 The Inside Main Street Project is an effort to review the unique forces that affect the rehabilitation of historic interior spaces in our communities’ historic downtown areas. The majority of preservation literature addresses technical considerations for specific materials and exterior preservation issues. A property owner contemplating the adaptive use of the interior of a historic building will not receive much specific guidance from these sources. The information gathered here, including the guidelines, is intended to provide a successful process for the rehabilitation of a historic interior space by a property owner. |
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Specifically, the Inside Main Street Project will address the following design issues as they relate to the adaptive use of interior spaces:
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• Preservation of character-defining elements;
• Design of spaces that support business and enrich lives;
• Building codes, including universal design and life safety;
• New technology integration;
• Sustainable design and environmental issues;
• Interior materials and finish specification;
• Lighting; and
• Color palettes.
The research team recommends that anyone undertaking an adaptive use or rehabilitation project should contact their local building officials, state historic preservation office, and licensed or certified professionals.
The Inside Main Street project is working in conjunction with the ongoing efforts of the University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service, Kentucky Heritage Council, and National Main Street Center. Refer to the Preservation Online section of the site for links to additional preservation resources, including the National Park Service and National Trust for Historic Preservation.
Project History
The School of Interior Design faculty proposed the research project in 2004. Phase One was completed between August 2004 and August 2005. Phase One included:
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1. Assembling project resources and testing building documentation methodologies;
2. Documenting seven (7) buildings in geographically diverse Kentucky communities (Bowling Green, Georgetown, Harrodsburg, Maysville, Paducah, and Versailles); and
3. Surveying Main Street Program directors nationwide.
Phase One was presented at the Interior Design Educators’ Council International Conference in March 2005.
Phase Two of the project was started in August 2005. At the completion of Phase Two, the project team will have:
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1. Developed design guidelines for the adaptive use of historic interior spaces in traditional business districts;
2. Prepared e-reports addressing design issues for distribution to Cooperative Extension agents and Main Street Directors across Kentucky; and
3. Presented educational and informational sessions to educational, community, and professional audiences across Kentucky.
Phase Two is ongoing.
Research Team
- Allison Carll-White
Ann Dickson
Terry Rothgeb
Sarah Pennock, Research Assistant
Linda Adler, Extension Specialist