Alexandria, VA – This month I will explore the process of getting renovations and additions approved in our beautiful and historic town.
The City of Alexandria is home to several historic districts, with Old and Historic Alexandria District (OHAD), and Parker-Gray being the primary local historic districts regulated by the city. There are more, but I am focusing on Old Town proper for the purposes of this column.
Properties within these districts are subject to oversight by the Board of Architectural Review (BAR), which ensures that any exterior alterations, new constructions, or demolitions are in keeping with the historic character of the area. Additionally, properties designated as One Hundred-Year-Old Buildings are also regulated by the BAR.
Floor Area Ratio (FAR) Regulations and why they matter:
FAR is a zoning tool that controls the size of buildings by limiting the total floor area relative to the size of the lot. In Alexandria’s historic districts, FAR regulations are particularly important when considering additions or new constructions. The city’s zoning ordinance outlines specific requirements for setbacks, height, open space, and FAR. For instance, when planning a new addition, property owners must submit a Floor Area and Open Space Computations Form along with scaled plans and a plat to the Department of Planning and Zoning.
It’s essential to note that Alexandria has a number of mixed-use zones that allow greater FAR for commercial properties than for residential ones. This discrepancy can pose challenges when converting office buildings into residential units, as the existing FAR may exceed residential limits. However, the city encourages such conversions, especially in older or underutilized buildings, provided they align with zoning requirements and contribute to affordable housing goals.
Historic Preservation Guidelines for Renovations and Additions
Renovating or adding to a property within a historic district requires adherence to specific guidelines to maintain the area’s historic integrity:
• Certificate of Appropriateness (COA): Required for all new construction and exterior alterations visible from a public right-of-way. Demolition or capsulation of over 25 square feet of material also necessitates a COA.
• Design Guidelines: The BAR evaluates projects based on design guidelines that emphasize the use of traditional building materials, compatibility with the historic character of the building and its surroundings, and sensitivity to the property’s historical significance.
• Administrative Approvals: Certain minor alterations, such as storm windows or doors, may be approved administratively by preservation staff, expediting the approval process.
• Easements: Property owners can grant protective easements to ensure the preservation of the property’s historic features in perpetuity. These easements may restrict alterations to the exterior or interior of the property without explicit approval.
Practical Tips for Homeowners
For homeowners, considering renovations or additions in Alexandria’s historic districts:
• Consult Early: Engage with the BAR or preservation staff early in the planning process to understand the feasibility of your project and ensure compliance with regulations.
• Respect Historic Features: Preserve and restore original architectural elements where possible, as these contribute to the property’s historic value.
• Use Compatible Materials: When replacing or adding features, choose materials that are compatible with the historic character of the property and the district.
• Plan for Flexibility: Design additions in a way that can be removed in the future without damaging the historic structure, should future preservation standards require it.
By understanding and navigating Alexandria’s FAR regulations and historic preservation guidelines, homeowners can successfully undertake renovations and additions that enhance their properties while preserving the city’s rich architectural heritage.
Need help? We have wonderful, vetted contractors to recommend and can point you in the direction of who is best to speak with in planning and zoning as you start your project.
The Seward Group offers full-spectrum concierge real estate service at all price points. Email us at [email protected], Visit our website at seward-group.com, or call us at (703) 298-0562 The Seward Group would be honored to help you, a family member, or friend with any of your real estate needs.
House of the Month
Listed by Laura Catron of The Seward Group of TTR Sotheby’s International Realty
5315 Nutting Drive
Springfield, VA 22151
Offered at $1,549,000
A masterpiece of modern elegance, this seven-bedroom, 6.5-bath residence with a three-car garage redefines luxury living with exquisite craftsmanship, cutting-edge technology, and seamless functionality. Every detail has been meticulously curated to offer a sophisticated yet effortless lifestyle in an exceptional multi-generational design featuring a rare (would you say rare or highly desirable?) attached Accessory Dwelling Unit with a full kitchen and private entrances to both the front and back of the home.
Property website: www.5315nuttingdrive.com
Editor’s note: The price for the Listing of the Month has been reduced. This column has been updated.
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