Decoding the tools, terms, and tactics of local historic preservation—no textbook required.
Historic preservation comes with plenty of jargon, from “adaptive reuse” to “certificate of appropriateness.” Our Preservation 101 series breaks down complex architectural terms, local planning rules, and historic designations into simple, plain English so everyone can advocate for Raleigh’s history. Browse the series below, and if there’s a topic you’d love to see covered, let Dana know at communications@preservationraleigh.org.
Understanding Easements
Easements have emerged as a vital legal tool for protecting land and historic properties across North Carolina. As part of our “Preservation 101” educational series, we are taking a closer look at how these agreements function to safeguard our architectural inheritance.
The NCOD
A Neighborhood Conservation Overlay District (NCOD) is a specific zoning tool in Raleigh’s Unified Development Ordinance (UDO). An NCOD regulates the built environmental characteristics of a street, focusing on height, setback, and lot sizes. Learn more about NCODs in this Preservation 101 article.
Demolition by Neglect: The Silent Destruction of Irreplaceable History
Demolition by neglect occurs when a property owner—either through inaction or intent—fails to maintain a historic structure, leading to severe disrepair. Learn more about this topic in our Preservation 101 series.
A Guide to Preservation Organizations
As part of our “Preservation 101” series, we’d like to help familiarize you with a few of the various preservation groups working and advocating together in our city, county, state, and country.
Impacts of Becoming a Local Historic District: Fact and Fiction
This article delves into the world of local historic districts, exploring the potential benefits and dispelling some common myths.
The Power of Landmarking
What does the term “landmarking” mean? If you’ve ever chatted with historic preservationists, you might have heard the term used. Landmarking simply refers to the process of landmark designation for historic properties.