Are you a homeowner or property owner considering a renovation or addition? As a National Register-designated historic district Mount Pleasant’s physical infrastructure is subject to regulations that aim to preserve its unique historical character. Certain exterior building improvements and alterations require approval of the Historic Preservation Review Board (HPRB) within the District’s office of Planning. That’s in addition to getting relevant zoning approval and building permits. Design guidelines and HPRB information can be found here: DC Historic Preservation Office (HPO) Design Guidelines.
Historic Mount Pleasant’s (HMP’s) Design Review Committee plays an important advisory role helping interested homeowners navigate the district’s review process and develop plans with a greater chance of securing HPRB approval. Our committee is made up of architects and others with a strong interest in design who volunteer their time. While every project is unique, we often see common design features that have previously been reviewed and we can help you anticipate HPRB’s response. We are always looking for neighbors with backgrounds in architecture, history, design and construction to join our team of reviewers. HMP’s Design Review Committee also monitors and reviews submissions that are posted to the HPRB website.
HMP welcomes the views of neighboring property owners in its review of projects. We encourage applicants to contact us early in their development of plans for a project so that we may identify potential issues and facilitate approval. We recommend that applicants contact the Mount Pleasant Historic Preservation Specialist, Todd Jones (todd.jones@dc.gov), to obtain his guidance, as well.
Homeowners or their architects are invited to submit drawings to our main email address (info@historicmountpleasant.org). PDF submissions not larger than 10MB are preferred. Please include site plans, floor plans, building sections, and elevations. Photos are always appreciated. Please allow 2 to 3 weeks for the initial review.