Historic Building Exterior: New Site Features

Planting design compatible with
the historic character

Right: The existing site of this former textile mill is characterized by gravel driveways/lots, paved lots, and some grassy areas. This unadorned industrial site is consistent with the property’s historic condition, as documented by old photographs.

To complement the conversion of the property to a multiple-use project, a redesigned parking scheme will be introduced to the site.

Grassy areas will continue to be significant site components. While trees will be planted on the site, they will be concentrated primarily at the perimeter of the parcel, with some limited placement near the buildings. Thus, the buildings and the site will not be overwhelmed by an incompatible planting scheme, and the character of the open, partially hard-surfaced industrial site will be preserved.
Photos/Drawing: NPS files

Planting design incompatible with the historic character

	EXISTING. Photographs of another historic mill complex show two long, low brick industrial buildings with extensive paved areas and limited, overgrown vegetation. Photos: NPS files		PROPOSED. The drawings of proposed planting treatments for the two buildings show that the new landscaping work would substantially alter the historic character of the industrial site. Drawings: NPS files

If the proposed work were carried out, the industrial site would take on the characteristics of a residential landscape in the English tradition, incorporating flower trellises and window boxes, flowering trees, and curved features such as gardens, patios, seating areas, walkways and retaining walls. The proposal is incompatible with the historic character of the industrial landscape and would not meet the Standards for Rehabilitation.