One of the greatest challenges facing heritage preservation is convincing the owners of historic properties that it is worth it. Will I be unable to add a bathroom, or install new flooring? Will the heritage people throw a hissy fit if I put in high-efficiency heating, re-shingle my roof, or paint my front door? Will I have to open my home to sightseers? Will my insurance skyrocket? And most importantly, will my property value go down?
These are some of the myths circulating about old buildings, and especially those marked with a designation plaque. Heritage designation is often seen as the deathblow to a comfortable modern lifestyle, peace of mind, and property wealth. So why would anyone be foolish enough to buy such a place, or what’s more, have it designated after purchasing it?
To be clear, designation is not the goal. It is a means to an end, which is preservation. Owners who take this route – and I know many – are hard-working professionals, who are no more prone to wasting their funds on pipe dreams than the next person.
They put money into their properties because they see the benefits of regular maintenance, which applies to all buildings, not just historic ones. They value good, solid bones over trendy gadgets, and retrofitting can give their properties top marks in durability and energy efficiency, due to the quality materials and construction methods employed in the past.
While this investment is well worth it, both culturally and financially, historic buildings today should no longer be associated with the cheaply bought and minimally maintained ‘investment properties’ of the past. They are homes, rentals, and commercial spaces of quality and personality that help preserve the uniqueness, character, and diversity of our cities.
Heritage designation means a building is architecturally, historically or contextually important, and certain rules apply regarding the preservation of its exterior, which is why owners and buyers should know what is expected of them. The local heritage committee can help with that, and many might be surprised to find out that it is not the headache they had expected.
In the past year, LACAC Thorold has dealt with various owners of both private and commercial designated properties. While solutions were found for all, without any hassle in most cases, the Stone Store [Editor’s note: located at 11 Front St S.] deserves a special mention. After restoring the building, the owner, Lally Homes, are now developing the lot in the back, providing much needed medium-density housing geared towards seniors without impacting the designated structure. This project fills a need while simultaneously preserving a venerable landmark in our historic downtown.
Much as we love success stories like this, there is nothing wrong with preferring a new build. That only becomes a problem when it threatens to replace an old building which still has generations of life in it. Our future lies in preservation, not destruction, in making our buildings, both old and new, last for as long as possible. Heritage designation helps make that happen.
Anna O'Hare is the chair of the Heritage Thorold LACAC committee.
