Franklin Historic District Design Guidelines

DRAFT FRANKLIN HISTORIC DISTRICT DESIGN GUIDELINES 99 chapter 4 • Utilize other techniques that break up the scale of a civic building to complement the historic district, as determined appropriate by the HZC. Materials and Exterior Finishes • Use building materials that create a sense of permanence, such as brick or stone. • See the Section on New Commercial Buildings for additional guidance on materials and exterior finishes. Roof • Use a roof shape that complements the architectural style of the building. Details and Ornamentation • Design a building to reflect its time while respecting key features of its context. • Use a decorative detail in a manner typical to historic civic buildings while avoiding direct imitation of historic designs. A modern interpretation of a historic detail or decoration is encouraged. • Use detailing that allows a civic building to serve as a focal point but avoid decorative detail that overpowers or negatively impacts nearby historic buildings. Depending on the architectural style of the civic building, the following elements may be appropriate for design consideration: 1. Pronounced window elements such as lintels, muntins, mullions, etc. 2. A prominent masonry base, such as a dimensional water table, that does not exceed the height of the finished floor 3. Vertically oriented windows 4. Cornice lines with significant depth 5. An entrance with significant presence 6. A tower element or similar treatment