PRECA 08-13-1980 - Laserfiche WebLink

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. The visible portions of buildings are, of course, major determinants of the appearance and attractiveness of downtown New Brighton. "Genuine" surfaces should be created and preserved; the use of materials or finishes that are obviously "veneered," and that suggest the deterioration or decay and concealment of inferior materials beneath them should be avoided. Quality and compatible materials should be required of new buildings. Unity of building design; features that maintain some unity with the appearance of adjacent or nearby buildings should be provided. Unity in appearance can usually be obtained by creating similarity in one or more of such features as: - -Surfacing materials. - Height of cornices, windows, floors, and other horizontal building features. - Spacing and proportions of columns, floors, and basic structural grids. - Color, texture, and general nature of surfacing materials. Building facades fronting on major pedestrian routes should be kept "alive." So far as possible, no extensive sections of blank wall should abut a major pedestrian route; show window displays, interior views, variety and detail in landscape planting, or other features of small scale and of human interest should be provided. • g. Historic Qualities and Features. To the extent possible, the development of downtown should encourage and emphasize the concept of the historically signficant heritage of New Brighton and the entire region through the careful preservation and recreation of historic qualities and features such as build- ings, landmarks, design characteristics, etc. Historic values lie beyond building appearance. Rather, they stem from the emotional and psychological impact that they have in recalling the heritage and history of the area and of its people. Visible reminders of the history of the area provide a unique aesthetic quality that can be produced in no other way. They add depth of meaning and a sense of continuity through time to the downtown area. It is extremely important, therefore, that visible evidence of important historic or cultural attributes be maintained and established in downtown. This may be done through the installation of plaques, statuary, fountains, and similar features; or by the establishment of plazas, parks, etc. h. Energy Conservation. Building location, design and technology should consider the micro-climate of downtown and should contribute to the conservation of energy by reducing the need for artifical light, heat and cooling. Energy is now a limited commodity. However, design and maintenance • practices of the past several decades have generally ignored this possibility. In the future more attention should be paid to the principles of nature itself for heating, cooling, and lighting. Solar access, attention to wind direction, summer shade, and orientation of building windows and public open space should be carefully considered.