preservation contributes to sustainable urban development and economic growth
- Preservation efforts enhance the quality of life in cities by maintaining diverse and unique environments
Cultural significance
- Preserves tangible links to community history and collective memory
- Maintains architectural diversity and craftsmanship from different periods
- Supports cultural tourism and educational opportunities
- Reinforces sense of place and local identity
Economic benefits
- Increases property values in historic districts
- Creates jobs in restoration, , and sectors
- Attracts investment and stimulates local economies (Main Street programs)
- Provides cost-effective alternatives to new construction
Environmental sustainability
- Reduces construction waste by reusing existing buildings
- Preserves embodied energy in historic structures
- Often utilizes traditional building techniques that are inherently sustainable
- Promotes compact urban development and walkable neighborhoods
Legal framework
- Preservation laws establish the legal basis for protecting historic resources
- Regulations vary from national to local levels, creating a complex system of protections
- Legal framework balances private property rights with public interest in preservation
National preservation laws
- of 1966 established the National Register of Historic Places
- Section 106 review process requires federal agencies to consider impacts on historic properties
- Tax Reform Act of 1976 created financial incentives for rehabilitating historic buildings
- Archaeological Resources Protection Act of 1979 protects archaeological sites on federal lands
Local preservation ordinances
- Establish historic preservation commissions or review boards
- Define criteria for local and historic districts
- Regulate alterations, demolitions, and new construction in historic areas
- Provide design guidelines for compatible development in historic contexts
Designation processes
- National Register listing involves nomination, review, and approval by State Historic Preservation Office
- Local landmark designation typically requires property owner notification and public hearings
- Criteria consider age, integrity, and significance (architectural, historical, cultural)
- Different levels of protection for individual landmarks vs. contributing buildings in historic districts
Types of historic resources
- Historic resources encompass a wide range of built and natural environments
- Preservation efforts extend beyond individual buildings to entire landscapes and cultural sites
- Understanding different resource types is crucial for appropriate preservation strategies
Buildings and structures
- Residential architecture (vernacular houses, mansions, apartment buildings)
- Commercial buildings (storefronts, office buildings, industrial complexes)
- Civic and institutional structures (courthouses, schools, churches)
- Engineering works (bridges, dams, lighthouses)
Districts and neighborhoods
- Historic residential neighborhoods with cohesive architectural styles
- Commercial historic districts (downtown areas, main streets)
- Industrial heritage districts (mill towns, mining communities)
- Cultural landscapes that combine built and natural features
Landscapes and open spaces
- Designed landscapes (parks, gardens, cemeteries)
- Vernacular landscapes shaped by human use over time
- Ethnographic landscapes associated with cultural groups
- Archaeological sites and ruins
Preservation strategies
- Different approaches to preservation based on resource condition and intended use
- Strategies range from strict restoration to more flexible adaptive reuse
- Selection of appropriate strategy depends on historical significance, integrity, and economic feasibility
Restoration vs rehabilitation
- Restoration returns a property to a specific period of significance
- Involves removing later additions and reconstructing missing features
- Rehabilitation adapts a historic property for contemporary use
- Allows for more flexibility in alterations while preserving character-defining features
Adaptive reuse
- Repurposes historic buildings for new functions while preserving significant features
- Balances preservation with economic viability (industrial buildings into lofts)
- Requires creative design solutions to meet modern building codes and accessibility standards
- Often involves energy efficiency upgrades and systems modernization
Conservation techniques
- Scientific analysis of materials and decay processes
- Non-invasive cleaning methods (low-pressure water, chemical poultices)
- Consolidation of deteriorating materials (stone, wood, metals)
- Reversible repairs and interventions to allow future treatments
Challenges in urban preservation
- Urban preservation faces unique challenges in rapidly changing city environments
- Balancing preservation with development needs requires careful planning and negotiation
- Social and economic impacts of preservation must be considered alongside physical conservation
Development pressure vs conservation
- Conflict between land value and preservation of low-density historic areas
- Pressure to increase building height and density in historic districts
- Challenges of integrating new construction with historic fabric
- Balancing economic growth with maintaining urban character
Gentrification and displacement
- Preservation can lead to increased property values and displacement of long-term residents
- Tension between improving neighborhoods and maintaining affordability
- Need for policies to protect existing communities in historic areas
- Balancing authenticity of place with changing demographics
Funding and maintenance issues
- High costs of specialized restoration work and materials
- Limited public funding for preservation projects
- Ongoing maintenance requirements for historic properties
- Challenges of upgrading historic buildings to meet modern energy efficiency standards
Stakeholders in preservation
- Preservation involves a diverse group of stakeholders with varying interests and roles
- Collaboration among different groups is essential for successful preservation outcomes
- Understanding stakeholder perspectives helps in developing inclusive preservation strategies
Government agencies
- State Historic Preservation Offices (SHPOs) manage preservation programs
- Local planning departments integrate preservation into urban development
- National Park Service administers the National Register and provides technical assistance
- Advisory Council on Historic Preservation advises federal government on preservation policy
Non-profit organizations
- National Trust for Historic Preservation advocates for preservation at national level
- Local preservation societies focus on specific communities or regions
- Main Street America supports revitalization of historic commercial districts
- Specialized organizations (Docomomo) focus on specific architectural styles or periods
Property owners and developers
- Individual homeowners in historic districts
- Commercial property owners managing historic buildings
- Developers interested in adaptive reuse projects
- Real estate investors considering historic properties
Documentation and research
- Thorough documentation and research form the foundation of effective preservation
- Accurate records support informed decision-making in preservation planning
- Evolving technologies are changing how historic resources are documented and studied
Historic surveys and inventories
- Systematic documentation of historic resources in a given area
- Includes architectural descriptions, historical information, and condition assessments
- Reconnaissance surveys provide overview, intensive surveys offer detailed documentation
- Helps identify potentially eligible properties for historic designation
Archival research methods
- Use of primary sources (deeds, maps, photographs, newspapers)
- Oral histories and interviews with long-time residents
- Analysis of historic building materials and construction techniques
- Contextual research to understand broader historical patterns
Digital preservation technologies
- 3D laser scanning creates precise digital models of historic structures
- Photogrammetry uses multiple photographs to create 3D representations
- Geographic Information Systems (GIS) map and analyze spatial data of historic resources
- Virtual and augmented reality applications for interpretation and education
Preservation planning process
- Systematic approach to identifying, evaluating, and protecting historic resources
- Involves multiple steps from initial survey to implementation of preservation strategies
- Requires collaboration between preservation professionals, planners, and community members
Identifying historic resources
- Conduct to inventory potential historic properties
- Research historical context and development patterns of the area
- Use archival sources, field observation, and community input to gather information
- Create databases and maps of identified resources
Assessing significance and integrity
- Evaluate properties based on National Register criteria (event, person, design, information potential)
- Consider local significance and community values
- Assess integrity of location, design, setting, materials, workmanship, feeling, and association
- Determine period of significance and character-defining features
Developing preservation plans
- Establish preservation goals and priorities based on community needs
- Create policies and guidelines for treatment of historic resources
- Identify funding sources and economic incentives for preservation
- Develop strategies for public education and community engagement
Integration with urban design
- Historic preservation is increasingly integrated into broader urban design and planning efforts
- Preserving historic character while accommodating growth and change is a key challenge
- Successful integration enhances overall urban quality and sense of place
Contextual architecture
- Design new buildings to complement historic surroundings in scale, form, and materials
- Use of traditional architectural elements in contemporary interpretations
- Consideration of streetwall, setbacks, and massing in relation to historic context
- Balancing differentiation and compatibility in new designs
Streetscape and public space
- Preservation of historic street patterns, alleys, and public squares
- Retention of historic street furniture, lighting, and paving materials
- Integration of historic elements in new streetscape designs
- Creating pedestrian-friendly environments that highlight historic features
Preservation in master planning
- Incorporating historic preservation goals into comprehensive city plans
- Using historic patterns to inform new development (traditional neighborhood design)
- Integrating historic resources into transit-oriented development plans
- Developing heritage corridors and cultural tourism strategies
Economic tools for preservation
- Various financial incentives and funding mechanisms support historic preservation
- Economic tools help offset costs and encourage private investment in preservation
- Combination of public and private funding sources creates sustainable preservation models
Tax incentives and credits
- Federal Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit offers 20% credit for certified rehabilitations
- State historic tax credits complement federal incentives
- Property tax abatements or freezes for rehabilitated historic properties
- Facade easement donations provide income tax deductions
Grants and funding programs
- Save America's Treasures grants for nationally significant historic properties
- Certified Local Government grants for preservation planning and projects
- State and local grant programs for historic preservation activities
- Foundation grants for specific preservation initiatives or building types
Public-private partnerships
- Revolving loan funds provide low-interest loans for preservation projects
- Transfer of development rights to preserve historic properties while allowing growth elsewhere
- Business improvement districts fund maintenance and improvements in historic commercial areas
- Community land trusts preserve affordability in historic neighborhoods
Community engagement
- Community involvement is crucial for successful and sustainable preservation efforts
- Engagement strategies build public support and ensure preservation reflects community values
- Participatory approaches empower local stakeholders in preservation decision-making
Education and outreach programs
- Walking tours and lectures about local history and architecture
- Workshops on historic home maintenance and restoration techniques
- School programs integrating local history and preservation into curriculum
- Heritage tourism initiatives highlighting local historic resources
Volunteer opportunities
- Hands-on restoration projects for community members
- Docent programs at historic sites and museums
- Participation in historic resource surveys and documentation
- Advocacy roles in local preservation organizations
Public participation in planning
- Community meetings and charrettes for preservation planning
- Advisory committees representing diverse stakeholder groups
- Online platforms for gathering public input on preservation issues
- Collaborative decision-making processes for historic district designations
Case studies in urban preservation
- Examining real-world examples provides insights into successful preservation strategies
- Case studies illustrate challenges and solutions in different urban contexts
- Learning from both successes and controversies informs future preservation efforts
Successful preservation projects
- Restoration of Grand Central Terminal in New York City
- Adaptive reuse of Ghirardelli Square in San Francisco
- Revitalization of the French Quarter in New Orleans
- Preservation and interpretation of industrial heritage in Lowell, Massachusetts
Controversial preservation issues
- Debates over modernist architecture preservation (Penn Station demolition)
- Balancing preservation and affordable housing (SoHo, New York)
- Challenges of preserving recent past (Postmodern architecture)
- Conflicts over Confederate monuments and sites
International preservation approaches
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites and their management strategies
- Conservation of historic city centers in Europe (Venice, Prague)
- Urban renewal and preservation in Asian cities (Singapore, Kyoto)
- Informal settlements and heritage in developing countries (Favelas in Rio de Janeiro)
Future of historic preservation
- Preservation field continues to evolve in response to new challenges and opportunities
- Emerging issues require innovative approaches and expanded preservation concepts
- Future of preservation involves balancing tradition with adaptation to changing needs
Climate change adaptation
- Developing strategies to protect historic resources from sea-level rise and extreme weather
- Incorporating resilience measures into historic building rehabilitations
- Balancing energy efficiency upgrades with preservation of historic fabric
- Using traditional building techniques that are inherently climate-responsive
Technology in preservation
- Virtual and augmented reality for interpretation and education
- Artificial intelligence for analyzing historic building patterns and materials
- Advanced non-destructive testing methods for building diagnostics
- Digital documentation and archiving of at-risk heritage sites
Evolving preservation ethics
- Expanding definition of what is considered historic (recent past, vernacular architecture)
- Addressing issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion in preservation practice
- Balancing tangible and intangible heritage preservation
- Developing sustainable preservation models that integrate economic and social factors
Key Terms to Review (18)
Adaptive reuse: Adaptive reuse refers to the process of repurposing old buildings for new uses while retaining their historic features and cultural significance. This practice not only helps preserve architectural heritage but also promotes sustainability by reducing waste and minimizing the need for new construction.
Community engagement: Community engagement is the process of building relationships and involving community members in decision-making and activities that affect their lives. This process fosters a sense of ownership and belonging, allowing communities to collaborate with organizations and institutions to address their needs and aspirations.
Cultural Identity: Cultural identity refers to the sense of belonging and connection individuals or groups feel towards their culture, which is shaped by shared traditions, values, language, and historical experiences. It encompasses the ways in which people express themselves and their heritage through various forms of art, architecture, and community practices. Cultural identity plays a critical role in how communities are preserved and represented within urban spaces.
Environmental Review: Environmental review is a process that evaluates the potential environmental impacts of proposed projects or actions before they are approved. This process is essential in urban planning, especially concerning historic preservation, as it ensures that development does not adversely affect cultural and historical resources while considering ecological sustainability.
Heritage conservation: Heritage conservation refers to the practice of protecting and preserving cultural heritage resources, including buildings, landscapes, and artifacts, for future generations. This process involves recognizing the significance of these resources and implementing measures to maintain their integrity, historical value, and authenticity. It plays a crucial role in urban development and community identity by balancing modern needs with the preservation of historical contexts.
Heritage tourism: Heritage tourism refers to travel that focuses on experiencing and learning about the historical, cultural, and natural heritage of a destination. This type of tourism emphasizes the preservation and appreciation of sites that have significant historical or cultural importance, making it an essential aspect of sustainable urban planning and historic preservation efforts.
Historic districts: Historic districts are designated areas within a city or community that preserve and protect buildings, structures, and sites of historical significance. These districts aim to maintain the architectural integrity and cultural heritage of an area while promoting its historical character. Through regulation and oversight, historic districts contribute to urban planning by ensuring that changes and new developments are in harmony with the existing historic fabric.
Historic resource surveys: Historic resource surveys are systematic assessments designed to identify, evaluate, and document historical properties and resources within a specific area. These surveys play a crucial role in the preservation of cultural heritage, helping planners and policymakers understand the historical significance of buildings, sites, and landscapes as they make decisions about urban development and revitalization efforts.
Jane Jacobs: Jane Jacobs was a prominent urban activist and author known for her influential ideas on city planning and community-driven urban development. Her work challenged conventional urban design practices, advocating for mixed-use neighborhoods, pedestrian-friendly spaces, and the importance of local communities in shaping their environments. Jacobs emphasized that vibrant cities require a diverse mix of uses and active participation from residents to thrive.
Landmark Designation: Landmark designation is the formal recognition of a building, structure, or site as historically significant and worthy of preservation due to its cultural, architectural, or historical value. This process often involves local, state, or national governmental bodies that assess and designate landmarks to ensure their protection from demolition or inappropriate alterations. It plays a crucial role in historic preservation efforts by providing legal frameworks and guidelines that support the conservation of important sites within urban planning.
Local Preservation Ordinances: Local preservation ordinances are laws enacted by municipal governments to protect and conserve historical buildings, districts, and sites within their jurisdiction. These ordinances play a crucial role in urban planning by providing a framework for identifying significant cultural resources, setting standards for alterations, and ensuring the integrity of historic character in neighborhoods. They serve as tools for communities to safeguard their heritage while balancing development and change.
National Historic Preservation Act: The National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) is a significant piece of legislation enacted in 1966 aimed at preserving historical and archaeological sites across the United States. It established a national framework for the identification, evaluation, and protection of historic properties, emphasizing the importance of cultural heritage in urban planning and development decisions. The act created the National Register of Historic Places, ensuring that historic sites receive consideration in federal projects and funding.
Place-making: Place-making is the process of creating meaningful and vibrant public spaces that foster community interaction and improve the quality of life. It involves a collaborative approach that engages residents, artists, planners, and stakeholders to transform urban environments into places that reflect local culture, identity, and needs.
Property Value Enhancement: Property value enhancement refers to the increase in market value of real estate as a result of various factors, including urban planning initiatives, infrastructure improvements, and historic preservation efforts. This term is closely linked to how strategic planning and investment in certain areas can lead to more desirable neighborhoods, increased demand for properties, and ultimately higher property prices, which can benefit both property owners and local governments.
Rehabilitation: Rehabilitation refers to the process of restoring a building or area to a state that is functional and aesthetically pleasing while retaining its historical significance. This concept emphasizes not only the physical repair of structures but also the cultural and social context, ensuring that the character of the original design and use is respected and preserved. It plays a critical role in maintaining the heritage of urban environments while adapting to contemporary needs.
Restoration: Restoration refers to the process of returning a building, artwork, or historical artifact to its original condition or appearance. This involves not just repairs but also thorough research and careful craftsmanship to preserve the integrity and authenticity of the piece while maintaining its historical significance. Restoration plays a crucial role in ensuring that cultural heritage is protected and appreciated for future generations.
Robert Venturi: Robert Venturi was an influential American architect, known for his role in the development of postmodern architecture and his advocacy for a more inclusive approach to design that embraced complexity and contradiction. His work often challenged the minimalist ideals of modernism, emphasizing historical context, ornamentation, and the importance of everyday life in architectural practice. Venturi's ideas have had a lasting impact on urban planning and historic preservation, particularly in how they encourage the integration of new structures within existing urban fabrics.
Sustainability: Sustainability refers to the ability to meet present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It emphasizes a balanced approach to economic, social, and environmental systems, ensuring that resources are used efficiently and responsibly. In urban settings, sustainability is crucial for creating livable spaces that protect heritage, foster innovative designs, support ecological art, provide accessible performance areas, and accommodate vibrant cultural events.