Franklin Historic District Design Guidelines

DRAFT FRANKLIN HISTORIC DISTRICT DESIGN GUIDELINES 71 chapter 3 Shutters • Preserve and maintain original shutters. • Add shutters only when compatible with the building’s architectural style. • Design new and replacement wood shutters that appear operable and fit the reveal of the window precisely. Awnings • Preserve and maintain historic awnings. • Size and place new awnings in locations that respect the design of the building and do not obscure architectural features or detailing. Awnings should be proportional with and complimentary to nearby buildings and awnings. • Use shed awnings with open ends to allow less obstructed views of storefronts. • Size and place awnings to cover only the storefront display windows or transoms and fit within their openings. • Use an awning shape that matches the opening shape, i.e. rectangular awnings in rectangular openings and arched awnings in arched openings. • Use steel or aluminum frames finished to match the storefront color or the awning fabric color. • The use of canvas storefront awnings is appropriate. Install retractable or fixed canvas, vinyl-coated, or acrylic awnings on storefronts or upper windows. Awning fabric must cover the front of the awning frame. • Select colors to enhance and complement the building and adjacent awnings, rather than overwhelm the building scheme or call more attention to the awning than the building. Use a solid color in a matte finish. Stripes may be considered if subtle or muted colors are used.