The unique identity of the Historic District derives from the character of its buildings that offer visual interest and variety within a generally consistent collection of building elements.

Historically, a building's design reflected its location and siting on its lot. The elevations facing a street were more elaborately designed and used richer, more decorative detailing. Based on its location on the building (i.e. street level versus uppermost floor), there was a hierarchy of materials and design used for specific building elements. For these reasons, the Commission will exercise a certain degree of flexibility when considering appropriate treatment methods. Those elements that contribute to a building's overall significance will be more carefully scrutinized than those of lesser significance.

When rehabilitating an existing building in the District, the character defining elements (those building features that make the structure unique and different from other buildings, are characteristic elements of a particular architectural style, technique or architect, or are important in giving a building its unique identity) should be identified, retained and preserved, according to the general guidelines below. Materials Much of the special character of the historic buildings was achieved through the use of traditional materials and construction techniques. Although new materials and methods can be successfully used in rehabilitation and infill development, every effort should be made to preserve the original character of the District's buildings. This means preserving, repairing and maintaining the original materials where possible, and when replacement is necessary, selecting appropriate new materials that are compatible in quality, size, texture and color.

Masonry
Even though a few wood frame and log buildings are found in the Frederick Town Historic District, the vast majority of buildings are masonry (brick, stone, stucco and terra cotta). The most common masonry material employed in the District is brick and it appears in a wide variety of colors and types. Stone ranges from the irregular rubble used in the foundations and walls of some of the District's earliest houses to finely dressed limestone facades of early 20th century commercial buildings. A few structures employ an exterior coating of plaster or stucco over brick and some have terra cotta ornamentation. For specific details on masonry repair, consult the