4.2 ADDITIONS AND ALTERATIONS TO EXISTING BUILDINGS

(d) Design guidelines provided in Sections 7 of this Plan will be used to review and evaluate applications for additions and alterations to ensure that the proposed changes are compatible with the existing building and do not result in the irreversible loss of heritage attributes.

7.0 ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN GUIDELINES

7.2.8 Key Element Variations for Commercial and Institutional Buildings

...Typica| facade variations for commercial buildings include the use of larger windows, both to showcase more wares and to allow light to reach further into the building. The buildings themselves are moved closer to the street, forcing pedestrians closer to the windows of the shop. They are often joined, to present a unified facade. Ground floor windows extend almost to grade, and the Floor is set near to ground level in order to maximize the showcase potential. It was not uncommon for semi permanent canvas awnings to be placed overthe windows to shade the interior from the intense heat of the summer sun or the rains of the spring and fall; these have been supplanted by the faux cedar awnings on the present “Mill” building.

The cornice separating the first and second floors was typically used for advertisement and signage, completely visible from across the street and at varying distances, as it remains in focus no matter where one looks on the building.

7.3 DESIGN GUIDELINES

7.4 ALTERATIONS

Preserving the character of the building is paramount in any alteration undertaken on portions of the building facing the street. These alterations have the potential to affect both the character of the building and the integrity of the streetscape that surrounds it.

Alterations (p. 7.10) — Recommendations and Guidelines include:

• “Potential alterations should be preceded by a period of research into the original style and appearance of the building; a Conservation work should be based on historic documentation such as historic photographs, drawings, and physical evidence from the building itself;

• Surrounding buildings and similar properties may provide evidence as to the style and form of any details requiring construction;

• Before beginning any alteration, record the pre-existing state of the building through drawings, notes and photographs. "Before and after” photographs can often be a source of pride for the owner and builder; It is better to preserve than a repair, better repair than restore, better restore than construct. This applies especially to features such as windows, doors and trim. A little preventative maintenance goes a long way;

• Make every attempt to approximate the materials, methods, and quality of old construction, rather than utilizing modern substitutes where possible;