Awnings On Historic Buildings

Lately building owners interested in historic buildings have rediscovered awnings.

Awnings on historic buildings.

Once the custom designed eclipse retractable awnings are installed regular professional attention will be necessary to maintenance the shading system so that the historical building maintains its original stature and character in the community. Awnings and sidewalk canopies have a long history of use at various types of buildings found throughout new york city. Awnings and the sun. Traditionally awnings were installed only where necessary for shade and weather protection.

It provides suggestions on how historic awnings can best be maintained repaired and preserved and recommends the varying circumstances in which replacement or new awning design may be appropriate for historic buildings. This preservation brief provides historical background information about diverse awning applications in the united states. Materials that are compatible with the character of the building s period and style shall be used. Creative or unusually shaped awnings should be designed with considerable care.

There are many local downtown core preservation programs that helped invigorate the awning s return. Awnings on historical buildings will reduce sun glare to the interior preventing fading and prolonging the life of carpets draperies and furnishings. Mar 27 2015 explore kent downtown partnership s board historical not so historical awnings on pinterest. Awnings are often the first feature to be altered when historic buildings change owners or uses.

See more ideas about historical awning porch canopy. This is what i call overkill. They also allowed businesses to advertise. There is nothing worse than seeing every single fenestration window and door opening covered by an awning.

Many historic buildings with storefronts had awnings installed as a climate control measure to keep the sun out. Used for over 100 years for cooling homes they are still as functional and stylish today. Shed style awnings are the most appropriate for rectangular openings and arched awnings are the most appropriate for arched openings. Although awnings are remarkable building features they have changed little during their recorded history.

A standard street level awning should be mounted so the bottom of the valance is about 7 feet above the sidewalk and projects 4 to 7 feet from the building. These traditional window awnings look great on all style homes and because traditional style awnings were so common until the mid twentieth century they are visually appropriate for many historic buildings. Flat metal awnings are appropriate on mid 20 th century storefronts. Please keep this in mind when considering awnings for your historic home.

When you buy a new awning for your historic building choose one with a traditional style that is appropriate for your building. Per src 230 040 k replacement or installation of awnings and canopies on historic contributing buildings is allowed.