Why We PreserveAt Ebey’s Landing National Historical Reserve, we recognize and celebrate the cultural, aesthetic, environmental and economic value that historic preservation brings to the community. CommunityOur built environment plays a big part in telling the story of the Reserve’s long, rich, and culturally diverse history. At its heart, preservation is about understanding that historic structures are a vital but limited resource, so we must be mindful in managing their continued use. Preservation helps maintain our community by promoting and protecting its historic rural character. EconomyPreservation is good for the economy and contributes to tourism. Historic preservation utilizes more local resources and material, so money remains circulating in the local economy. The same historic buildings and landscapes which contribute to the quality of life for local citizens are also a draw to visitors interested in experiencing the natural and cultural history of the Reserve. SustainabilityPreservation is fundamentally a sustainable practice. Adapting and reusing historic structures reduces our consumption of raw land, new materials, and other resources. Rehabilitating existing buildings for continued use and maintaining in-place building materials are standard preservation practices that are also good for the overall environment. What We PreserveThe Reserve is more than a collection of old buildings and more than its fields and hills. It is a unique cultural landscape shaped by human activity over time, including archeological, buildings, roads, and natural features. The island’s agricultural heritage has left marks on the land and has deeply shaped the way people view this place. Features such as field patterns, hedgerows, barns, granaries, and farmhouses all vividly show our rich agricultural history. Coupeville's commercial district and more intimate home and garden landscapes show another part of our heritage. In the thirty plus years since the Reserve was established, 36 historically significant buildings have been lost and more than 1,000 new buildings have been constructed. These guidelines were developed to protect the Reserve's sense of place. Change cannot and should not be halted, but it can be managed in a way that maintains our unique cultural landscape. Gallery of Successful Design Review
The Design Review ProcessDesign review promotes sensitive rehabilitation and new construction that maintains the unique character of the Reserve, helping keep property values strong for the entire community and preserving our shared heritage. Getting StartedThe review process for each project depends on its scale and complexity. Answering three questions will help determine which guidelines will apply to your project. 
Where is the structure located?Are you inside the boundaries of the Central Whidbey Island National Historic District? What Review Area is it in? The location of your structure, the surrounding landscape, and character of the surrounding buildings all impact the design review process. 
Is the building - or are nearby buildings - historically significant?The Design Review Guidelines lists historically significant buildings in the Reserve; these buildings are referred to as “contributing buildings.” You can learn more about the Reserve’s historic buildings by exploring our interactive historic structures inventory. 
What do you plan to do?Different types of projects have different requirements and review procedures. More complex projects, including new construction and those involving alterations or additions to historic buildings, generally have more thorough review. Levels of ReviewThe review process for a project depends on the location of the structures, significance of the building or it's surroundings, and complexity of the project. There are three levels of review based on those factors.
Who Does Design ReviewHistoric Preservation CommissionThe Historic Preservation Commission is made up of four representatives from the Town of Coupeville, four representatives from Island County, and one representative from Ebey’s Landing National Historical Reserve. Who to contact:Island County Town of Coupeville Ebey’s Landing National Historical Reserve
Helpful ResourcesFor homeowners looking to restore a historic home or build in a historic district, there are a variety of programs that offer technical and financial help at the federal, state, and local level.Financial IncentivesEbey's Forever Grant Program Local ResourcesIsland County Planning and Community Development |
Last updated: May 26, 2017