Historic Preservation Commission Agenda and Packet 2020 01 13

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112 City,/ Im Louisville COLORADO • SINCE 1882 APPENDIX A: HELPFUL TERMS & DEFINITIONS BASIC PRESERVATION The Concept of Significance A building possessing architectural significance is one that represents the work of a noteworthy architect, possesses high artistic value or that well represents a type, period or method of construction. A historically significant property is one associated with significant persons, or with significant events or historical trends. It is generally recognized that a certain amount of time must pass before the historical significance of a property can be evaluated. The National Register, for example, requires that a property be at least 50 years old or have extraordinary importance before it may be considered. A property may be significant for one or more of the following reasons: • Association with events that contributed to the broad patterns of history, the lives of significant people, or the understanding of Louisville's prehistory or history. • Construction and design associated with distinctive characteristics of a building type, period, or construction method. • An example of an architect or master craftsman or an expression of particularly high artistic values. • Integrity of location, design, setting, materials, workmanship, feeling and association that form a district as defined by the National Register of Historic Places Guidelines. The Concept of Integrity "Integrity" is the ability of a property to convey its character as it existed during its period of significance. To be considered historic, a property must not only be shown to have historic or architectural significance, but it also must retain a high degree of physical integrity. This is a composite of seven aspects or qualities, which in various combinations define integrity, location, design, setting, materials, workmanship, feeling and association. The more qualities present in a property, the higher its physical integrity. Ultimately the question of physical integrity is answered by whether or not the property retains a high percentage of original structure's identity for which it is significant. The Period of Significance Each historic town has a period of significance, which is the time period during which the properties gained their architectural, historical or geographical importance. Louisville, for example, has a period of significance which spans approximately 75 years (1880- 1955). Throughout this period of significance, the City has been witness to a countless number of buildings and additions which have become an integral part of the district. Conversely, several structures have been built, or alterations have been made, after this period which may be considered for removal or replacement. BUILDING RATING SYSTEM Contributing: Those buildings that exist in comparatively "original" condition, or that have been appropriately restored, and clearly contribute to the historic significance of downtown. Preservation of the present condition is the primary goal for such buildings. Contributing, with Qualifications: Those buildings that have original material which has been covered, or buildings that have experienced some alteration, but that still convey some sense of history. These buildings would more strongly contribute, however, if they were restored. 6 41