Old Town Fernandina Preservation and Development Guidelines

OLD TOWN FERNANDINA PRESERVATION AND DEVELOPMENT GUIDELINES

UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE PRESERVATION INSTITUTE: CARIBBEAN

CITY OF FERNANDINA BEACH COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT

UPDATED BY THOMASON AND ASSOCIATES 2013

OLD TOWN FERNANDINA PRESERVATION AND DEVELOPMENT GUIDELINES

This publication has been financed in part with historic preservation grant assistance provided by the National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior, administered through the Bureau of Historic Preservation, Division of Historical Resources, Florida Department of State, assisted by the Florida Historical Commission. However, the contents and opinions do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the Department of the Interior or the Florida Department of State, nor does the mention of trade names or commercial products constitute endorsement or recommendation by the Department of the Interior or the Florida Department of State. This program receives Federal financial assistance for identification and protection of historic properties. Under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, as amended, the U.S. Department of the Interior prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, age, national origin, religion, sex, disability, or sexual orientation in its federally assisted programs. If you believe you have been discriminated against in any program, activity, or facility as described above, or if you desire further information, please write to: Office of Equal Opportunity, U. S. Department of Interior, National Park Service, 1849 C Street, NW, Washington, DC 20240. TABLE OF CONTENTS PREFACE ...... 2 PLAT OF OLD TOWN FERNANDINA BEACH, 1811 ...... 3 INTRODUCTION ...... 4 SUSTAINABILITY AND HISTORIC PRESERVATION ...... 5 CHAPTER 1 - HISTORICAL OVERVIEW ...... 8 1.1 “Law of the Indies” and the Grid Pattern of Old Town...... 9 1.2 Old Town—The Importance of Place ...... 11 1.3 Old Town Development—Blocks and Lots ...... 12 1.4 Old Town Development, Peonia and Media Peonias ...... 14 1.5 Building Construction in Old Town ...... 16 CHAPTER 2 - EXISTING CONDITIONS ...... 20 2.1 Land Use ...... 21 2.2 Privacy and Community ...... 23 2.3 Vehicle Pathways ...... 24 2.4 Trees and Fences ...... 26 2.5 Scale and Detail ...... 27 CHAPTER 3– DESIGN GUIDELINES FOR EXISTING BUILDINGS ...... 29 3.1 General Approach to Building Rehabilitation ...... 30 3.2 Secretary of the Interior’s Standards of Rehabilitation ...... 31 3.3 General Approach to Building Rehabilitation ...... 32 3.4 Protect and Maintain ...... 32 3.5 Repair ...... 32 3.6 Replace ...... 32 3.7 Design for Missing Historic Features ...... 32 3.8 Alteration and Additions to Historic Buildings ...... 33 3.9 Contributing Versus Non-Contributing Buildings ...... 34 3.10 Design Guidelines for Contributing Buildings ...... 35 3.11 Relocating Buildings ...... 46 3.12 Demolition ...... 47 3.13 Accessibility ...... 49 CHAPTER 4 - DESIGN GUIDELINES FOR NEW CONSTRUCTION...... 50 4.1 The Importance of Building Setting and Placement ...... 51 4.2 General Approach to New Residential Construction ...... 52 4.3 Building Elements ...... 52 4.4 Residential Building Design...... 54 4.5 Lot Visibility Corridors ...... 61 4.6 Frontage Corridors ...... 61 4.7 Side-Yard Corridors ...... 62 4.8 Mid-Lot Corridors ...... 62 4.9 Extensions into Visibility Corridors ...... 63 4.10 Lot Density ...... 64 4.11 General Approach to New Commercial Construction ...... 66 CHAPTER 5 - SETTING AND LANDSCAPE...... 67 5.1 Fences, Walls, and Hedges ...... 68 5.2 Parking ...... 69 5.3 Protected and Heritage Trees ...... 70 5.4 Public Streetscape ...... 70 5.5 Bosque Bello Cemetery ...... 71 5.6 Maintaining and Repairing the Grid ...... 72 APPENDICES……………………………………………………………………………………………….77 Appendix A– Technical Definitions…………………………………………………………………...77 1 Appendix B– Glossary of Terms………………………………………………………………………79

PREFACE

The material contained in rized in the bibliography for and opinions do not necessarily this document has been devel- those interested in further reflect the views or policies of oped by the faculty and stu- research on the issues raised in the Department of the Interior. dents of the Preservation Insti- this document. tute: Caribbean, a program of The Preservation Institute: the College of Architecture at Caribbean (PI:C) is dedicated 1999 Project Director the University of Florida, in to the conservation of the cul- William L. Tilson cooperation with the City of tural traditions of the Greater D i r e c t or , Pr e s e r va t i o n Fernandina Beach Community Caribbean Basin as expressed Institute: Caribbean Development Department. We through its architecture, land- College of Architecture wish to thank Community Uni ve r s i t y of Fl or i da scape and urban centers. PI:C Gainesville, FL 32611 Development, and the staff for has provided educational, re- all their assistance in the search and service programs for preparation of this report. students, faculty and communi- 1999 Project Consultants Special thanks are extended to Herschel Shepard, FAIA ty leaders throughout the region Professor Emeritus, the Historic District Council for over eighteen years in order College of Architecture and the City Commission of to achieve this goal. University of Florida Fernandina for their active A current emphasis of the involvement at all stages of the Julia Starr Sanford, Designer Institute is to provide growth project. management assistance in the The concerned residents of form of documentation, design 1999 Project Assistants Old Town are to be proposals and educational commended for their candor, Kathleen M. McGuinness, Project Manager constructive comments and workshops to historic seacoast communities under develop- Kevin Baxter, fierce determination to preserve Field Assistant the historic character of Old ment pressures from commer- Stephen Bender, Town as it enters the twenty- cial tourism. The Institute was Field Assistant first century. attracted to the community of Michael Haflants, Old Town primarily for this Field Assistant Background research on the Tom Ring, history of Old Town was devel- reason and the strong connec- Field Assistant oped from archives in the Mu- tion it has to Caribbean history Kivanc Senocak, seum of Fernandina Beach, the and the history of Florida. CAD Coordinator The 2013 update was in- Lamthuy Ma, P.K. Yonge Library of Florida Graphic Coordinator History at the University of tended to reflect changes adopt- Florida and the St. Augustine ed in the city’s land use plan and 2013 Update Historical Society Museum. to provide additional guidance Thomason and Associates The directors and staff of these for rehabilitation and new con- Preservation Planners institutions were inordinately struction. It has been financed in P.O. Box 121225 helpful in locating the most part with federal funds from the Nashville, TN 37212 National Park Service, Depart- relevant information in their Cover: Entrance sign to Old extensive holdings. Source ma- ment of the Interior through the Town. terial used in this report is pub- Florida Division of Historic Re- licly accessible and is summa- sources. However, the contents

Plat of Old Town Fernandina, Florida, 1811.

INTRODUCTION

This study provides a foun- from the late 19th and early Improvements fostered by dation for standards of architec- 20th centuries rather than from changes in infrastructure will tural design review as required the Spanish period. also significantly increase by Chapter 8 of the Land The basic structure of the development. The guidelines Development Code for original grid remains. proposed in this document are Fernandina Beach. The Old Currently, about forty founded on the belief, however Town Historic District is within structures exist in the town, idealistic, that the small scale, a Historic District Overlay and roughly the same number found quiet lifestyle enjoyed by in records from the century of current Old Town residents can design review is based upon the its founding. Old Town’s be maintained through careful latest edition of Standards for geographic isolation from the town planning and thoughtful, Rehabilitation and Guidelines rapid development of Amelia well-made buildings. for Rehabilitating Historic Island has largely accounted for Buildings from the U.S. its preservation. Bound on the Intent Secretary of Interior. north and west by the salt These recommendations These standards are marsh of Egan’s Creek and the are the beginning of an ongoing intended as guidelines for the Amelia River respectively, the process to preserve the town rehabilitation or adaptive use of town occupies one of the plan and guide Old Town existing buildings and new highest points in the area and through a period of inevitable construction projects in the demonstrates the careful growth. It is important to Historic District of Old Town. strategic planning of Spanish remember that design The recommendations in this settlements. guidelines, no matter how well report primarily emphasize the This isolation has been written and illustrated, cannot importance of understanding furthered by the addition of insure a sustainable communi- the Spanish grid plan of Old large-scale industrial facilities ty. Property owners, designers, Town as the basis for good just south of the town and builders, developers and town d e s i g n a n d c o n t a i n adjacent to the historic Bosque officials must collaborate in r e c o m m e n d a t i o n s a n d Bello Cemetery. Prevented order to maintain the scale and examples for rehabilitation and from further expansion by character of Historic Old Town new construction in keeping geographic and man-made for future generations. with the design guideline boundaries, the Old Town grid standards. remains as one of the last and The listing of the Old purest examples of the Law of Town Historic District on the the Indies planning edict of National Register was largely 1573. due to its significance in The road surface planning rather than constructed in 1998 architecture. The Spanish grid demonstrates the influence of is a distinctive approach to the guidelines as seen in the town planning and this grid has crushed shell surface, minimal remained constant for two road width, green right of way centuries. The remaining and lack of sidewalks common contributing buildings date to more rural settlements.

SUSTAINABILITY AND HISTORIC PRESERVATION

Introduction landfill requires additional en- blocks during winter. In con- Historic preservation not ergy and loss of resources. struction, thick masonry walls only promotes and showcases a Thus, embodied energy can be of older buildings help retain city’s unique heritage, its by- viewed as the existing invest- interior heat in the winter and product is sustainable development in a building. Demolish- also help lengthen the time it ment. Preservation encourages ing a sound building wastes takes for summer heat to pene- the maintenance and reuse of that investment. trate the building. Architectural existing buildings, embracing elements with form-to-function the philosophy of recycling, design include operable tran- making it inherently “green.” soms and high ceilings; both Preservation’s traditional focus allow the escape of hot air. on the aesthetic and cultural significance of historic build- Over the past sixty years, ings is expanding to highlight as electricity, synthetic insula- the inherent energy-efficient tion, and central heating and air values of historic properties as conditioning systems became well. standard installations in mod- An existing building represents ern construction, architectural embodied energy. (710 Estrada) Embodied Energy design no longer required atten- While “green” practices Working with Nature: Site tion to the natural environment. and materials have become a Orientation Quality and longevity of build- major focus of contemporary Buildings constructed being materials also became less building design, the fact is con- fore World War II were de- important, as these modern struction of a new building re- signed, constructed, and sited conveniences could control the quires a new expense of ener- with respect to optimizing the interior climate of buildings, gy. From the extraction of raw advantages available via the and materials were readily natural materials, to their trans- natural environment, such as available to build anew. portation, manufacture, and ventilation, insulation, and use distribution, to the physical act of daylight. Banks of windows Inherent Energy Efficiency of of construction, energy is spent. on a south elevation, for exam- Older Buildings An existing building represents ple, optimize natural light on Data from the U.S. Energy an embodiment of this cumula- the interior and also passive Information Agency found that tive energy, already in place. solar heat during winter buildings constructed before This energy, in the inert form months. During summer 1920 are actually more energy- of a building, remains in place months, these windows could efficient than those built at any as long as the building stands. be shaded with removable awn- time until the past decade, If razed, the building’s embod- ings to block heat. Indigenous when home builders began a ied energy is lost; this demoli- trees of Fernandina Beach help concerted effort to design more tion represents an expenditure create shade. Evergreen hedges energy-efficient buildings. of new energy. Loading and can be added on northwestern hauling the building debris to a exposures to serve as wind

Retrofitting and whereas requests for replace- Weatherization ment and removal of historic Buildings from before architectural components may World War II often have inher- require review. ent energy-efficient design features. However, older buildings Windows with numerous windows and The concept of embodied minimal insulation pose partic- energy of a whole building ular challenges in the face of translates to its components. rising energy costs. Some The old growth lumber used in homeowners have resorted to historic wood windows can last Original six-over-six wood sash covering the building’s original indefinitely. Removal and re- windows. (715 San Fernando) exterior with synthetic sidings, placement of original windows replacing original windows, represents the loss of embodied the building to retain an im- and enclosing porches. These energy. Further more, vinyl portant architectural component actions result in the loss of a replacement windows are not that helps convey its character property’s historic character. as durable and will eventually and style. The design guide- However, historic character require wholesale replacement. lines embrace the philosophies need not be compromised for All windows expand and con- of preserving historic character, improved energy efficiency. tract with temperature change. energy efficiency, and retaining The addition of attic insulation However, vinyl expands more embodied energy. and new heating and cooling than twice as much as wood, systems improves energy use. resulting in failed seals be- New Construction In particular, repairing, weath- tween the frame and glass and a While the reuse of existing erstripping, and adding storm significant performance reduc- buildings is a priority, design windows to historic wood win- tion. Vinyl windows have a guidelines must also address dows often results in energy high failure rate – more than and promote sustainable prac- performance equal to or ex- one-third of all windows being tices and materials in new ceeding new vinyl or aluminum replaced today are less than ten buildings. Preserving existing windows and at much less cost. years old. trees or adding shade trees to Every building will benefit Any energy savings from shield the southern elevation from a systematic assessment replacing wood windows with from summer heat will reduce of its energy-efficiency. Histor- vinyl seldom justifies the costs energy consumption within the ic buildings can also be adapted of installation. Vinyl windows building. Additionally, the de- to new technology such as geo- cannot be recycled and are det- sign of the new building should thermal heating/cooling sys- rimental to the environment include porches for shade and tems and solar roof tiles. Fur- when discarded. Therefore, should be oriented for optimum thermore, many of these im- retaining and weatherizing his- ventilation. Use recycled build- provements can be performed toric windows eliminates po- ing materials where possible. without the need for review by tential waste, increases their the Historic District Council, energy efficiency, and allows

6 Guideline Goals - Maintain the same configuration of land use fitted to the lot sizes of the Spanish plat in order to make a spatial connection to the history of Old Town. - Encourage inventive ways of adapting contemporary building practices to historical constraints. - Enable the design of diverse outdoor spaces to encourage public interaction and maintain privacy. - Design buildings and landscape to reinforce the order of the historic city plan.

Map of firing angles from Old Town, c. 17th Century.

CHAPTER 1: HISTORICAL OVERVIEW

8 CHAPTER 1—HISTORICAL OVERVIEW

1.1 “Law of the Indies” and a reasonable logic for Amelia River, contemporary the Grid Pattern of Old Town occupying the land. The rules developments such as the provided guidelines for extension of Fourteenth Street The use of the grid for the l o c a t i o n , a p p r o p r i a t e across Egan’s Creek and the ordered development of towns, dimensions, land use, public marina and boat building cities and agricultural areas has space and social propriety. facilities located along the a long history among many Due to its late founding north and east edges of the cultures. Examples from Greek date in the history of Spanish town. and Roman settlements are well presence in Florida, Old Town Although the fort has long known and are most often reads like a diagram of the Law since disappeared due to listed as influences underlying of the Indies. For example, rule erosion and contemporary the Spanish preoccupation with 36; “…And that they should be development continues to alter grids. Other excellent examples populated by Indians and na- the landscape of the area, the are found, however, among the tives to whom we can preach Plaza and gridded streets indigenous peoples of the the gospels…” is certainly born remain as a demonstration of Americas such as the Maya and out by the ongoing archeologi- the importance of public space the Incas. The grid acts as an cal surveys in Old Town sug- as stated in the Law of the easily constructed device to gesting indigenous occupation Indies. Also seen prominently organize the distribution of of the area from at least 2000 in the plan below is the land among its inhabitants. The BC. Rule 40, which addresses modular division of the blocks grid anticipates a moment in the placement of a town on a which is discussed in section which a group of separate river, “…should there be a 1.3. individuals is transformed into need to build on a river, it a town or city. should be on the eastern bank, Although the grid was so when the sun rises, it strikes used extensively in Spanish the town first and not the wa- settlements in the Americas, ter,” is a tailor-made from the early contact years, it description of Old Town’s was not until 1573 that specific location. rules for the construction of a The current plan of Old city grid plan were adopted. Town shows the original plat of Developed under the rule of the town in 1811. Subsequently Phillip II, the “Law of the and by 1821, New and Indies” contained 148 Towngate Streets had been principles governing the added, as well as an area called planning and development of a Southpoint on Estrada Street town. The Law was not south of Garden. Comparing completely original as it simply the map at right with current confirmed practices that were maps of the town (see aerial already common in Spanish photo on page 72), one quickly towns by the sixteenth century, notes the changes made to the but it did endeavor to establish plan due to erosion along the

Map of Old Town, Drawn by Franz Dollheimer, April 1937, data compiled and translated by Maria Copella Dollheimer.

10 HISTORICAL OVERVIEW—PATTERNS OF DEVELOPMENT

1.2 Old Town—The the foundation on which the for the development and Importance of Place de s i gn gui de l i ne s a r e maintenance of single-family structured. residential dwellings, along Although not apparent at T h e p r i n c i p a l with their customary accessory first glance, Old Town contains recommendations concerning uses on the same lot. Limited a surprisingly complex set of the proper handling of historic neighborhood commercial may building, landscape and social structures are included in be permissible. patterns that contribute to its Chapter 3 and in the C u r r e n t b u i l d i n g character as a place. The appendices. Unusual for most occupation overwhelmingly concept of place is the result of historic districts, these sections favors domestic use. The many interrelated factors which reflect the importance of the Spanish Plan historically include the climate, economic historic plan. Several structures featured a mixed use and social history, buildings in the district are identified as arrangement of functions that and landscape features as well historic or contributing even has largely disappeared from as private and collective though they were not Old Town. Under the Law of memories. constructed during the period the Indies, the most important The purpose of this section of record for the town plan. civic, religious and commercial is to analyze and represent the This document favors the buildings were placed around major physical characteristics rehabilitation of existing the Plaza. Up until 1926, a of Old Town that contribute to structures however modest. church and several institutional its unique scale and patterns of Keeping buildings in service is buildings were located on plaza life. Although no place can be a process that contributes to the lots following this prescription. completely inscribed into a set maintenance of town character. The guidelines allow and also of formal documents, the The Old Town Historic encourage the introduction of drawings, photographs and District has its own distinct commercial and institutional words in this section are critical zoning; OT-1 and OT-2. The uses within the town, provided because they emphasize the OT-1 and OT-2 Districts are that they conform to the importance of coming to know intended to protect the unique physical requirement of a place by accepting it for what historic features and uses in the building placement and it is. The lessons gained from a Old Town Historic District. typology. long and careful study of Old The OT-1 District is intended Town form the philosophical for the development and foundation of the Design maintenance of single-family Guidelines. Due to the lack of residential dwellings, along significant historic and with their customary accessory contributing buildings such as uses on the same lot. The OT-2 found in downtown Fernandi- District is intended to protect na, Old Town presents more of the unique historic features and an “aura” than a clearly defined uses in the mixed-use area of urban fabric. Taken together the Old Town Historic District. with relevant historical The OT-2 District is intended precedents, these patterns form

11 HISTORICAL OVERVIEW—PATTERNS OF DEVELOPMENT

1.3 Old Town Development— Blocks and Lots

The typology of the Old Town Plan is composed of three major elements: blocks- including the San Carlos Plaza, constant width streets and right of ways and two sizes of lot divisions. The details of these c o m p o n e n t s a n d recommendations for their preservation are outlined in this s e c t i o n . F u r t h e r recommendations are found in other sections noted below. The original plat of 1811 of the East Florida Papers, found in the State Archives, shows thirteen blocks and eight streets are recorded. The historic district now encompasses twenty-two full blocks and three partial blocks (see view on page 19).

. Plat map of Old Town, Fernandina Beach Florida, 1811.

Blocks

The 46’-6” lot division m o d u l e m e a s u r e s t h e dimensions of the blocks. All full blocks are either four by four or four by five modules in size. The streets, public right of ways and the lot divisions reinforce the integrity of the block module used. Although recent surveys show the lot sizes running around 47’-3” by 92 feet, the 46’-6”x 46’-6” module is used in this document because it is closer to the ideal layout in the Law of the Indies. Actual property dimensions are a matter of public record and verifications of dimensions are the responsibility of the property owner as required by current codes.

Streets Map of block pattern, Old Town. This map is from the 1999 guide- The street system of compacted crushed shell and lines and does not accurately reflect the lot orientation on blocks thin ribbon curbs added in 1998 surrounding the plaza. The 1811 plat of Old Town on page three reinforces the constant width of more accurately represents the plaza lots. all streets. There are consistent r i g h t - of- w a y w i d t h s . proportionate to the lot dimensions.

13 HISTORICAL OVERVIEW—PATTERNS OF DEVELOPMENT

1.4—Old Town Development, existing buildings did not fit Peonia and Media Peonias the historic grid. After studying the development of the town The Old Town grid divides from historic maps, archival the town into an array of square documents and direct field and rectangular blocks. Each of observations, it was concluded these blocks is further that most buildings did work sub•divided into modular lots. reasonably well with the The sample block on page 15 historic property divisions. shows the dimensions of the Changes in building two basic lot modules found in placement and lot development Old Town; the peonia and were tracked in 1999 and 2012 media peonia. According to the using Sanborn Insurance Maps Law of the Indies, the peonia for the years 1903 through was the basic type of urban lot. 1949 and county tax maps The Spanish measured supplemented by aerial construction dimensions photographs for 1960-2012. according to the vara which Although not scientific, these Manucy (1962) lists as maps confirm that building approximately 33 inches. placement maintains the block Mundigo and Crouch’s structure and small scale of the translation of the Law of the town. Indies (1977) sets the measurements of the peonia as 46 by 92 feet. An informal study of recent property surveys shows that the actual dimensions of the peonia is slightly larger averaging around 46 feet 6 inches by 93 feet. Old Town also has a unique 46’-6” square block labeled in this document as a media peonia or half peonia. These lots run north and south and on east-west facing streets. Taken together, these two lot modules create the pattern of land division within the town grid. When preliminary research began in the summer of 1996, the first impression was that the

The shaded sections show the sizes of the Spanish peonia and media peonia lots.

15 HISTORICAL OVERVIEW—PATTERNS OF DEVELOPMENT

1.5 Building Construction in significance was found on the World War II, additional Old Town block south of the plaza. From dwellings were built, most of all appearances, all buildings which were of frame The establishment of Old described were wood frame construction and designed in Town by the Spanish resulted constructions. vernacular forms of the period. in a small community The 1909 Sanborn map Property activity increased consisting of dwellings, a showed that the number of again in the 1960’s and over church, and the ruins of Fort buildings did not increase the next decade several new San Carlos adjacent to the significantly from 1903 and dwellings were built and a plaza. This community was most structures appear to be mobile home park was known as Fernandina until the “towing the line” of the established. The southern edge construction of the railroad Spanish grid despite the lack of of Old Town was delineated by through the region in 1855. any formal regulations. This is the Kraft Paper mill. In 1990, This led to the platting of not unexpected or unusual at the significance of Old Town “new” Fernandina two miles to this time period because of the was recognized when it was the south. With the coming of existence of strong implicit listed in the National Register the railroad the new community ways of building that were as the “Original Town of of Fernandina became a generally accepted by Fernandina Historic Site.” prominent commercial and everyone. Material choices By the early 21st century, tourism center and “Old Town” were limited, as were the mobile home park had been gradually lost its prominence. architectural styles. removed and several new By the late 19th century many The Victorian structure dwellings were built to blend in of the earliest dwellings from known today as the “Captain’s with the historic architecture of the Spanish period were lost to House” was built in 1888 and is the original buildings. All of fire or neglect, but other prominent on the 1909 map the early 19th century residents moved into the facing the plaza. Besides its dwellings associated with the community attracted by its architectural prominence and Spanish occupation were razed prominent location on the position in the town, the by 2012, but many of the Amelia River. building was used as a community’s turn of the 20th In 1903, Old Town was principal set element in the film century dwellings remained mapped by the Sanborn Fire “The New Adventures of Pippi intact. New commercial Insurance Company as part of Longstocking” and attracts a activity in the community was overall mapping efforts for the modest number of sightseers. marked by the marina city. By 1903, significant A few additional dwellings construction along Egan’s property transfers had occurred were built in the town after Creek. so that the original lot divisions 1909 and are shown on the of the blocks are barely visible. 1926 edition of the Sanborn At this time there was a Insurance Map. Many of the customs house located in the lots continued to be vacant with plaza approximately over the most dwellings concentrated ruins of Fort San Carlos. A along San Fernando and Catholic Church of some Someruelos Streets. Following

A portion of Old Town was mapped by the Sanborn Map Company in 1903. The original grid is not reflected on this map.

The 1926 Sanborn map of Old Town illustrates the original grid layout of peonias and media peonias.

Future land use map illustrating current property divisions.

CHAPTER 2: EXISTING CONDITIONS

2.1 Land Use Recommendations: Avoid:

The Spanish Plan provided - Limited neighborhood - Significant increases in uses for the orderly distribution of commercial or civic structures other than residential. civic, religious, residential and such as a museum featuring the commercial structures through- history of Old Town or a small - Increased areas devoted to out the town. A strict hierarchy community meeting hall are parking beyond that allowed was maintained by placing appropriate. These structures for residential use. civic structures and important must follow the design residences near the plaza. The guidelines in terms of building - Any development of Amelia peonia was designed as a placement, scale and parking River waterfront lots. working residential lot whose requirements. size was determined in part by Prohibited: agricultural requirements of the - Home businesses are allowed day. - Uses and density that disturb Historically, there were a in OT-1 and OT-2. Examples of allowable uses are home the residential character of Old limited number of civic, Town such as storage facilities, religious and commercial offices, studios, garage shops and home childcare. heavy construction and buildings in Old Town, but it manufacturing. has been predominately - Accessory dwellings are residential for decades. A few residents maintain home-based permissible per LDC busi-nesses, but these do not requirements. have a significant impact on the - Size of uses is governed by cultural patterns or the architectural guidelines on per- architecture. The area of Fourteenth Street and the centage of lot coverage, marina development along massing, setbacks and height. Egan’s Creek introduced uses allowed under 2.03.02 of the Land Development Code. Under current zoning regulations, a OT-1 zoning allows residential only. OT-2 zoning allows residential and limited neighborhood commercial. The design guidelines address the management of building placement, scale and detail.

21 Zoning map showing OT-1 and OT-2 zoned parcels, Old Town, Fernandina Beach, Florida, 2013.

22 CHAPTER 2—EXISTING CONDITIONS

2.2 Privacy and Community system or to restore the relationship between primary It is important to buildings and outbuildings in understand the present day sympathy with the original grid organization of land ownership s ys t e m. It i s a l s o in order to preserve historic recommended that property attributes and imagine future owners restore the original lot possibilities. Combinations of dimensions where possible. peonias and media peonias to In addition to helping form larger parcels of land owners and officials solve represent an opportunity for problems presented by unique owners to develop property in a designs or construction variety of ways not imagined in technology, the role of the the original conception of the guidelines is to set consistent town. The view of existing standards with respect to property divisions from 2013 placement of buildings within (see page 19), shows the town the blocks and encouraging poised on the edge of either adherence to the overall plan. retaining or losing the visibility of its historic plan. The vacating of some streets has caused minor damage to the continuity of the grid. Owners of these properties are encouraged to find ways of enjoying the privacy of their property, while ensuring that it remains a visible artifact of the old right of way. Lots which are anomalous because of an intrusion into a right of way or a non-peonia subdivision will be more challenging to develop according to the guidelines. They offer the owner the chance to comment on history It is required that property owners by juxtaposing the ideal of the who develop their vacant lots use peonia against the anomaly. designs and spacing to respect the P r o p e r t y o w n e r s a r e original peonia and media peonia encouraged to design new grid and layout. buildings to fit within the parameters for the existing grid

2.3 Vehicle Pathways

Automobiles and other vehicles are an essential part of life in Old Town. Residents are accustomed to parking cars, trucks, boats and trailers on their property as needed, with few impediments to free movement. This freedom is considered a practical and philosophical necessity. As one resident succinctly put it: “I like Old Town because I can do just about anything and no one bothers me. I can go where I want when I want and everyone here respects that freedom.” The complexity of road use is shown clearly in the irregularity of traffic patterns- an indication of a relaxed fit between patterns of daily use Views of shell street surfaces in 2012. and the grid. This pattern is shown on the aerial view on page 25. The grid provides a degree of discipline to the free ranging movements of people and machinery. The roadway design put in place in 1998 with its crushed shell surface and lack of sidewalks and drainage swales is designed to strengthen the presence of the grid and keep movement patterns relatively the same. Off-street parking is required for residences per the LDC.

Aerial view of vehicle pathways, Old Town, Fernandina Beach, Florida, 2012.

2.4 Trees and Fences

Existing trees and fences have established a subtle pattern of outdoor spaces without isolating one property from another. This interplay of open land and private property is more a feature of English and North American settlement patterns than Spanish. Given the climate and relaxed lifestyle of Old Town, there is considerable room for invention in the design of outdoor space through the careful placement of landscape elements such as trees, hedges and fences. In an attempt to make property boundaries visible and create outdoor spaces, Old Town residents have created a variety of fences ranging from two courses of concrete block topped with conch shells as ornaments, to picket and split rail, privet hedges and eight foot block walls reminiscent of Spanish-walled enclosures. Even wire fences, which are prohibited in many historic districts, have been used successfully to support vines and flowering plants.

2.5 Scale and Detail

Taken collectively, the historic, economic and social patterns built up in Old Town constitute a quality that is not easily put into words or guidelines. Old Town is verifiably “unique,” but this term needs to be carefully defined through specific examples since these guidelines will ultimately have the legal strength of public will. Long-time residents intuitively know what it means to live and build in Old Town, but this knowledge does not easily translate into formal documents. In our current climate of mobility, most people are not able to spend time learning to live in a place before building. Design guidelines provide the best means of understanding a way of building in the historical, cultural and climatic context of Old Town. A major design issue with respect to “fit” is proper scale. Scale is defined as relative size between building elements, the landscape and the town as a whole. Construction of buildings and landscapes in Old Town requires a careful attention to scale and detail.

Unlike most communities, Old Town can never grow beyond a very specific set of geographic limits. Its well- deserved historic district status further guarantees that the scale of Old Town can be maintained. These limits govern the scale of actions from the size of buildings, the distance between structures, the details of buildings and the natural form of landscape. These concepts are not purely an issue of building style. One can build a well- designed “cracker style” or Victorian era building that does not “fit.” Pure size and image are not the keys to building within the context of Old Town. The examples and these guidelines suggest that individuality, uniqueness and even idiosyncras y are important and verifiable aspects of Old Town’s heritage, provided that the building decisions are kept in scale with the rest of the town.

CHAPTER 3: DESIGN GUIDELINES FOR EXISTING BUILDINGS

29 CHAPTER 3—BUILDING TYPOLOGY: EXISTING BUILDINGS

3.1 General Approach to restoration, which is a more money, and permit avoidance Building Rehabilitation accurate but costly approach to of administrative overlap and repair, replacement, and conflicting regulations. In Old Town, existing maintenance. A second important reason buildings are generally placed The Secretary of the for using the Secretary of the correctly on the grid, are simple Interior’s Standards for Interior’s Standards is the large in design, and promote a strong Rehabilitation on page 31 serve body of work developed as part connection to the outdoors. The as the basis for working within of these guidelines by the individuality and simplicity of the Historic District. The intent National Park Service. The buildings is a principal part of of the Standards is to S t a n d a r d s h a v e b e e n the character of Old Town. encourage the retention and successfully applied for many As the town ages, new preservation of historic years and have resulted in a buildings will be added to the buildings as expressed in their number of case studies, town. These buildings will also architectural design, materials deserve consistent preservation and workmanship. The result of published in “Interpreting the measures. For this reason, this any project reviewed under the Secretary of the Interior’s chapter provides some general Standards should be the Standards for Rehabilitation.” r e c o m m e n d a t i o n s f o r preservation of a building’s These case studies are available rehabilitation of historic historic materials and from the Architectural properties and existing distinguishing character. Preservation Services Section buildings. The philosophy Important characteristics of a of the Bureau of Historic promoted by these guidelines is building include its overall Preservation and provide an to sustain the character of the s h a p e , m a t e r i a l s , excellent source of information town by keeping buildings, craftsmanship, decorative for local review boards, however modest, in useful details, interior spaces and preservation architects, service. This is an approach features, and site and preservation planners, owners that residents in Old Town environment. of historic properties, and have followed for generations The reasons for using the o t h e r s u n d e r t a k i n g and it is consistent with current Secretary of the Interior’s modifications to historic thinking on sustainable Standards are numerous. The buildings. communities. first and most important is With these goals in mind, consistency. Rehabilitation t he f ol l owi ng s e c t i on projects in Florida receiving emphasizes rehabilitation, federal or state funding or tax which is the process of credits already must observe repairing or altering a historic the standards. Furthermore, property while retaining its property owners seeking a historic features. A practical historic preservation property approach to preservation, tax exemption under Section rehabilitation is a compromise 196.1997, Florida Statutes, between remodeling, which has must also comply with them. A no sensitivity to the historic consistent set of standards will features of a building, and result in savings of time and

3.2 The Secretary of the Interior’s Standards of 3. Each property shall be 7. Chemical or physical Rehabilitation recognized as a physical treat ments, s uch a s record of its time, place and sandblasting, that cause The guidelines are based use. Changes that create a damage to historic materials on the Secretary of the false sense of historical shall not be used. The Interior’s Standards of development, such as adding surface cleaning of Rehabilitation. The Standards conjectural features or structures, if appropriate, have become the authoritative architectural elements from shall be undertaken using source for the treatment of other buildings, shall not be the gentlest means possible. historic buildings both undertaken. nationally and in Florida. They 8. Significant archaeological provide a logical point of 4. Most properties change over resources affected by a departure for developing local time; those changes that project shall be protected guidelines. They pertain to have acquired historic and preserved. If such historic buildings of all sizes, significance in their own resources must be disturbed, materials, and types, interior right shall be retained and mitigation measures shall be and exterior work, demolition, preserved. undertaken. relocation, new construction, and handicap accessibility. 5. Distinctive features, finishes 9. New additions, exterior Additional information on and construction techniques alterations or related new these standards can be found at o r e x a m p l e s o f construction shall not the following website: c r a f t s m a n s h i p t h a t destroy historic materials www.flheritage.com/preservation. characterize a historic that characterize the property shall be preserved. property. The new work Recommended Standards: shall be differentiated from 6. Deteriorated historic features 1. A property shall be used for the old and shall be shall be repaired rather than compatible with the its historic purpose or be replaced. Where the severity adapted to a new use that massing, size, scale and ar• of deterioration requires chitectural features to requires minimal change to replacement of a distinctive the defining characteristics of protect the historic integrity feature, the new feature of the property and its the building and its site and shall match the old in environment. environment. design, color, texture and 2. The historic character of a other visual qualities and, 10. New additions and adjacent property shall be retained and where possible, materials. or related new construction preserved. The removal of Replacement of missing shall be undertaken in such historic materials or f e a t u r e s s h a l l b e a manner that if removed in alteration of features and s u b s t a n t i a t e d b y the future, the essential form spaces that characterize a documentary, physical or and integrity of the historic property shall be avoided. pictorial evidence. property and its environment would be unimpaired.

3.3 General Approach to evaluation should begin at this replacement is appropriate. Building Rehabilitation level. Like the guidance for repair, the preferred option is always Old Town contains a 3.5 Repair replacement of the entire fea- number of notable 19th and ture with the same material. early 20th century buildings Repairs are warranted Because this approach may not which contribute to the when the physical condition of always be technically or eco- character of the National character-defining materials nomically feasible, provisions Register-listed site. Identifying, and features require it. Repair are made to consider the use of retaining, and preserving the of historic material begins with a compatible substitute materi- form and detailing of original the least degree of intervention al. The goal of using new mate- architectural materials and possible, such as patching, rials should be to match the features is basic to the sensitive piecing-in, splicing, consolidat- original materials as closely as treatment of all historic ing, or otherwise reinforcing or possible. Replacement materi- buildings. The guidelines upgrading the material accord- als should promote the historic which follow recommend ing to recognized preservation character of the building. measures to accomplish this methods. Repair also includes goal, while avoiding actions the limited replacement in kind 3.7 Design for Missing which will cause the removal or with a compatible substitute Historic Features of features that form the material of extensively deterio- historic character of a building. rated or missing parts of fea- A new feature is appropri- tures when there are surviving ate when an entire interior or 3.4 Protect and Maintain prototypes. Although using the exterior feature is missing. Un- same kind of materials is al- der these circumstances, the Protection generally ways the preferred option, sub- original feature no longer plays involves the least degree of stitute materials are acceptable a role in physically defining the intervention and precedes other if the form and design, as well historic character of a building work. Protective measures as the substitute materials unless it can be accurately re- include the maintenance of themselves, convey the visual covered in form and detailing historical materials through appearance of the remaining through the process of carefully treatments such as rust parts of the feature and finish. documenting the historical ap- removal, caulking, limited pearance. Where an important paint removal, re-application of 3.6 Replace architectural feature is missing, protective coatings, and its recovery is always recom- cyclical cleaning of roof gutter Replacement is appropriate mended in the guidelines as the systems; or stabilization when an entire character- preferred course of action. If through installation of fencing, defining feature is not repara- adequate historical, pictorial, protective plywood, alarm ble. If the essential form and and physical documentation systems and other measures. detailing are still evident so exists so that the feature may Although a historic building that the physical evidence can be accurately reproduced, then will usually require more be used to re-establish the fea- designing and constructing a extensive work, an overall ture as an integral part of the new feature based on such in- rehabilitation project, then its formation is appropriate. 32

However, a second building may seem to be building such as the basic form, acceptable option for the essential for new use. The materials, fenestration, and replacement feature is a new guidelines emphasize, however, stylistic elements under design that is compatible with that such new additions should Standard 2. Additions that the remaining character- be avoided, if possible, and imitate the style of the existing defining features of the historic considered only after it is deter- building or other historical building. The new design mined that those needs cannot styles should be avoided under should always take into account be met by altering secondary, Standard 3. the size, scale, and material of non-character-defining interior Und e r St a n da r d 9, the historic building itself so spaces. If, after a thorough additions should be clearly that a false sense of historical evaluation of interior solutions, distinguished from original appearance is not created. an exterior addition is still portions of a building and judged to be necessary, and it should result in minimal 3.8 Alteration and Additions can be clearly differentiated damage to it. Character- to Historic Buildings from the historic building and defining features of a historic constructed so that the building should not be radically The final step involves character-defining features are changed, obscured, damaged, alterations and additions. Some not radically changed, or destroyed in the process of exterior and interior alterations obscured, damaged, or adding new construction. The to a historic building are destroyed, then it may be size and scale of the new generally needed to assure its appropriate. addition should be in continued use. It is, however, Additions to historic proportion to the historic generally important that such buildings are often required to portion of a building and clear- alterations do not radically make projects economically ly subordinate to it. Additions change, obscure, or destroy feasible, to satisfy fire and should be attached to the rear character-defining spaces, building code requirements, to or least conspicuous side of a materials, features, or finishes. house mechanical systems, and building. Under Standard 10 Alterations may include for other personal or practical they should be constructed so providing additional parking reasons. They are allowed that if removed in the future, space on an existing historic under the Secretary of the Inte- the essential form and integrity building site; cutting new r i o r ’ s S t a n d a r d s a n d of a building will be entrances or windows on specifically addressed by unimpaired. secondary elevations; and Standards 9 and 10. installing an entirely new Although additions are mechanical system. Alterations usually acceptable, they should may include the selective be undertaken only after it has removal of building or other been determined that the new features of the environment or use cannot be successfully met building site that are intrusive by altering non-character and therefore detract from the defining interior spaces. If overall historic character. undertaken, additions should The construction of an not significantly alter original exterior addition to a historic distinguishing qualities of

3.9 Contributing Versus Non- Contributing Buildings

The Old Town Historic District is unusual since it derives its primary significance from its original Spanish grid plan and not from its collection of historic architecture. When Old Town was listed in the National Register in 1990 it was listed as a site, rather than a district. Within the site, only ten buildings were listed as contributing, while dozens more were included as non- contributing. Contributing This 19th century dwelling at 107 Estrada Street is buildings are defined in the an example of a contributing building within the Old LDC. Since listing on the Town Historic District. National Register, several of these original contributing b u i l d i n g s h a v e b e e n demolished, and none of the existing buildings date to the period of Spanish occupation. Because of the loss of original buildings and the passage of time, a re-survey and update of the district is recommended. New construction and rehabilitation is reviewed in the Old Town Historic District by the Historic District Council (HDC). Non-contributing buildings are reviewed by the HDC with greater flexibility than contributing buildings, but The mid-20th century dwelling at 1012 Ladies Street owners are encouraged to is non-contributing but rehabilitation work should preserve and maintain the respect its original design and detailing. character of their older buildings.

While these guidelines apply BRICK/MASONRY: Machine cleaning of masonry to contributing buildings, 10. Do not use sand blasting or they also may be used as a 1. Preserve and maintain high-pressure water; these general reference for non- original brick, stone, and methods cause rapid deterio- contributing buildings, for other original masonry. This ration. which maintenance and includes exterior wall 11. Do not use electric saws or repair should be in keeping surfaces, foundations, and hammers to remove mortar. with the respective design chimneys. Mortar issues with masonry and detailing. Repair of masonry 12. If repointing of mortar is 2. Repair damaged masonry by needed, duplicate historic 3.10 Design Guidelines for patching, piecing in, or mortar in strength, com- Contributing Buildings consolidating instead of position, color, and texture. removing an entire feature. AWNINGS: Use one part lime and two 3. Repair cracks; they may part sand with no more than 1. Retain, maintain, and repair indicate structural settling or 20% combined Portland ce- historic metal awnings. deterioration and allow ment. 2. Ensure new awnings do not moisture penetration. 13. Portland cement is not an damage the building. Select Moisture control on masonry appropriate replacement for awnings of canvas duck or 4. Repair leaking roofs, historic mortar, as it is cotton and polyester blends gutters, and downspouts; stronger and will not in colors that complement secure loose flashing. expand and contract, the building and mimic the 5. Ensure that the ground causing the bricks to crack, shape of their opening. slopes away from the break, or spall. 3. Mid-20th century metal foundation to prevent water 14. Do not repoint with a awnings should also be from gathering at the base. s y n t h e t i c c a u l k i n g preserved and maintained. Cleaning of masonry compound. 6. Masonry requires cleaning Painting of masonry only to stop deterioration 15. In general, leave unpainted or heavy surface staining. historic masonry unpainted. 7. Use the gentlest means If bricks have lost their possible, generally low protective outer coating due pressure water and mild to sandblasting, paint may detergent. be used for preservation, or 8. Test cleaning methods on if the brick and mortar are an inconspicuous area and extremely mismatched from observe the results first. repair work. 9. Chemical cleaning is not 16. Only as a last resort should Preserve functional and recommended due to water-proof, water-repellent, d e c o r a t i v e a w n i n g s potential damage it may or other non-historic (212 Estrada Street). cause. coatings be used.

CHIMNEYS ENTRANCES + DOORS

1. Retain, maintain, and repair 1. Maintain entrances, doors, 4. Do not add openings to a chimneys in keeping with and related elements. primary elevation. the guidelines for masonry. 2. Follow the guidelines for 5. Do not resize or otherwise 2. If possible, replace wood to repair entrances, alter an entrance. chimneys that are missing d o or s , a n d r e l a t e d 6. If storm or screen doors are or too severely damaged elements. Reuse historic desired, select designs that for repair. Emulate other hardware and locks. allow the full view or h i s t o r i c e x a m p l e s 3. Replace an entrance door, obscure as little as possible appropriate for the style or related element only of the door. and period of the building. when it is damaged beyond 3. Retain extant chimney pots repair. The replacement of terra cotta and brick. element should match the Replace in kind, do not historic one. substitute other non- historic materials such as sheet metal or concrete block.

Original corbelled brick chim- Original doors help convey a Original single-light, two- neys should be maintained and building’s architectural style panel door and transom at 910 r e p a i r e d a s n e e d e d and date of construction San Fernando Street. (910 San Fernando Street). (212 Estrada Street).

DOORS, CONTINUED. FOUNDATIONS LIGHTING

1. Retain, maintain, and repair 1. Retain historic light foundations in accordance fixtures. with the guidelines for 2. Repair damaged historic masonry. light fixtures or replace 2. Leave historically visible damaged pieces with raised foundations visible - similar replacements. do not cover or conceal . 3. If original fixtures are 3. If infill is desired for raised missing or too damaged for pier foundations, use repair, replace them with sections of lattice installed new fixtures that imitate between the piers. Do not h i s t o r i c e x a m p l e s cover over the piers. appropriate for the period and style of the building, or use unobtrusive design and materials and traditional placement.

This appropriate storm door Wood lattices are appropriately fit allows for view of the door into openings between brick piers of behind it (117 Estrada Street). the foundation (910 San Fernando Street, above and 212 Estrada Street, below).

Retain original light fixtures or those added in the early 20th century (212 Estrada Street).

PAINT

1. Maintain the painted finish 8. If paint has blistered and of buildings and accessory peeled to the bare wood, re- structures and fences that move all paint down to bare were historically painted. wood. 2. U n l e s s e x t e n u a t i n g 9. Use chemical strippers to circumstances exist, do not supplement the above tech- paint historically unpainted nique when more effective masonry or other surfaces. removal is required. Be cer- 3. Use oil paint on surfaces tain to follow directions to that have been painted with thoroughly neutralize chemical oil paint in the past; this is strippers after use or new paint generally the case for will not adhere. historic buildings in the 10. Select paint colors that district. complement the style and peri- 4. Latex paint is not od of the house. Above: Regular painting helps recommended as it does protect the building’s exterior not adhere well and shrinks and its architectural integrity more than oil paint when (910 San Fernando Street). drying. This can pull off underlying old paint. If latex is used, first Left: Repainting the house and completely prime the window trim in contrasting surface with an oil-based colors will help protect the primer. w o o d e n e l e m e n t s a n d 5. Before painting, remove accentuate the original three- dirt with household over-one wood sash windows. detergent and water. Allow surfaces to dry thoroughly. 6. Remove damaged or 11. Select one trim color for deteriorated paint to the porch framing and columns, next sound layer. and window framing; a 7. Use the gentlest means of contrasting color for walls; and paint removal possible, a darker color for doors and such as hand sanding and shutters. hand scraping. 12. Limit the number of colors used to three.

PORCHES

1. Retain, maintain, and repair wooden and masonry porches in keeping with the guidelines for wood and masonry. 2. B a c k p o r c h e s a r e functional and less crucial This porch has appropriate to the historic character of screen panels and remains the district, thus their treat- A wide porch with posts on transparent (902 Ladies ment can be more flexible brick piers is a character- Street). and may include alteration, defining feature of this replacement, or removal. Bungalow dwelling (906 3. When replacement of a Someruelos Street). porch is necessary due to PORCH STAIRS/RAILINGS deterioration beyond repair, replace it using a design 1. Retain historic porch steps that matches the historic and railings. design and materials that 2. Repair historic porch steps support the historic and railings with materials character of the district to that match the original. the greatest extent possible. 3. Replace porch stairs and 4. If enclosure of a porch is railings with materials that desired, use glass or match the porch materials. screens with minimal 4. Avoid using brick, structural elements instead concrete, or wrought iron of solid materials to better steps for wooden front preserve the porch’s porches; these material historic transparency. c o m b i n a t i o n s a r e 5. The use of substitute mate- d i s c o u r a g e d , b u t rials for porch floors such acceptable. as wood and cementitious 5. Do not use pre-cast composites may be appro- concrete steps on entrances priate under some circum- that are readily visible from stances. If these treatments the street. are used, they should not be readily visible from the

street or painted to blend Preserve and maintain porch with the house colors. elements such as this column at 107 Estrada Street. 39

PORCH STAIRS/RAILINGS ROOFS

6. Match the style and 1. Retain, maintain, and repair appearance of the porch in historic roof forms and replacement railings. Simple materials. painted wood railings with 2. R e p l a c e i n d i v i d u a l balusters between the top and damaged roofing elements. bottom rail are generally 3. If overall deterioration is appropriate. beyond repair, install 7. If desired, add wooden or substitute materials that metal handrails in keeping with will best support the the style and design of the This is an appropriate new historic character of the building. design for a porch railing building and the district. 8. In most cases, balusters or (801 White Street). Match original materials railings must be a minimum of whenever possible. finished dimensions of three 4. Keep gutters and down- inches by three inches. spouts clean and well maintained. 5. Repair leaking roofs, gutters, and downspouts. 6. Secure or replace loose or deteriorated flashing. If aluminum is used for flashing, fasten it with aluminum nails and paint. 7. Insure proper ventilation to prevent condensation. 8. P r o v i d e a d e q u a t e anchorage for the roofing material to guard against wind and water damage. 9. Check seams of metal roofs and keep metal surfaces painted except for copper roofs, which are protected Simple porch columns and by their patinas. These porch steps are railings are recommended for 10. Use metal fasteners on appropriate designs for vernacular dwellings such as metal roofs that are rebuilding stairs on older on this rebuilt porch (714 San compatible with the roofing houses or for new construction Fernando Street). material. (115 Estrada Street).

11. If supporting material has ing and exterior materials deteriorated below a slate with materials that match the or cement-tile roof, historic materials. See the carefully remove and retain guidelines for wood or the tiles, repair the masonry for detailed repair supports, and reinstall the information. tiles using copper nails to 4. Repair stucco by removing nail slate tiles to the roof. loose material and patching 12. If solar panels, skylights, with a new material that is The use of wood shingle roofs as rooftop satellite dishes, or similar in composition, a replacement material is appro- other modern roof elements colors, and texture. priate for contributing dwellings are installed, locate them 5. Replace historic siding and (910 San Fernando Street). out of public view. Use the shingles only as required and smallest satellite dish with materials that match the possible. original as closely as possible. 6. If historic siding was removed or covered prior to the adoption of design guidelines or becomes damaged beyond the reasonably possibility of repair, the use of synthetic replacement siding may be permitted. 7. If synthetic siding is used, Original roof shapes should be choose siding that most retained (808 San Fernando closely matches the shape, Street). size, profile, and texture of wood siding. Hardboard Retain roof features like gable products such as smooth dormers (714 San Fernando cementitious siding are Street). preferable to vinyl or aluminum siding. Vinyl SIDING siding is not permitted. 8. If feasible, remove synthetic 1. Retain and maintain historic siding and restore the siding and exterior materials. historic siding material. Metal roofs are also appropri- 2. Nail warped or loose shingles ate replacement materials (919 back in place. White Street). 3. Repair damaged historic sid- 41

WINDOWS

1. Retain and maintain 6. Reuse serviceable window historic windows. hardware and locks. 2. Patch, paint, putty, and 7. Retain historic blinds or weatherstrip historic shutters. windows as needed in 8. If new blinds or shutters order to restore them to are installed, the preferred their original conditions. d e s i g n a r e t h o s e See guidelines for wood for constructed of wood, sized more detailed repair and installed like historic information. working ones that are 3. Replace historic windows operable. only if they are damaged 9. Use storm windows that beyond reasonable repair. are white or painted to A good test for condition is match the window trim. to jab the sill or bottom rail 10. Use storm windows that Original wood siding at 808 of the frame with an ice are full-view or with San Fernando Street. pick; if the pick penetrates internal elements that more than half an inch into match those of the the wood, the frame may windows. require replacement. 11. Do not change the number, 4. If replacement of historic location, size, or glazing windows is required, use pattern of windows by replacements that closely cutting new openings, match the historic windows blocking in windows, or in size, type, and material. installing replacement 5. For energy conservation, sashes that do not fit the add storm windows rather historic openings. than replacing the historic 12. Do not use bars in window with substitute windows visible from the windows. If the majority of street. windows are beyond 13. Do not use snap-in or flush reasonable repair, wood muntins. windows should be replaced with wood windows to match the Preserve original wood original. shingle siding such as at 818 San Fernando Street.

Recommendations: WOOD - Improve the thermal 1. Follow the guidelines for performance of existing paint to help prevent windows and doors through moisture damage to all adding or replacing weather wood surfaces. stripping and adding storm 2. Remove vegetation that windows which are compatible grows closely to wood. with the character of the 3. El i mi nat e e xc e ss i ve building and which do not moisture problems by damage window frames. repairing leaking roofs, - Awnings should be gutters, and downspouts. historically appropriate and Secure or replace loose or consistent with the architectural deteriorated flashing and style and period of the building. insure proper ventilation. Awnings should follow the 4. Recaulk where rainwater lines of window or door might penetrate a building. Above: Original two-over-two opening they are intended to These areas include wood sash window (808 San cover. junctions of dissimilar materials or construction Fernando Street). Avoid: joints such as siding and Below: The window screens are - Installing heating/air corner boards. Remove old difficult to see, allowing for full conditioning units in window caulk and dirt before -view of the original six-over- frames when the sash and recaulking. Refrain from six wood sash window (902 frames may be damaged. caulking under individual Ladies Street). Window installations should be s i d i n g b o a r d s o r considered only when all other windowsills. visible heating/cooling systems 5. If wood is beginning to rot, would result in significant dry it thoroughly and treat damage to historic materials. If it with fungicide. Water- installation proves necessary, proof it, then fill any cracks window units should be placed and holes with putty and on secondary elevations not sand. Caulk between the readily visible from public wood members when thoroughfares. necessary, then prime and paint the wood. 6. If wood is partially decayed, fill and strengthen it by applying semi-rigid epoxy into the decayed

wood and allowing it to deteriorated for repair, use CONNECTING harden. Then fill, patch, a circular or hacksaw to ELEMENTS sand, and paint the remove the damaged consolidated wood. Caulk portion as close to the edge Connecting Elements are those between the wood members of the board above as architectural components that when necessary, then prime possible. Then replace the link Principal and Secondary and paint the wood. section with a section or St r uc t ur es . Conne c t i ng 7. If wood boards are split too board that matches the Elements include but are not wide to repair with putty, existing boards in size and restricted to porches, pergolas, pry the crack or split wide profile by nailing it in colonnades, loggias, Florida enough to apply a strong place, countersinking the rooms, breeze•ways, and carports. Additions of exterior glue, then press the nails, puttying the nail connecting elements to sections back together and holes and any cracks, and historic structures must be use finishing nails to hold painting the area. taken on with great care from them together while the both an architectural and glue dries. technical point of view. 8. For convex warped boards, Connecting elements are not drill several holes along the restricted to the 45% maximum centerline of the board. coverage of the building Insert countersunk screw elements in order to maintain (countersink enough so that the “out of doors” lifestyle screw heads end up below present in the town for the surface of the board) generations. and gradually tighten the screws to pull the board flush. Wet the board down during this procedure to avoid splitting. The procedure should be gradual, perhaps even taking days. Original wood shingles at 801 9. For concave warped boards, San Fernando Street. use a row of finishing nails at both the top and bottom edges to pull the edges back down. Countersink the nail heads and fill the holes with putty. 10. When a portion of a wooden board is too

SITE FEATURES 8. Ensure that modern conveniences (such as TV 1. Retain and maintain his- dishes, HVAC units, ADA toric fences and walls. ramps) are out of public view 2. Construct new fences and or are adequately screened. walls using materials that predominated historically or that visually match these materials. Wood or metal for new fences and stone for new walls are generally appropriate materials. Vinyl fences are not permitted Appropriate screening of per the LDC. HVAC unit (715 San Fernando 3. Paint new wooden fences to Street). complement their adja-

cent houses. New wood fences in front yards should Appropriate wood picket fence be less than four feet tall design at 807 White Street.

and with pickets set less than three inches apart and less than four inches in width. 4. New metal fences should be less than four feet tall. 5. Use solid wood board fences in back yards only. Construct them to be less than six feet tall and paint them to blend with the building. 6. Chain link, split or horizontal rail, railroad tie, or timber fences are Modern additions such as discouraged, especially This privacy fence is an decks or satellite dishes should where in public view. appropriate location and design in the back yard of 902 be placed on rear elevations 7. Decks should be located on (215 Amelia Street). rear elevations out of San Fernando Street. public view, as they are not historic features.

3.11 Relocating Buildings demolition. This is particularly moved building, select a setting true with regard to buildings compatible with the original. Relocating a building is a whose significance is primarily Consider the age of the last resort to avoid demolition. architectural. There are several surrounding buildings, their F r o m a p r e s e r v a t i o n criteria to be considered when height, mass, materials, perspective, relocating a reviewing a proposal to move a setback, and architectural building has many negative building to a new site. They are detailing. consequences. First, the context essentially the same as those of the building is lost. The for compatible infill. The built - Properly locate the moved a s s o c i a t i o n w i t h t h e environment for the new site building on its new site. Place surrounding natural and built should be similar to the old one the building so that the environment is destroyed. Left in terms of the age of the sur- orientation of its principal behind are sidewalks, retaining rounding buildings, their facade and front and side set- walls, and landscape features height, materials, setback, and backs are compatible with sur- that make each building architectural details. If not rounding buildings. (See 4.1 unique. properly planned and executed, Moreover, many of the a relocated building can be just for more on building character-defining features that as incompatible as a poorly placement.) contribute to the architectural designed infill structure. significance of a building have - Provide a new foundation to be removed or are seriously Recommendations: whose design, height, and damaged as a result of facing materials match those of relocation. These include - Retain the historic the original. Salvage original f o u n d a t i o n s , p o r c h e s , relationship between buildings foundation materials where chimneys, and interior finishes, and streetscape and landscape possible for re-use as a veneer on the new foundation. particularly plaster. Structural features. damage can also result. The loss of a building’s historic - Move a building only when context and many of its there is no alternative to its Avoid: features conflicts with Standard p r e s e r v a t i o n . P r o v i d e - Relocating a historic building 2. documentation that there is no thus destroying the historic Furthermore, an improperly feasible alternative for relationship between buildings, relocated building can have a preserving a building at its features and open space. negative impact on the setting historic location. of existing buildings in a new location. Side and front - Relocating a building not - To mitigate the impact of the setback, orientation, scale, threatened by demolition. mass, and individual features of relocation, move the building existing building should be to an existing vacant lot within - Relocating a building outside considered when choosing an the historic district in which it a historic district. appropriate site. is located.

Despite the negatives, relocation is preferable to - In choosing a new site for a

- Destruction or alteration of complex can be removed. review and should be done on a significant features, structures There are several factors to case by case basis. or archaeological sites at the consider in the removal of such new location. components. These include Recommendations: whether the components are - Improperly locating a secondary structures; lack - Approval for any demolition building on its new site so that historical, engineering, or ar- of a primary building or its orientation and front and chitectural significance; do not structure (contributing or non- side setbacks are incompatible comprise a major portion of a contributing) located within a with surrounding buildings. historical site; or the absence of locally designated historic persuasive evidence to show district or the CRA shall be - Placing the building on a new that retention of the submitted by the property foundation whose design and components is not technically owner to the HDC. materials are incompatible with or economically feasible. Demolition of non- the original. Examples include - No building or structure in a slab foundations or unfinished significant additions may also be appropriate. Demolition may locally designated historic concrete blocks. district or the CRA shall be be undertaken if the addition is less than fifty years old, does demolished without approval by the HDC, unless by a 3.12 Demolition not exhibit stylistic details or f i n e w o r k m a n s h i p o r superseding order of a Demolition exerts a mate•rials, was added after the government agency or a court negative impact on a historic period of significance of the of competent jurisdiction. district. Eliminating a building building or district; is so from a streetscape is like deteriorated it would require - Certificate of Approvals for pulling teeth. Either a reconstruction; or obscures demolition applications are to conspicuous void is created, or earlier significant features. be heard in accordance with the replacement is usually less Avoid demolition of HDC hearing requirements for well-designed and constructed significant outbuildings and Certificate of Approval than the original. additions. Carriages houses and applications and noticed in In some insta nces, garages can be significant a c c or d a nc e wi t h C i t y demolition may be appropriate components of building requirements for public and may even enhance a complexes. Many buildings in hearings. a district have had additions, historic district, building, or new ornament, storefronts, site. Non-historic buildings - Requests for demolition must porches, windows, wings, and whose designs are not in follow the additional guidelines character with its surroundings additional stories. These set forth in the LDC. can be removed with no changes might have gained negative impact. Likewise, significance in their own right under certain circumstances, and should be retained under non-historic or non-significant Standard 4. Assessing components of a building significance of later additions requires careful professional

Recommendations:

- Identify, retain, and preserve buildings which are important in defining the overall historic character of a historic district or neighborhood. - Retain the historic relationship between buildings and landscape and streetscape features. - Remove non-significant buildings, additions, or site features which detract from the historic character of a site or the surrounding district or neighborhood.

Avoid: There are currently numerous vacant lots in the Old Town - Removing buildings which district. are important in defining the overall historic character of a district or neighborhood so that the character is diminished.

- Removing historic buildings thus destroying the historic relationship between buildings, features and open space.

- Removing a historic building in a complex, a building feature, or significant later addition which is important in defining the historic character of a site or the surrounding district or neighborhood.

3.13 Accessibility requirements as opposed to - Provide barrier-free access adding or making accessibility through removable or portable, The Americans with Disa- changes. Details of ADA rather than permanent, ramps. bilities Act (ADA) extends requirements can be found comprehensive civil rights to through a qualified building or - Design new or additional individuals with disabilities. design professional. means of access that are Historic properties, including compatible with the historic buildings, sites, and landscapes, Recommendations: property and its setting. are not exempt from the ADA and must comply with its - Review the historical - If providing barrier-free regulations. However, as with significance of a property and access threatens the integrity of other alterations, historic identify character-defining a historic property, consult the properties can generally be features. SHPO about using the made accessible while a l t e r n a t i v e m i n i m u m preserving their architectural - Assess the property’s existing requirements. character through careful and required level of planning and sensitive design. accessibility. Avoid: M o d i f i c a t i o n s f o r accessibility should be - Evaluate accessibility options - Designing new or additional compatible with the property within a preservation context. means of access without under Standard 9 and reversible under Standard 10. They - Comply with barrier-free considering the impact on the should be in scale with the access requirements in such a historic property and its setting. property, visually compatible in manner that character-defining terms of their design and spaces, features, and finishes - Altering, damaging, or materials, but be differentiated are preserved. destroying character defining from the original. They should spaces, features, and finishes be reversible so that if removed - Work with local disability while making modifications to in the future, the essential form groups, access specialists, and a building or site to comply and integrity of the property historic preservation specialists with barrier free access. would be unimpaired. to determine the most Q u a l i f i e d h i s t o r i c appropriate solution to access -Installing permanent ramps properties include properties problems. that damage or diminish listed in or eligible for listing in character defining spaces. the National Register of - Provide barrier-free access Historic Places and those that promotes independence for - P r o v i d i n g a c c e s s designated under state or local the disabled person to the modifications that do not law. Owners of qualified highest degree practicable, provide a reasonable balance properties must first consult while preserving significant between independent, safe with the State Historic Preser- historic features. vation Officer (SHPO) or a access and preservation of historic features. preservation specialist before using the alternative minimum

CHAPTER 4: DESIGN GUIDELINES FOR NEW CONSTRUCTION

50 CHAPTER 4—BUILDING TYPOLOGY: NEW RESIDENTIAL CONSTRUCTION

4.1 The Importance of intended for the development apartments, workshops, Building Setting and and maintenance of single- gazebos and storage facilities. Placement family residence dwellings and New primary structures are their customary accessory uses required to front the street Proper placement of on the same lot. Limited directly and have a five-foot buildings within the lots and neighborhood commercial uses setback on all street edges. The blocks is essential to maintain may be allowed in the OT-2 mass of buildings will help the the historic character of Old district. The OT-1 and OT-2 streets appear as a distinct Town. The spatial relationship visible space as one moves z o n i n g h a s s p e c i f i c of all buildings, from a main through the town. Given the requirements for building residence to a garden shed, absence of sidewalks in Old creates a pattern of solids and coverage and placement to Town, buildings will appear to voids that directly affects the respect the original grid pattern be set back further into the lots appearance, use and public of the peonia and media than a community with memory of Old Town. peonias. sidewalks and raised curbs like Changing the pattern of The Building Placement downtown Fernandina Beach. building placement can Guidelines help maintain a Minimal setbacks within the drastically change the character balance between density and a blocks called “lot visibility of a town. The current LDC sense of vacancy and openness corridors” create spaces calls for a five-foot setback, for that has been a part of life in between private property and example, which reflects the Old Town for over two maintain the visibility of the historic pattern in Old Town. hundred years. historic lot divisions as more The density of buildings in The placement guidelines residents move into town. the town has not changed outlined in this section are appreciably since its founding based on a careful study of in 1811. The current lack of placement patterns of existing density is one of the appealing buildings in Old Town, related things about Old Town, but towns with Spanish origins significant new construction such as St. Augustine, Florida will change this pattern forever. and Spanish Town in Jamaica Old Town is not a period (a town having a Law of the museum piece, but a town Indies Grid overlaid with Geor- where growth and change is a gian buildings), a survey of natural process. small towns in North Florida, Old Town has been zoned and principles of small town OT-1 and OT-2, and has a high design provided by the Small -density residential future land Town Designbook (1981, James use designation. The OT-1 and F. Barker, et. al). The building placement OT-2 districts are intended to guidelines apply to all protect the unique historic structures including primary features of the single-family buildings and out buildings residential areas. They are such as garages, garage

4.2 General Approach to New Residential Construction

In the following sections, guidelines covering the basic design of new residential buildings and sites will be discussed. The major emphasis, aside from building placement in the historic plan, is on appropriate scale and construction rather than appropriate architectural styles. Building form is discussed in the context of building typology rather than a r c h i t e c t u r a l s t y l e s . Typological discussions concentrate on the architectural elements that make a building compatible with the context of Old Town. Variances may be granted on the basis of LDC criteria. These guidelines do not supersede existing codes covering health and safety issues. This dwelling at 1010 Someruelos was designed with a stucco and wood exterior, hipped roof and porches on the main façade. Its 4.3 Building Elements overall design is compatible with the historic architecture in the Building Elements are sub- district. divided into Primary Build- ings and Out Buildings. A Primary Building is defined as the principal unit of occupation. In Old Town, this usually refers to a private dwelling unit due to the residential nature of the town. This definition also applies to appropriate commercial or institutional buildings allowed under the LDC.

Out Buildings are Since the buildings in Old Detached outbuildings are ancillary to the primary Town are few in number and encouraged over attached ones. structure in size and degree of generally not “historic” by Detached garages and other occupation. Out Buildings may formal definitions, this section accessory buildings are more be attached by Connecting presents a set of design historically accurate. Garages Elements (recommended with principles that may apply to should not be built into a details covered in the next many different styles. The primary structure. The general section) or remain detached. reader will find that much of consensus in the Old Town Out Buildings include, but are the discussion centers on neighborhood is for detached not limited to, garage careful placement onto the garages versus designed garage apartments, garages, storage Spanish Plan both in plan and space below principal living elevation. space. sheds, greenhouses, workshops, During the period of Old gazebos, and playhouses. T o w n’ s f ou n di n g a n d This section covers the subsequent occupation, many connection of buildings to the building strategies were ground, building heights, roof practiced. Although little forms, massing relationships of evidence remains from the Building Elements, and the period of record, building integration of Connecting traditions from New Spain, the Elements to achieve diversity. American Colonies of the Setting and Landscape South, and the Caribbean are Elements are addressed in tapped as resources in this Chapter 5. guide. The lessons of these New outbuildings in Old Town T he t e r m Bui l di ng modest domestic and public are most often garages which Typology refers to the orderly buildings demonstrate an can be two-stories such as 715 arrangement of all architectural inventive use of local materials, San Fernando Street (above) and landscape components. careful consideration of climate or one-story as at 801 White This term is used here instead (largely due to the fact they did Street (below). of style in order to emphasize not have air conditioning) and the spatial characteristics of a attention to construction structure in the historic plan, details. In contemporary rather than its surface culture, where air conditioning appearance. Detailed studies of is expected and materials can style are appropriate in historic be purchased from anywhere in districts such as nearby the world, the traditional downtown Fernandina Beach restrictions of place are less due to a more consistent influential. architectural fabric.

4.4 Residential Building contemporary design does not color, material, and character of Design have to imitate demolished or adjacent buildings and their Old Town has remained in extant buildings to be historic setting. a steady state since 1821. The successful. Rather, it picks up The following general influx of new residents significant themes, such as criteria are used for the review attracted by the casual height, materials, roof form, of new construction including environment of the area and massing, setbacks, and the additions to historic properties. currently inexpensive land rhythm of openings to insure values will inevitably bring that a new building fits with its Follow Existing Zoning: different lifestyles and context. New construction must construction ideas to the While the Secretary of the conform to the OT-1 and community. The tendency to Interior’s Standards are OT-2 requirements as set apply contemporary building oriented toward rehabilitation f or t h i n t he L a nd practices geared towards larger of existing historic buildings, Development Code. scale developments is an Standards 2, 3, and 9 apply to anathema to the subtle new construction in historic Placement on the Grid: characteristics of Old Town. districts and near individual Normally referred to as Even the excellent examples of landmarks. Under Standard 2 setbacks: the careful nineteenth-century architecture the setting of historic buildings location of buildings on the in downtown Fernandina Beach should be preserved when new historic grid and property are often too large and construction is undertaken. The lines is one of the key elaborate for this small relationship of the new elements to designing in community. construction to adjacent context within Old Town. New construction poses a buildings, landscape features, Setbacks are the distances a special problem for historic streetscape features and open buildings are located from districts because its design, spaces should be considered. property lines. Buildings in materials, scale, massing, and New construction adjacent to historic districts often share setbacks have often been out of historic buildings can context. In some instances dramatically alter the historic a common front and side compatible design can in fact setting of neighboring setback. Setbacks in Old save money. For example, buildings or the district. Such Town are referred to as “Lot when new construction shares a construction should not create a Visibility Corridors.” In common setback with historic false sense of historical locating new buildings, the buildings located close to a development through the use of front, side, rear and street edge, water and sewer conjectural features or stylistic mid block setbacks should connections are less expensive. elements drawn from other be maintained. In addition, reduced land cost buildings under Standard 3. of smaller lots translates to Under Standard 9 new more affordable housing. construction is appropriate as Sound planning and design long as it does not destroy can reinforce and respect the significant historic features, existing patterns of a historic including designed landscapes, d i s t r i c t . S u c c e s s f u l and complements the size,

Lot Coverage: Lot coverage is another important visual quality. This often results in common sized buildings and a characteristic rhythm of built versus open space on a site. The total building coverage on one peonia shall not exceed 45% of the lot. Building Massing: Most buildings in Old Town are simple in plan and maintain a hierarchy of primary structure and out buildings. Buildings grow in a “piece-meal fashion,” i.e., through the addition of simple volumes. Height: The height of buildings i n O l d T o w n v a r i e s considerably. Most districts, particularly at the block level, are similar. The height of new construction should be compatible with surrounding historic buildings but cannot exceed 35’ (thirty-five feet). Proportion of openings: Climate: New construction Window openings in historic should be built in keeping with districts often share similar the climate of north Florida. size, spacing, and shape. On The use of tall floor to ceiling many buildings, particularly the heights, large porches and Colonial Revival and other verandas, wide roof eaves, and classically inspired styles, they the plantings of shade trees on are stacked with a narrow space southern exposures are all between them. Other styles, desirable elements for new con- particularly the Queen Anne, struction. exhibit randomly placed openings.

Roof Forms and Surfaces: are particularly subject to Roofs are highly visibly change. In Florida the most components of historic common original roofing buildings in Florida. They are materials were embossed or an integral part of a building’s crimped sheet metal and sawn overall design and often help wood shingles. Virtually all define its architectural style. original wood shingle Roof forms comprise an coverings have been removed important part of streetscapes and often replaced with in historic districts throughout ornamental sheet metal. Florida and create a unified rhythm with neighboring Recommendations: buildings. The most numerous - Design new construction with residential roof types in the simple roof forms with time state are gable, hip, or a tested detailing. Preferred combination. Other common examples stem from historical examples are pyramidal, forms that have emerged from gambrel, and clipped gable the climatic, cultural and (jerkinhead). Flat roofs with material influences of the parapets pre•dominate in region. commercial districts. - Replace deteriorated roof Similar roof form and pitch are surfacing with matching characteristics of buildings in materials or new materials, many historic buildings. such as composition shingles, Although not of consistent tabbed asphalt shingles, or pattern, nearly all residential metal in shades that match the buildings in Old Town have original in composition, size, simple pitched roofs, with shape, color, and texture. gable or hip the predominate - Install mechanical and types. Gambrel, pyramidal and service equipment, transform- clipped gable (jerkinhead) are ers, or solar collectors when Above: Various roof forms in also found in various required for the new use so that combinations. Commercial they are inconspicuous from plan and section. buildings that are allowed by the public right-of-way. code may have flat roofs with a parapet.

Roofs perform an essential function in keeping a building weathertight. As a result, they

Materials: The predominate important part of the overall Avoid: construction material in Old design of the facade. Town is wood. Other common Historically, lattice, pierced - Designing buildings with slab historic materials are brick and brick, and continuous brick or on grade foundations. stucco. Materials that are other masonry generally compatible in quality, color, constituted infill between - Vinyl lattice/pier infill. texture, finish and dimension to foundation piers. These infill those common to the district materials protected the - Enclosing a pier foundation should be used. underside of a building, with continuous infill that pre- allowed ventilation, and, in vents ventilation and destroys The use of sustainable materials some instances, provided the openness of the feature. in new construction is highly additional decoration. encouraged. Siding materials such as cementitious siding are Pierced brick and lattice appropriate for Florida’s are examples of compatible climate and the smooth finish is contemporary infill. Pierced compatible with the appearance continuous brick infill, a of wood siding. Vinyl siding is pattern of bricks laid with air not a sustainable material and is space between the end surfaces, discouraged in the district. can easily be added to a Other materials such as recy- f o u n d a t i o n , p r o v i d i n g cled roof shingles, bamboo and ventilation, continuous support other renewable products to the sill plates, and a historic The new dwelling at 807 White should be considered when appearance. Lattice infill can Street was designed with a pier planning and designing a new be purchased in prefabricated foundation infilled with lattice building in the district. panels and installed between panels. masonry piers. Square criss- cross lattice infill is also an appropriate infill material. Foundations: Most historic buildings in Old Town and Recommendations: throughout Florida rest on raised masonry foundations, - Raise new construction above either continuous foundation the ground on piers or continu- walls or piers. Although brick ous foundations. is the most common material, there are also numerous examples of other foundation -Maintain open spaces between types, including beveled and piers. rock-faced concrete block, and coquina. Some buildings, particularly Bungalows, feature foundation elements as an

Windows and Shutters: The placement, design, and materials of windows is a significant part of the architectural character of a building. Common historic windows in Florida are double hung sash in a 1/1, 2/2, 6/6 multi-light pattern. The rhythm of window and door openings is an important part of the character of buildings in Florida. Factors to consider include the size and number of historic windows in relationship to a wall surface The use of “bahama” shutters Muntins: It is recommended and their pattern of repetition; o n n e w d w e l l i n g s i s their overall design and detail- that window muntins are raised appropriate as at 919 San rather than flush or snap-in. ing; their proximity to ground Fernando Street (above). level and key entrances; and Double-hung sash windows are Awnings: Canvas awnings their visibility, particularly on recommended in the historic key elevations. were sometimes featured on district for new dwellings as buildings in Florida. They are seen at 820 Someruelos Street functional, decorative, and (below). appropriate to the many historic b u i l d i n g s p a r t i c u l a r l y Mediterranean style buildings, bungalow, and commercial buildings. New awnings should

be of compatible contemporary design. They should follow the lines of the window opening. Round or bell shaped are appropriate for Mediterranean

styled buildings. Angled,

rectangular canvas awnings are

most appropriate for flat head- ed windows and storefronts. Fiberglass and metal awnings and awnings that obscure significant detailing are inappropriate.

Connecting Elements: Connecting Elements are those architectural components that link Principal and Secondary Structures with each other or act as a transition to the l a n d s c a p e . C o n n e c t i n g Elements are considered to be enclosed spaces that are not permanently conditioned. Connecting Elements create openness and give human scale to the Building Elements and Porches are used as connecting allow owners to take advantage elements for new construction. of the climate. Connecting Above is a connected two-story elements are not restricted to porch at 919 San Fernando Street the 45% maximum coverage of (above) and a wraparound porch the building elements in order at 1016 San Fernando Street to maintain the “out of doors” (below). lifestyle present in the town for generations.

Connecting Elements include but are not restricted to p o r c h e s , p e r g o l a s , colonnades, loggias, Florida rooms, breeze•ways, and carports. The design of Connecting Elements must be compatible with the typology and scale of the Building Elements, but these elements can take on many inventive forms to achieve this result.

This 2001 dwelling was designed with a large porch on the main façade and wide eaves (115 Estrada Street).

The materials and design of this two- story dwelling at 807 White Street are appropriate for the climate of north Florida.

4.5 Lot Visibility Corridors The term Visibility Corridor is used in place of “setbacks” to emphasize the spatial effect of building placement. Careful siting of properly scaled building elements on a lot ensures that the historic lot divisions remain visible regardless of the architectural style or number of buildings that exist within the town at any given time. The Visibility Corridors are subdivided into Frontage Corridors, Sideyard Corridors and Mid-Lot Corridors. Visibility corridors per block. 4.6 Frontage Corridors The Frontage Corridor is a lot line with a minimum setback of five feet. Connecting or Landscape Elements should be built to the zero lot line. This encourages their use to define the private space of the lot and the public space of the street. Out Buildings may not be located on the frontage portion of peonias or the corner media peonia lots.

Frontage corridors.

4.7 Sideyard Corridors A required minimum 5’ space separating lots on the north-south orientation is called a Sideyard Corridor. If two or more adjacent properties are owned, then the c o r r i d o r d i me n s i o n s a r e cumulative. Principal and Out Buildings may not cross lot lines without the use of an open space or Connecting Element that maintains the dimensions of the Sideyard Corridor.

4.8 Mid-Lot Corridors Mid-Lot Corridors make the historic lot division visible along the east-west orientation. Mid-Lot Sideyard corridors. Corridors on frontage lots make the media peonia lots visible and are required regardless of ownership. On interior peonia lots, this corridor appears at mid-block. If an aggregate of peonias extends from street to street, a visibility corridor shall be present in the design of the buildings indicating the mid block dimension. Principal and Out Buildings may not cross lot lines without the use of an open space or Connecting Element that maintains the dimensions of the Mid-Lot Corridors. Mid-lot corridors.

For example, if an owner holds an entire row of media peonias along a north-south street and plans to build the maximum allowable percentage of lot coverage, then all Building Elements must demonstrate a Mid Lot Visibility Corridor at the lot lines.

4.9 Extensions into the Visibility Corridors Every point of the required Corridors shall be open from its lowest point to the sky unobstructed except for the ordinary projection of sills, belt courses, buttresses, ornamental features, chimneys and eaves provided that none of such projections shall project into a Elevations and photos depicting typical side-yard visibility corri- side yard more than 24”. dors. Connecting Elements such as balconies, and porches or bay windows may also be allowed as projections under these dimensional restrictions. Landscape elements are not covered under this restriction.

4.10 Lot Density - Connecting Elements and Landscape Elements are The total single lot excluded from this calculation coverage of all Building to encourage the design of Elements should not exceed spaces that take advantage of 45%. The term “single lot” the climate. Enclosed square applies to the two historic lot footage is easily expanded by sizes, the peonia (approximate the precise use of Connecting dimensions of 46’-6” x 93’) Elements such as porches, and the media peonia breezeways, and Florida rooms. (approximate dimensions of 46’-6” by 46’-6”). If a property - The number of outbuildings owner holds an assemblage of on a lot is limited by the LDC lots then this figure applies to Section 5.01.03. all lots in their possession. For example, if a property owner holds two adjacent peonias, then the total amount of Media Peonia. Building Elements allowed is still 45% for both lots. This coverage figure helps to insure the openness of Old Town as the town increases in density.

Recommendations

- No more than one primary structure may be placed on a single lot.

- The space between an out building and a primary Peonia. Assembly. structure must be a usable space of no less than 5’. The use of Connecting Elements to link primary and out buildings with indoor-outdoor space is strongly encouraged.

64 BUILDING TYPOLOGY: NEW COMMERCIAL CONSTRUCTION

4.11 General Approach to - Required landscaping and New Commercial tree preservation on the lot. Construction - Designs reflective of The Old Town Historic vernacular 19th century District zoning OT-2 allows for and early 20th century old “ l i mi t e d n e i gh b o r h o o d F l o r i d a c o m me r c i a l commercial development.” buildings such as gable Compatible neighborhood front and false front. These commercial development designs typically have would include corner grocery traditional storefronts, stores, bookstores, retail shops, cornices at the roofline, and churches, professional offices, sash windows. specialty food and gift shops, banks, and other neighborhood services. Any new commercial development would be required to be in accordance with lot coverage, height limits, N e w c o m m e r c i a l setbacks and other stipulations construction should follow to conform to the peonia and media peonia grid pattern. design characteristics of The most compatible v e r nac ul ar Fl or i da neighborhood commercial architecture in order to be development in Old Town compatible with the would follow guidelines historic and infill including the following: residential buildings. The examples of a false front - Frame construction. commercial building (above) and gable front - Heights compatible with commercial building adjacent buildings but no (below) are in the more than 35’ in height. Downtown Fernandina Beach Historic District. - Lot coverage not exceeding 45%.

- Parking at the side or rear of the building.

CHAPTER 5: SETTING AND LANDSCAPE

66 CHAPTER 5—DESIGN GUIDELINES FOR SETTING AND LANDSCAPE

5.1 Fences, Walls and Hedges Fences, walls and hedges can define the private Heights landscape of personal property Recommended fence and and make the plan of the town wall heights are to be visible. A fence or wall proportional to scale and design designed in this manner of building. A fence or wall combines personal expression may be extended in the front and civic order. The term and the rear section if the “fence” generally applies to a construction is integrated into light weight construction of the typology of the primary wood or metal whereas “wall” structure. The OT-1 and OT-2 applies to a more substantial Old Town Zoning allows for a barrier constructed of stone or maximum fence height of four masonry. Hedges are lines of feet (4’) in front yards and six enclosure constructed of feet (6’) in side and rear yards. Appropriate side yard fence at natural material such as shrubs Hedges or trees used to enclose 1010 Someruelos. or flowers. Trees may also be space are not limited to these used to define space in the height restrictions except where landscape. these heights unduly infringe Fences and walls designed to on adjacent properties. permit the passage of light and air are preferred over totally s o l i d c o n s t r u c t i o n . Placement Recommended fence and wall materials are wood, stone, Fences, walls and hedges masonry, and metal used can generally be placed on or separately or in combinations. within the Lot Visibility Fences designed with more than Corridor lines. For example, a t wo ma t eri al s a re not fence may be placed at the recommended. Owner designed street edge of a property solutions are recommended over directly on the zero lot line. pre-manufactured fences such as Owners of adjacent properties “stockade” fencing due to its may share a barrier on the ubiquitous use and lack of property line by mutual detailing. Chain link fencing is agreement. strongly discouraged. Grid wire fencing supported by metal, wood or masonry piers is acceptable if used as a support for plant materials. No vinyl fencing is permitted.

5.2 Parking owners be divided by a fence or line of vegetation. Owners may Driveways are not elect to share an adjacent permitted on the frontage driveway by mutual agreement. portion of any corner lot. This restriction prevents the - Garages are not permitted in dangerous congestion of the front section of lots. intersections and maintains the pedestrian character of the - Carports and port-cocheres town. should be at the side or rear of Driveways shall not be constructed of non-porous a building. surfaces such as asphalt or concrete. This restriction is due - Asphalt and other non-porous to the historic rural character of materials are prohibited for all the town that traditionally has road surfaces within the sand, dirt or crushed shell road historic district including surfaces. private drive ways and parking surfaces. - Preferred parking surfaces for driveways and vehicle-parking surfaces are crushed shell, - No side walks or surfacing of gravel, sand, grass-block, sand the right of way is allowed. The finished brick, stone, wood public right of way should timbers, wood chips or grass. remain green and filled with The public road surfacing trees as much as possible. All serves as an example of a utilities should be placed under sustainable solution to the ground to allow more full New driveways in the district problem of street resurfacing. development of tree canopies should be of crushed shell or and prevent damage during gravel such as 820 Someruelos - Side by side drives are storms. Street. discouraged regardless of aggregate ownership of lots. The reason for these - No fences or walls are restrictions is to prevent the allowed in this public area. domination of the street by Connections of private property space and construction to the street through the right of allocated for vehicles. It is way should be minimal. recommended that side by side driveways of adjacent properties held by different

68 5.3 Protected + Heritage Trees

The protection of native trees enhances the historical appearance of the district. Existing mature growth trees important to the City’s tree canopy are protected and maintained to the fullest extent possible. A tree may not be Before lots are developed for Landscaping and trees added to removed if it is a protected tree new construction, a review of the residential lots should be or a heritage tree. Protected tree cover and appropriate consistent with existing trees are those of a removal will be required. landscaping and tree cover. circumference of five inches or greater, in healthy condition, and not on the list of prohibited mechanical, chemical, and 5.4 Public Streetscape or invasive species. A heritage excavating injuries. A tree The visual appeal of a tree is one that the City protection zone shall be streetscape includes the designates as irreplaceable due established around each tree at location, size, and style of to its size, age, and historic, a radius relating to its drip line. paving materials, lighting, and a e s t he t i c , o r c u l t u r a l No activity shall occur within a significance. A heritage tree signs. In Old Town, the street tree protection zone, and root surface of choice is crushed, may not be removed except by systems shall also be protected specific authorization from the compacted shell. This ground against damage. surface both evokes the historic City Commission. A permit is required to appearance and allows for penetration of rainfall, remove a protected tree. At the preventing run-off and pooling property owner’s expense, a certified arborist may need to water on streets. provide written notice of the Street signs are a uniform need for removal. Removal design and color. Their location permits will be allowed for a and design indicate the area protected tree that is diseased encompassed in the district. or insect-infested, is a hazard to Any future street improvements traffic or structures, or prevents in Old Town should promote access to a lot. the historic character of the Removed trees must be neighborhood. replaced with approved species to maintain a net zero loss. All development activity shall take protective measures to avoid the damage of trees from

69 5.5 Bosque Bello Cemetery

T h e B o s q u e B e l l o Cemetery was established in 1798 and the original section of the cemetery is within the Old Town Historic District boundary. This section of the cemetery is distinguished by its older headstones, mortuary art and large shade trees. This original character should be maintained and guidelines created as needed. Cemetery r e s t or a t i o n s h oul d b e undertaken as needed. Such restoration should be consistent with standards set forth in the publication “Florida’s Historic Cemeteries: A Preservation Handbook” and policies in the City Comprehensive Plan.

A section of the Bosque Bello Cemetery is within the Old Town Historic District boundary.

The Bosque Bello Cemetery contains some of the oldest headstones and monuments in the city (above and right).

70 5.6 Maintaining and Repair- ing the Grid

In the aerial photograph of Old Town taken in 2009, the Spanish Grid plan is still visible despite the many irregularities found at ground level. The grid is the main historical feature of the town and its preservation is of utmost importance. In the following section, four proposals for repairing the grid are presented. Each tolerance level presents a different degree of flexibility in accommodating existing con•ditions. In all tolerance levels, the road surface of choice is crushed shell compacted and held in place by a ribbon curb system. I t i s s t r o n g l y recommended that all electrical utilities be buried to eliminate visual clutter and allow the tree Map of the Spanish Grid, Old Town. This map is from the 1999 canopy to encompass the streets. guidelines and does not accurately reflect the lot orientation on blocks surrounding the plaza. The 1811 plat of Old Town on page three more accurately represents the plaza lots.

Aerial photograph showing the original grid design of Old Town, 2009.

By holding alterations to The miradors, or river the street grid and public rights overlooks, located at the ends of way to an absolute of all east-west streets are minimum, the geometry of the suggested as a public works grid, block proportions and projects connecting the streets public rights of way are to the waters edge. The design maintained. This strict regimen of these structures can be reinforces the discipline of the undertaken as a design compe- Law of the Indies plan but tition. The structures should be provides a neutral background minimal and elegant allowing for the individuality of private views of the river and the town. property. All rights of ways No development of the water previously closed or left front lots is recommended. undeveloped are returned to Erosion of the west slope of the public use in this scheme. The town is significant. Mitigation termination of all east-west of this problem is strongly rec- roads at a precise location re- ommended. calls the memory of Marine Street (long since eroded) which ran north-south along the Amelia River side of the Plaza. The existing asphalt road surfacing on White Street and Estrada Street is to be removed and replaced with crushed shell as per other streets. All road widths are held to eighteen feet with non-radius corners.

LOW TOLERANCE

73 HIGH TOLERANCE

This scheme allows maximum accommodation of existing conditions without sacrificing the abstract precision of the grid. The existing asphalt road surfaces are allowed to remain both as a cost saving measure and a record of the town’s development. Other streets are resurfaced using crushed shell. South Estrada and parts of Amelia and Commandant Streets are bermed to prevent erosion in these steeper areas. Grade level pads of stone, brick or grass block mark the intersections of all streets. The dimensions of these pads also mark the boundaries of the public right of ways. Bollard style street poles are located on these pads identifying street names and illuminating the intersections at night with pools HIGH TOLERANCE of light. At the river ends of the east-west streets are miradors, or river overlooks. New and Ladies Streets lead to a tiny park containing locally designed art.

74 MEDIUM LOW TOLERANCE

This level retains the rigor of the Low Tolerance Level but a d j u s t s f o r p r a c t i c a l requirements. For example, radius corners that conform to Department of Transportation standards are allowed as well as twenty-foot street widths. Notice that the miradors proposed in the High Tolerance scheme are retained, but reduced to a minimum size.

MEDIUM LOW TOLERANCE

75 MEDIUM HIGH TOLERANCE

In both the Medium High and Medium Low Tolerance levels, strong emphasis is placed on the intersection of the streets using the system shown in the high tolerance level. Historic facts or oral history quotations can be added to the surface of these pads so that walking the town becomes a lesson in local history.

MEDIUM HIGH TOLERANCE

76 APPENDIX A— TECHNICAL DEFINITIONS

Adaptive Use Rehabilitation of a historic structure for use other than its original use such as a residence converted into offices.

Addition New construction added to an existing building or structure.

Alteration Work which impacts any exterior architectural feature including construction, reconstruction, repair, or removal of any building element.

Building A structure used to house human activity such as a dwelling or garage.

Character The qualities and attributes of any structure, site, street or district.

Configuration The arrangement of elements and details on a building or structure which help to define its character.

Contemporary Reflecting characteristics of the current period. Contemporary denotes characteristics which illustrate that a building, structure, or detail was constructed in the present or recent past rather than being imitative or reflective of a historic design.

Compatible In harmony with location and surroundings.

Context The setting in which a historic element, site, structure, street, or district exists.

Demolition Any act which destroys in whole or in part a building or structure.

Demolition by Neglect The destruction of a building or structure through abandonment or lack of maintenance.

Design Guidelines Criteria developed to identify design concerns in an area and to help property owners ensure that rehabilitation and new construction respect the character of designated buildings and districts.

Element A material part or detail of a site, structure, street, or district.

Elevation Any one of the external faces or facades of a building.

Fabric The physical material of a building, structure, or community, connoting an interweav- ing of component parts.

77 Facade Any one of the external faces or elevations of a building.

Harmony Pleasing or congruent arrangement.

Height The distance from the bottom to the top of a building or structure.

Historic District A geographically definable area with a significant concentration of buildings, structures, sites, spaces, or objects unified by past events, physical development, design, setting, materials, workmanship, sense of cohesiveness or related historical and aesthetic associations. The significance of a district may be recognized through listing in a local, state, or national landmarks register and may be protected legally through enactment of a local historic district ordinance administered by a historic district board or commission.

Historic Imitation New construction or rehabilitation where elements or components mimic an architectural style but are not of the same historic period as the existing buildings (historic replica).

Infill New construction in historic districts on vacant lots or to replace existing buildings.

Landmark A building, structure, object or site which is identified as a historic resource of particular significance.

Landscape The totality of the built or human-influenced habitat experienced at any one place. Dominant features are topography, plant cover, buildings, or other structures and their patterns.

Maintain To keep in an existing state of preservation or repair.

Material Change A change that will affect either the exterior architectural or environmental features of an historic property or any structure, site, or work of art within an historic district.

New Construction Construction which is characterized by the introduction of new elements, sites, buildings, or structures or additions to existing buildings and structures in historic areas and districts.

Obscured Covered, concealed, or hidden from view.

Preservation Generally, saving from destruction or deterioration old and historic buildings, sites, structures, and objects and providing for their continued use by means of restoration, rehabilitation, or adaptive use.

Proportion Harmonious relation of parts to one another or to the whole.

Reconstruction The act or process of reproducing by new construction the exact form and detail of a vanished building, structure, or object, or a part thereof, as is appeared at a specific period of time.

Rehabilitation The act or process of returning a property or building to usable condition through repair, alteration, and/or preservation of its features which are significant to its historical, architectural, and cultural values.

Restoration The act or process of accurately taking a building's appearance back to a specific period of time by removing later work and by replacing missing earlier features to match the original.

Retain To keep secure and intact. In the guidelines, "retain" and "maintain" describe the act of keeping an element, detail, or structure and continuing the same level of repair to aid in the preservation of elements, sites and structures.

Re-use To use again. An element, detail, or structure might be reused in historic districts.

Rhythm Movement or fluctuation marked by the regular occurrence or natural flow of related elements.

Scale Proportional elements that demonstrate the size, materials, and style of buildings.

Setting The sum of attributes of a locality, neighborhood, or property that defines its character.

Significant Having particularly important associations within the contexts of architecture, history, and culture.

Stabilization The act or process of applying measures essential to the maintenance of a deteriorated building as it exists at present, establishing structural stability and a weather-resistant enclosure.

Streetscape The distinguishing character of a particular street as created by its width, degree of curvature, paving materials, design of the street furniture, and forms of surrounding buildings.

Style A type of architecture distinguished by special characteristics of structure and ornament and often related in time; also a general quality of a distinctive character.

APPENDIX B—GLOSSARY OF COMMON PRESERVATION TERMS

Addition New construction added to an existing building or structure.

Alteration Work which impacts any exterior architectural feature including construction, reconstruction, or removal of any building or building element.

American bond A brickwork pattern where most courses are laid flat, with the long "stretcher" edge exposed, but every fifth to eighth course is laid perpendicularly with the small "header" end exposes, to structurally tie the wall together.

Apron A decorative, horizontal trim piece on the lower portion of an architectural element.

Arch A curved construction of wedge-shaped stones or bricks which spans an opening and supports the weight above it. (see flat arch, jack arch, segmental arch and semi-circular arch).

Attic The upper level of a building, not of full ceiling height, directly beneath the roof.

Baluster One of a series of short, vertical, often vase-shaped members used to support a stair or porch handrail, forming a balustrade.

Balustrade An entire rail system with top rail and balusters.

Bargeboard A board which hangs from the projecting end of a gable roof, covering the end rafters, and often sawn into a decorative pattern.

Bay The portion of a facade between columns or piers providing regular divisions and usually marked by windows.

Bay window A projecting window that forms an extension to the floor space of the internal rooms; usually extends to the ground level.

Belt course A horizontal band usually marking the floor levels on the exterior facade of a building.

Corinthian order Most ornate classical order characterized by a capital with ornamental acan- thus leaves and curled fern shoots.

80 Cornice The uppermost, projecting part of an entablature, or feature resembling it. Any projecting ornamental molding along the top of a wall, building, etc.

Cresting A decorated ornamental finish along the top of a wall or roof, often made of ornamental metal.

Cross-gable A secondary gable roof which meets the primary roof at right angles.

Dentils A row of small tooth-like blocks in a classical cornice.

Doric order A classical order with simple, unadorned capitals, and with no base.

Dormer window A window that projects from a roof.

Double-hung window A window with two sashes, one sliding vertically over the other.

Eave The edge of a roof that projects beyond the face of a wall.

Elevation Any of the external faces of a building.

Ell The rear wing of a house, generally one room wide and running perpendicular to the primary structure.

Engaged column A column attached to a wall.

Entablature A part of a building of classical order resting on the column capital; consists of an architrave, frieze, and cornice.

Facade The face or front elevation of a building.

Fanlight A semi-circular window usually over a door with radiating muntins suggesting a fan.

Fascia A projecting flat horizontal member or molding; forms the trim of a flat roof or a pitched roof; also part of a classical entablature.

Fenestration The arrangement of windows on a building.

Finial A projecting decorative element, usually of metal, at the top of a roof turret or gable.

Fishscale shingles A decorative pattern of wall shingles composed of staggered horizontal rows of wooden shingles with half-round ends.

81 Flashing Thin metal sheets used to prevent moisture infiltration at joints of roof planes and between the roof and vertical surfaces.

Flat arch An arch whose wedge-shaped stones or bricks are set in a straight line; also called a jack arch.

Flemish bond A brick-work pattern where the long "stretcher" edge of the brick is alternated with the small "header" end for decorative as well as structural effectiveness.

Fluting Shallow, concave grooves running vertically on the shaft of a column, pilaster, or other surface.

Foundation The lowest exposed portion of the building wall, which supports the structure above.

Frieze The middle portion of a classical cornice; also applied decorative elements on an entablature or parapet wall.

Gable The triangular section of a wall to carry a pitched roof.

Gable roof A pitched roof with one downward slope on either side of a central, horizontal ridge.

Gambrel roof A ridged roof with two slopes on either side.

Ghosts Outlines or profiles of missing buildings or building details. These outlines may be visible through stains, paint, weathering, or other residue on a building's facade.

Guardrail A building component or a system of building components located at or near the open sides of elevated walking surfaces that minimizes the possibilities of a fall from the walking surface to a lower level.

Handrail A horizontal or sloping rail intended for grasping by the hand for guidance or support.

Hipped roof A roof with uniform slopes on all sides.

Hood molding A projecting molding above an arch, doorway, or window, originally designed to direct water away from the opening; also called a drip mold.

82 Ionic order One of the five classical orders used to describe decorative scroll capitals.

Infill New construction where there had been an opening before, such as a new building between two older structures; or block infill between porch piers or in an original window opening.

Jack arch (see Flat arch)

Keystone The wedge-shaped top or center member of an arch.

Knee brace An oversize bracket supporting a cantilevered or projecting element.

Lattice An openwork grill of interlacing wood strips used as screening.

Lintel The horizontal top member of a window, door, or other opening.

Luxfer glass A glass panel made up of small leaded glass lights either clear or tinted purple. These panels were widely used for storefront transoms during the early twentieth century.

Mansard roof A roof with a double slope on all four sides, with the lower slope being almost vertical and the upper almost horizontal.

Masonry Exterior wall construction of brick, stone or adobe laid up in small units.

Massing The three-dimensional form of a building.

Metal standing seam roof A roof composes of overlapping sections of metal such as copper- bearing steel or iron coated with a terne alloy of lead and tin. These roofs were attached or crimped together in various raised seams for which the roof are named.

Modillion A horizontal bracket, often in the form of a plain block, ornamenting, or sometimes supporting, the underside of a cornice.

Mortar A mixture of sand, lime, cement, and water used as a binding agent in masonry construction.

Mullion A heavy vertical divider between windows or doors.

Multi-light window A window sash composed of more than one pane of glass.

83 Muntin A secondary framing member to divide and hold the panes of glass in multi-light window or glazed door.

Neo-classical Revival style Early twentieth century style which combines features of ancient, Renaissance, and Colonial architecture; characterized by imposing buildings with large col- umned porches.

Oriel window A bay window which emerges above the ground floor level.

Paired columns Two columns supported by one pier, as on a porch.

Palladian window A window with three openings, the central one arched and wider than the flanking ones.

Paneled door A door composed of solid panels (either raised or recessed) held within a framework of rails and stiles.

Parapet A low horizontal wall at the edge of a roof.

Pediment A triangular crowning element forming the gable of a roof; any similar triangular element used over windows, doors, etc.

Pier A vertical structural element, square or rectangular in cross-section.

Pilaster A square pillar attached, but projecting from a wall, resembling a classical column.

Pitch The degree of the slope of a roof.

Portico A roofed space, open or partly enclosed, forming the entrance and centerpiece of the facade of a building, often with columns and a pediment.

Portland cement A strong, inflexible hydraulic cement used to bind mortar. Mortar or patching materials with a high Portland cement content should not be used on old buildings. The Portland cement is harder than the masonry, thereby causing serious damage over annual freeze -thaw cycles.)

Preservation The act of maintaining the form and character of a building as it presently exists. Preservation stops deterioration and stabilizes the structure.

84 Pressed tin Decorative and functional metalwork made of molded tin used to sheath roofs, bays, and cornices.

Pyramidal roof A roof with four identical sides rising to a central peak.

Quoins A series of stone, bricks, or wood panels ornamenting the outside of a wall.

Reconstruction The accurate recreation of a vanished, or irreplaceably damaged structure, or part thereof; the new construction recreates the building's exact form and detail as they appeared at some point in history.

Rehabilitation The act of returning a building to usable condition through repair, alteration, and/or preservation of its features.

Restoration The process of accurately taking a building's appearance back to a specific period of time by removing later work and by replacing missing earlier features to match the original.

Ridge The top horizontal member of a roof where the sloping surfaces meet.

Rusticated Roughening of stonework of concrete blocks to give greater articulation to each block.

Sash The moveable framework containing the glass in a window.

Segmental arch An arch whose profile or radius is less than a semicircle.

Semi-circular arch An arch whose profile or radius is a half-circle the diameter of which equals the opening width.

Sheathing An exterior covering of boards of other surface applied to the frame of the structure. (see Siding)

Shed roof A gently-pitched, almost flat roof with only one slope.

Sidelight a vertical area of fixed glass on either side of a door or window.

Siding the exterior wall covering or sheathing of a structure.

Sill The bottom crosspiece of a window frame.

Spindles Slender, elaborately turned wood dowels or rods often used in screens and porch trim.

85 APPENDIX C—BIBLIOGRAPHY

Carley, Rachel. The Visual Dictionary of American Domestic Architecture. New York: Henry Holt and Company, LLC, 1994. Evers, Christopher. The Old-House Doctor. Woodstock, New York: The Overlook Press, 1986. Harris, Cyril M., ed. Dictionary of Architecture and Construction. District of Columbia: McGraw Hill, 2000. Kangas, Robert. The Old-House Rescue Book. Reston, Virginia: Reston Publishing Company, 1982. Labine, Clem, ed. Clem Labine's Traditional Building. Brooklyn, New York: Historical Trends Corporation. Litchfield, Michael W. Renovation: A Complete Guide. New York: Wiley, 1982. Longstreth, Richard. The Buildings of Main Street: A Guide to American Commercial Architecture . District of Columbia: The National Trust for Historic Preservation, 1987. McAlester, Virginia and Lee. A Field Guide to American Houses. New York: Alfred A. Knopf, 1984. Morton, W. Brown, III, Gary L. Hume, and Kay D. Weeks. The Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation and Guidelines for Rehabilitating Historic Buildings. 1979. Rev. ed. Washington, D.C.: Technical Preservation Services. U.S. Department of the Interior, 1990. Moss, Roger. Century of Color. Watkins Glen, N.Y.: The American Life Foundation, 1981. Nash, George. Old-houses, A Rebuilder's Manual. Englewood Cliffs, N.J.: Prentiss-Hall, 1980. “Old-House Journal”. Monthly. Old-House Journal Corporation, 435 Ninth Street, Brooklyn, New York, 11215. Park, Sharon D., AIA. The Use of Substitute Materials on Historic Building Exteriors. Preservation Brief no. 16. Washington, D.C.: Technical Preservation Services, U.S. Department of the Interior, 1989. Phillips, Steven J. Old-House Dictionary. Lakewood, Colorado: American Source Books, 1989. Rogers, Michael R. From the Illinois County to the Bayou Teche Country. Fernandina Beach, FL; LA: published by author, 2002. Rypkema, Donovan D. The Economics of Historic Preservation. Washington: The National Trust for Historic Preservation, 1994. Technical Preservation Services, National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior. Respectful Rehabilitation. Washington, D.C.: The Preservation Press, 1982.

86 APPENDIX D - INCENTIVES AND ASSISTANCE FOR REHABILITATION

FEDERAL REHABILITATION TAX CREDITS

Over the past twenty-five years, more than 29,000 buildings have been rehabilitated across the country, generating over $25 billion in private investment in historic buildings nation-wide. In Washington, 29 projects with expenditures totaling $131 million benefited from the Investment Tax Credit (ITC) program between 2000 and 2004. There are two types of ITCs available: 20% for a certified historic structure or 10% for a non-historic structure. Investment Tax Credits are available to the owners or certain long-term renters of income-producing properties.

The 20% ITC reduces the cost of restoration and rehabilitation to the owner of an income producing historic property as an income tax credit. The credit is 20% of what an owner spends rehabilitating the building, not including acquisition costs. To qualify for the 20% Credit: 1. The building must be listed on the National Register of Historic Places, or listed as a contributing structure within a National Register Historic District. 2. The rehabilitation project must meet the "substantial rehabilitation test," which means you must spend the adjusted value of the building or $5000, whichever is greater. The figure is derived by subtracting the value of the land from the cost of the building and land together. 3. After rehabilitation, the structure must be income producing for five years (commercial, rental, B&B). 4. The rehabilitation must meet The Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation and Guidelines for Rehabilitation of Historic Buildings.

To qualify for the 10% credit: 1. The structure must have been built before 1936 and not "historic" (must not be listed or eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places). 2. The structure must retain 50-70% of external walls and 75% of internal walls. 3. The rehabilitation must meet the "substantial rehabilitation test" as in the 20% credit. The structure must be used for five years as income producing but NOT housing. For additional general information on the Investment Tax Credit program, see the National Park Service’s ITC web-site at http://www2.cr.nps.gov/tps/tax/.

LOCAL PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTIONS FOR HISTORIC PROPERTIES

There are two local ad valorem tax exemptions for historic properties in Fernandina Beach.

The first allows for an exemption on City ad valorem taxes only for 50% of the assessed value of a property which meets criteria related to certain commercial or nonprofit uses and historic property status. To qualify, a property must: 1) Be used for a commercial or nonprofit purpose; AND 2) Be listed in the National Register of Historic Places, be a contributing property to a National Register district, or be designated as a contributing property under terms of a local preservation ordinance; AND 3) Be regularly open to the public—minimum of 40 hours per week, 45 weeks a year, or an equivalent of 1800 hours per year. Applications are made through the Nassau County Property Appraisers Office, and are due by March 1st of each year. For more information, please contact (904) 491-7300. This exemption is authorized under § 196.1961, Fla. Stat.

The second is authorized by Section 196.1997 of Florida Statues and allows counties and mu- nicipalities to adopt ordinances allowing a property tax exemption for up to 100% of the increase in assessed improvements resulting from an approved rehabilitation of a qualified historic property. The exemption may remain in effect for up to ten years. The exemption applies only to that portion of the property tax levied by the unit of government granting the exemption. Qualified properties may be residential or commercial and must either be individually listed in the National Register of Historic Places, a contributing building in a National Register District or designated as historic under the provisions of a local preservation ordinance. The rehabilitation work must be in accordance with the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilita- tion and Guidelines for Rehabilitating Historic Buildings. Applications for the property tax exemption are reviewed by the Historic Preservation Officer in Fernandina Beach. To qualify for an exemption a covenant is required for the term of the exemption.

88 APPENDIX E - RESOURCES

Historic District Council (HDC) National Park Service City of Fernandina Beach Southeast Regional Office 204 Ash Street 100 Alabama Street NW Fernandina Beach, FL 32034 1924 Building (904) 310-3135 Atlanta, GA 30303 http://www.fbfl.us/historicdistrict (404) 507-5600 http://www.nps.gov

Florida State Historic Preservation Office National Trust for Historic Preservation Director, Division of Historical Resources Southern Field Office Bureau of Historic Preservation William Aiken House 500 South Bronough Street 456 King Street R.A. Gray Building, Room 305 Charleston, SC 29403 Tallahassee, FL 32399-0250 (843) 722-8552 (800) 847-7278 [email protected] (850) 245-6333 http://preservationnation.org http://www.flheritage.com/