As residential architects with a special love for historic homes, we know that restoring one is as much about people as it is about design. From preservation boards to city planners and zoning officials, we work hand-in-hand with the many groups involved to ensure each project moves forward smoothly—while keeping the soul of the home at the center of every decision.
Working Within the Rules—And Finding the Right Path Forward
Preserving a historic home or rebuilding a missing piece isn’t just about materials and layout—it’s also about process. The Young House now sits on property with a historic designation from the Plano Landmark Association, a State of Texas Historical marker, and a listing in the National Register of Historic Places, which meant every proposed change had to go through a formal review.
How a Historic Project Gets Approved
Getting a project reviewed and approved by a city’s historic preservation board involves several steps. Here’s the general process we followed for the Young House—and the steps we guide our clients through on every historic project:
- Confirm the Property’s Historic Status
We checked the type of historic designation the house had and what rules applied. - Review Guidelines and Codes
We read through city, state, and national preservation standards, building codes, zoning restrictions, and accessibility (ADA) requirements. - Research the Building’s History
Old photos, oral histories, and museum records helped us understand what had changed and what could be restored. - Meet with City Staff
We met with preservation planners early to ask questions and avoid delays later. - Prepare the Application and Submittal Documents
We submitted an application and a full set of documents: plans, elevations, photos, material notes, and a description of the work. - Respond to the Historic Commission
We presented our design and answered questions from the commission. - Adjust the Design if Needed
As additional information was discovered, we revised the plans and submitted an updated application. - Receive Approval and Move Forward
After approval, we worked with the builder and museum team to stay on schedule and meet the grant deadline.
Navigating city oversight, historic commissions, and tight schedules is a familiar part of our work. In the end, the revised plan brought the project closer to the Young House’s true story:
Understanding What Was Lost—and What Could Be Rebuilt
Months of research, combing through files, scanning old photos, and studying previous master plans were just the beginning. Before we could begin designing the new kitchen addition, we needed to understand which original materials had been salvaged—and what was known about the old kitchen lean-to that had been demolished when the house was moved.
Find out about the historic Young House and the beautiful results of its restoration here: : Restoring the Young House: A Historic Home Addition at Heritage Farmstead Museum
There are many things to consider when undertaking a historic home restoration—but you don’t have to navigate it alone. With the right team, the approvals, codes, and details fall into place, and the reward is a home that honors its past while welcoming a new chapter of life within its walls.
Laura Davis is a registered architect and interior designer in the state of Texas and Colorado, and a founding member of hpd architecture + interiors. Laura's extensive experience includes residential as well as commercial and retail projects. She also has a particular interest in restoration, holding a certificate in Historic Preservation. She is energized by the character of older homes and the stories of those who have lived there. Responding to the needs of the current owner, while also honoring the personality of the original home is a delicate process to be enjoyed.