DESIGN GUIDELINES

• Backlit or internally illuminated awnings.

• Avoid harsh or overly bright colored awnings.

• Awnings that are obtrusive in the streetscape or obscure other buildings and their features.

• Awnings constructed from cedar shake, concrete, fiberglass, plastic, aluminum or other non-traditional materials based on the period of the building.

Paint

Paint colors should reflect the period and style of a building and should be used to best enhance the design features of a building. Paint is also an easy way to reflect the owner’s personal style and taste while remaining compatible with the downtown historic district as a whole.

Awnings may be made in a variety of styles, colors and prints, as shown above, to accent and individualize a business’ storefront.

Recommended

• Historically significant awnings and canopies should be preserved and maintained.

• Awnings consisting of a metal frame covered with a weather resistant canvas are generally most appropriate.

• Storefronts and upper façade windows are generally appropriate locations for awnings.

• Use the structural columns/supports and storefront configuration to determine the appropriate width and placement of the awning.

Not Recommended

• Wood framed canopies (often with asphalt or wood shake shingles).

• Bubble, concave, convex or barrel vaulted awning.

Recommended

• Use of manufacturer’s paint recommendations for compatible paint colors representative of a particular period of construction.

• Consider lead paint hazards prior to any paint removal and adhere to Federal, State and local regulations for appropriate removal and disposal requirements.

• Maintain the surfaces of buildings that have historically been painted.

Not Recommended

• Painting previously unpainted masonry structures, or applying stucco and concrete veneers to previously uncoated structures.

• Removing paint from masonry surfaces historically intended to be painted, such as windows and doors.

• Use of abrasive methods for paint or rust removal.