[MassHistPres] Contemporary materials in Historic Districts

[Chris Warner]

Hello,

This June, I was appointed to the Falmouth Historical Commission, so the
learning curve is steep. In discussion at our last meeting, Chris Skelly's
name came up as someone who may have helpful information as we try to
evaluate the introduction of newer materials into the palatte that building
owners can choose from as they renovate, especially for buildings newer
than say 1950, as well as new buildings that are in Historic Districts.

In particular, for a Cape style house, an Architect proposed a deck railing
system made of PVC. The manufacturer, Intex has a reputation, profiles and
pricing targeted at the higher end. Owners like the lower maintenance vs.
painted wood that is popular in non-historic parts of town.

Thinking big picture and long term, as newer buildings and structures are
recognized as significant, can you steer us toward guidelines that might
allow for newer materials? We also discussed cross pollination with other
waterfront communities such as Nantucket, New Bedford, Boston, Salem, etc.
for consistency, so as to avoid the trap of special cases.

Chris Skelly felt "this would be a great question to ask on our
masshistpres listserve.  Are you a subscriber to the listserve?" I was not,
so, I signed up and am reaching out to the larger group for input. Is there
any history of, or precedent for this topic?

Thanks,
Chris Warner, Architect
Falmouth Historic Commission
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