Illustrated Design Guidelines for the Osceola Commercial Historic District

The Franks Design Group, PC; Franks, Peter

From the Introduction: "Historic buildings are artifacts that represent a community's shared history. A study commissioned by the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation, Measuring Economic Impacts of Historic Preservation (2011) shows that historic buildings are an asset to any community, the rehabilitation of which strengthens its economic viability. The purpose of these guidelines is to encourage the appropriate stewardship of Osceola's historic downtown buildings and convey an appreciation of their unique character and architectural features which can contribute to downtown Osceola's economic success. Conventional methods of maintenance and construction are often not compatible with historic materials and construction methods. Some common treatments can damage the historic fabric with catastrophic results over time. Additionally, conventional design approaches are often not compatible with the style of a historic building or the local design traditions and themes of a historic district. These guidelines are intended to help building owners and the community understand historic construction, materials and design, and treatments for the appropriate rehabilitation of these buildings." Project funding was provided in part by a Historic Preservation Fund grant to the State Historical Society of Iowa, administered by the State, Tribal, Local Plans and Grants division, National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior (grant number P20AF00020).

Illustrated Design Guidelines for the Osceola Commercial Historic District

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