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Rethinking Institutional Properties
Embracing Our Past and Investing in Our Future
G. Additions and New buildings
Generally, the existing building should retain its historic form, and any new
addition should not detract from it. To limit building expansion, municipalities
may want to create a cap on the size of a building addition, which can be set
at a certain percentage of the existing building’s size. For example, Lower
Merion Township permits a 10% expansion of an existing building’s footprint
over 5,000 sq. ft. (20% under 5,000 sq. ft.), while Horsham Township’s
Historic Overlay permits a 25% expansion regardless of the original size.
Setbacks.
Building additions should use the setback of existing buildings.
Deeper setbacks for new buildings might also be warranted, or even pre-
ferred, but in no instance should they be less than those already existing
on the property.
Placement.
Building additions should be limited to the side and rear of
the building so as not to impact the appearance of the front façade or
obstruct the public’s view from the street. Porches and stairways should
be located behind the existing building.
Height.
Any building addition should not be taller than the original building
to maintain the primary form and roofline of the existing building.
Design and Architectural Details.
New additions should complement the
historic character and materials of the existing building but should not du-
plicate the design so as to be indistinguishable. Windows and doors in an
addition should relate to the original openings in the existing building, and
additions should conform to the floor-to-floor heights of the original. Any
new material should be aesthetically consistent with the character of the
existing building. The design, color, texture, and other aesthetic qualities
should also be in character with the existing building.
H. Parking Lot Screening
Landscape Plantings.
A layered planting of deciduous and evergreen trees,
shrubs, and perennials may be used to screen the edge of parking lots
from adjacent properties and from the sidewalk. A greater selection of
evergreen species could be included to ensure there is adequate screening
through the winter months.
Streetscape Plantings.
The landscape between the parking lot edge and
the street can be a visual amenity. This area can improve the existing
streetscape and act as a buffer between the street and parking lot.
Plantings should match the character of the existing streetscape and can
include a mix of trees, shrubs, grasses, and perennials. For safety and
aesthetic reasons, streetscape plantings should not obstruct views.
Fences and Walls.
Short walls and ornamental fencing are most effective
when combined with plantings of trees, shrubs, and perennials and should
relate to the character and materials of the property. Ornamental fences
and walls are especially appropriate for screening parking in the front yard.
Fences may also be used alone where desired or where landscaping may
not be practical, such as in a narrow side yard or heavily shaded area.
Parking lot screening at the Ambler
Borough Hall.
An addition with parking garage was
added to the former Upper Merion
High School.
