Manalto wrote:Here's an update on the Alabama house. I was surprised to learn that my house is in the historic district (I was surprised - and pleased - to learn there was a historic district in that dinky town!) and subject to the Commission's guidelines, including paint colors, of course. The trouble is, I already bought the paint (Memorial Day sale on Behr Premium Plus Ultra at Home Depot)so I submitted my chips for approval. Fingers crossed because my time there is limited. I've spoken to the Building Inspector and the president of the Historical Commission and, because my colors are sedate (ivory, warm gray and moss green), seem to be willing to consider my choices. In fact, they assured me that there's "probably" a match in the approved colors. I also sent them a Seroco (Sear, Roebuck & Co.) paint brochure from 1918 that offered colors quite close to those I chose.
I'm driving down to Alabama on June 17 to paint the house and/or do some inside work. Painting the outside is a top priority in this case because I'll be away so much - I want to make it clear to the neighborhood (and the powers that be) that I care about the house and property and want to make a positive contribution to the community. Also, it will be satisfying to see the place with a fresh coat of paint.
James
Historic catalogs always help you argue a case before a Historical Commission, as you would be surprised at how little some of the members know about historic architecture (or at least that's how it is in Baltimore). Or, you might have a panel full of experts on all things Victorian, but know little about early 20th Century elements.
Just make sure you get the brochure back. I could see them wanting to keep it!!