Working with the Historic Preservation Commission

Preserving Athens' Architectural Heritage: Navigating Historic Districts and Landmarks

Athens-Clarke County boasts a rich architectural history, with 16 designated local historic districts and numerous historic landmarks dotting our cityscape. As architects and designers working in this vibrant community, we've developed a deep appreciation for the unique challenges and rewards of preserving our town's heritage.

The First Step: Identifying Historic Properties

When embarking on a new project, our initial task is to determine whether the property falls within a historic district or is designated as a historic landmark. This crucial step sets the tone for the entire project, as it determines the level of oversight and guidelines we'll need to follow.

Working with the Historic Preservation Commission

The Athens-Clarke County Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) plays a vital role in maintaining the integrity of our historic areas. Led by Historic Preservation Planner Amber Eskew, the HPC guides architects and property owners through the preservation process.

The Conceptual Review

We strongly encourage our clients to participate in the HPC's conceptual review process. This preliminary step allows us to:

1. Present initial ideas on paper
2. Engage in productive discussions with the committee
3. Gauge the committee's comfort level with proposed changes

Final Approval Process

Following the conceptual review, we refine our plans based on the committee's feedback. The final submission is presented to the HPC approximately six weeks later. The Historic Preservation Planner then makes a recommendation for:

• Approval
• Approval with conditions
• Denial
• Tabling for further review

The Certificate of Appropriateness (COA)Upon approval, the HPC issues a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA), which is valid for six months. This document is essential for obtaining the necessary permits to begin work on the project.Balancing Preservation and FunctionOur goal is always to find a harmonious balance between preserving historic character and meeting our clients' functional needs. This often involves:

• Extensive back-and-forth discussions with the HPC
• Creative problem-solving to adhere to preservation guidelines
• Educating clients on the value of historic preservation

Timeline and Professional GuidanceWhile working within historic districts adds an extra layer of complexity to projects, the process is quite streamlined when working with experienced professionals. From conceptual review to final approval, the entire HPC process typically takes about three months.By embracing the rich architectural heritage of Athens-Clarke County, we not only preserve our community's unique character but also contribute to its ongoing story. Through collaboration with the HPC and a deep respect for our historic built environment, we can create spaces that honor the past while serving the needs of the present and future.