Guidelines for Historic Building and Sites
In order to preserve the historic attributes of Rocky Mount, we need to understand the architectural characteristics and individual details that are distinctive of buildings and sites in a Central Business District.

Illustrations from the City of Manassas Historic District Handbook by Frazier Associates

Commercial Façades-The Components

Traditional Historic District – Site Characteristics

New buildings should have setbacks similar to historic buildings.

Zero spacing between commercial buildings is recommended.

Historically, parking in Central Business Districts is located off the street and behind buildings. Trees at the street edge provide shade and contribute to the sense of a defined pedestrian way.

Window openings are an important characteristic of historic buildings. At the street level, windows function as the primary marketing tool for a commercial establishment.

A. Slanted Window Awnings

B. Slanted Awnings

C. Curved Awnings (generally recommended for new or noncontributing buildings only)

A. Window Signs
B. Awning Signs
C. Projecting Signs

Attractive, well-positioned signs add to the character of a business, inviting customers into an establishment. Placement and size are an important component of sign design for historic buildings.