The city’s intent is to encourage high quality development while protecting the heritage of Boise’s historic districts. Homeowners can accomplish this goal through alterations and new construction that are congruous (harmonious) with the character of the neighborhood. The character, or “sense of feel,” conveyed by these neighborhoods promotes an identity unique to the district. Changes bring a wide range of considerations, such as protecting the integrity of the district and the sense of time and place conveyed by the property. These guidelines will be one source in determining the congruity of proposed exterior changes in historic districts.
Design principles embodied in these guidelines should encourage creative solutions that will enhance the character of a neighborhood. The guidelines clarify requirements for property owners and design professionals and suggest techniques to preserve and enhance the historic district’s qualities with regard to today’s cultural standards.
When the guidelines are followed carefully, they will provide uniform review and increased predictability. When used in conjunction with city staff consultation, the guidelines can benchmark early stages of project conception and design and help prevent delays and minimize added costs to developers and builders.