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CORPORATION OF THE CITY OF NEW WESTMINSTER
BYLAW NO. 7926, 2017
A Bylaw to Amend Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 7435, 2011
______________________________________________________________________________
WHEREAS the Local Government Act empowers a local government to adopt an Official
Community Plan;
AND WHEREAS the Corporation of the City of New Westminster has adopted "Official
Community Plan Bylaw No. 7435, 2011";
AND WHEREAS the City wishes to amend the Official Community Plan designated in Bylaw No.
7435, 2011 to designate the neighbourhood known as Queen's Park as a heritage conservation
area;
AND WHEREAS the Council has specifically considered whether consultation regarding the
amendment is required with:
(a)
the board of the Greater Vancouver Regional District;
(b)
first nations;
(c)
the Greater Vancouver Water District and the Greater Vancouver Sewerage and
Drainage District;
(d)
the Provincial and Federal governments and their agencies; and
(e)
any other persons, organizations, and authorities it considers will be affected,
and whether such consultation, if required, should be early or ongoing;
AND WHEREAS the Council has considered the amendment, between first and second reading
of this bylaw, in conjunction with:
(a)
the City's Capital Expenditure Program (as contained in the "Five-Year Financial
Plan (2017 - 2021) Bylaw No. 7906, 2017"), and
(b)
the 2012 Integrated Solid Waste and Resource Management Plan and the 2010
Integrated Liquid Waste and Resource Management Plan of the Greater
Vancouver Regional District;
Bylaw No. 7926, 2017
2
AND WHEREAS the Council has consulted with the Board of Trustees of School District No. 40
and has sought its input as to the matters set out in section 881(2) of the Local Government Act
in respect of the amendment;
AND WHEREAS the Council has held a Public Hearing on the amendment;
NOW THEREFORE the Council of the Corporation of the City of New Westminster in open
meeting assembled hereby enacts as follows:
1.
This Bylaw may be cited as "Official Community Plan (Queen's Park Heritage
Conservation Area Amendment) Bylaw No. 7926, 2017".
2.
The Official Community Plan designated in Bylaw No. 7435, 2011 (the "OCP") is
amended by:
(a)
deleting the words "Part Three Land Use Concept and Development Permit
Areas" throughout the OCP and replacing them with the words "Part Three Land
Use Concept, Development Permit Areas, and Heritage Conservation Areas";
(b)
in section 2.6, under the heading Policies and Priorities, deleting the third bullet
point in item 2 and replacing it with:
-
In addition to the Queen's Park Heritage Conservation Area designated by
this Official Community Plan, review and protect other special areas that
contribute to New Westminster's unique character and identity, including
consideration of heritage conservation areas, for example, on Columbia
Street in the Downtown, and portions of Brow of the Hill and Sapperton.
(c)
inserting Schedule A to this bylaw after section 3.2 of the OCP and updating the
Table of Contents to reflect such insertion;
(d)
adding the following terms to the OCP's Glossary of Terms, in appropriate
alphabetical order:
Accessory building has the meaning set out in the Zoning Bylaw;
Heritage character means the overall effect produced by traits or features which
give a property or an area a distinctive heritage quality or appearance;
Heritage conservation area means an area designated by this Official
Community Plan as a heritage conservation area pursuant to the Local
Government Act;
Heritage Register means the register of heritage properties adopted by Council
resolution on May 26, 1997, as amended from time to time;
Bylaw No. 7926, 2017
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Heritage value means historical, cultural, aesthetic, scientific or educational
worth or usefulness of a property or an area;
Routine building maintenance means ordinary maintenance or repair of a
building or structure and does not include removal or replacement of the
building or structure, or a change in design, material composition, or appearance
of the building or structure;
Special Study Building means a building or structure that is not listed on the
Heritage Register and that satisfies one or more of the criteria in Appendix 5;
(e)
inserting Schedules B, C, D, E and F to this bylaw in Part 4 of the OCP, after the
list of Acknowledgments, and updating the Table of Contents as follows:
APPENDICES
List of Supporting Documents
Glossary of Terms
Acknowledgments
Appendix 1 - Statement of Significance (Queen's Park Neighbourhood)
Appendix 2 - Queen's Park Heritage Conservation Area Design Guidelines
Appendix 3 - Queen's Park Heritage Conservation Area Demolition and
Subdivision Guidelines
Appendix 4 - Queen's Park Heritage Conservation Area List of Exempted
Properties
Appendix 5 - Queen's Park Heritage Conservation Area Special Study Building
Characteristics
Schedule A - Downtown Community Plan
Schedule B - Queensborough Community Plan
Effective June 13, 2017
Bylaw No. 7926, 2017
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Schedule A to Official Community Plan (Queen's Park Heritage Conservation Area
Amendment) Bylaw No. 7926, 2017
3.3
Schedule of Heritage Conservation Areas
A.
Queen's Park
Designation of Queen's Park Heritage Conservation Area
The Queen's Park Heritage Conservation Area, as defined and illustrated on Map H1, is
designated as a heritage conservation area. Those properties shown in grey and identified as
Commercial/Institutional/RM Zones/RT Zones on Map H1 are excluded from the Queen's Park
Heritage Conservation Area.
Queen's Park Heritage Conservation Area
The Queen's Park neighbourhood is a predominantly residential neighbourhood located in the
centre of New Westminster and is bordered by Royal Avenue, Sixth Avenue, Sixth Street, First
Street, Vancouver Street, and Granville Street.
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Special Features or Characteristics
The special features or characteristics that justify the designation of the Queen's Park Heritage
Conservation Area and contribute to the heritage character or heritage value of the area
include:
- a rich history that dates back to 1859 when the neighbourhood was included in the first
legal survey for what was then a new city chosen and laid out by Colonel Richard J.
Moody as the capital city of the new colony of British Columbia;
- a unique aesthetic with individually-designed homes demonstrating a variety of
architectural styles and development periods, the most-common being Victorian,
Edwardian, Tudor Revival, Craftsman and worker/vernacular styles, but also including a
few examples of Queen Anne, Italianate, Mission Revival, mail order catalogue homes,
International, Moderne, and Post-Modern styles;
- a low density mix of grand scale and modest homes with middle-class apartment
buildings, using a common palette of materials, in particular wood and stone;
- a distinctive neighbourhood layout expressed by: street grid design; generous side yards
creating considerable space between homes; wide streets; grand boulevards on Second
Street and Fifth Street; and relatively flat topography;
- historic landscapes and streetscapes with lush, mature tree and plant specimens,
historic rock walls and wrought iron gates, grass and treed boulevards, and remnants of
past transportation modes, such as brick pavers and tram lines; and
- an extensive social history as the home of many historically important people, including
former mayors, councillors, business leaders, union leaders and financiers, including
Charles Brymner, Manager of the Bank of Montreal.
These special features and characteristics are described in more detail in Appendix 1, the
Queen's Park Heritage Conservation Area Statement of Significance.
Objectives
The objectives of the designation of the Queen's Park Heritage Conservation Area are to:
- recognize and protect the historic nature of the neighbourhood for the benefit of
present and future generations;
- ensure that all building alterations and property development or redevelopment within
the neighbourhood, including landscape design, respects the history and enhances the
heritage character and heritage value of the neighbourhood;
- promote conservation, restoration, rehabilitation and renovation of the heritage
buildings in the neighbourhood;
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- maintain current neighbourhood layout and residential lot sizes to protect the park-like
character of the area;
- accommodate development, including infill, that is consistent with the existing heritage
buildings and enhances the heritage character of the neighbourhood.
Guidelines
The Queen's Park Heritage Conservation Area Design Guidelines attached as Appendix 2 and
the Queen's Park Heritage Conservation Area Demolition and Subdivision Guidelines attached
as Appendix 3 are provided to achieve the objectives set out above.
Heritage Alteration Permits
A heritage alteration permit is required for any of the following within the Queen's Park
Heritage Conservation Area:
- subdivision of land, including any consolidation of parcels that constitutes a subdivision
of land under the Land Title Act;
- new construction of a building or structure, unless the building or structure is not a
residential dwelling;
- demolition of a building or structure, unless the building or structure:
- has an original construction date of January 1, 1941 or later and is not listed on
the Heritage Register;
- is not a residential dwelling; or
- is listed in Appendix 4;
- an addition to or an alteration of a building or structure, unless the building or structure:
- has an original construction date of January 1, 1941 or later and is not listed on
the Heritage Register;
- is a Special Study Building in respect of which a building permit authorizing the
alteration or addition is issued prior to June 30, 2019;
- is not a residential dwelling; or
- is listed in Appendix 4;
- alteration of land, except for incidental alterations of land associated with the alteration
of a building or structure for which a heritage alteration permit is not required; and
- alteration of a feature that is protected heritage property.
For the purposes of determining the original construction date of a building or structure, the
date will be the earlier of the date on which the City issued a building permit authorizing the
construction and the date on which the City authorized, in writing, the connection of that
4
building or structure to the City's water supply, sewage collection, or electrical power supply
systems.
If a building or structure is altered to the extent that 70% or more of the building or structure is
dismantled, demolished or removed, as determined by the City's Chief Building Inspector, that
alteration will be considered a new construction and the requirements for new construction
will apply.
Exemptions
The following works are exempt from the requirement for a heritage alteration permit:
- interior alterations to a building or structure that do not affect:
- the external appearance of any exterior wall of that building or structure that
faces the street from which the property takes its civic address;
- the external appearance of any exterior wall of that building or structure that
faces either of the side lot lines of the lot on which the building or structure is
located; or
- its structural integrity;
- exterior alterations to a building or structure that do not affect:
- the external appearance of any exterior wall of that building or structure that
faces the street from which the property takes its civic address, other than
changes to paint colour and in-kind replacements;
- the external appearance of any exterior wall of that building or structure that
faces either of the side lot lines of the lot on which the building or structure is
located, other than changes to paint colour and in-kind replacements;
- any part of the roof structure that is visible from the street from which the
property takes its civic address; or
- its structural integrity;
- new construction of an accessory building and alterations and additions to an existing
accessory building; and
- routine building maintenance as required by the Heritage Properties Minimum
Maintenance Standards Bylaw No. 6498, 1998, as amended.
Standards of Maintenance
Minimum standards of repair and maintenance for all buildings and structures in the Queen's
Park Heritage Conservation Area are specified in Heritage Properties Minimum Maintenance
Standards Bylaw No. 6498, 1998, and Unsightly Premises Bylaw No. 5969, 1991, each as
amended or replaced from time to time.
5
Heritage Conservation Area Design Standards and Guidelines
Any work for which a heritage alteration permit is required must conform with:
- all applicable bylaws;
- the "Standards and Guidelines for the Conservation of Historic Places in Canada",
published by Parks Canada in 2003 and updated in 2010;
- the Queen's Park Heritage Conservation Area Design Guidelines attached as Appendix 2;
and
- the Queen's Park Heritage Conservation Area Demolition and Subdivision Guidelines
attached as Appendix 3.
In the event of a conflict between the Parks Canada "Standards and Guidelines for the
Conservation of Historic Places in Canada" and the Queen's Park Heritage Conservation Area
Design Guidelines, the Queen's Park Heritage Conservation Area Design Guidelines will be
applied.
Schedule B to Official Community Plan (Queen's Park Heritage Conservation Area
Amendment) Bylaw No. 7926, 2017
APPENDIX 1
Statement of Significance
Queen's Park Neighbourhood
New Westminster, BC
Description
The Queen's Park Neighbourhood is located in the central area of the City of New Westminster,
between Royal Avenue and Sixth Avenue, and between Sixth Street and McBride Boulevard. It
is comprised of approximately 118 hectares and is predominantly single family residential with
some multi-family buildings, commercial and institutional buildings. Additionally, there is one
large regional park (called Queen's Park) located in the eastern portion that comprises nearly
one-quarter of the neighbourhood. There are two medium and four small parks located
throughout. Sixth Street provides a largely commercial edge to the neighbourhood.
Heritage Value
The Queen's Park Neighbourhood (the neighbourhood) is valued for its historic, cultural, and
aesthetic significance - in particular for the large collection of grand houses and their
associated gardens, streets in a grid layout with planted boulevards, and the various public
parks.
The neighbourhood is valued for its historic significance, in particular for its age, events, and
people. The neighbourhood dates back to 1859 when it was included in the first survey for what
Colonel Richard J. Moody chose as the capital city of the Colony of British Columbia. The large
30-hectare public park (called Queen's Park) on the east side of the neighbourhood, known
originally as the Queen's Ravine, is itself significant as a regional recreational, exhibition, and
sports venue. Of note was the Provincial Exhibition that was hosted here 1889 - 1929 and
which included a Women's Building (1919) that housed various women's organizations, and
which had a competitive category for First Nations people to exhibit art work, clothing and
canoes.
The neighbourhood is associated with many important people, including those who held the
post of mayor, councillor, financiers, business leaders, and union leaders. Of interest are
Colonel Moody (for directing the Royal Engineer surveyors to establish a grid-system and a
series of parks for the neighbourhood); William Clarkson (for building the first house in the
neighbourhood); Charles Brymner, Manager of the Bank of Montreal (whose house marked the
beginning of the neighbourhood as an elite residential area in 1888); and John Blackman, City
2
Engineer beginning in 1906 (for planning a sewer and water system, and a beautification
project for the neighbourhood by installing sidewalks, curbs, trees).
The neighbourhood is valued for its cultural significance, in particular for the way it conveys a
unique sense of time and place, for the traditions it retains, and for its strong sense of
community. With the long-standing reputation of a park-like single family residential
neighbourhood, it contains an assortment of grand homes and grand streets with treed
boulevards. The neighbourhood was and is also home to working and middle class people, as
can be shown by modest homes and middle class apartment buildings. Together, these
elements provide a sense of elegance and permanence. The inclusion of a regional park in the
neighbourhood (called "Queen's Park") contributes to the cultural significance for its
association with long-standing traditions such as May Day celebrations and sporting events
such as lacrosse.
The neighbourhood is valued for its aesthetic significance, in particular for the variety of
development eras, architectural styles, materials, craftsmanship and neighbourhood patina that
are represented by the buildings and landscapes. Many of the historic houses have landscaping
that date to the same period as the house and contain mature tree and plant specimens as well
as hard landscaping elements such as rock walls and wrought iron gates. There are numerous
streetscapes that encapsulate the essence of the neighbourhood by containing a collection of
authentic historic houses, treed boulevards, and - in some cases - remnants of past
transportation modes (brick pavers, tram lines). The vistas down the streets, particularly those
with mature trees such as oaks or ornamental cherry trees, contribute to the endurance and
patina of the neighbourhood, as well as provide an aesthetic quality.
Character-defining Elements
Key elements that represent the historic, cultural and aesthetic significance of the
neighbourhood are:
The intangible elements that link the present to the past:
- Cultural traditions (May Day, Farmers' Market, sports)
- Views (east from the park and south to the river)
- Sound of the bells of Queen's Avenue United Church
- Low density
- An intact residential neighbourhood
The architectural and overall design elements:
- Various architectural styles of buildings and the eras they represent, in particular those
from the Victorian, Edwardian, Tudor Revival, Craftsman, post-modern and
workers/vernacular styles
- Number of grand homes and their garden settings
- Modest homes and middle class apartment buildings
3
- Space between homes
- Common palette of materials, in particular wood and stone
The layout of the neighbourhood:
- Street grid
- Park Row, its angularity
- Street widths
- Grand boulevards on Second and Fifth Streets
- Streets with grass boulevard separating the road from the sidewalk
- Streetscapes and vistas
- Relatively flat topography
The natural/environmental features such as:
- Mature trees, both on boulevards and on private property, and especially the
ornamental cherry trees
- Mature residential landscapes and gardens
- Open and often wide side yard space between houses
The physical historic remnants from the past:
- Stone garden walls
- Granite curbs
- Stamped sidewalks
- Bricks in some of the roads
- Tram tracks in some of the roads
Schedule C to Official Community Plan (Queen's Park Heritage Conservation Area
Amendment) Bylaw No. 7926, 2017
APPENDIX 2
QUEEN'S PARK HERITAGE CONSERVATION AREA DESIGN GUIDELINES
TABLE OF CONTENTS
QUEEN'S PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES
2
SECTION A: NEW CONSTRUCTION DESIGN GUIDELINES
A.1 Siting, Shape and Accessory Buildings
A.2 Scale, Massing and Proportion
A.3 Architectural Character
A.4 Windows and Doors
A.5 Materials
A.6 Driveways
A.7 Lightings
A.8 Attachments
4
5
5
7
8
9
11
13
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SECTION B. PROTECTED BUILDING DESIGN GUIDELINES
B.1 Form, Scale and Massing
B.2 Additions to Protected Buildings
B.3 Architectural Details
B.4 Windows and Doors
B.5 Materials
B.6 Attachments
B.7 Colour Scheme Suggestions
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19
20
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22
23
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SECTION C. LANDSCAPE DESIGN GUIDELINES
C.1 Trees
C.2 Hardscape
C.3 Site Layout
C.4 Views and Permeability
C.5 Grading Design
C.6 Planting Design
C.7 Walkways
C.8 Walls, Fences and Pergolas
C.9 Plant Selection Suggestions
CITY OF NEW WESTMINSTER: QUEEN'S PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES
SECTION D. SUSTAINABILITY CONSIDERATIONS
D.1 Existing Materials
D.2 Thermal and Energy Performance
D.3 Solar Panels
D.4 Stormwater Management
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CITY OF NEW WESTMINSTER: QUEEN'S PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES
QUEEN'S PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES
OVERVIEW AND RATIONALE
The Queen's Park Design Guidelines are based on an examination of the existing conditions of
the area and an analysis of how best to manage the character of the historic building stock,
while allowing change in the area, including new construction. The underlying principles of the
Guidelines are based on respect for the integrity of individual buildings and the original design
concept for each structure, as well as the integration of each building within a unified vision for
Queen's Park. The Guidelines provide for the conservation of the character of the Queen's Park
neighbourhood by managing change in a way that complements established streetscapes, and
maintains the historic integrity of protected buildings.
The Queen's Park neighbourhood is defined by its entire collection of buildings, streets, and
landscapes, and it is essential that these different components work together to provide a
harmonious appearance. The overall framework for the design of the area should be to achieve
cohesive and visually appealing streetscapes based on Traditional Architectural Character.
Examples included in these guidelines should not be considered the only options available to
designers. The design of new buildings should remain an expression of contemporary times
while still respecting Traditional Architectural Character. Depending on the complexity of a
project, building owners are encouraged to retain suitable design professionals who can provide
sound advice and prepare project designs and solutions in keeping with these Design
Guidelines.
New Construction (Section A)
Design concepts for proposed new construction should blend harmoniously with the historic
elements of the area and particularly with the immediate streetscape context. Sensitivity to
historic precedent and a thorough understanding of New Westminster's Traditional Architectural
Character is necessary to conceive appropriate designs. By understanding and following the
principles of form, rhythm, and detailing outlined in these Design Guidelines, it should be
possible to create new buildings that are successfully integrated with the character of the
Queen's Park neighbourhood. The new construction Guidelines are mandatory for all new
buildings including new accessory buildings. The Guidelines are recommended for renovations
to non-protected buildings.
Protected Buildings (Section B)
In all applications dealing with protected buildings, the Parks Canada Standards and Guidelines
for the Conservation of Historic Places in Canada will be used as the basis for review. These
standards outline principles and procedures for the appropriate treatment of historic buildings
and structures, including different levels of intervention, such as additions. These Design
Guidelines provide additional, specific guidance for appropriate interventions, and also for infill
and new construction within the Queen's Park neighbourhood's historic context. This section of
the Design Guidelines is mandatory for protected buildings.
Residential Landscapes (Section C)
The residential landscapes of the Queen's Park neighbourhood have been identified as
important character elements of the community. To ensure they are sensitively treated and that
they enhance positively the historic qualities of the neighbourhood, this section of the Design
Guidelines provides advice on how to achieve thoughtful and appropriate residential
landscapes. The residential landscape Design Guidelines are mandatory where new buildings
DL&A | PWL MAY 2017
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CITY OF NEW WESTMINSTER: QUEEN'S PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES
are being constructed. The Guidelines can also serve as inspiration to residents who choose to
update their gardens.
Sustainability Considerations (Section D)
Increasingly, there is an understanding of the vital need for sustainable building practices and
energy conservation. New buildings and additions will be required to meet Provincial
requirements through the B.C. Building Code. Considerations for existing buildings are also
included in this section.
Existing Non-Protected Buildings
Existing, non-protected buildings are not subject to the mandatory design guide requirements.
However, it is encouraged that renovations of these buildings and landscapes be done with the
Design Guidelines in mind.
Existing buildings bear witness to the design aesthetic of a particular time period. Existing, non-
protected buildings are encouraged to be renovated in a manner appropriate to their style and
context. Contemplated changes should be appropriate to the form and style of the existing
structures. There is no requirement to alter existing buildings to reflect a historic "theme;" yet as
best practice changes should maintain the integrity of the building's original style. New
additions, or attempts to unify previously constructed additions, are encouraged to work towards
a harmonious appearance, relative to the original building's overall form, scale, design and
materials.
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CITY OF NEW WESTMINSTER: QUEEN'S PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES
SECTION A. NEW CONSTRUCTION DESIGN
GUIDELINES
OVERVIEW AND RATIONALE
This section of the Design Guidelines must be followed for new residential and accessory
buildings in the Queen's Park neighbourhood and is also encouraged for proposed changes to
existing, non-protected buildings. A high proportion of the houses in the neighbourhood possess
a common palette of materials, leading to a sense of cohesion within the neighbourhood,
however there is no dominant, defining architectural style of Queen's Park. Instead, the historic
character of the neighbourhood is achieved through a variety of historic styles that together
constitute New Westminster's Traditional Architectural Character. Residents and visitors
appreciate the Queen's Park neighbourhood as an intact and historic neighbourhood and the
whole neighbourhood has a heritage character, even as new homes have been added. The
Design Guidelines reinforce the community desire to ensure new development is respectful of
the existing context.
Today, in recognition of current housing standards, availability and cost of construction
materials, and sustainability concerns, a comprehensive design approach is needed to execute
high-quality standards and complementary design in the neighbourhood. The following
Guidelines will help new buildings and existing, non-protected buildings within Queen's Park
achieve design outcomes that strengthen the historic identity of the neighbourhood. The
Guidelines will also help prevent designs that detract from the historic qualities of the
neighbourhood.
GENERAL PROVISIONS
Design concepts for new developments should blend harmoniously with the historic elements of
the Queen's Park streetscape. This requires sensitivity to historic precedent and a willingness to
be subordinate to that precedent. A thorough understanding of the materials and design
elements used in the Traditional Architectural Character of New Westminster is essential in
conceiving appropriate designs. By understanding and following the principles of form, rhythm,
and detailing outlined in these Design Guidelines, new designs can be developed that
successfully integrate within the Queen's Park historic context.
The harmonious character of Queen's Park depends on its built and landscaped form working
together within cohesive and visually appealing streetscapes. To achieve this goal, architectural
styles that are clearly out of place within the historic evolution of Queen's Park should be
avoided. The tendency to design individual houses in isolation from the context of the
streetscape can lead to a discordant appearance. Caution should be exercised when
developing designs for renovation and new construction, to avoid introduction of inappropriate
elements into the historic streetscape.
INTENT: COMPATIBLE DESIGN
Compatible design does not require new design to replicate the historical styles of the Queen's
Park neighbourhood; however, an intelligent, sensitive design approach is necessary to honour
Traditional Architectural Character.
The historic residential properties in the Queen's Park neighbourhood do not compete with each
other in terms of landscape design, site planning, building massing and composition, and quality
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CITY OF NEW WESTMINSTER: QUEEN'S PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES
and calibre of material. All of these attributes instead contribute to a consistent, cohesive
streetscape. In order to be compatible, new design should achieve the following:
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compatible landscape design, parking access and overall site planning;
-
compatible massing and visual scale of the building relative to the streetscape context;
-
sensitive building placement having regard to adjacent sites, privacy and overlook, and
preservation of open space between buildings; and
-
consistency of proposed grades with natural, existing grades, particularly near property
lines.
Example of compatible, contemporary house within the surrounding context of an historic area
The following sections specifically outline building designs and elements that are recommended,
acceptable, or not recommended. New buildings in the Queen's Park neighbourhood must
follow these Design Guidelines; existing, non-protected buildings are also encouraged to follow
these Guidelines.
A.1 SITING, SHAPE and ACCESSORY BUILDINGS
Intent: New buildings must be placed on the site in a manner that follows the historic precedent
set by properties in the surrounding streetscape, with particular attention paid to protected
properties.
General Provisions:
The siting and shape of new principal buildings must harmoniously fit into the existing
streetscape. This includes appropriate setbacks consistent with neighbouring properties and
shapes that are complementary to the established Traditional Architectural Character. Buildings
on corner sites must be treated as though there are two principal façades and should be set
back appropriately.
On lots with lane access, or on larger lots without lane access, garages and accessory buildings
should be constructed at the rear of properties, and must be designed to be compatible with, but
subordinate to, the house. Garage doors should never be part of any street-facing façade of the
principal building, including side façades that are highly visible. Garage doors should also be set
back within the façade to appear less prominent.
Approach:
RECOMMENDED
ACCEPTABLE
NOT RECOMMENDED
-
Setbacks that are
respectful to, and
consistent with,
neighbouring
properties along the
streetscape.
-
Similar frontage width
-
Rectangular building
shapes with peaked
(gabled) roof forms.
-
Simple roof forms, only
-
Setbacks that simply
meet the zoning
regulations, but do not
negatively impact
neighbouring heritage
properties.
-
Garages and accessory
buildings placed on the
lot such that zoning
regulations are met, but
are somewhat visible to
the public.
-
Setbacks that are not
consistent with the
existing streetscape.
-
Non-rectangular building
shapes.
-
Flat rooflines.
-
Garages and accessory
buildings highly visible
to the public;
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CITY OF NEW WESTMINSTER: QUEEN'S PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES
1-3 slopes.
-
Garages and
accessory buildings
placed at the rear of
the property, not easily
visible to the public.
-
Matching height
-
Garages placed on any
publicly visible façade of
a principal building.
A.2 SCALE, MASSING and PROPORTION
Intent: The volume, height, massing and relative size of new buildings and additions must
follow the established parameters set by protected properties.
General Provisions:
Principal buildings must be compatible with and generally consistent in scale (volume, including
height), massing (where volume is placed) and proportion (relative size) to neighbouring
buildings within the streetscape context. New development must not overwhelm the
streetscape.
Building envelopes are prescribed in the Zoning Bylaw to establish minimum standards for sites
to perform favourably towards neighbouring sites with respect to height, shadowing, privacy,
and overlook. The building envelope is not a basis for generating building form, nor is it
anticipated that buildings should fill the building envelope. New building heights should be
visually consistent with the character of the Queen's Park neighbourhood.
Approach:
RECOMMENDED
ACCEPTABLE
NOT RECOMMENDED
-
Building volumes and
heights that are
respectful to and
consistent with the
existing houses in the
neighbourhood.
-
Raised first floor.
-
Building massing that
respects the Traditional
Architectural Character
of the Queen's Park
neighbourhood.
-
Building envelopes that
simply meet zoning
regulations, but do not
overwhelm neighbouring
heritage properties.
-
Building volumes that
are noticeably larger
than neighbouring
properties and/or
overwhelm the
streetscape.
-
Building heights in
excess of the
historic/established
standard.
A.3 ARCHITECTURAL CHARACTER
Intent: New buildings and additions should have an architectural character that respects the
Traditional Architectural Character of the Queen's Park neighbourhood. Articulation and texture
should follow the rhythm set by protected properties.
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CITY OF NEW WESTMINSTER: QUEEN'S PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES
General Provisions:
The existing residential buildings in Queen's Park include a variety of styles and expressions
that establish the Traditional Architectural Character. The Guidelines do not require that new
building design or renovations replicate historic architectural styles or motifs. New construction
and renovations to existing buildings should be evaluated carefully within their context to
understand an appropriate architectural approach.
The architectural style for a new building should be consistent with the overall Traditional
Architectural Character of Queen's Park. Styles that do not relate to the historic evolution of the
area should not be used either as a model or as an inspiration. New construction should show
respect for historic methods, forms and detailing in an honest modern idiom, and should be
sympathetic to the existing streetscape and surrounding buildings.
New construction or additions should not be detailed with applied historic ornamentation that is
"pasted on" or with a mix of elements from different historic periods. Certain architectural
features should not be visible from the street, including skylights and open-riser porch steps
(staircases should resemble traditional models with closed risers).
Approach:
RECOMMENDED
ACCEPTABLE
NOT RECOMMENDED
-
Architectural character
that is respectful to and
in keeping with
Traditional
Architectural
Character.
-
Open lower level front
porches or verandahs,
with closed-riser
staircases.
-
Contemporary
architectural character
that does not detract
from the Traditional
Architectural Character
of the neighbourhood.
-
Applied inauthentic
historic ornamentation.
-
Street-visible metal.
-
Chimney flues.
-
Inauthentic, "historic-
style" details and
ornamentation.
-
Open-riser staircases to
porches or verandahs.
A.4 WINDOWS and DOORS
Intent: Windows and doors must be placed on new buildings and additions in a manner that is
similar to the pattern established by protected properties.
General Provisions:
The form and detailing of windows and doors should be carefully considered in plans for new
construction. Window shapes and sizes vary with the architectural style of each building.
Historic buildings in Queen's Park generally employ window openings composed of a punctured
void in a solid wall, the glass being inset, with a proper reveal, sill and trim. In new construction,
windows and doors do not need to be exact reproductions of historic styles, as long as they are
sympathetic with the character of Queen's Park.
Where possible, the style of windows and doors selected should match the prevailing vertical
emphasis of the historic building types, and be placed on the building face in such a way as to
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CITY OF NEW WESTMINSTER: QUEEN'S PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES
reference the established rhythm of openings in the historic façades. The alternation of solids
and voids (walls to openings) in the façade establishes a pattern that may be sensed by
observing the building from a distance. This pattern is perceived as a rhythm by the passerby,
and a sympathetic relationship between old and new construction may be achieved by
incorporating similar rhythmic patterns. Windows should be recessed in a traditional manner,
not set flush with the facing material. Odd-shaped windows or random placement are not
recommended; wooden frame and sash windows with an historic appearance are encouraged.
Historically, doors were wooden, with carved or moulded detail, often with inset glass panels.
Original hardware was typically cast brass. New doors should be sympathetically detailed, and
appropriate materials should be used. Proper consideration should be given to the design and
lighting of doors and entries as they are a highly visible part of each building's façade.
Approach:
RECOMMENDED
ACCEPTABLE
NOT RECOMMENDED
-
Vertically oriented
windows recessed from
the building face.
-
Window and door
openings with
appropriate,
dimensional lumber
trim.
-
Traditional wooden-
sash windows
(generally double-hung
or casement).
-
Traditional steel-sash
windows.
-
True divided sashes
(without false muntins).
-
Wooden or clad wooden
windows.
-
Wood-framed storm
windows.
-
Wooden doors that
respect traditional
appearance (without
non-historic window
embellishments).
-
Vinyl or metal windows
that are similar in
appearance to historic,
traditional windows and
are not white.
-
Contemporary-style
doors of contemporary
material composition,
excluding vinyl or metal.
-
Narrow-profile vinyl
windows.
-
White vinyl windows.
-
Metal or vinyl doors.
-
Doors with inauthentic
"historic-style" windows.
-
Metal-sash windows that
are inappropriately
detailed and do not
resemble historic,
traditional windows.
-
Windows with fake
muntins.
-
Mirrored or reflective
glass.
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CITY OF NEW WESTMINSTER: QUEEN'S PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES
A.5 MATERIALS
Intent: Materials on new buildings and additions should respect the Traditional Architectural
Character of New Westminster.
General Provisions:
Attention to materials, without the addition of false details, helps blend new with old. The historic
buildings in Queen's Park generally employ wood frame construction, and were generally clad
with wooden or stucco materials, such as horizontal lapped siding, cedar shingles, or roughcast
"rock-dash" stucco. For new construction, non-combustible building materials may need to be
considered on side façades, where required by the Building Code. In such cases, non-
combustible materials should resemble and complement materials used on other façades.
The use of materials should conform to the overall context of the heritage buildings in Queen's
Park, which derived their character from the honest use of materials and a simple and logical
deployment of their forms and proportions. In new construction, wooden siding should be
smooth, horizontal, thin (typically 9cm wide, but no more than 15cm wide), and closely resemble
traditional lapped wooden siding. Where appropriate, corner boards and window trim should be
used, and applied over the siding. Wooden siding and trim should be properly painted.
Additional considerations include:
-
Mortar stucco was historically used in a roughcast or "rock-dash" finish. New stucco
should replicate this look; textured, swirled or heavily stippled stucco should not be used.
-
Wooden trim should be used to alleviate the blank appearance of unrelieved stucco
façades.
-
Many of the historic buildings of Queen's Park feature an open front entry porch or
verandah, either projecting outwards or inset within the building envelope. These open,
welcoming elements facing the street are an integral part of traditional architecture.
When a porch/verandah is proposed for a new building or as an addition to an existing
building, balustrades and railings should be composed of "traditional" materials, such as
wood; metal, glass and vinyl are not recommended.
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CITY OF NEW WESTMINSTER: QUEEN'S PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES
Approach:
RECOMMENDED
ACCEPTABLE
NOT RECOMMENDED
-
Smooth wood
resembling traditional
lapped wooden siding,
typically 9cm wide, but
no more than 15cm
wide.
-
Sawn cedar shingles,
as siding and roof
cover.
-
Board-and-batten
siding.
-
Sidings that resemble
traditional wood siding,
when used in an
appropriate manner.
-
Roughcast or "rock-
dash" stucco.
-
Stone column bases or
foundations.
-
Brick or stone used to
construction functional
masonry elements.
-
Wooden elements on
porch/verandah
(balustrades, stairs,
etc.).
-
Tongue-and-groove
wooden soffits.
-
Duroid, fiberglass,
asphalt or other
appropriate roofing
shingles that resemble
sawn cedar shingles.
-
Smooth pattern fibre-
cement sidings that are
detailed to resemble
traditional wood sidings
or shingles.
-
Metal or vinyl soffits in
darker colours.
-
Combed or textured
lumber (e.g., textured
wood or wood-grain
fibre-cement sidings).
-
Vertical or diagonal
wooden sidings (other
than board-and-batten).
-
Split cedar shakes as
siding or roof cover.
-
Cement tile, metal, rubber
or slate/slate-like roof
cover.
-
Unfinished cedar siding.
-
Plywood as a primary
material.
-
Aluminum, vinyl or plastic
sidings.
-
Smooth-finished, swirled
or heavily stippled
stucco.
-
Masonry as a primary
facing material.
-
Cultured stone, ceramic
tile or brick facing.
-
Metal, glass and vinyl on
porches/verandahs.
-
White metal or vinyl
soffits.
A.6 DRIVEWAYS
Intent: The pedestrian-friendly streetscape and landscape design of the Queen's Park
neighbourhood should be emphasized by minimizing expanses of impermeable paving and
acknowledging the role of historic driveway layouts.
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CITY OF NEW WESTMINSTER: QUEEN'S PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES
General Provisions:
Many heritage homes have traditionally had separate accessory buildings for parking - i.e.
coach houses. These were often located at the rear of the property. As such, many properties
include a long driveway that goes through the side yard to the back of the property. This is the
case especially on blocks where a back lane does not exist. Although large paved areas are not
considered environmentally sustainable, this historical layout has the advantage of providing
views to the back of the property and hiding automobile uses. There are several options to take
advantage of existing long driveways or to reduce the impact of large paved areas:
-
Incorporate pavers with a grass strip down the centre.
-
Utilize permeable pavers for the driveway.
-
Utilize the driveway space for other activities such as a children's play area or basketball
court, etc.
-
Line the driveway with interesting edges - planter beds, stone walls, landscape "rooms"
opening from the side.
-
Reduce driveway width to minimum dimensions (3 metre width for one car; 6 metre
width for two cars).
Approach:
RECOMMENDED
ACCEPTABLE
NOT RECOMMENDED
-
Location of house,
garage and/or
accessory buildings
should minimize the
extent and visibility of
driveway.
-
A green driveway
incorporating turf or
other plants,
permeable paving, and
planted edges.
-
An overhead structure
such as a pergola, if
sympathetic with house
design.
-
Multiple purposes for
driveway when not in
use by cars.
-
Minimal width of paving,
(i.e. less than 3 metres
wide for a single garage
door, or 6 metres wide
for double).
-
Use of concrete unit
pavers for driveway.
-
Existing paved areas, if
unused but retained,
may be enhanced by the
addition of temporary
planted containers.
-
Extensive paved areas.
-
Asphalt.
-
Driveways wider than
garage doors or
structure.
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NEW WESTMINSTER QUEEN'S PARK HERITAGE CONSERVATION AREA DESIGN
GUIDELINES
A.7 LIGHTING
Intent: The installation of subtle lighting should not interfere with neighbouring properties or the
streetscape experience.
General Provisions:
Install subtle lighting that does not interfere with neighbouring properties or the streetscape.
Lighting fixtures should be appropriate to the age and style of the building. Soffit lighting should
not be used. Lighting should be directed towards the feature or a path it is intended to highlight.
Approach:
RECOMMENDED
ACCEPTABLE
NOT RECOMMENDED
-
"Dark Sky" Lighting
Principles.
-
Porch, entryway and
pedestrian walkway
lighting should be
utilized.
-
Use low-energy
illumination sources
and fixtures.
-
Lighting that follows
current City bylaws
-
Provides a general
sense of safety.
-
Heritage style lighting
fixtures, not consistent
with the age of the
house.
-
Soffit lighting, except on
entryway.
-
Very bright and direct
lighting.
A.8 ATTACHMENTS
Intent: Attachments should not detract from the architectural features of the house.
General Provisions:
Owners should not install visible attachments to their homes that could be considered obtrusive
and incongruous within an area of historic older buildings (such as satellite dishes or other
antennas, exterior generators, or air conditioning units).
Approach:
RECOMMENDED
ACCEPTABLE
NOT RECOMMENDED
-
If attachments are
necessary, their location
should not be visible
from the primary street.
-
Neutral, muted colours
or a colour which
matches the
surrounding
environment .
-
Attachment locations
could be visible from the
street, as long as they
are screened using
materials consistent with
the principal building or
screened with
landscaping.
-
Attachments should not
be highly visible from the
primary street.
-
Advertising or lettering
on the attachment is not
recommended and
polished metal or
reflective surfaces
should be avoided.
These are general guidelines only, and each attachment should be judged on its own merits.
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NEW WESTMINSTER QUEEN'S PARK HERITAGE CONSERVATION AREA DESIGN
GUIDELINES
NOTE: ADDITIONS TO EXISTING NON-PROTECTED BUILDINGS
Owners are encouraged to upgrade or add to existing buildings in a manner that respects each
building's existing design, as well as the overall historic context of the area. It is not intended that
non-heritage buildings should be altered to achieve a "heritage look." These Guidelines can be
used for general direction, but the existing situation for each building should be reviewed to
understand the best approach to any proposed upgrades.
Any additions to existing, non-protected buildings should respect the intent of these Guidelines. In
each case, the existing streetscape should be considered so that each building can be a "good
neighbour" within the Queen's Park neighbourhood's historic context.
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NEW WESTMINSTER QUEEN'S PARK HERITAGE CONSERVATION AREA DESIGN
GUIDELINES
SECTION B. PROTECTED BUILDING DESIGN
GUIDELINES
OVERVIEW AND RATIONALE
This section of the Design Guidelines must be followed for any proposed changes or additions
to the front, or sides, or visible roofline of protected buildings in the Queen's Park
neighbourhood (including those already designated or listed on the Heritage Register). These
Guidelines are based upon the Standards and Guidelines for the Conservation of Historic
Places in Canada (Parks, 2010).
GENERAL PROVISIONS
The character of the area is expressed most significantly through its heritage building stock,
when traditional forms and materials were used, based on an honest use of local, natural
materials. Houses generally reflect some form of historical style, especially in reference to
British-inspired forms. This demonstrates the origins of many early residents of the area.
Heritage buildings should be conserved in a manner appropriate to their authentic period and
style. Alterations to existing historic buildings should respect original design intention,
predominant materials and proportions.
In all applications regarding protected buildings, the Standards and Guidelines for the
Conservation of Historic Places in Canada will be used as the basis for review. The Standards
and Guidelines outline principles and procedures for the appropriate treatment of historic
buildings and structures, including different levels of intervention as well as additions. These
Design Guidelines provide additional guidance for appropriate interventions within the Queen's
Park neighbourhood.
Owners of heritage buildings are encouraged to gather as much information as possible before
undertaking any alterations. Historic photos, archival records and a careful examination of the
building itself often yield valuable clues as to original appearance, materials, lost details,
placement of colours, etc. This is especially true for windows and doors, or other signature
elements of the building. Each building also tells its own story, as later changes may cover
evidence of what the building originally looked like.
B.1 FORM, SCALE AND MASSING
Intent: The original form, scale and massing of protected properties must be preserved and
when necessary, rehabilitated or restored.
General Provisions:
Whenever possible, original forms, materials and details should be uncovered or left in place,
and preserved. The original massing, form and scale of protected buildings should be
maintained through any proposed interventions, including additions. Any proposed new garages
or accessory buildings should be constructed at the rear of properties.
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NEW WESTMINSTER QUEEN'S PARK HERITAGE CONSERVATION AREA DESIGN
GUIDELINES
Approach:
RECOMMENDED
ACCEPTABLE
NOT RECOMMENDED
-
The original form, scale
and massing should be
preserved, rehabilitated,
or restored through any
proposed change to
protected buildings.
-
Changes that alter the
original form, scale, or
massing of a protected
building could be
considered when they
are compatible with,
subordinate to, and
distinguishable from the
original.
-
Changes that are not
compatible with,
subordinate to, and
distinguishable from the
original, protected
building are not
recommended.
B.2 ADDITIONS TO PROTECTED BUILDINGS
Intent: Additions must be compatible with the existing massing of the protected building.
General Provisions:
Compatible additions help to maintain the character of Queen's Park; obtrusive modern
interventions can completely overwhelm an existing structure. It is, however, considered good
heritage practice that new construction be distinguishable from the existing building and can
reflect a more contemporary inspiration. It is crucial that any new construction blend sensitively
where it joins with an older building.
Reference should be made to the Standards and Guidelines for the Conservation of Historic
Places in Canada, which discusses additions under Standards 11 and 12 (below), as well as in
the "Other Considerations: New Additions to Historic Places" section.
-
(Standard 11) Conserve the heritage value and character-defining elements when
creating any new additions to a historic place and any related new construction. Make
the new work physically and visually compatible with, subordinate to and distinguishable
from the historic place.
-
(Standard 12) Create any new additions or related new construction so that the essential
form and integrity of a historic place will not be impaired if the new work is removed in
the future.
Approach:
RECOMMENDED
ACCEPTABLE
NOT RECOMMENDED
-
New additions should
respect the form, scale,
and massing of the
original building and
should be compatible
with, subordinate to,
and distinguishable
from the original.
-
Additions that respect
the original form, scale
and massing of the
original building, but are
not fully distinguishable
from the original can be
considered.
-
Additions that overwhelm
the original form, scale
and massing of the
original building or that
are not compatible with
the original are not
recommended.
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NEW WESTMINSTER QUEEN'S PARK HERITAGE CONSERVATION AREA DESIGN
GUIDELINES
B.3 ARCHITECTURAL DETAILS
Intent: Original architectural details on protected buildings must be preserved and when
necessary, rehabilitated or restored.
General Provisions:
When developing design proposals for protected buildings, they should be examined to
determine what original architectural details remain and may be rehabilitated. The historic
character of protected buildings in Queen's Park is dependent on a variety of architectural
details; in some cases these features have been lost or obscured by many years of weathering,
inappropriate renovation or lack of maintenance.
Approach:
RECOMMENDED
ACCEPTABLE
NOT RECOMMENDED
-
Not every detail of every
building may be feasibly
restored, but surviving
features should be
retained and repaired.
-
Inappropriate later
additions should be
removed or replaced.
-
Building details should
be compatible with the
date the building was
constructed and be
based on documentary
or physical evidence.
-
Replicas of original
materials may be
considered if the original
is too far deteriorated to
rehabilitate.
-
Inappropriate
architectural details or
decorations.
B.4 WINDOWS AND DOORS
Intent: Original windows and doors on protected buildings must be preserved and only
rehabilitated or replaced when necessary.
General Provisions:
There is a variety of fenestration in the Queen's Park neighbourhood, but a majority of the early
buildings originally had double-hung or casement wooden sash windows and wooden doors. In
some later houses, historic steel sash was used, and should be retained. For protected
buildings, every attempt should be made to retain the original windows or to replace
inappropriate later windows with replicas of the originals. Historic windows should not be
replaced with metal or vinyl windows. If the original windows have been replaced, restoration
should be considered.
Windows that are blocked in whole or in part should be opened and properly reglazed. Window
openings that have been changed in size should be returned to their original dimensions and
appropriate window sash reconstructed. Replacement of original windows should only be
undertaken as a final resort in cases of extreme deterioration, in which case only wood sash
windows with matching profiles and divided lights should be used. Original doors, transoms,
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NEW WESTMINSTER QUEEN'S PARK HERITAGE CONSERVATION AREA DESIGN
GUIDELINES
sidelights and hardware should be retained, repaired and restored whenever possible.
Approach:
RECOMMENDED
ACCEPTABLE
NOT RECOMMENDED
-
Original windows and
doors should be
preserved or
rehabilitated as
necessary (including
historic steel sash).
-
Wood-framed storm
windows are highly
encouraged to improve
window performance.
-
When additions are
proposed, or when
rehabilitation work will
occur, the following
Guidelines are
recommended:
o Vertically oriented
windows recessed
from the building face
o Window and door
openings with
appropriate,
dimensional lumber
trim
o Traditional wooden-
sash windows
(generally double-hung
or casement)
o True divided sashes
(without false muntins)
o Wooden or clad
wooden windows
o Wooden doors that
respect traditional
appearance (without
false, non-historic
window
embellishments)
-
Replicas of original
windows may be
considered if the original
is too far deteriorated to
rehabilitate.
-
Replicas of original doors
may be considered if the
original is too far
deteriorated to
rehabilitate.
-
Metal or vinyl windows
(except for historic steel
sash).
-
Metal or vinyl doors.
-
Doors with inauthentic
"historic-style" windows.
-
Windows with fake
muntins.
-
Mirrored or reflective
glass.
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NEW WESTMINSTER QUEEN'S PARK HERITAGE CONSERVATION AREA DESIGN
GUIDELINES
B.5 MATERIALS
Intent: Original materials on protected buildings must be preserved and new interventions must
be in-keeping with existing materials.
General Provisions:
Original materials should be left in place, or exposed when covered over but intact, in order to
ensure visual continuity. Any new materials used in alterations or additions should respect both
the style and age of each individual building.
Original wood siding and trim should be repaired, painted and maintained to a generally
acceptable standard. Through lack of proper maintenance, wooden elements may decay to the
point where replacement is necessary; in these cases, the original configuration, assembly and
appearance of wooden elements should be replicated.
The traditional roofing material in the Queen's Park neighbourhood was sawn cedar shingles.
The use of sawn cedar shingles is strongly encouraged on the roofs of historic buildings; other
materials that replicate the appearance of sawn cedar shingle roofs may be considered.
Approach:
RECOMMENDED
ACCEPTABLE
NOT RECOMMENDED
-
Original materials should
be preserved or
rehabilitated as
necessary; when they
are missing or too far
deteriorated, replication
of the original materials
should be considered
-
When additions are
proposed, the following
materials are
recommended,
depending on their
compatibility with the
original structure:
o Smooth wood
resembling traditional
lapped wooden siding,
typically 9 centimetres
wide, but no more than
15 centimetres wide
o Sawn cedar shingles,
as siding and roof
cover
o Board-and-batten
siding
o Sidings that resemble
traditional wood siding,
-
Duroid, fiberglass,
asphalt or other
appropriate roofing
materials that resemble
sawn cedar shingles
-
Combed or textured
lumber (i.e., textured
wood or wood-grain
fibre-cement sidings).
-
Vertical or diagonal
wooden sidings (other
than board-and-batten).
-
Split cedar shakes as
siding or roof cover.
-
Cement tile, metal,
rubber or slate/slate-like
roof cover.
-
Unfinished cedar siding.
-
Plywood as a primary
material.
-
Aluminum, vinyl or plastic
sidings.
-
Smooth-finished, swirled
or heavily stippled
stucco.
-
Masonry as a primary
facing material.
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NEW WESTMINSTER QUEEN'S PARK HERITAGE CONSERVATION AREA DESIGN
GUIDELINES
when used in an
appropriate manner
o Roughcast or "rock-
dash" stucco
o Wooden elements on
porch/verandah
(balustrade, stairs,
etc.)
-
Metal, glass and vinyl on
porches/verandahs.
B.6 ATTACHMENTS
Intent: Attachments must not detract from the architectural and heritage features of the house.
General Provisions:
Owners should not install visible attachments on protected homes that could be considered
obtrusive and incongruous with the historic style of the building (such as satellite dishes or other
antennas, exterior generators, or air conditioning units).
Approach:
RECOMMENDED
ACCEPTABLE
NOT RECOMMENDED
-
Location not visible
from the primary street
such as on concealed
roof planes, behind
raised parapets or on
accessory buildings.
-
The historic fabric of a
building should not be
unnecessarily
disturbed or destroyed.
-
Colour that matches
the surrounding
environment or a
neutral muted colour.
-
Location that is visible
from the street, but is
screened using materials
consistent with the
principal building or
screened with
landscaping.
-
Location highly visible
from the primary street.
-
Advertising, branding or
other visible lettering on
the attachment.
-
Polished metal or
reflective surfaces.
These are general guidelines only, and each attachment should be judged on its own merits.
B.7 COLOUR SCHEME SUGGESTIONS
Intent: Exterior colour schemes for protected buildings should be appropriate to their original
style and time period.
General Provisions:
For historic buildings, an authentic colour scheme is encouraged but not required. The historic
colour scheme of a building is often an attractive and appropriate solution for the building's
architectural character: the original builders knew from experience and tradition what colours
would look best on various building elements. When the original scheme can be determined, a
close match or an updated interpretation would be promoted.
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NEW WESTMINSTER QUEEN'S PARK HERITAGE CONSERVATION AREA DESIGN
GUIDELINES
Paint was historically gloss enamel, and the use of at least semi-gloss finishes is encouraged.
Window sash and doors would be painted in high-gloss finishes. Generally, the historic buildings
in the Queen's Park neighbourhood would have had an average of three applied colours; a
fourth colour is sometime seen in the gable ends:
-
For Pre-1900 (Victorian era) buildings: a mid-range body colour, a darker trim colour and
a dark (often black) window sash colour. White was not historically used on these
buildings.
-
For buildings built between 1900s-1920s (Edwardian era): a mid-range or dark body
colour, a lighter trim colour and a dark (often black) window sash colour. White was not
historically used on these buildings.
-
For buildings built between 1920-1940s (Period-Revival) buildings: generally a mid-
range palette with a variety of trim and sash colours, dependent on the predominant
style. Warm white was often used on Colonial Revival buildings.
Approach:
RECOMMENDED
ACCEPTABLE
NOT RECOMMENDED
-
Colour schemes that
distinguish details in
appropriate historical
fashion. For example:
browns, greens, deep
reds, gold or tan, greys,
cream and buff.
-
Colours that do not
reflect the historic colour
scheme.
-
Colours, which would not
have been used
historically. For example:
bright oranges, yellows
and blues or purple,
bright whites and all
fluorescent colours.
NOTE: ADDITIONS TO EXISTING NON-PROTECTED BUILDINGS
Owners are encouraged to upgrade or add to existing buildings in a manner that respects each
building's existing design, as well as the overall historic context of the area. It is not intended that
non-heritage buildings should be altered to achieve a "heritage look." These Guidelines can be
used for general direction, but the existing situation for each building should be reviewed to
understand the best approach to any proposed upgrades.
Any additions to existing, non-protected buildings should respect the intent of these Guidelines. In
each case, the existing streetscape should be considered so that each building can be a "good
neighbour" within the Queen's Park neighbourhood's historic context.
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NEW WESTMINSTER QUEEN'S PARK HERITAGE CONSERVATION AREA DESIGN
GUIDELINES
C. Landscape Design Guidelines
The residential landscapes in the Queen's Park neighbourhood are quite successful, with
residents taking pride in garden design and maintenance. They are diverse, with a tendency to
reflect the architectural style of the home and express the personal style of the resident. A
pedestrian strolling through the neighbourhood might see in turn a formal design of clipped
hedges; a wildly floral cottage garden; a front-yard vegetable garden; a garden of native plants;
a contemporary xeriscape garden, and more. This diversity of styles makes the residential
landscape an important factor in the neighbourhood's streetscape. The residential landscapes
are richly layered and well-composed, creating a strong impression.
As new developments occur, these guidelines provide a resource for enhancing the
neighbourhood's landscape character. In new construction, the design of the architecture and
the landscape should ideally happen in tandem, so that the house and garden will be in
harmony, as was the case historically. Homeowners, builders and developers should consider
retaining a landscape architect or designer as well as an architect or home designer.
The intent of the heritage design guidelines in the landscape is not to mandate a certain
historical style, even when the house may be protected. Contemporary landscape expressions
can suit a heritage home, especially since gardens are inherently changing places where plants
grow, die, and are replaced. The intent is to ensure that the landscape design of residential
homes contributes to the existing character of the neighbourhood and to encourage variety and
individual expression, not to mandate uniformity.
The design elements and approaches suggested in these guidelines are largely based on
existing patterns seen within the neighbourhood. The guidelines are performance-based rather
than style-based. This means there is no requirement to plant only "heritage" species in a
garden. Layout is the most important element in contributing to the streetscape character,
followed by quality of hard materials, then plant materials.
General Provisions
The following landscape design principles should be considered:
1. The residential landscape design should be well-crafted and sensitive to the character of
the neighbourhood. The result should be layered, rich, attractive, and reflect the Queen's
Park heritage.
2. The residential landscape design should enhance the streetscape interface to create a
safe and pleasant walking environment for pedestrians.
3. The selection of landscape materials should enhance the aesthetics and unique
character of the neighbourhood.
4. The landscape design must promote landscape best practices and maintenance. The
selection of trees and planting should enhance biodiversity.
5. The public open space should reinforce the heritage quality and character of the
neighbourhood.
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NEW WESTMINSTER QUEEN'S PARK HERITAGE CONSERVATION AREA DESIGN
GUIDELINES
C.1 Trees
INTENT: Mature trees should be preserved so that they may continue contributing to the
environmental benefits and character of the neighbourhood.
General Provisions:
Mature trees are one of the unique characteristics of the Queen's Park neighbourhood.
Wherever possible, all existing trees on the property should be retained, protected, and
integrated into the site layout and planning.
All existing trees to be retained or removed must meet current City standards. Refer to the City
of New Westminster's Tree Protection and Regulation bylaw for information on tree removal,
protection and permitting requirements.
Approach:
RECOMMENDED
ACCEPTABLE
NOT RECOMMENDED
-
All existing trees
preserved.
-
New construction and
garden layout should be
designed to accommodate
existing trees as a design
feature.
-
If appropriate, valuable
trees could be designated
as Heritage resources.
-
Existing trees preserved as
per current City bylaws.
-
Removal of valuable
mature trees due to new
construction.
-
Construction or other
activity that is likely to
damage or compromise
the future health of existing
trees.
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NEW WESTMINSTER QUEEN'S PARK HERITAGE CONSERVATION AREA DESIGN
GUIDELINES
C.2 Hardscape
INTENT: Existing heritage landscape features in private gardens should be preserved and
celebrated. New landscape features should complement the traditional character of the
neighbourhood.
General Provisions:
Many homes in Queen's Park have landscape features that contribute to the public realm and
heritage character of the neighbourhood. Historic elements must be retained and rehabilitated
or restored, including stone fences, retaining walls, and statuary.
RECOMMENDED
ACCEPTABLE
NOT RECOMMENDED
-
Existing hardscape
elements in the landscape
should be preserved and
restored.
-
New garden layout should
be well-designed to
highlight the value of these
landscape features.
-
New landscape features
which use stone, wrought
iron, wood, or metals that
develop patina such as
copper or zinc.
-
Discrete existing heritage
features, such as stones,
statuary, or pieces from
non-preservable features,
are relocated or repurposed
within the garden.
-
The use of high-quality
contemporary materials,
such as stone, metal or
concrete, including
concrete pavers.
-
Removal of heritage
landscape features.
-
Very contemporary
features that are
incongruous with the
traditional character of the
neighbourhood.
-
Landscape features made
of aluminium (i.e. fences
and gates).
-
Use of cultured stone,
plasticized wood products,
or stamped/coloured
concrete (especially red,
brown, green and blue.
-
Asphalt paving.
-
Artificial turf.
-
Gravel or mulch, except
underneath plantings.
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NEW WESTMINSTER QUEEN'S PARK HERITAGE CONSERVATION AREA DESIGN
GUIDELINES
C.3 Site Layout
INTENT: Organization of the front yard should respond to the house design; balance privacy
and community; consider views, especially inward and towards the Fraser River; minimize
impermeable surfaces; provide useful garden space; and allow room for growth.
General Provisions
Gardens provide residents with an opportunity for personal expression, which contributes to the
overall character of the neighbourhood. Thus, it is not the intent of the Guidelines to mandate a
specific historic or regional style for gardens. The layout of each site should take several factors
into consideration to continue the tradition of a harmonious streetscape.
Living vegetation should be the primary focus in the front yard. Of the landscaped front yard
space not taken up by driveways and walkways, plantings (i.e. trees, shrubs, perennials and
non-lawn groundcover) should make up at least 35%. Lawn may cover a maximum 50% of
landscaped front yard. Hardscape landscape features, such as patios, decks and paved dining
areas should cover a maximum 15% of landscaped front yard.
The neighbourhood provides many examples of both heritage and contemporary garden
approaches. Take cues from these gardens, as well as from the house design. For example, a
symmetrical house façade may inspire a symmetrical garden layout.
Apply the principles of screening, filtering and revealing the house using vegetation and built
elements. For properties with a generous sideyard, allow screened views towards the back.
Take advantage of views towards the Fraser River or Queen's Park by framing these views. (Do
not remove mature trees to facilitate views.)
Approach:
RECOMMENDED
ACCEPTABLE
NOT RECOMMENDED
-
Garden layout should
account for house
footprint, windows and
doors, views, circulation,
existing features, privacy,
permeability, and best
practices of sustainability.
-
Forms should be
compatible with the style of
the house
-
The garden should provide
an overall sense of
richness that contributes to
the streetscape pedestrian
experience.
-
A small yard should
include at least 1 tree in
the front yard, while larger
yards should have at least
3-5 trees and shrubs.
-
If desired by the resident,
a garden style that reflects
-
Garden layout meets City
standards, including
adequate vegetation
coverage.
-
Removal of trees to
facilitate views - pruning
may be acceptable under
arborist recommendation.
-
Garden layouts that
prioritize vehicles over
pedestrians.
-
Gardens consisting of only
turf lawn or non-vegetated
materials.
-
It is not encouraged to
conspicuously replicate an
old-fashioned style, if that
style is older than the
house.
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NEW WESTMINSTER QUEEN'S PARK HERITAGE CONSERVATION AREA DESIGN
GUIDELINES
the heritage style of the
home; this may be a well-
researched period garden,
a site-specific restoration,
or a contemporary take on
heritage elements.
C.4 Views and Permeability
INTENT: Garden design should enhance the streetscape, which will provide safety, comfort and
interest for pedestrians. Showcase residential homes and gardens by allowing select views from
the public realm, while maintaining a sense of privacy and ownership.
General Provisions
Historically, fences in Queen's Park were only used symbolically, rather than for secure
enclosure. These low fences provided a semi-public visual open space in the front yard.
Therefore, elements along the front property line should either be low (under 1.25 metres) or
permeable (with gaps allowing filtered views inward). These elements could include plantings,
fences, trellises, stone walls, and more. Consider emphasizing the pedestrian entry to the home
or walkway by using an entry trellis or a gateway at the place where the walkway meets the
sidewalk.
Often, a narrow strip (under 0.5 metres) of special material such as paving stones or bright
planting is located at the property line next to a taller element like a fence. Consider using this
type of layering to enhance character. The boundaries between neighbouring lots are not
always strictly delineated. Front lawns can appear to be shared between neighbours, especially
in the case of subdivided lots.
Where necessary, utilize denser landscape elements to screen views to parked vehicles and to
create a sense of backyard privacy.
Approach:
RECOMMENDED
ACCEPTABLE
NOT RECOMMENDED
-
Any proposed fencing
along the front lot line is
low (under 1.25m), made
from authentic materials
such as wood or metal.
-
Fence which does not
enclose front yard
completely.
-
Proposed planting along
the front lot line is not a
dense and uniform hedge
that would completely
block views. Cedar and
laurel should be avoided,
while trimmed boxwood
may be acceptable. Taller
plants with a looser habit
that allow screened views
are acceptable.
-
Elements along the front
lot line, including
structures and plants,
-
Simple, readymade fencing
or low hedge that is not
higher than 1.25m.
-
If it is a corner lot, hedge
may be planted along one
edge to allow private use of
backyard.
-
It is not necessary to have
a fence if not desired.
-
Complete enclosure by
fence if required for safety
and security purposes, as
per current bylaws.
-
Trimmed boxwood hedges,
or taller plants with a looser
habit that allow filtered
views.
-
Front lot line planted along
its whole length with plants
that have the potential to
grow into a tall hedge
exceeding 1.25 metres.
-
Chainlink fences.
-
Proposed planting along
the front lot line which is
dense, and uniform
hedges which completely
block views such as cedar
and laurel.
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NEW WESTMINSTER QUEEN'S PARK HERITAGE CONSERVATION AREA DESIGN
GUIDELINES
should not be all of uniform
height; gaps allow select
views inward, while taller
elements screen features
as necessary
-
Elements along the front
lot line should be designed
to have depth - for
example, plants of various
heights on either side of
any fence; lower elements
that provide interest along
the sidewalk
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GUIDELINES
C.5 Grading Design
INTENT: Design solutions should take advantage of grade change to add interest to the
streetscape.
General Provisions
Many homes are sited at a grade above that of the street. This offers an opportunity to add
interest to the streetscape through considerately designed retaining walls and planter boxes. If
possible, universal access should be facilitated by a sloped access path of less than 5% grade.
Approach:
RECOMMENDED
ACCEPTABLE
NOT RECOMMENDED
-
Existing heritage
retaining walls should be
preserved.
-
New walls from natural
materials, such as stone.
-
Terraced retaining walls
that incorporate planting.
-
Contemporary boardform
concrete wall under 1.25m.
-
Architecturally finished
concrete walls under
1.25m.
-
Sloped grade vegetated
with turf or other plantings.
-
Sloped grade with rocks or
boulders and plantings.
-
Stairs as needed.
-
Timber retaining walls,
such as rail ties.
-
Split-faced or construction-
grade stacked unit wall
(i.e. Allan Block).
Traditional Edwardian cast
concrete blocks with a
faceted stone look may be
appropriate.
-
Cultured stone walls.
C.6 Planting Design
INTENT: Planting design should be richly layered and structured in order to promote good
aesthetics and useful habitat. Design should consider the role of trees, foundation planting,
border planting and lawns as seen in the traditional style of the neighbourhood.
General Provisions
Carefully select and configure trees, shrubs, groundcover and lawn to create harmony with the
built form and the streetscape. Consider the principles of screening, filtering, revealing, layering,
filigree, and skyline interrelationship.
Specimen trees are a very worthwhile investment for the future of a garden. Select a species
and size appropriate for residential application. Avoid placing a tree too close to the house.
Foundation planting is a row of shrubs right up against the house. This works particularly well
where the main floor is raised above grade, with a heavy base of stone or wood; hence it is
often seen against many of the older homes of Queen's Park. Plant material should be selected
and maintained at an appropriate height to minimize blocking the view from windows.
Planting beds can be rectilinear or curvilinear depending on the desired style and layout. These
beds often line the front boundary of the lot to add streetscape interest. The intent is not to plant
a tall hedge that blocks views, but to keep a low and layered perennial and shrub border that
allows some screened views inwards.
Lawns can provide play opportunity, functional space, and a sense of openness. Select grass
varieties that are low-maintenance and drought-tolerant. Consider the use of alternative lawn
species such as thyme or microclover.
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NEW WESTMINSTER QUEEN'S PARK HERITAGE CONSERVATION AREA DESIGN
GUIDELINES
Approach:
RECOMMENDED
ACCEPTABLE
NOT RECOMMENDED
-
Landscape plantings
should be custom
designed to provide
garden structure and
cohesive layout.
-
New, high-quality
specimen trees should be
proposed where
appropriate in order to
contribute to the future
character of the
neighbourhood.
-
Trees, shrubs and
groundcover should be laid
out to provide aesthetic
and habitat value.
-
Plant material should be
used to complement the
house and other
landscape features, such
as against a foundation
wall or blank wall, or vines
integrated with porches or
trellises.
-
If desired, lawn area is
well-integrated within
overall composition to
provide a restful pause,
and to be useful for play
and entertainment.
-
Boulevard plantings should
be undertaken as per City
guidelines.
-
Landscape plantings can
be based upon a ready-
made design from a
trustworthy source (such as
local government websites,
regional plant sources, or
heritage resources) that
accounts for location,
aesthetics and
sustainability.
-
Landscape plantings that
lack adequate variety of
form and species,
reflecting a bare-minimum
approach to satisfying
softscape requirements.
-
Plantings that are invasive,
require high water usage,
or do not promote habitat
and biodiversity.
-
Yards that are entirely
lawn and lack other
plantings.
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NEW WESTMINSTER QUEEN'S PARK HERITAGE CONSERVATION AREA DESIGN
GUIDELINES
C.7 Walkways
INTENT: Walkways should enhance the pedestrian-friendly character of the neighbourhood.
General Provisions
Walkways from the street to the house, as well as towards the side and backyard, should be
distinct from driveways. This enhances safety and the perception of a pedestrian-friendly,
walkable neighbourhood. Consider extending the main entry walkway to the City curb with the
same paving material.
Approach:
RECOMMENDED
ACCEPTABLE
NOT RECOMMENDED
-
Walkways should be
distinct from driveways,
leading from sidewalk to
front door in a direct or
indirect path.
-
Plantings should be
integrated with walkways
in formal or informal
designs.
-
If desired and
appropriate, walkway
may be enhanced by
pergolas or gates that
emphasize the pedestrian
entry.
-
Simple walkways with
minimal impermeable
surfacing from the sidewalk
to the front door.
-
Use of driveway space as
pedestrian walkway.
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NEW WESTMINSTER QUEEN'S PARK HERITAGE CONSERVATION AREA DESIGN
GUIDELINES
C.8 Walls, Fences and Pergolas
INTENT: The tradition of distinctive built elements in the residential landscape should be
acknowledged, and their successful integration into the garden layout should be encouraged.
Fences should be low, structures should emphasize entryways or functional areas, and both
historic and contemporary materials can be successful.
General Provisions
Front yard fences in Queen's Park are historically used to symbolize the private realm, rather
than for total privacy and enclosure. These structures shall not exceed 1.25 metres in height.
Along the side yard, fences should not exceed 1.83 metres in height.
Small pergolas or archways where the front walkway meets the street are a historic way of
emphasizing the pedestrian entrance to the residence. A wide range of designs are seen in the
neighbourhood, including both historic and contemporary materials, patterns and expressions.
Many historic examples include a pergola over the sideyard, as an extension of the house
where the driveway passes beneath.
The City of New Westminster defines a retaining wall as "a structure constructed of any material
and designed to hold back, stabilize or support an earthen bank resulting from differences in site
grades". Retaining walls in the front yards may be constructed up to a maximum height of 1.25
meters (4 feet).
Approach:
RECOMMENDED
ACCEPTABLE
NOT RECOMMENDED
-
Existing heritage walls,
fences and pergolas
should be preserved if
they are in good
condition.
-
Consider researching and
replicating original
designs from site, if such
information is available.
-
Fencing, walls and
pergolas should have a
cohesive palette of
materiality and form.
-
Place structures in such a
way as to emphasize
circulation, privacy and
activities within the site.
-
Integrate planting,
including vines, with
these structures.
-
A landscape design without
any walls, fences or
pergolas is acceptable.
-
Walls, fences and pergolas
in a decorative style that is
significantly different from
the architectural style of
the house.
-
Properties entirely walled
or gated off.
-
Avoid gates for vehicles.
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NEW WESTMINSTER QUEEN'S PARK HERITAGE CONSERVATION AREA DESIGN
GUIDELINES
C.9 Plant Selection Suggestions
INTENT: Plants should be chosen for the garden based on their site suitability and
environmental benefits, and for how they work together as a whole. It is not necessary to
include specific plants for their perceived heritage value.
General Provisions
It is not the intent of these Guidelines to mandate that only "heritage" varieties of plants be used
in the garden. Any appropriate plant, whether native to BC, used in early settler gardens, or
recently introduced, can contribute to environmental sustainability and heritage character. It is
more important that plants be in the right place, allowing for growth, composition, and views.
Consider using native plants, which can be drought-resistant and require minimal watering once
established. Many plants, whether native or introduced, have habitat value for birds and
pollinators, adding to the biodiversity of the neighbourhood. Food plants, such as in a vegetable
garden or fruit trees, can make a great addition to the front yard. Be aware of the potential for
fallen fruit or seeds, especially near hard surfaces.
A specimen tree is a high quality, rare or unique tree. In private yards, these trees can
contribute to the arboretum character of the neighbourhood, eventually becoming valued mature
trees.
Many plants work well for a residence, such as vines growing on pergolas, stone walls or house
facades. Bright plantings in containers can be placed on wide steps or on hardscape areas.
Hanging baskets and window boxes add a lot of charm, and there are many annuals and
perennials that work well with them.
Heirloom varieties of trees, shrubs, perennials or agricultural plants can be successfully
integrated within a heritage-oriented garden if desired.
Approach:
RECOMMENDED
ACCEPTABLE
NOT RECOMMENDED
-
Plants should be selected
according to their values,
such as habitat value,
native provenance,
edibility, drought tolerance,
specimen value, heritage
value, and more.
-
If desired, lawn species
that requires less irrigation
and maintenance. Lawn
alternative such as
microclover, sedum, thyme
or other groundcover.
-
Plants typically available at
nurseries; species should
be selected and placed
according to their mature
size and their sun/shade
requirements.
-
Typical turf grass for lawn,
with accompanying trees
and shrubs as required.
-
Invasive plant species.
-
Plant species that may
grow too large for their
selected placement, and
block or damage the
house.
-
Plant species that will not
thrive in an unsuitable
location.
-
Artificial turf, or lawn alone
with no accompanying
planting.
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CITY OF NEW WESTMINSTER: QUEEN'S PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES
Invasive Plants
It is prohibited to plant species that are considered "invasive" (out-compete native species for
space and resources and some can have serious environmental, economic and human health
consequences). The two most aggressive invasive plant species which are of high concern and
provincially classified as "noxious" - include Giant Hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum) or
the Knotweed species (Fallopia sp.). There are a number of non-noxious invasive species found
in New Westminster. The City of New Westminster has been active in supporting local
community groups in the removal of these invasive plants:
(a) Himalayan blackberry (Rubus discolor)
(b) English ivy (Hedera helix)
(c) Scotch Broom (Cytisus scoparius)
(d) Policeman's Helmet (Impatiens glandulifera)
(e) Yellow Lamium (Lamium galeobdolon)
(f) Morning Glory (Convolvus arvensis)
(g) Purple Loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria)
(h) Daphne Laurel (Daphne laureola)
(i) Oranage Hawkweed (Hieracium aurantiacum)
(j) Common Periwinkle (Vinca minor)
(k) Garlic Mustard (Alliaria petiolate)
(l) Yellow Flag Iris (Iris pseudacorus)
[Source: Invasive Species Council of Metro Vancouver and City of New Westminster]
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CITY OF NEW WESTMINSTER: QUEEN'S PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES
SECTION D. SUSTAINABILITY CONSIDERATIONS
Sustainability is most commonly defined as "meeting the needs of the present without
compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs" (Common Future. The
Bruntland Commission). The four-pillar model of sustainability identifies four interlinked
dimensions: environmental, economic, social and cultural sustainability, the latter including the
built heritage environment. Increasingly, there is an understanding of the value provided by
sustainable building practices and energy conservation. Heritage conservation and sustainable
development can go hand in hand with the mutual effort of all stakeholders. In a practical
context, the conservation and re-use of historic and existing structures contributes to
environmental sustainability by:
-
Reducing solid waste disposal (reduced impact on landfills and their expansions)
-
Saving embodied energy (defined as the total expenditure of energy involved in the
creation of the building and its constituent materials)
-
Conserving historic materials that are significantly less consumptive of energy than
many new replacement materials (often local and regional materials, e.g. timber, brick,
concrete, plaster, can be preserved and reduce the carbon footprint of manufacturing
and transporting new materials).
Additional considerations from the Standards and Guidelines for the Conservation of Historic
Places in Canada include the following:
Sustainability Considerations:
-
Identify the historic place's heritage value and character-defining elements --
materials, forms, location, spatial configurations, uses and cultural associations or
meanings.
-
Add new features to meet sustainability requirements in a manner that respects the
exterior form and minimizes impact on character-defining elements.
-
Work with sustainability and conservation specialists to determine the most appropriate
solution to sustainability requirements with the least impact on the character-defining
elements and overall heritage value of the historic building.
-
Comply with energy efficiency objectives in a manner that minimizes impact on the
character defining elements and overall heritage value of the historic building.
-
Weigh the total environmental cost of energy saving measures against the overall
environmental costs of retaining the existing features or fabric, when deciding whether
to proceed with energy saving measures.
The protection of our existing building stock will therefore support New Westminster's vision of
becoming a more sustainable community.
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CITY OF NEW WESTMINSTER: QUEEN'S PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES
D.1 EXISTING MATERIALS
INTENT: Existing materials should be retained whenever possible.
General Provisions:
Building conservation is inherently sustainable, as it conserves embodied energy, reduces
demolition that contributes to landfill sites, avoids impacts of new construction and minimizes
the need for new building materials. There are many ways in which buildings can be upgraded
without destroying heritage character-defining elements. Conservation projects also encourage
local employment of specialized trades and professionals.
Approach:
RECOMMENDED
ACCEPTABLE
NOT RECOMMENDED
-
Retention of as much
of the existing building
envelope materials as
possible, including
siding.
-
Retention of the
original window
sashes and doors, or
replace inappropriate
assemblies with
replicas of the
originals. Excellent
thermal efficiency
may be achieved
through the repair and
maintenance of
existing wooden
windows.
-
Installation of wood-
framed storm
windows will also aid
with thermal efficiency
and sound
abatement.
-
Replacement of
original windows
should only be
undertaken as a
final resort in cases
of extreme
deterioration.
-
Installation of
sympathetic
replacements of
original windows, if
required. These
should replicate the
original profiles in
wood.
-
Installation of
rainscreen sidings, as
they introduce life
cycle considerations
and impair heritage
character through the
removal of original
material
-
Replacement of
original windows in
good condition, or
replacement of
deteriorated
assemblies with
inappropriate
replacements.
D.2 THERMAL AND ENERGY PERFORMANCE
Intent: Upgrades should balance heritage and energy efficiency.
General Provisions:
New buildings and additions will be required to meet Provincial requirements. Alternative
methods of improved performance characteristics can be pursued for protected buildings.
Energy upgrading measures for heritage buildings should be assessed against the Standards
and Guidelines for the Conservation of Historic Places in Canada. For further information on
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CITY OF NEW WESTMINSTER: QUEEN'S PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES
how to sensibly improve the performance of protected properties, please refer to the
Vancouver Heritage Foundation's New Life, Old Buildings: Your Green Guide to Heritage
Conservation (available online). Additional information on reducing operating energy demands
is available on the Provincial Heritage Branch website.
Approach:
RECOMMENDED
ACCEPTABLE
NOT RECOMMENDED
-
Mechanical Systems:
Inefficient mechanical
systems are one of
the primary reasons
why existing buildings
are poor thermal
performers. Consider
installing new boilers,
hot water tanks and
energy-efficient
appliances that, at a
minimum, achieve
Energy Star ratings.
-
Insulation and
Weather-stripping:
Introduce extra
insulation, especially
in attic and basement
spaces. Consider the
use of weather-
stripping and other
draft-proofing
measures.
-
Additions: Should be
built to Building Code
standards of energy
efficiency.
-
Conducting building
upgrades that meet
minimum BC
Building Code
requirements.
-
Installation of
mechanical
systems/appliances
with poor energy
ratings.
-
Introduction of
insulation and
weather-stripping in
locations that interfere
with character-defining
elements.
D.3 SOLAR PANELS
Intent: The installation of solar panels should not detract from the heritage value of the building.
General Provisions:
Solar technologies are important for both environmental and financial reasons, and the number
of solar panel installations each year is growing. New visible technologies, however, may
adversely impact the heritage values of the area, and their placement should be carefully
considered. Every effort should be made to minimize the visibility of a system from the street,
and its impact on surrounding properties and public areas.
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CITY OF NEW WESTMINSTER: QUEEN'S PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES
Approach:
RECOMMENDED
ACCEPTABLE
NOT RECOMMENDED
-
Installation of solar
panels on accessory
buildings.
-
Installation of solar
panels on concealed
roof planes such as
internal valleys or
behind raised parapets,
within existing roof
ridgelines, and flush
with the roof.
-
Ensuring that the
panels do not require
visible structural
modification of the roof.
-
Ensuring that any
frame or structural
element required to
install the panels
should be reversible
(non-permanent). Such
structures should also
be colour co-ordinated
to blend with the
existing roof colour.
Light-coloured shingles
can be replaced with
darker shingles in order
to facilitate colour
blending.
-
Ensuring that only solar
cells are located on the
roof - any water
storage tank or
ancillary items are
mounted on the ground
(to the side of the
structure) or within the
roof.
-
Installation of less
bulky system, flush
with the roofline, are
preferred.
-
Install solar panels
on new extensions
or, when necessary,
a publicly visible
façade if the panels
are appropriately
screened.
-
Installation of solar
panels on publicly
visible roof surfaces
without appropriate
screening; do not alter
character-defining
elements in order to
accommodate the
installation of solar
panel systems.
-
Structural alteration of
the roof, or any other
character-defining
elements, in order to
accommodate the
installation of solar
panel systems.
-
Installation of
permanent structures
to accommodate the
installation of solar
panels.
-
Installation of solar
panels that display
private advertising or
branding.
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37
CITY OF NEW WESTMINSTER: QUEEN'S PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES
-
Solar panels, tanks and
other infrastructure free
of the display of any
form of private
advertising or branding.
D.4 STORMWATER MANAGEMENT
Intent: Stormwater management practices (techniques or technologies) should be used onsite.
General Provisions:
Water is one of our most important resources and techniques exercised on site can help to
manage stormwater runoff and reduce the need to use potable water for landscape watering
needs.
RECOMMENDED
ACCEPTABLE
NOT RECOMMENDED
-
Improve runoff quality
onsite using Best
Management
Practices, such as
draining to vegetation,
using previous paving
and/or collect and
drain runoff through a
sump prior to
discharge to storm
sewer.
-
Redirect or
disconnect
downspouts, where
feasible. Redirect
downspouts to
gardens, grassy
areas, rain barrels -
places where water
can infiltrate the
ground and roots of
plants, decreasing the
amount of water that
goes down storm
drains.
-
Collected rainwater
stored in rain barrels
can be used for future
watering of lawns and
-
Stormwater
management that
meets minimum
requirements
(including the BC
Plumbing Code).
-
Hardscapes that are
impenetrable to water,
such as paved
driveways and
walkways.
-
Downspouts that
release water less
than six feet away
from foundations and
basements.
-
Avoid using potable
water for landscaping
needs when
stormwater can
instead be used.
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38
CITY OF NEW WESTMINSTER: QUEEN'S PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES
landscape areas.
-
Build a bioinfiltration
system, such as a
rain garden, in an
existing low spot or
near the drainage
area of a rain barrel or
downspout.
-
Proper maintenance
of gutters and
downspouts.
-
Ensure load-bearing
capacity of the
existing or new roof
can support an
extensive green roof
system.
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39
CITY OF NEW WESTMINSTER: QUEEN'S PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES
CITY OF NEW WESTMINSTER: QUEEN'S PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES GLOSSARY
Ashlar masonry
Squared blocks of stone laid in courses. Random ashlar employs
blocks of varying sizes laid together. Coursed ashlar employs equal
sized blocks in regular courses.
Balloon frame
A wood frame structure in which the wall studs run the full height of
the walls, with the floor joists hung between them.
Baluster
Vertical members supporting a cap rail or handrail, forming a
balustrade.
Bargeboards
Facing boards, often decorated, hung from the sloping projecting
edge of a roof; sometimes called 'verge boards'.
Bay
A vertical division of a building marked by fenestration.
Bay window
An angular projection from the building face filled with fenestration.
Bellcast
A curve built into the bottom edge of a roof surface or a wall surface.
Belvedere
A small look-out tower or turret on a roof.
Board-and-Batten
Siding
Gaped wide vertical boards with narrow overlying vertical battens
(strips) to cover the gaps.
Bracket
A support, often scroll-shaped, supporting an overhang.
Bulkhead
A small panel at the ground level of a storefront window or opening;
usually of decorative tile or wood.
Capital
The head of a column, sometimes carved in one of the classical
orders.
Cladding
Exterior wall covering of one or more various materials.
Clapboard
A thin board used to cover the exterior of framed buildings.
Classical Revival
One of a series of period revivals of Classical architectural motifs. The
most recent revival began locally just after the turn of the century, and
was popular for commercial and industrial buildings.
Clinker brick
Bricks of irregular quality, damaged during the firing process, used for
their picturesque effects.
Column
An upright member, usually rounded, consisting of a base, shaft and
capital.
Coping
A protective capping to a wall.
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CITY OF NEW WESTMINSTER: QUEEN'S PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES
Corbel
A projecting block, supporting an overhang.
Corbelling
Masonry courses, each built out from the one below.
Cornice
A projecting ornamental moulding crowning a wall surface.
Craftsman
An Arts and Crafts style, widely promoted through North America
through pattern books and magazines which featured natural
materials, low pitched roofs, exposed rafter ends, and tapered porch
piers, usually of masonry. It remained popular from approximately
1908 until the end of the Second World War.
Dark Sky Principles
Installing and using light only when and where it is required in order to
reduce light pollution.
Dentil
Small square blocks in series that decorate a cornice.
Dormer
A structure, usually containing windows, projecting from the slope of a
plane of a roof; a hipped dormer has a roof sloping to all three
exposed sides, a gable dormer has a roof sloping to two sides, and a
shed dormer has a single pitched roof.
Drop finial
A carved ornament on a roofline or at a roof crest, pointing down.
Drop siding
Weatherboarding with a deep groove on the top outer edge that fits
into a slot on the rear bottom side of the board above.
Eave brackets
Brackets, often decorative, under the lower edge of a roof.
Eaves
Horizontal roof edges.
Façade
The front face of a building.
False front
A false facade applied to a building to increase its street presence.
Fascia
A plain horizontal band, as part of a cornice stringcourse.
Fenestration
The design and disposition of windows and openings in a structure.
Finial
An ornamental termination at the top of a gable or pinnacle.
Flashing
The metal protective cap at the top of a wall, or a weatherproof strip at
a roof edge.
Gable Roof
A roof pitched to two sides, oriented to either the front or side.
Gable screen
Wooden members arranged in an open-work pattern in a gable end.
Gambrel roof
A dual pitched gable roof with a shallower slope above a steeper one
(ie. a 'barn' roof).
Half-timbering
Wooden members, infilled with plaster; a decorative treatment derived
from medieval heavy timber construction.
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41
CITY OF NEW WESTMINSTER: QUEEN'S PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES
Hardscape
The man-made features used in landscape architecture, e.g. paths or
walls, as contrasted with vegetation.
Head
The top of a structural opening.
Hip
A roof with all four sides sloped.
Inauthentic
Not genuinely belonging to a style or period.
Jerkin-headed
A gable roof end with a half hip; see 'gable'.
Keystone
The central member of an arch, usually the most prominent, often
carved.
Leaded glass
A window pane composed of smaller pieces of glass, held together by
lead cames; usually straight or cross-leaded.
Lintel
A horizontal beam bridging an opening (often above a window
assembly).
Mansard Roof
A roof with very steep sides, often enclosing the upper floor area, and
with either a flat or very shallow sloped main roof above.
Massing
The perception of the general shape and form, as well as size, of a
building.
Moulding
A decorative finishing strip.
Muntin
A bar or rigid supporting strip between adjacent panes of glass.
Newel
The principal supporting post for a handrail at the bottom or angles of
a staircase.
Oriel window
A bay window projecting from an upper storey.
Parapet
The extension of a wall or railing above a roofline; subject to a variety
of decorative treatments.
Pediment
A triangular feature over a structural opening, or capping a wall.
Pergola
An archway in a garden or park consisting of a framework covered
with trained climbing or trailing plants.
Pilaster
An engaged vertical segment.
Pitch
The steepness of a roof.
Platform frame
A wood frame structure in which the wall studs are the same height as
each storey, with the floor joists above.
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CITY OF NEW WESTMINSTER: QUEEN'S PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES
Porch
A covered entry to a building.
Porte cochére
A common but erroneous name for a carriage porch.
Purlin
A longitudinal roof member perpendicular to the rafters.
Rafter
A roof member sloping from the wall plate to the ridge.
River rock
A naturally rounded stone; sometimes called cobbles.
Reveal
The surface at the side of an opening indicating the thickness of a
wall.
Roughcast (rock-dash,
pebbledash) Stucco
Coarse plaster surface used on outside walls that consists of lime and
sometimes cement mixed with sand, small gravel, and often pebbles
or shells.
Rubble masonry
Walls made with rough uncut stones of varying sizes.
Rhythm
A strong, regular repeated pattern of architecture or an architectural
feature.
Saddlebag dormer
A pair of low-slung shed roof dormers, one on each side of a roof
ridge.
Sash
The component of a window that holds the glass, and the framework
around the glass, in place. Window sashes are fitted into the window
frame and may or may not be movable.
Setback
The distance of a structure from the property line.
Shed Roof
A roof consisting of a single slope (ie. half a gable).
Sidelights
Narrow vertical windows beside an entry door.
Sill
The horizontal base element of a window or door.
Soffit
The underside of an architectural feature, usually an eave or cornice.
Spandrel
The panel between the head of one window and the sill of the window
immediately above. Alternately, the triangular area contained by one
side of an arch.
Stained glass
Coloured or painted glass panels, usually assembled with lead
cames.
Stair cheeks
The solid exterior sides of a staircase.
String course
A continuous horizontal band or course, sometimes molded or carved.
Surround
A border to an opening or a panel.
Sympathetic
Designed in a sensitive or appropriate way.
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CITY OF NEW WESTMINSTER: QUEEN'S PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES
Terra cotta
Fired masonry units, usually glazed; translates literally as 'burnt earth'.
Tongue and groove
Boards in which a projecting edge or rib is inserted into the
corresponding groove
in an adjacent board.
Transom
A horizontal bar dividing a window; alternately a crosspiece dividing a
door or window from a panel, or fanlight above it, within the same
structural opening. Also the window above such a crosspiece.
Twin-coursed shingles
Rows of cedar shingles with alternating narrow and wide exposure.
Verandah
An open gallery, the roof of which is usually supported with a row of
columns.
Verge boards
See 'Bargeboards'
Water table
The cap or trim at the top of the foundation walls.
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44
Schedule D to Official Community Plan (Queen's Park Heritage Conservation Area
Amendment) Bylaw No. 7926, 2017
APPENDIX 3
QUEEN'S PARK HERITAGE CONSERVATION AREA DEMOLITION AND SUBDIVISION GUIDELINES
DEMOLITION GUIDELINES
.1 HERITAGE CHARACTER AND MERIT
Intent: Retain buildings in the neighbourhood with heritage merit in order to
retain the historic character of the neighbourhood.
General Provisions:
- Retain buildings that are good examples of their architectural style;
- Retain building contributes to a cohesive streetscape;
- Retain the varied architectural styles or periods of development;
- Retain building which have associations with a significant person, event,
construction technique or unusual material use; and
- Retain mature or historic landscaping.
.2 DEVELOPMENT POTENTIAL
Intent: A property owner retains their entitlement to build to the full potential of
their lot under the existing Zoning Bylaw.
General Provisions:
- Buildings can be built to the maximum foor space and site coverage
available under the Zoning Bylaw;
- Buildings should be adaptable for contemporary uses without
compromising the heritage merit;
- Retention should take into account lot characteristics and constraints such
as size, shape, and slope when considering the site's ability to achieve full
development potential;
- Retention should take into account the position or location of the existing
house on the lot when considering the site's ability to achieve full
development potential; and
- Retaining mature or historic landscaping.
2
.3 CONDITION
Intent: Condition of the house, integrity of its historic elements, and the work
required to achieve heritage retention in addition to development potential, is
considered.
General Provisions:
- Retain buildings which have retained a high level of original heritage
elements including windows, doors siding, trim, brackets, soffits, casing
and other design features;
- Retain buildings which have retained the original form and massing
associated with its architectural style;
- Buildings to which renovations have been made that are incompatible with
the existing heritage elements and for which the changes are difficult to
reverse are less likely to be retained; and
- Condition of the house and its heritage elements should be taken into
consideration.
SUBDIVISION GUIDELINES
.1 PARK-LIKE QUALITIES
Intent: Maintain park-like qualities of the neighbourhood including space
between homes, green boulevards, high quality pedestrian experience, and
yards with mature landscaping.
General Provisions:
- Retain space between homes;
- Retain front yards throughout the neighbourhood;
- Retain space for mature or historic landscaping on private property.
.2 HISTORICALLY DERRIVED DIVERSITY OF LOTS
Intent: Acknowledge diverse lot sizes and shapes which developed through time
in the Queen's Park neighbourhood.
General Provisions:
- Lots should not be larger than those currently existing in the
neighbourhood;
- Lots should not be smaller than those currently existing in the
neighbourhood;
- Lots are not required to be rectangular;
3
- Lots must have frontage on a street (includes boulevard, avenue, row
etc...) or named lane.
.3 CONSISTENT STREETSCAPES
Intent: Maintain a consistency of streetscape in lot rhythm and pattern.
General Provisions:
- Retain frontages that are consistent with those surrounding the property,
and those which historically existed on the street.
Schedule E to Official Community Plan (Queen's Park Heritage Conservation Area
Amendment) Bylaw No. 7926, 2017
APPENDIX 4
QUEEN'S PARK HERITAGE CONSERVATIONA AREA LIST OF EXEMPTED PROPERTIES
As of the date of adoption, this Appendix 4 is intentionally left blank.
Schedule F to Official Community Plan (Queen's Park Heritage Conservation Area
Amendment) Bylaw No. 7926, 2017
APPENDIX 5
QUEEN'S PARK HERITAGE CONSERVATIONA AREA SPECIAL STUDY BUILDING CRITERIA
- The building does not have a full second storey; where the total building floor space
divided by the total site coverage is less than 2.0.
- The building is located within the RS-1, RS-2, RS-5, or RS-6 Zone and has a floor space
ratio that is less than 75% of the maximum permitted floor space ratio in that zone, with
site coverage that is greater than 75% of the maximum permitted site coverage in that
zone.
- The building is located on a lot with a frontage that is less than 9.14 metres (30 feet).