Clayton · 8/20/2001 · Code and Strategic Growth Plan. The report is intended to promote a quality oriented downtown that serves as the social and cul-tural hub of Clayton. Buildings

ClaytonDowntown Master Plan

October 2010October 2010October 2010October 2010October 2010updated from August 20, 2001

Prepared For:

TTTTTown of Claytonown of Claytonown of Claytonown of Claytonown of Claytonandandandandand

The Downtown Development AssociationThe Downtown Development AssociationThe Downtown Development AssociationThe Downtown Development AssociationThe Downtown Development Association

Prepared By:

600 Wade AvenueRaleigh, NC 27605

919.832.2878

306/200 Parham StreetSuite BRaleigh, NC 27601919.755.0046

I-1

ClaytonDowntown Master Plan

Prepared ForThe Town of Clayton

andThe Downtown Development

Association

October 2010updated from August, 2001

600 Wade AvenueRaleigh, NC 27605

919.832.2878

306/200 Parham StreetSuite BRaleigh, NC 27601919.755.0046

I-2

Table of Contents

Introduction I-4

Inventory & Analysis I-9

Planning Process I-18

Master Plan I-23

Section II / Architectural & Design Guidelines II-1

Section III

Appendix A -- Workshop #1 A-2

Appendix B -- Workshop #2 A-14

Appendix C -- Maintenance Checklist A-20

Appendix D -- Additional Resources / Publications A-25

Appendix E -- Federal Tax Credit Summary A-26

Appendix F -- Secretary of Interior Renovation Standards A-29

Appendix G -- 2010 Workshop Materials A-30

Section I / Downtown Planning Guidelines I-3

I-3 Winstead Wilkinson Architectsobs landscape architects

Clayton Downtown Master PlanDowntown Planning Guidelines

1. IntroductionProject Initiation / Purpose I-4Strategic Growth Plan I-5History I-6Recent Projects I-8

2. Inventory & AnalysisGeneral Observations I-9Robertson St. to Church St. I-10Church St. to Lombard St. I-12Lombard St. to Smith St. I-14Smith St. to US HWY 70 I-16Railroad Corridor I-17

3. Master PlanDesign Guidelines

• Development Opportunities I-18• Pedestrian Orientation I-19• Parking Areas I-20• Community Space I-21• Adjacent Properties I-22• Entries I-23

Plan Components• New Construction & Demolition I-24• Adaptive Reuse / Historic Preservation I-25• Streetscape Guidelines I-25• Railroad Corridor I-27• First St. Improvements I-28• Parking Areas / Structures I-28• Parking / Pedestrian Connections I-29• Community Spaces I-30• Gateway / Entry Areas I-31

Implementation I-37

Table of Contents / Section I

I-4obs landscape architects Winstead Wilkinson Architects

Clayton Downtown Master PlanIntroduction

PurposePurposePurposePurposePurpose

The purpose and intent of this plan is to directthe design of buildings and sites within thedowntown commercial district (B1), in com-pliance with the Town’s Unified DevelopmentCode and Strategic Growth Plan. The reportis intended to promote a quality orienteddowntown that serves as the social and cul-tural hub of Clayton. Buildings and sitesshould convey a sense of permanence, atten-tion to detail, quality and investment.

The guidelines are intended to add consis-tency and predictability to the permit reviewprocess. Proposed developments within theCentral Business District shall exhibit designelements that contribute to the unique senseof character of Downtown Clayton. This reportalso identifies public projects that will benefitthe downtown as a whole, making it a moreattractive and stable environment, and com-munity center.

Project Initiation / Purpose

Clayton / General DescriptionClayton / General DescriptionClayton / General DescriptionClayton / General DescriptionClayton / General Description

Clayton is a community of more than 15,000citizens (2007), located 15 miles south of Ra-leigh in Johnston County. From 1990 thepopulation of Clayton grew from 4,756 citizensto its current population. Johnston County’spopulation is 168,525 (2009) . Projections showClayton’s growth will continue at a similar paceinto the future. Clayton is the largest munici-pality in Johnston County.

Main Street 1915

Main Street 1961



Like many towns, Clayton has sought an iden-tity that will define it into the future, an identitythat acknowledges the importance of the pastand embraces a vision for the future settingClayton apart as a desirable place to live, work,and play.

In 2001, the Downtown Improvements Projectstudy was developed as part of a recom-mended goal of the Town’s 2000 StrategicGrowth Plan. That document was created tohelp coordinate the development of planningdocuments and to provide a dynamic refer-ence for decision makers in growth relatedmatters.

Included in the goals identified by the plan isthe development of downtown as a commu-nity hub. Since the 2001 Downtown Improve-ment Projects study has been the guidingdocument to achieve downtown goals. Addi-tional tools have since been developed:Strategic Economic Development Plan (2004);Hiring of a full-time Downtown Develop Coor-dinator (2005); Restructure of the DowntownDevelopment Association (2006); Acceptanceinto the NC Main Street Program (2006);

Strategic Growth Plan

Clayton Downtown Parking Needs Assesment& Inventory (2007); NC Main Street ResourceTeam Report (2007); Market Analysis, Brand-ing & Wayfinding Strategy (2008); Listing ofthe Clayton Historic District on the NationalRegister of Historic Places (2010).

In conjunction with Downtown Clayton: Vision2012 the DDA has developed ambitious workplans each year to accomplish goals tied tothe vision. Accomplishments are measuredeach year in an Annual Report.

Main Street

Corner of Main Street and Barbour Street



History

In 1853, the railroad came to town and thecommunity was first known as Stallings’ Sta-tion.

Mr. Ashley Horne developed a successfulfarming operation and merchandising busi-ness and became one of the most successfulmerchants and manufacturers in Clayton andin North Carolina. Horne’s success inspiredtwo other men, McCullers and Barbour, toopen businesses that started an era of growththat lasted over 60 years. Businesses that flour-ished during that time were a turpentine dis-tillery, lumber plants, a brick kiln, a cotton gin,gristmill, sawmill, tobacco warehouses andthree cotton mills.

In the early 1900’s Clayton was a major mar-ket for cotton, watermelon and tobacco andcited as one of the best cotton markets in thestate. In 1907, the Raleigh Evening Timeswrote that there was, “…more money percapita in Clayton than any city its size in theworld.”

Compton House

Tobacco market of 1909 or watermelon market of 1908.

Clayton experienced the loss of its financialeminence in the 1930’s with the onset of theGreat Depression, and Clayton’s populationgrew slowly for forty years, increasing from1,440 residents in 1910 to 2,229 in 1950. Bythe 1960’s, cotton was out and tobacco wasin, although not to the extent cotton had been,and the two mills eventually closed in theearly1960’s. However, the population by nowhad grown to 3,312.

By the mid 1970’s farming was beginning tophase out as an economic force in Clayton.The population had dropped slightly in 1970,to 3,103. An industrial base began takingshape in the county; residential growth in-creased in the Raleigh area and Clayton’sworkforce adapted, shifting to a more service/trades-oriented economy. In 1980 the popu-lation had increased to 4,091 and increasedto 4,756 by 1990. Now, with a population ofover 15,000 residents, manufacturers like Cat-erpillar, and bio-pharmaceutical companieslike Talecris and Novo Nordisk employ manyClayton area residents, although many resi-dents work out of town.



History

Horne residence

The Clayton Historic District comprises boththe town’s historic business district and someof its residential neighborhoods. Buildingswithin the district include two properties al-ready on the National Register of HistoricPlaces, the Clayton Banking Company Build-ing, which is now the Clayton Chamber ofCommerce and the Clayton Graded Schooland Auditorium, which is now known as TheClayton Center.

Several significant structures have been lostover the years, including the Horne residenceand the Robertson Hotel. The commercialarea of the historic district is densely devel-oped and has many well-preserved, late nine-teenth- and early-to-mid-twentieth-centurycommercial buildings with handsome store-fronts and decorative cornices.

About 70% of the buildings within in the com-mercial section of the historic district are con-tributing structures and account for 22% of theentire historic district.

Many of these buildings can and have beenadapted for new uses which echo the charac-ter of Clayton’s history.

Existing building / adaptive reuse

Spinning Mill / adaptive reuse

Some of these are as follows;Clayton Oil Mill BuildingNorth Carolina Paper CompanyBuildingOld Town Hall BuildingGulley Building Part ofVarious residential structures

The Clayton Historic District was listed on theNational Register of Historic Places in June,2010.



113 E First Street - re-development

In recent years downtown Clayton has seennew public and private investment and devel-opment.

The old Clayton Elementary and Clayton Highschools have been renovated into what is nowThe Clayton Center, which houses Town Halland Cultural Arts Center.

The old school playground has been turnedinto the Town Square at W Main Street andFayetteville Street

Town Lot at Lombard & E Main has been re-developed into a public plaza and parking

Police Department property is being redevel-oped into the Clayton Law Enforcement Cen-ter with completion expected in 2011.

Recent private investment has tended towardrenovation and reuse, including the exampleson the next page.

Recent Projects

Old Town Hall Clayton Elementary School / Clayton Center



113 E First Street - After

126 E First Street - Before 126 E First Street - After

131 E First Street - Before

104 N Fayettevill Street - Before 104 N Fayettevill Street - After


Clayton Downtown Master PlanInventory & Analysis

General Observations

Downtown Clayton has retained a vitality andvibrancy in spite of sprawl and the develop-ment of retail corridors along thoroughfares.Evidence of this vitality is found in continuedprivate and public investment, and a sincereinterest throughout the community in improv-ing downtown as well as committed town lead-ership.

Study AreaStudy AreaStudy AreaStudy AreaStudy Area

The area examined by this study centers onMain Street from Robertson Street to the in-tersection of Main Street with US 70. The areaextends to the east including the railroad cor-ridor and to the west including Second Street.While the study considers the relationship ofthis area to US 70 and the rest of the Claytonarea, the recommendations focus directly onthe area as described.

OrganizationOrganizationOrganizationOrganizationOrganization

For purposes of the inventory and analysis theproject area is subdivided into 4 sub areas.These areas are as follows:

Robertson Street to Church StreetChurch Street to Lombard StreetLombard Street to Smith StreetSmith Street to US 70

In addition to these areas the corridor associ-ated with the railroad and its right of wayis addressed separately.

Primary to the inventory and analysis are thefollowing considerations:

Land UseBuildingsCirculation PatternsSurrounding land use

Development OpportunitiesDevelopment OpportunitiesDevelopment OpportunitiesDevelopment OpportunitiesDevelopment Opportunities

There are many development opportunitiesavailable in downtown Clayton as shown onthe Master Plan maps.

LA-1 Robertson Street to Church StreetLA-2 Church Street to Smith StreetLA-3 Smith Street to Compton StreetLA-4 Compton Street to US 70 Business

Corner of Main St. and Church St.



Robertson St. to Church St.

The corridor from Robertson Street to ChurchStreet includes a diversity of land uses fromwarehousing and retail to residential and in-cludes some office uses. This area also in-cludes the Town Square, which is surroundedby Main, Second, O’Neil and FayettevilleStreets. Since 2001 this area has becomeClayton Town Square, hosting concerts, festi-vals, and public gatherings.

Buildings of significance and interest includethe North Carolina Paper Company building,the old train depot, the old elementary school,churches, Library and several buildings alongFirst Street.

The western boundary of the Historic Districtwithin the commercial business district beginsat O’Neil Street. Nearly every structure fromO’Neil to Church Street and from First Streetto Second are considered “contributing” struc-tures. It is also in this area where buildingsface First Street.

The corridor between Robertson and O’Neilis not within the Historic District, but does con-tain several buildings of significance, includ-ing the old train depot building which has beenrelocated and turned into residential units; T.R.Lee gas station, and the old Clayton Oil MillsBuilding.

Few residential uses remain and these remain-ing homes are surrounded by incompatibleland uses. Vacant property in combination withthe removal of incompatible uses on adjacentproperties offer opportunities for development.

Robertson and Fayetteville Streets are con-sidered to be entry corridors to downtownClayton and the neighborhoods east of the rail-road tracks due to their strong connections toUS 70.

Development opportunities can be found onMap LA-1.

NC Paper Co.

Town Square during the Farmer’s Market



Ellington Street

First Street buildingsFirst Street buildings

The development of Ellington Street is inap-propriate and has left a clear example of hownot to approach town redevelopment. Theparking in front of the buildings with no bufferto the street and no sidewalks has resulted ina large asphalt parking area, which is a nega-tive precedent.

A number of properties along Main Street alsoallow parking in front of buildings in areas notdesigned for that use. This activity is aestheti-cally distracting and also impedes pedestrianmovement. Many of the existing sidewalks arenot continuous.

First Street was historically vital to Clayton inthe early 1900s. There are several brick build-ings and a number of residential structuresthat have been redeveloped for commercialand office use.



Church St. to Lombard St.

The corridor from Church Street to pastLombard Street is considered to be the heartof downtown Clayton. In this area the build-ings along Main Street are some of the mostsignificant buildings in Clayton and a consis-tent relationship to the street is maintained withonly a few exceptions. These exceptions in-clude 208 E Main (convenience store) and thedoctor’s office across the street. Significantbuildings include the Chamber of Commercebuilding, the Gully Building, 217-219 E Main;218-220 E Main, and the building whichhouses the Coffee Mill. Other buildings, whilenot individually significant, together create aconsistent block face.

Building uses are commercial and office innature. The most significant undevelopedpiece of land lies on the north side of MainStreet at the intersection of Lombard Street,which has recently been developed as a pub-lic plaza and parking. This was the site of theHorne residence, a magnificent structure be-longing to one of Clayton’s early leaders,which was demolished in the early 1980’s.Other vacant lots in the area between the rail-road right-of-way and the buildings frontingMain Street offer infill development opportu-nities.

Second Street in this area includes single fam-ily residential from Church Street to BarbourStreet with Town Hall, old post office and Po-lice Station anchoring the intersection atBarbour Street. Other land uses include theClayton Square Shopping Center. Much ofthe land on the north side of Second Street,past Barbour St., is vacant or underutilized.

First Street (aka “Railroad Street”) in this areais located entirely in the railroad right-of-wayand remains unimproved. There are no build-ings which front First Street or the railroad cor-ridor.

Lombard Street is considered a primary ac-cess and a main entry to downtown due to itsconnection to US 70 and as an extension ofNC 42 as well as its intersection with MainStreet.

New public plaza/site of former Horne residence

Library Parking lot



Lombard does not continue across MainStreet as a street, but it is actually continuedacross as a driveway used to access the park-ing area and access to buildings between rail-road right-of-way and Main Street.

Barbour Street also connects to US 70 butdoes not carry the traffic that Lombard Streetdoes. The section of Barbour Street betweenSecond and Main is one way and narrow insection.

Development opportunities can be found onmap LA-2.

Unimproved First Street

Coffee Mill Mule Barn Building



Lombard St. to Smith St.

Along Main Street and halfway betweenLombard Street and Smith Street, the feelingof “downtown” starts to dissipate. This is dueto the relationship of buildings to the street,the presence of residential structures and anincreased variety of land uses. At this halfwaypoint there exists a large vacant lot. From thishalfway point to the intersection of Main Streetand Smith Street most structures are residen-tial in character. However, many of these struc-tures are commercial in use or have been con-verted to commercial use.

While Smith Street serves as a connection fromresidential land uses to the west it is not con-sidered an entry to downtown. The SmithStreet railroad crossing was closed in 2006as a safety project, eliminating its importanceas an east-west connector.

On both sides of Second Street in this arealand use is almost entirely residential in na-ture, characterized by single family resi-dences.

Business at corner of Main Street and Smith Street

Former Smith Street railroad crossing

Also within this area there are a couple of sig-nificant structures. One of these is the HorneBuilding. This structure is situated very closeto the Railroad tracks and is not visible fromMain Street.

The area between the buildings fronting MainStreet and the railroad tracks, with the removalof a few insignificant structures along MainStreet, offers an opportunity for additionl park-ing. In this section vehicles are being parkedin front of buildings that are new and old, cre-ating an undesirable visible condition alongthe street.

Development opportunities can be found onmap LA-2.



Horne Building

Main Street



Smith Street to US 70

The area from the intersection of Main Streetand Smith Street to US 70 exhibits a variety ofland uses culminating in a host of retail usesat the intersection with US 70.

From Smith Street to past the intersection ofMain with Second Street the railroad parallelsMain Street and there are no buildings betweenMain Street and the railroad with the excep-tion of one residential structure near the inter-section of Smith Street.

Land uses on the west side of Main Street in-cludes single family residences, several com-mercial uses, a few vacant lots, and a multi-family development and retail at the intersec-tion. First Street in this area does not exist.

The area on the east side of Main Street isnarrow because of the railroad right of wayand the predominant land has not been de-veloped, with a few single family residences.

At the intersection of Second Street and MainStreet is the site of the historic Compton house.This is the structure that was damaged dur-ing the retreat of Johnson’s troops during theCivil War. While this house sits back from thestreet, it’s presence is significant and integralto Clayton’s history.

The intersection of Second Street itself is off-set by approximately 150 feet from the inter-section of Central Street, which crosses therailroad tracks and leads to the post office andthe mill buildings which are planned to includemixed uses. These buildings serve as a satel-lite business district for the Town of Clayton.This offset results in a less than desirable con-dition and a safety concern.

The entry to downtown from US 70 Businesswas re-configured and a downtown monumentsign was installed in 2010.

Main Street / US 70 Connection (2001)

Post Office

Development opportunities can be found onmaps LA-3 and LA-4.



Railroad Corridor

The railroad corridor, which parallels MainStreet throughout the project area, carries a100-foot right of way to each side. Lying withinthis right of way are First Street from O’Neil toLombard Streets, Main Street itself at the in-tersection of Main and Second, and FrontStreet on the eastern / northern side of the rail-road corridor.

The future of this railroad corridor includes asecond track to be located within the corridor.The Town of Clayton and the North CarolinaRailroad have a landscaping agreement thatprovides guidelines for maintaining landscap-ing within the rail corridor. New plantings oftrees or shrubs higher than 3’ present sightdistance issues for motorists at grade cross-ings and for train personel and are restrictedas outlines in the agreement.

A January 3, 1990 agreement between South-ern Railway and the Town of Clayton allows forthe maintenance of an unpaved roadway(commonly referred to as “First Street Exten-sion”) extending southeastwardly from NorthChruch Street for a distance of approximately520 feet. The agreement should not be con-strued as a dedication of this portion of therail corridor for a public street.

The Master Plan map (LA-2) shows a down-town greenway connection at North LombardStreet and the rail. Any improvement to thisat-grade crossing or increase in the use of thiscrossing by pedestrians will neccesitate anunder-grade or over-grade separation.

Railroad Corridor


Clayton Downtown Master PlanMaster Plan

Design GuidelinesDesign GuidelinesDesign GuidelinesDesign GuidelinesDesign Guidelines

The guidelines are intended to add consis-tency and predictability to the permit reviewprocess. Proposed developments within theCentral Business District shall exhibit designelements that contribute to the unique senseof character of Downtown Clayton.

In response to our observations and commu-nity input during the process the philosophybehind our solutions and the recommenda-tions illustrated in the master plan reflect thefollowing goals:

Identify and portray opportunities fornew developmentImprove pedestrian orientation ofMain StreetIdentify and define parking areasCreate a community spaceEstablish a sense of entry at key ap-proaches to downtown

Development OpportunitiesDevelopment OpportunitiesDevelopment OpportunitiesDevelopment OpportunitiesDevelopment Opportunities

Development opportunities include new con-struction and the adaptive reuse of existingbuildings. Opportunities for new buildings arepresent along Main Street, Second Street andFirst Street with the removal of incompatibleand noncontributing buildings in addition toutilizing currently vacant lots. From ChurchStreet to past Lombard Street is defined asthe center of downtown.

While opportunities along Main Street shouldserve primarily retail, office, and commercialspace, opportunities along Second Streetcould accommodate residential land use.Buildings along Main Street could certainlyaccommodate residential use on upper floors.Along First Street buildings could exhibit a mixof uses.

First Street / Adaptive Reuse of existing buildings




Pedestrian Orientation

Pedestrian OrientationPedestrian OrientationPedestrian OrientationPedestrian OrientationPedestrian Orientation

Future development should provide prioritytreatment for pedestrians in the design oftransportation facilities. The pedestrian envi-ronment should be improved by making iteasier, safer, more convenient and more com-fortable to walk between businesses, on side-walks, across streets, and through parking lots.Pedestrian facilities such as sidewalks andcrosswalks should connect all modes of trans-portation.

Where possible, sidewalks should be providedalong both sides of streets for a variety of ac-tivities that accommodate and complementdowntown life. A variety of pedestrian areas toaccommodate shoppers, residents, employ-ees, and visitors should be provided.

Unfortunately the dimensions of Main Streetwill not allow the introduction of angled park-ing spaces on either side and continued traf-fic flow in both directions. To provide some

parking on Main Street while improving the pe-destrian emphasis parallel parking is limitedto one side. [parking is currently allowed onboth sides of Main Street.]

Pedestrian orientation is improved by the cre-ation of pedestrian corners or refuges at streetintersections and mid-block crossings.

By taking control of Main Street from NCDOTthe incorporation of special paving can be uti-lized to draw further attention to the pedes-trian. These areas could also be raised to cre-ate traffic tables which will calm and slow traf-fic.




Pedestrian ConnectionsPedestrian ConnectionsPedestrian ConnectionsPedestrian ConnectionsPedestrian Connections

The development of pedestrian connectionsbetween buildings from parking areas behindto Main Street is a key component.

Suggested connections include:LA-1: Between Ellington & O’Neil St

From Clayton Center to Main St

LA-2: Between 208 & 218 E Main StBetween 220 & 222 E Main StBetween 226 & 232 E Main StBetween 236 & 312 E Main St

Pedestrian connections should also bestrengthened between downtown and neigh-borhoods to the north of downtown across therailroad tracks and neighborhoods to the southby extending sidewalks.

All pedestrian connections from Main Streetto Front Street require approval from NC Rail-road Company. Grade-separated crossingsare preferred by NCRR while at-grade cross-ings are discouraged. Either way, it is recom-mended that formal pedestrian crossings bemade between Fayetteville and LombardStreet.

Enlargement of map LA-1



Design Guidelines

Therefore, pedestrian connections from park-ing areas to Main Street should be strong, di-rect, and convenient without diminishing pe-destrian movement or visual experience.

Driveway impacts to pedestrain walks shouldbe minimized.

Adequate parking is required along with thethe promotion of transit and other forms oftransportation.

Parking / Pedestrian Connection to Main Street

Parking AreasParking AreasParking AreasParking AreasParking Areas

The location and design of parking areas orstructures should create a safe, convenient,and attractive network for vehicle circulationand parking.

The master plan illustrates the developmentof parking areas behind the buildings frontingon Main Street. The formalization of theseparking areas by paving will result in morespaces that are better organized.

The configuration of parking areas will requirea cooperative effort between property ownersand / or the Town of Clayton.

With the removal of parking along one side ofMain Street, these lots will supply parking forthose who are shopping, eating, or conduct-ing business in downtown.



Design Guidelines

Community Space / Corner of Lombard and Main

Community SpaceCommunity SpaceCommunity SpaceCommunity SpaceCommunity Space

Two significant community spaces envisionedby the 2001 plan have been realized.

The most central community space is at thecorner of Lombard & Main streets. The sec-ond space is the old school playground blockis now known as the Town Square , where pub-lic events such as the Town Square ConcertSeries, Christmas Tree Lighting and even theClayton Farmers Market occur.

Future community spaces should be plannedto be pedestrian friendly and flexible in use.They can serve to connect various uses and /or accomodate specific uses. Clayton Town Square (old school playground)



Design Guidelines

Adjacent PropertiesAdjacent PropertiesAdjacent PropertiesAdjacent PropertiesAdjacent Properties

New development should promote functionaland visual compatibility between adjacentproperties and avoid visual or aesthetic con-trasts with the style of downtown generally andparticularly adjacent properties.

New development proposals should coordi-nate with surrounding site planning and de-velopment efforts on adjacent properties.

New development proposals should also con-sider the following existing design features tocreate visual continuity between the proposeddevelopment and adjacent neighborhoodsand the community:

building setbacksplacement of structureslocation of pedestrian and vehicularfacilities and spacing from adjoiningbuildings.

Site design features include composition ofplant materials and street trees as well as fenc-ing, walls, lighting, pavement, and other siteamenities.

Building design features include scale, mass-ing; proportion; size, spacing and the loca-tion of windows, doorways and other features;roof silhouette; facade proportions and orien-tations; location of entries; surface material,finish, color, and texture of surrounding de-velopment; and style of architecture.

In some areas, the existing context is not well-defined, or may be undesirable. In suchcases, the new development will be recog-nized as a model with the opportunity to es-tablish a pattern of identity from which futuredevelopment can take its cues. Relevant zon-ing requirements, design guidelines and other

downtown plans and policies shall be consid-ered as indicators of the desired direction forthe area and the project.

Proposed development should be properlylinked to existing and planned pedestrian, ve-hicular, drainage, and utility systems, and as-sure efficient continuation of such systems.

Consider the impact of the development uponexisting and planned adjacent public and pri-vate open spaces, parks and recreation ar-eas.

Rendering of Proposed Law Enforcement Center



Design Guidelines

Gateways / EntriesGateways / EntriesGateways / EntriesGateways / EntriesGateways / Entries

A major entry from US 70 is defined at theintersection of Main Street and a realignedSecond Street. The realignment with CentralStreet would serve to improve the safety ofthis intersection while creating the space forthe development of an entry feature.

In combination with the Compton House, a se-quence of walls and plantings create a senseof entry at this intersection. The plantingsshould extend between the street and the rail-road to continue the sequence towards down-town.

The gateway at Main Street and US 70 Busi-ness was realigned in 2008 with enhancedplanting, and removal of overhead lines. Adowntown monument sign was installed in2010.

Other major gateways into downtown includeRobertson, Fayetteville, and Lombard Streets.

Rendering of Proposed Central Street Realignment

Robertson StreetUS 70 / Downtown (Main Street) Gateway



Plan Components

Physical recommendations of the master planfor the downtown study area reflect goals andobjectives developed during the planning pro-cess. The recommendations are not describedon the basis of the sub-areas used in the in-ventory and analysis description. The improve-ments and recommendations of this plan aredescribed in terms of plan components.

Each of the design concepts is linked to theothers in various ways. The study’s recommen-dations are defined by the following descrip-tions of individual components of the plan.

General ImprovementsGeneral ImprovementsGeneral ImprovementsGeneral ImprovementsGeneral Improvements

Improvements common throughout the down-town study area include the placement of over-head utilities underground, a comprehensivestreetscape and tree planting program, light-ing, and new sidewalks.

New ConstructionNew ConstructionNew ConstructionNew ConstructionNew Construction

Development of buildings in downtown areaare infill by nature. New construction or devel-opment opportunities are identified all alongMain Street and parts of Second Street. AlongMain Street, street-level uses should be retail/ commercial, restaurants and other services.Upper floors of buildings along Main Streetcan be occupied by office or residential space.Buildings that front along Second Street shouldbe residential in use and character. Multi-fam-ily or attached housing is considered appro-priate and essential to building density in thedowntown area. Streets perpendicular to Mainand Second will offer limited opportunity forstructures which face the street. This is due tothe dimension and depth of the block in addi-tion to the desire for mid-block parking areas.

New construction should reflect and respondto the rhythm created by existing structuresas well as their detail and scale. While thereshould be consistency with regard to the dis-tance from the building to the street curb, newbuildings could be set back slightly to allowfor wider sidewalks and outdoor dining. Build-ings in this area could be as high as 4 storiesand remain compatible with existing struc-tures. New construction shall conform to theArchitectural Guidelines found in Section 2 ofthis report.

Demolit ionDemolit ionDemolit ionDemolit ionDemolit ion

No building should be demolished without firstsecuring a demolition permit from the Town ofClayton. The permit process should includereview and sign-off by the Downtown Devel-opment Coordinator. Demolition of any con-tributing building in the National Register Dis-trict is strongly discouraged.

Overhead utilities



Plan Components

Horne Building

Adaptive Reuse /Adaptive Reuse /Adaptive Reuse /Adaptive Reuse /Adaptive Reuse /Historic PreservationHistoric PreservationHistoric PreservationHistoric PreservationHistoric Preservation

The reuse of existing buildings is the most ef-fective method of historic preservation and iskey to preserving Clayton’s past and enrich-ing the character and appearance of thedowntown area. The use of these structuresfollows similar guidelines and scenarios tothose described for new construction. Resi-dential strutures displaced for new construc-tion can be moved to areas with more similarsurroundings. Remnant structures or architec-tural elements should be preserved or recov-ered and reused as part of public spacedesign.

Historic buildings which are currently hometo a viable business should be preserved.

A good example of this is the conversion ofthe old elementary school and high school intoa community arts center as well as town ad-ministration offices (The Clayton Center). TheChamber of Commerce building is a good ex-ample of adaptive reuse. This approachshould be extended to many buildings alongMain Street as well as the old Town Hall build-ing.

Streetscape GuidelinesStreetscape GuidelinesStreetscape GuidelinesStreetscape GuidelinesStreetscape Guidelines

Streetscape improvements are physical solu-tions that address pedestrian safety, appear-ance, parking and traffic movement.

The features that form the basis of thestreetscape include pedestrian refuges atdowntown intersections, pedestrian cross-walks, and a palette of coordinating materialsand elements which create character. The pe-destrian refuges create space for parallel park-ing along Main Street and provide the oppor-tunity for street tree plantings, a place to sit,as well as additional space for the pedestrianto wait before crossing the street. The refugesare directly related to crosswalks. The pavingmaterial across Main Street for the crosswalksstrikes contrast with the asphalt to bring fur-ther attention to the pedestrian. Pedestrian ref-uges, crosswalks, etc. should incorporate ac-cessible design features.

The elements of the streetscape which con-tribute to the overall character of the street in-clude but are not limited to the following:



Plan ComponentsPlan ComponentsPlan ComponentsPlan ComponentsPlan Components

Example of Pavers

Paving Materials:Paving Materials:Paving Materials:Paving Materials:Paving Materials:Paving materials should be authentic andmodular to allow for utility repairs with nodisruption of the overall appearance. Side-walks should comply with the streetscapeplan

Lighting Fixtures:Lighting Fixtures:Lighting Fixtures:Lighting Fixtures:Lighting Fixtures:Lighting fixtures should be pedestrian inscale and classical in design safety is im-proved with street lighting and characteris further defined. Lighting fixtures otherthan traditional cobra heads are encour-aged.

Street Furniture:Street Furniture:Street Furniture:Street Furniture:Street Furniture:Street furniture should be of a durable ma-terial and complimentary to the lighting.Street furniture includes benches, trash re-ceptacles, kiosks, bollards, decorativeclock or landmark kiosks, etc. All elementsto be approved by the Town of Clayton.

Plantings:Plantings:Plantings:Plantings:Plantings:Existing plantings include holly trees.These trees are viewed as an asset, how-ever, their relationship to the sidewalk sur-face needs to be urbanized. New streetplantings should be shade trees.

Artwork:Artwork:Artwork:Artwork:Artwork:Artwork can be integrated into publicstreets and pedestrian improvements.The location and design of these elementsshould not impede views or hinder pedes-trian traffic.

Water Features:Water Features:Water Features:Water Features:Water Features:Water features or decorative fountains areencouraged. These features should bevisible and accessible from a public walkor space. They should be designed to usewater efficiently.

Signage:Signage:Signage:Signage:Signage:Informational or directional signage in thedowntown area should give clear direc-tion to parking areas, shops and other civicbuildings. Signage should be uniform andreflect the character of the street furniture.This includes freestanding signs and signsmounted to buildings.

Other elements, which may be part of thestreetscape or incorporated into design ofdowntown facilities include fences, gates, andscreening devices. In those areas of down-town characterized by non-residential build-ings the need for fences and gates is less thanthose areas with a residential feel.

Screening devices to address loading docks,services entries, trash receptacles, includingdumpsters, and other undesirable elementsand views should be compatible with the ma-terials of the adjacent buildings.

Two keys to implementing the streetscape im-provements is the removal of Main Street fromthe roster of roads controlled by and main-tained by NCDOT and the placement of over-head utilities underground.




Chruch Street Railroad Crossing

Railroad CorridorRailroad CorridorRailroad CorridorRailroad CorridorRailroad Corridor

The NC Railroad corridor runs parallel withMain street through most of the study area. Itseparates the core commercial area of down-town from the largely residential area north ofFront Street. This physical separation shouldbe minimized through grade separated pe-destrian access improvements. The railroadright-of-way extends 100 feet to each side ofthe current tracks. Located within this area cur-rently are streets, improved and unimproved,and some buildings. Although the location ofthe future second track has not been deter-mined, some of this right-of-way could beused for locating parking and improvementsincluding plant installations, subject to NCRRapproval. It is felt, while the first 50’ from thetrack should be clear of any obstructions, theouter 50’ can be utilized as open space or forparking and landscaping again, subject toNCRR approval.

First Street from O’Neil to Lombard should beimproved, subject to NCRR approval. The ex-ception to buildings within 50’ could be a tran-sit station at Lombard or south of town closerto US 70 Business, but the Town would needto coordinate with the planning efforts of NC-DOT Rail and NCRR. Remaining right of wayto the north and south of this area should belandscaped on both sides of the tracks. Thereis a desire to locate a commuter rail station asclose to the downtown commercial district aspossible.

The Church Street connection across thetracks should be improved for pedestrian traf-fic, as it is most central to the neighborhood.

When the railroad corridor and Main Streetcome closer together in the area of SecondStreet, the area between the street and thetracks should not include parking only land-scaping.




Parking Areas

Parking Areas / StructuresParking Areas / StructuresParking Areas / StructuresParking Areas / StructuresParking Areas / Structures

Off-street parking, where provided, should berestricted to the side and rear of any principalbuilding. Parking areas adjacent to streetrights-of-way should be separated from thesidewalk / street by a minimum three foot land-scaped strip, except for approved drivewaycurb cuts.

Driveways are limited to one entry lane andone exit lane per 300’ of street frontage. Ve-hicular access to corner lots with less than 300’of street frontage should be located on thelowest classified street and as close as practi-cal to the property line most distant from theintersection, subject to NCDOT standards andspecifications.

A shared access easement (vehicular and pe-destrian) may be required between adjoin-ing parking lots at the same grade to mini-mize the number of access points along streetsand facilitate traffic flow.

Parking areas should be separated from build-ings and public sidewalks with a landscapebuffer. Combinations of ornamental fencingand plant material should be used wheneverpossible to minimize the visual impact of largeexpanses of parking lot from public view.

Create employee parking in remote areas toallow for customer parking closer to the build-ing entrances. Employees should beprohibitied from parking on the street.

The bulk of a parking structure as seen fromthe street should be minimized by placing itsshortest dimension along the street edge. Theparking structure should include active usessuch as retail or other appropriate uses at theground level and/or along the street frontage.



Converting vacant lots to formalized parkingareas is primary to the plan. In order for theparking lots behind the buildings to becomeutilized, the pedestrian connections from thelots to Main Street must be convenient andfeel safe.

Parking structures should be architecturallyconsistent with exterior architectural elementsof the primary structure, including roof lines,facade design, modulation,and finish ele-ments.

Buildings built over parking should not appearto “float” over the parking area, but should belinked with ground level uses or screening.Parking at grade under a building is discour-aged unless the parking area is completelyenclosed with the building or wholly screenedwith walls and/or landscaping.

Parking / Pedestrian ConnectionsParking / Pedestrian ConnectionsParking / Pedestrian ConnectionsParking / Pedestrian ConnectionsParking / Pedestrian Connections

Pedestrian and vehicular circulation shouldcomply with the Downtown ClaytonStreetscape Design Plan and the Town’s streetguidelines.

New Construction should provide obvious pe-destrian access onto the site from the adja-cent streets and integrate on-site pedestriancirculation with the design of pedestrian facili-ties on the adjacent street and development.

In multiple-building developments, pedestrianconnections should be provided to all busi-nesses and entries of buildings.

In parking areas, pedestrian walkways con-necting the parking area with primary build-ing entrances, pedestrian-oriented spaces,adjacent streets, and adjacent propertiesshould be provided at least every 150 feet.Pedestrian walkways should be delineated byseparate paved routes using a variation inpaved texture and/or color, and protected


from adjacent vehicle circulation areas withlandscaping. Approved methods of delinea-tion include, stone, brick, or granite pavers;exposed aggregate; or stamped and coloredconcrete. Paint striping on asphalt as amethod of delineation is discouraged.

Pedestrian alleys should be creatively de-signed, clean, and functional. Alleys shouldprovide for pedestrian linkages through mid-blocks and between properties. Amenitiessuch as seating and planters should be pro-vided to encourage pedestrian circulation.Whenever possible, a portion of the shop’sstorefront should be open to the alley to cre-ate a window shopping experience.

A minimum of one mid-block connection isrecommended with a minimum 10-20 footwidth. These spaces should be well lit andprovide spaces for public artwork. All pedes-trian facilities should comply with accessibilitystandards.

The future of Barbour Street is envisioned totake on a more pedestrian feeling as it con-nects Main Street with the old Town Hall struc-ture and Clayton Law Enforcement Center.

Town Square pedestrian crossing




Rendering of New Town Lot

The community space at the old playgroundsite is a more traditional public square. It issuggested that if other parking areas can beidentified in the future to accommodate thecommunity center (adaptive reuse of the el-ementary school structure ), that the use ofthe entire block be devoted to a traditionalcommunity space.

Both of these spaces serve the community ina variety of ways. They provide spaces forgatherings and special events, a green respiteduring the workday, a place to interact withfriends, a place to display Clayton’s heritageor public works of art, and a place that servesto strengthen the identity of the community.

Community SpacesCommunity SpacesCommunity SpacesCommunity SpacesCommunity Spaces

The two existing community spaces are quitedifferent in character. The central communityspace at Lombard Street is urban and an ex-pansion of the streetscape while the Townsquare on the old playground property is moretraditional.

The space on the former site of the Hornemansion features gathering and seating op-portunities for small groups of people andspaces, which could organize displays at Har-vest Festival or other community functions. Italso accomodates parking.

One of the design goals of this space was touse many of its elements as a springboard fora streetscape plan for downtown, as well asfor small programming events, everyday pub-lic use and for parking.

In the long term it is suggested that a buildingcould be constructed between the commu-nity space and the railroad. This future build-ing should serve some community purposesuch as an open market or transit stop.

Town Square



Plan Components

Entry / US 70

In addition to this gateway, improvements tosuggest entry are appropriate for Robertson,Fayetteville and Lombard Streets. At the in-tersection of Main Street and Robertson theuse of stone in the form of walls or entry col-umns can signify an entry on a more modestscale.

A feeling of entry as one approaches from thewest on Fayetteville Street will be created bythe Town Square on the old playground prop-erty.

Lombard Street features primarily single familyresidences after it passes below US 70 untilone block before it’s intersection with SecondStreet. An open space at the northwest cor-ner of Lombard and Horne Street provides aplace for an entry statement. Lombard is rec-ognized as a primary entry to downtown andimprovements at this location are appropri-ate.

Stone wall and column

Gateway / Entry AreasGateway / Entry AreasGateway / Entry AreasGateway / Entry AreasGateway / Entry Areas

The gateway to downtown from the south andUS 70 is recognized as a primary entry. Re-cent improvements include a re-alignment ofMain Street with US 70 Business, landscap-ing and a downtown monument sign that setsthe standard design for downtown wayfinding

and other gateways.

All along the east side of Main Street, and inthe area between the street and the tracksshould be planted in concert with street light-ing and a stone wall which visually leads tothe entrance feature at the intersection of MainStreet and Second Street. At this location thestone walls enclose the intersection and de-fine a formal green entry space.

The stone walls should resemble the walls thatenclose the cemetery on Front Street and canbe seen along NC42. These stone walls incombination with street tree plantings and light-ing continue along Main Street towards down-town.



ImplementationImplementationImplementationImplementationImplementation

Implementing the recommendations of thisplan is contingent upon the policy for reviewof future construction projects as well as thededication of the town leadership to initiatetown projects.

Any new construction considered for Mainstreet or within the project study area shouldbe evaluated according to the recommenda-tions found of this plan. A formal review of theproject to insure its compatibility is necessary.

Public projects initiated by the town shouldalso reflect the recommendations of this plan.

The Clayton Historic District has been listedon the National Register of Historic Placesand several incentive programs have beenadopted for new construction and facadeimprovements to assist in the preservationof the existing buildings as well as generateinterest in the downtown area as a place toinvest. Partnership between the public andprivate sectors is essential for continuedimprovements

II-1 Winstead Wilkinson Architectsobs landscape architects

Clayton Downtown Master PlanArchitectural & Design Guidelines

Table of Contents / Section II

1. Purpose of Guidelines II-2

2. How to Use the Guidelines II-3

3. Elements of a Downtown Clayton Building II-4

4. Sequence of Investigation and Work II-6

5. Architectural Guideline Topics II-8• Windows II-9

• Doors II-14

• Facades II-19

• Storefronts II-24

• Rhythm II-29

• Materials II-32

• Proportion / Scale II-37

• Roofing II-42

• Awnings & Canopies II-43

• Signage II-48

• Color II-53

• Exterior Lighting II-56

• Modernizing II-57

• Infill / New Construction II-61

• ADA Accessibility / Upgrades II-65

AppendixAppendixAppendixAppendixAppendix

A. Workshop #1 A-2

B. Workshop #2 A-14

C. Maintenance Checklist A-20

D. Additional Resources/Publications A-25

E. Federal Tax Credit Summary A-26

F. Secretary of Interior Renovation Standards A-29

G. 2010 Workshop Materials A-30



Purpose and Objectives of Guidelines

The following architectural design guidelineshave been developed to assist in the recogni-tion and maintenance of the historical charac-ter of Downtown Clayton. The guidelines areintended to promote the preservation of exist-ing significant buildings while encouraging newconstruction to be compatible and supportiveof the existing context. The intended objectiveis to have functional and visual compatibilitythroughout the downtown area without creat-ing any negative impacts to adjacent proper-ties.

The architectural guidelines are not intendedto be all-inclusive, but rather suggest the maintopics that are typical and common to thedowntown area. Within each topic there existsboth narrative descriptions, recommended andnot recommended guidelines, and supportivegraphics. By utilizing all the information, thereader is encouraged to explore the various top-ics that pertain to their particular situation. In-corporating the guidelines into individualprojects will give each property owner a com-mon ground of understanding.

The guidelines are not intended to produce aClayton that is homogeneous and void of anyvariety. Downtown Clayton has always boasteda wide array of businesses and building styles.Such a variety is important for the continuedvitality of Downtown Clayton.

Incorporation of these guidelines will be an im-portant step in assuring that the character, his-tory, and uniqueness that makes downtown aspecial place will continue for years and gen-erations to come.

Through continued efforts of proper mainte-nance of existing structures, appropriate reno-vations, and sensitive new construction,Clayton will continue to enjoy a true town cen-ter that is vibrant and rich in architectural char-acter.

While these architectural guidelines focus pri-marily on physical building elements, it isequally critical that any new or rehabilitationproject coordinate with the surrounding siteplanning and design objectives of the overalldowntown master plan. Incorporating and re-specting certain site design features, place-ment of structures, coordination of vehicularand pedestrian, and the spaces created be-tween structures are considerations that willaffect the context. (Please reference section Ifor more detailed information.)



How to Use the Guidelines

The architectural design guidelines are orga-nized into 15 main topics, with each topic be-ing detailed to include introductory text, a rec-ommended, not-recommended summary, andgraphics to visually reinforce the topics. In ad-dition to the guideline topics, there is additionalinformation concerning maintenance proce-dures and building checklists. Background in-formation on historic tax credits and a resourcelist is also included.

To begin working with the design guidelines, aproperty or business owner in the downtownarea would start with an evaluation of his/herown property. Once identification of key ele-ments and conditions have been noted, thenthe reader is encouraged to look at the varioustopics in the guidelines that apply to their prop-erty or anticipated work. While these guidelinesare based on the Secretary of Interior Standardsfor Rehabilitation, each building and project isunique and should be undertaken by consid-ering not only the subject property, but the ad-jacent context as well. Each building and prop-erty in the downtown plays an important role increating, reinforcing, and maintaining the char-acter of the downtown. It is a character that isunique to Clayton.

When undertaking actual rehabilitation work ornew construction in a historic setting, it is al-ways advisable to seek the advice of profes-sionals, to employ individuals who have expe-rience with rehabilitation work, and have famil-iarity with referencing design guidelines. Pro-fessional experience, guidance, and assistancecovering aspects from design to constructionwill likely result in a better finished product forthe owner and the community.



Elements of a Downtown Building

The following graphic depicts the front eleva-tion of two different buildings in DowntownClayton. The elevations of the single-story andmulti-story building are noted to identify archi-tectural elements that are common to manydowntown structures. This visual and writtendescription is important in understanding the

language of historical buildings.

Architectural & Design Guidelines Clayton Downtown Master Plan

obs landscape architects Winstead Wilkinson ArchitectsII-5

Elements of a Downtown Building



Suggested Sequence of

Investigation and Work

1. Inspect the roof for leaks, also check-ing gutters, downspouts, copings, andflashing. Water infiltration into a build-ing from the roof is one of the mostdamaging and harmful conditions thatcan happen to a structure. What maybegin as a minor inconvenience canquickly become a major problem lead-ing to deterioration and structural dam-age requiring major repairs.

2. Investigate the structural integrity of thestructure, paying special attention toidentify any damaged areas, includingwalls, floors, and ceilings/roofs. Repairany damaged structural supports andverify that any rotten or termite-dam-aged wood has been removed and re-placed. Before undertaking any repairwork, it would be advisable to docu-ment the existing conditions, takingspecial care not to remove any histori-cal materials without first understand-ing the impact to the historical charac-ter of the structure and any planned his-toric tax credits.

3. Survey existing windows and doors.Repair and repaint any damaged orexposed wood. Unpainted wood sur-faces will deteriorate at a high rate, lead-ing to eventual failure of the material.Replace broken window panes and re-pair damaged hardware. Check to seeif any metal flashing is installed abovethe window and door heads and thatthe window sills are properly drainingwater away from the bottom of the win-dow. Recaulk window jambs if required.Replace existing windows when neces-sary, following the design guidelinesand conditions to maintain integrity ofthe façade and supportive of any pos-sible historic tax credits.

4. Clean existing masonry wall surfaces,following instructions to use the mostgentle means of cleaning possible.Strong chemicals, high-pressure wash-ing, or sandblasting are all cleaningmethods that could cause irreparabledamage to the masonry and mortarjoints.

5. Repair any damaged exterior wall sur-faces. Repoint masonry following tech-nical guidance from either National ParkService Technical Guidelines or NorthCarolina Archives and History. Use of amortar that has a higher strength thatthe existing mortar could result in dam-age to the existing masonry. Any miss-ing masonry should be replaced withmasonry to match the existing.



6. Survey existing issues that pertain tohandicap access and conditions of ac-cessibility to the existing building. Insome cases a minor modification maygreatly enhance and improve the useof a building by persons with disabili-ties.

7. Investigate the existing storefront and re-pair/repaint as necessary. When pos-sible remove any materials or coveringsthat are not original and historical innature. In some cases, the damage andchange to an existing storefront may beso significant, that a new storefront mayneed to be constructed.

8. Replace damaged or out-of-characterawnings and signage.

9. Remove any abandoned wires, signbrackets, or foreign out-of-characterfaçade materials. Take special care notto damage any historical building ma-terials or facades.

10. Fabricate and install new awnings.

11. Fabricate and install new signage.

Note that activities beyond evaluations and thatwill involve physical changes to the structureshould be reviewed by the Clayton DowntownDevelopment Association as part of an ongo-ing effort to foster communication and coop-eration among business and property owners

in the downtown area.



The following fifteen topics represent the archi-tectural design guidelines for DowntownClayton. Some of the topics involve simple,single building components, while others in-volve more complex, “bigger picture” items. Inany case, some or all of these may apply to aparticular building or project. At the same time,however, all of these topics are integral to theoverall downtown as a whole. The informationpresented in each topic is certainly not exhaus-tive but should give a basic overview andbenchmark to guide decisions. As with anyopinion, there is always room for interpretationas long as decisions are made considering theinterest of all involved.

The guidelines intend to promote and encour-age high quality rehabilitation and developmentin Downtown Clayton. Incorporation and useof these guidelines solidify and support theunique identity of Clayton in a positive mannerand will ensure that Downtown remains a vi-able and active destination for work, play, and

living.

Topics

l Windows

l Doors

l Facades

l Storefronts

l Rhythm

l Materials

l Proportion/Scale

l Roofing

l Awnings/Canopies

l Signage

l Color

l Exterior lighting

l Modernizing/Updates

l Infill/New Construction

l ADA/Accessibility Updates



Windows

Windows represent one of the most prominentfeatures on any building. The buildings in Down-town Clayton are typical examples of turn-of-the-century and twentieth century designswhere windows were not only a design feature,but were necessary for the function of the build-ing. Historically windows have served to pro-vide ventilation and lighting, both at a time priorto the invention of air conditioning and wide-use of electric lighting. Although there werevariations in styles, most of the windows typi-cal for downtown structures were large glassareas on the first floor retail, and smaller, indi-vidual windows on the floors above. Above firstfloor windows were usually operable, doublehung, and constructed using wood sashes,trim, various mullion patterns, and single-paneglass.

When addressing the issue of window repairs,care should be taken to preserve the originalsashes, trim, and moldings. Any repair workshould blend with the existing windows and notbe apparently different. Replacement and newwindows should be consistent with the existingstyle of the window that is being replaced or incontext with adjacent windows. Proportionsand sizing should fit into the existing wall open-

ings.



Windows: Recommended

l Provide on-going maintenance andprotection of existing widows by painting,caulking, and weather-stripping

l Repair any damaged window frames andsashes by splicing in material thatmatches in type and profile

l Replace any existing window with onethat exactly matches the former

l Replace an existing window with a similar,accepted style and glazing pattern. Ifreplacing the window, then all windowsshould be replaced to provide a consis-tent façade

l Cut in new windows if required to matchexisting rhythm and setbacks of adjacentwindows

l Hold back any interior ceiling heightchanges to allow for original full-heightwindows

l Window glazing should use clear glassand not tinted, opaque, colored, orspandrel materials

l Any fixed window system should becompatible with the dimensions, colors,patterns, and proportions of existing oradjacent windows

l Use wood, vinyl-clad, or painted metal fornew windows. Bronzed or natural alumi-num frames should not be used

l Any window mullion pattern should beapplied to both interior and exterior

planes

l Any storm windows should be con-structed with wood storm sashes. Resi-dential-type aluminum storm windows

should be discouraged

l Design any required security devices(metal bars) to compliment the windows

l Windows should be no lower than twofeet above the finish grade

l Double hung windows are encouraged tohave a height-to-width ratio of 2:1 forupper stories

l Windows are recommended to havehorizontal separation of less than fifteenfeet from the nearest adjacent window ordoor in the same façade plane

l Provide window openings with stone,brick, or cast concrete lintels and sills

l Set window frames and glass back fromthe building façade consistent with otherdowntown historic construction



Windows Recommended



Windows: Not Recommended

l Removal of windows that are part of theoverall historic character of the façade

l Replacing operational windows with non-operational, fixed window units

l Using frame material that is not in keep-ing with the original historical character,including bronzed or aluminum storefrontframing

l Using any vinyl window products

l Adding shutters on commercial buildings

l Covering, boarding-over, or in-fillingexisting windows and openings

l Changing the window shape

l Utilizing a window or mullion pattern thatis not in keeping with the overall character

l Removing original trim, ornament, orother features

l Boarding-over or blocking windows fromthe inside

l Neglecting normal maintenance, repair,and upkeep of existing windows

l Adding aluminum storm windows

l Using a glass block-type material inexisting openings if the building is not ofthat time period

l Adding aluminum residential-type insectscreens to commercial buildings



Windows Not Recommended



Doors

Of the many different elements that composea building, the door becomes one of the mostimportant. From a pedestrian, building-userpoint of view, no other element receives suchclose inspection and use than a door. Doorsare objects that a user can inspect at closerange and is most familiar with in terms of types,materials, operation, and hardware. In Down-town Clayton, the front door is a gateway tothe retailer’s shop or an office area. As such, itis important that the door be perceived as anelement of the storefront and/or building façadeand not as a separate entity.

Historically, doors have been wood and haveranged from the simple, to the more elabo-rate. Doors have been solid or contained glass,usually including some type of trim and pan-eled design. More contemporary doors havebeen simplified and contained a higher per-centage of glass. With the introduction of alu-minum as a building product in the middle twen-tieth century, many replacement doors andwindows minimized any type of frame andmaximized the amount of glass area. Currentdoor manufacturer’s have recognized the reno-vation movement and most offer a completeline of new doors that reflect the historical char-acter of earlier designs.

By their placement and usage, doors typicallyreceive considerable wear and tear. The selec-tion of proper hardware, appropriate finishes,and on-going maintenance is critical to insurethe longevity of a door.



Doors: Recommended

l Repair and refinish existing historical doors

l Install new hardware that is accessibility-friendly

l Paint existing doors and perform othertypes of on-going maintenance to insureoperation, protection, and longevity

l Improve energy efficiency of existing doorsby caulking and installing weather-stripping

l Provide handicap accessible thresholds

l Construct new replacement doors to matchexisting historical doors in material, size,configuration, scale, and shape

l Use old photographs or other historicaldata to guide designs for replacementdoors

l Integrate new doors with any storefront re-placement design

l Use simple design, narrow frames, andpainted finish

l Utilize appropriate construction materials,remembering that wood has been histori-cally the material used in early downtownbuildings

l Incorporate decorative finish hardwaresuch as kickplates where previously used

l Use clear glass in door openings

l Provide necessary handicap accessibleclearances where possible



Doors Recommended



Doors: Not Recommended

l Residential-type doors

l Commercial, standard aluminumstorefront doors

l Repairing existing doors with materialsthat are not in keeping with the histori-cal character

l Altering the original style to one that isnot compatible with historical charac-ter

l Utilizing hardware that is not commer-cial- rated

l Using shapes or configurations thatdo not compliment the historicalcharacter

l Installing doors that are not predomi-nantly glass



Doors Not Recommended



Facades

The public facades of the buildings in Down-town Clayton are critical in defining a historicalcontext and character for downtown. It is theconsistency, placement, detail, and repetitionof the front facades that define the urban edgebetween the street, sidewalk area, and the build-ings. Through a variation of storefronts, win-dows, materials, colors, and details, the over-all image of “downtown” is created and rein-forced. Historically, the front facades receivedthe most design attention with the use of betterbuilding materials, better windows, and moreelaborate detailing. Buildings located on a cor-ner occasionally addressed both the front andside elevations in the same or similar manner.Main building entries occur within the major el-evation.

All the elements of the façade are important.Each element is significant and contributes tonot only the overall appearance of the singlebuilding, but the entire streetscape.

Any work on downtown facades must first fo-cus on the maintenance and repair of existingfacades and the appropriate rehabilitation ofother facades that have been altered in such away diminishes their contribution to the sur-rounding historical integrity. Facades most vis-ibly tell the history of the building and in an ef-fort to improve a façade, attention must be givento avoid adversely altering the building’s his-tory. By the same token, the development ofnew in-fill facades must also contribute to thehistorical character of the neighboring facadesand structures. Attention must be paid to thematerials used, the type and placement ofopenings, and the incorporation of vertical pro-portions.



Facades: Recommended

l Identify the unique elements of eachindividual façade

l Provide an on-going maintenance pro-gram to insure stability of existing façadematerials and elements

l Repair and replace any damaged materi-als with in-kind and similar materials

l Retain original façade materials

l Utilize old photographs when available toreconstruct a previously-altered façade

l Remove incompatible alterations, materi-als, and additions

l Understand history of an existing buildingbefore beginning any alteration work

l Investigate original paint schemes whenrepainting an existing façade

l Rehabilitate/renovate an existing façadeutilizing the Secretary of Interior Stan-dards

l Employ the services of a design profes-sional when undertaking a façade reno-vation or new construction

l Clean, re-point, and repair any damagemasonry

l Maintain all existing openings and installnew openings only in a manner consis-tent with the existing facades

l Investigate possible tax credit assistancefor renovation projects

l Use materials in new construction that areconsistent with existing historical context

l Respect adjacent façade scale, propor-tions, and styles

l Incorporate the prevalent pattern andspacing of façade elements, includingwindows and doors that are consistentwith buildings typically constructed priorto 1950

l Provide a street level façade with windowpatterns that have a minimum of 20percent open area and a maximum of 50percent

l Incorporate proportions that are typicallyvertical

l Use special detailing and features tohighlight a building entry



Facades Recommended



Facades: Not Recommended

l Removing any details such as parapets,cornices, or ornamental masonry-work,transoms, lintels, and storefronts

l Not providing for an on-going mainte-nance program to insure the stability andpreservation of existing facades

l Painting previously unpainted masonrywithout historical evidence supportingpast evidence of a masonry façade beingpainted

l Removing existing windows or door unitsthat are original to the façade

l Adding any new façade material that isnot in keeping with the original façade

l Adding new details that are either out ofcontext or incompatible with the originaldesign

l Replacing existing building elements withelements that are not similar

l Altering existing window openings andwindow patterns

l Adding awnings, canopies, or signageusing materials and details that are nothistorical and compatible

l Window and opening spacing greaterthan twelve feet separation betweenelements

l Redesigning an original storefront thatdoes not use similar materials and pro-portions to the original

l Creating an alteration that would changethe apparent time period of the originalfaçade

l Conducting any potentially harmfulcleaning process that could lead todamage of existing façade materials

l Undertaking any façade renovationsslated for historic tax credits without priorreview and approval by the requiredreview agencies



Facades Not Recommended



Storefronts

The storefront area, typically facing the mainstreet, is usually an open area of glass with thesole purpose of displaying either the retailwares of the store, or the first floor activities ofthe building occupant. The storefront can bethought of as a series of display windows. It isvery different from the solid walls and punchedwindow openings usually found on the floorsabove the storefront. Historical construction ofthe storefront area has allowed between 60and 80 percent glass with the remaining ar-eas being framed with usually wood or masonrymaterials.

There are many examples in Downtown Claytonwhere above can readily be seen. The incor-poration of transom windows above the doorline to maximize interior lighting is balanced bythe use of solid panels and detail below thewindows.

Existing storefronts can be maintained, re-paired, or in the case of severe damage, canbe replaced. Storefront replacements shouldeither replicate the former design, or be com-patible by utilizing typical vertical and horizon-tal proportions along with existing materials andcolors. Storefront replacements or new con-struction should avoid the use of materials suchas bronze or aluminum pre-finished materialsand glass should be transparent.



Storefronts: Recommended

l Maintain and preserve existing historicalstorefronts

l Repair existing historical storefronts whendamaged

l Integrate overall building color schemewith storefront

l Design new storefronts to be “pedestrian-friendly” and encourage street levelactivity

l Incorporate recessed doorways at build-ing fronts

l Orient storefronts and entry ways thatface the main street frontage and areaccessible from a public sidewalk

l Storefronts facing two streets shouldconsider both frontages as front eleva-tions for the building

l Use windows to appropriately display andadvertise for the occupant/business

l Protect and secure historical storefrontsprior to beginning any rehabilitation work

l Photograph and document any existingconditions and adjacent context

l Remain flush with the floors and façadeabove with the exception of recessedentries

l Replace a deteriorated storefront witheither an “in-kind” replacement or usesubstitute materials and designs whichcomplement and interpret the originaldesign and neighboring context

l Replace incompatible, out of charactermaterials with contextual materials

l Paint existing aluminum or bronze finishesto blend in with other surrounding woodtrim and metals

l If not an accurate recreation of thehistorical storefront, new designs shouldbe simple and maintain the commercialnature of a downtown structure

l Integrate signage into overall design ofthe storefront

l Locate main building entries on primarypublic street and sidewalk.

l Buildings facing Main Street, First Street,Second Street, Lombard Street, BarbourStreet, Church Street, Fayetteville Street,O’Neil Street, Ellington Street, andRobertson Street should consider thestreet frontage as the main, with thestorefront exhibiting the qualities consis-tent with entrances and pedestrianaccess



Storefronts Recommended



Storefronts: Not recommended

l Removing, demolishing, or altering an ex-isting storefront that would decrease thehistorical character of the building

l Replacing a storefront that could be re-paired

l Relocating the original storefront entry point

l Eliminating a special feature such as a re-cessed or angled entry

l Removing historical details from the origi-nal design

l Adding items such as lighting, materials,and details if they cannot be identified ashistorical and in context with the time pe-riod and/or surrounding structures

l Covering over existing windows and tran-som features

l Creating storefronts that do not integratedoorways and entrances that complementthe overall building front and discouragepedestrian activity

l Replacing damaged storefront materialswith other materials that may be foreign tothe district and surrounding buildings

l Using materials other than wood or paintedmetal for storefront, door, and windowframework

l Introducing colors and signage that are in-compatible with the building and the neigh-boring storefronts

l Using glass that is not transparent

l Utilizing glass block in locations that are notconsistent with the original building

l Including solid metal panels in the design

scheme



Storefronts Not Recommended



Rhythm

The rhythm of a building or streetscape refersto the pattern that is made by the combinationof windows, doors, proportions, and other de-tails that make up the overall façade. Histori-cally the rhythm is the variety that is createdbetween window sizes and spaces, the amountof wall area that is visible, and the placementof design details.

In Downtown Clayton rhythms are evident innot only single buildings, but within wholegroups of buildings. Such rhythms are appar-ent in even seemingly different structures. It isimportant to recognize that these patterns ex-ist and that any alteration to an existing build-ing or any new in-fill construction should main-tain and reinforce that rhythm. At the same time,it must be contextual with the other surround-ing buildings.



Rhythm: Recommended

l Identify the rhythm or rhythms of the origi-nal building so that any rehabilitation workcan be compatible and sympathetic

l Use rhythm as a tool to reduce the scale ofthe building or development to a more hu-man, pedestrian-friendly scale

l Maintain existing window and door open-ings, including storefronts that contributeto the rhythm of the building and reinforcethe streetscape

l Reopen closed window openings that con-tribute to the building rhythm

l Utilize materials that will reinforce the rhythmof the façade

l Recognize that rhythm can occur in a singlebuilding as well as an entire blockface

l Incorporate a rhythm pattern that reflectsthe traditionally horizontal pattern found inthe downtown area

l Maintain or create a clear visual distinctionbetween the street level and upper floorsto emphasize the horizontal rhythm

l Incorporate significant architectural ele-ments to help define and support the over-all building rhythm

l Utilize / incorporate landscape features toreinforce the rhythm of the building facadeor public space



Rhythm: Not recommended

l Altering existing window openings and win-dow patterns such that the original build-ing rhythm is altered or nonexistent

l Removing original elements and details thatcontribute to the overall building rhythm

l Designing new in-fill construction that isvoid of patterns and rhythms

l Designing new in-fill construction whoserhythm is incompatible with the surround-ing streetscape

l Rhythms and patterns that break the tradi-tional horizontal consistency of the overalldowntown buildings

l Inconsistent elements that create confusionand busy rhythms



Materials

Like many other North Carolina towns, the pal-ette of building materials in downtown Claytonhas been historically simple and somewhat lim-ited. The availability of timber and the ease andsimplicity of working with wood made it thematerial of choice for many of the original struc-tures in Clayton. Used mostly in residential,there were several early downtown businessstructures that were constructed with lap woodsiding and pitched shingle roofing.

Masonry, particularly brick, however quickly be-came the predominant material of choice incommercial construction. By the turn of thetwentieth century brick was abundant, economi-cal, and there was an ample supply of skilledmasons. Coupled with the fact that brick wasable to be load-bearing and was considereddurable and fire-resistant, very few commercialbuildings were built with anything else. With theexception of the Bank of Clayton, stone wasnot seen in the downtown area as a buildingmaterial.

Wood continued to be used for windows, doors,storefronts, and decorative trim along with flatplate glass. It does not appear that pressedmetal trim and cornices were included on amany of the downtown structures. This iscounter to many other areas in the state wherethis material was regularly used for decorationand coping.

Following World War II, many other building ma-terials became readily available and “fashion-able.” In many downtown areas there was arush to re-clad building facades with either non-historic materials, or to alter the buildings insuch a way as to diminish the original historicalcharacter. Clayton is fortunate that the majorityof downtown structures have not been drasti-

cally altered using non-compatible materials.



Materials: Recommended

l Properly maintain, repair, and repoint exist-ing masonry

l Clean existing masonry using non-destruc-tive methods

l Utilize original materials such as masonry,wood, and pressed metal

l Include high quality and durable new exte-rior construction materials that reflect thetraditional character of downtown architec-ture including masonry, red brick, and caststone

l Incorporate contextual brick bond patternsand detailing consistent with historical in-terpretations and in keeping with adjacentbuildings

l Use mortar colors that are neutral, blendwith, or are compatible with the brick

l Use consistent, concave mortar joints thatmatch existing joints in texture and strength

l Paint exposed wood

l Utilize special trim shapes in wood to re-pair existing wood details or in new con-struction to complement existing

l Include energy-efficient glass in new glaz-ing locations

l Install clear glass in window locations

l Install copper flashing or provide coloredflashing to blend with façade materials

l Use materials that are locally available

l Utilize materials that are considered “green”and environmentally-friendly

l Minimize waste and limit disposal of ma-

terials



Materials Recommended



Materials: Not Recommended

l Using materials that are not compatible orconsistent with the adjacent, existing his-torical building materials of downtown

l Incorporating materials in an unconven-tional assembly

l Removing original materials and replacingthem with dissimilar materials

l Improperly cleaning or repairing existingmaterials

l Painting unpainted brick without historicalprecedence

l Replacing original materials with a syntheticor imitation product, such as vinyl

l Retooling or repointing existing mortar jointswith a mortar that does not match the ad-jacent joints in color, size, texture, and type

l Using raw, unfinished materials such asmetal, aluminum, plywood, wood, siding,and concrete within a historical façade ornew construction

l Using materials with colors that are not incontext with the surrounding materials andfinishes

l Using textures that are not in context withsurrounding materials

l Using materials that are monolithic and voidof a “human” scale

l Using materials that are scarce and not “en-vironmentally friendly”

l Selecting materials that will require exces-sive maintenance

l Using mirrored or tinted glass

l Using stone/rock, either real or cultured,without historical precedence

l Using metal panels, corrugated metal, fi-berglass, metal screening, plastic, or othernon-traditional materials as either new con-struction or to cover over an existing facade



Materials Not Recommended



Proportion / Scale

Proportion and scale are similar to rhythm inthe overall composition of each building. It isthe proportion and scale of the building thatgive a sense of size and is usually a compari-son to the height of a human figure. The major-ity of downtown Clayton buildings seem tomaintain a well-balanced sense of scale. De-tailing, ornamentation, texture differences, in-terchanging of materials, and use of color areall things that can be incorporated in the over-all design of a building to further enhance pro-portions and scale.

A pleasing proportion and scale will usually aidin making a building “pedestrian-friendly” andrelate well to the public. Buildings that are con-versely more horizontal than vertical in propor-tion, are much taller than those surroundingstructures, and are void of any detail and rhythmwill not be compatible with the historical con-text of the existing downtown. Larger scaleprojects are typically better suited for the im-mediate downtown, while smaller scaled de-signs are more compatible with the residentialcharacter of the structures adjacent to the com-mercial district.



Proportion/Scale: Recommended

l Recognize the existing proportions andscale in the downtown area

l Maintain the height of new additions andconstruction to stay within a 10 percentrange of the mean building height found inthe existing block face

l Relate corner sites and buildings on theends of a block with the height of the adja-cent corners and locations

l Width of new additions and construction areencouraged to maintain the streetscape byextending from lot line to lot line with com-plete building footprint or incorporate archi-tectural walls or other design features tocomplete the extension

l New construction that spans multiple exist-ing lots should respect the overall width andincorporate a façade design rhythm thatsupports the progression of adjacent struc-tures

l Renovate or rehabilitate to restore the origi-nal scale and proportions found in otherdowntown buildings

l Use scale and detailing to reinforce thethree sections of a façade; base, middle,and top

l Use detail and ornamental design accentsto reduce the scale of the building surface

l Use appropriately sized signage and aw-nings that are compatible with the scale andoverall streetscape

l Integrate consistency in reference to anduse of scale and proportions

l Use proportions to emphasize main fea-tures of a building, such as the entrance

l Selection and configuration of portions topromote a pedestrian-friendly scale

l Break scale of larger building into “smaller”units

l Limit scale and heights of new downtownstructures to four stories without additionalstep backs or off-sets for floors above the

fourth level



Proportion / Scale Recommended



Proportion/Scale: Not Recommended

l Large expanses of building materials thatis not treated with any detailing, windowpatterns, or other devices to reduce thescale

l Proportions that overpower and dominateneighboring buildings

l Proportions and scale that are not compat-ible with the adjacent buildings

l Proportions that are more horizontal asopposed to vertical

l Proportions and scales that detract from thepedestrian scale of the downtownstreetscape

l Mixing elements that cause a disjointed anduncomfortable scale

l Sizing of elements that are over or under-sized compared to other adjacent elements

l Proportions and scale that are not pedes-trian-friendly

l Large building masses that diminish theindividuality of the streetscape



Proportion / Scale Not Recommended



Roofing

Although a few early downtown Clayton struc-tures utilized a sloped roof, the typical roof con-struction for a commercial structure has beena flat design. While considered a “flat” roof,such a roof usually has enough of slope toallow water to drain to one end. The water isthen collected at that point into either a gutterwith downspouts or into boxed scuppers thatbecome a downspout. Since building fronts areusually considered as the public entry and therear as service, most roofs have sloped fromfront to back with the water discharge on theback.

A sloped roof is still common and expected ona single family residential structure. Numerousexamples exist in the downtown Clayton areaof both the simple and more complex roofforms.

Roofing materials on flat-roofed commercialstructures can range from an asphalt-basedcoating to more contemporary single ply mem-brane system. Residential roof systems typicallyutilize fiberglass shingles with a few examplesof a standing seam-type metal roofing.

Roofing on commercial downtown buildings isencouraged to maintain the low-profile typicalof early to mid twentieth century structures. Typi-cally low profile roof designs are enclosed onthree sides with a flat parapet that includes acornice treatment to cap and articulate thewalls. The low side is either left exposed forexterior roof drainage or also includes a para-pet if incorporating internal roof drains.



Awnings & Canopies

Awnings and canopies serve several functionsand purposes. While providing the obviousweather protection to the pedestrian, awningsalso provide a shield from direct sun on a store-front display window, as well as providing theopportunity for signage and identity. Awningsand canopies are also elements of the store-front and façade and contribute to the scaleand detail of the building itself. Several earlyMain Street structures had actual canopies thatextended from the building front out to the streetline, providing cover for the sidewalk and ahitching spot for a patron’s horse. By the1920’s, canvas awnings, many with retractablecapabilities, became a fixture on North Caro-lina main streets, including Clayton. Most aw-nings were shed-type and later included mate-rials such as standing seam to wood shakeshingles.

Current building codes are very specific aboutthe types of materials that are permissible. Spe-cial consideration should be given to the ap-propriate size, shape, material, color, and place-ment of awnings and canopies. Given theprominence of and repetition of awnings thatcan occur along a streetscape, careful consid-eration should be given to the replacement ofexisting awnings or the installation of new ones.



Awnings/Canopies:

Recommended

l Repair any existing historical awnings

l Remove existing fixed awnings if repair orreplacement is needed with a fabric awning

l Use new fabric awnings with simple shedprofile

l Awning projections that do not project morethan three feet from the edge of the side-walk

l Use awnings that do not appear to be per-manent fixtures

l Use awnings that will allow filtered light topass through to the storefront area

l Use awnings that are open on the under-side and do not block any storefront tran-soms or other historical design features ofthe building

l Use awnings that incorporate signage in-cluding custom-stitched, vinyl, or silk-screened

l Use awnings that are independent fromadjacent structures are not continuous

l Use awnings that use colors that arecomplementary to the building colorscheme and to other adjacent properties

l Provide for on-going maintenance andcleaning of awnings

l Review of awning/canopy proposals byDDA



Awnings Recommended



Awnings/Canopies: Not Recommended

l Solid, metal standing seam awnings

l Wood shake or fiberglass shingle awnings

l Awnings that are lower than 8 feet from thesidewalk

l Awnings that project closer than three feetfrom the street curb

l Awnings that have a “ceiling” on the un-derside

l Awnings with shapes that are not histori-cal, such as a gambrel or half-barrel vault

l Installations that would cover or damageexisting building features

l Backlight awnings

l Continuous awnings that span entirelengths of storefront or bridge multiplestorefronts together

l Awnings that do not follow the shape of thetop of the opening

l Neglecting a regularly scheduled cleaningand maintenance program for awnings



Awnings Not Recommended



Signage

There is no doubt that the subject of buildingsignage is a critical and sensitive issue. Theneed for each individual business to have ad-equate advertisement must be considered whileat the same time preserving the integrity of eachbuilding and the overall streetscape. There is awide variety of signage in Downtown Claytonbut is mostly contained on either awnings orthe storefront. Some painted sidewall signageexists on a few buildings, several of which areconsistent with the time period. Historically, sig-nage appeared on storefront windows, aw-nings, and within sign bands that were integralto the architecture of the building.

Most municipalities dictate the amount of sig-nage allowed on a business as a function ofthe amount of direct street frontage for the prop-erty. In many cases such as a contemporarystrip shopping center development this is con-trolled and uniform. Within the downtown areathere is the desire to have variety, as has beenthe case in the past. These guidelines do notoffer a set standard formula, but do suggestthat common sense and respect for the adja-cent buildings guide the actual amount of sig-nage that is appropriate. Signage types, styles,and locations that are consistent with the his-torical context of Downtown Clayton should be

the rule.



Signage: Recommended

l Preservation of signage that is deemed his-toric and integral to the use and context ofthe structure

l Remove and replace overscale, out of char-acter signage

l Integrate signage into the overall designand character of the building

l Use signage on fabric awnings

l Use signage that is simple and does notcompete with the building for attention

l Use suspended, non-obtrusive signage lo-cated under awnings

l Paint or directly apply signage onto thestorefront glass, being sensitive to not oc-cupy large amounts of glass or to concealthe window

l Use colors that a compatible and harmoni-ous with the surrounding buildings

l Investigate history of individual building sig-nage

l Use projecting signs that do not overpoweror obscure the adjacent buildings or sig-nage

l Incorporate signage type styles that arecompatible with the historical context ofdowntown

l Allow approximately 50 square feet forsingle street frontage and 80 square feet

for corner locations

l Use signage shapes that are compatibleand complementary to the historical styleand context of surrounding buildings

l Incorporate traditional techniques such as“gold leaf” edges for sign areas

l Utilize individual letters or “painted” as ablock

l Lighting of signage that is compatiblewith historical context, such as goose-neck exterior lighting

l Review of signage proposals by DDA



Signage Recommended



Signage: Not Recommended

l Neon signage, unless deemed part of ahistorical signage unit

l Backlit signage or moving lights

l Backlit awnings with signage

l Billboard-type signage

l Over-scale lettering

l Signage that covers existing architecturaldetails or features

l Signage that requires the painting oflarge areas of existing facades

l Locations of signage in areas that are nothistorically correct

l Banners

l Large under-canopy/awning signage

l Monolithic “box” signs

l Use of flags, streamers, or other out-of-character elements

l Signage that extends beyond the store-front below or connects multiple store-fronts



Signage Not Recommended



Color

The incorporation of color is usually seen asan improvement to the uniqueness, architec-tural character, and adds life to the downtownstreetscape. Color can also be a very sensitiveand sometimes controversial topic. Historicallypaint has been used to protect wood and othermaterials from the negative effects of moistureand deterioration. Some of the early commer-cial structures constructed wholly of wood likelyutilized paint mostly for protection, keeping thecolor palette simple. Influences from the Victo-rian period would suggest that the use of colorwas more elaborate on some of the largerClayton residences.

By the early twentieth century, brick become thecommon building material in the downtowncommercial area. The inherent “natural” colorof brick negated the need for painting a major-ity of the building body. The use of paint andadded color, therefore, became more limitedto the wood windows, doors, and storefronts.Color could also be found on awnings andwithin the business signage.

Early and available paint colors were more lim-ited than today’s almost endless color selec-tions. The paints often were lead-based andtended to be somewhat of a neutral palette.Some colors and color combinations are oftenassociated with a certain time frame and his-torical era. The reproduction of these schemescan often be successful in the accurate resto-ration or maintenance of a building façade.

Many of today’s color possibilities, material

choices, and styles could not have been imag-

ined when the majority of Downtown Claytonwas constructed. It is therefore critical that theuse, location, and selection of color be a verydeliberate and conscious decision. Historicalprecedence, surrounding context, and some-times restraint should all be criteria to consider.



Color:Recommended

l Color schemes that express the integralcolor of the natural building materials suchas brick and cast stone

l Color schemes that respect and coordinatewith the colors or adjacent structures

l Use of color schemes that are historicallyappropriate for the age and architecturalstyle of the building

l Use of color to accentuate a particular de-tail or architectural feature

l Use of color to accent the main pedestrianentry

l Building material colors that blend with

other materials found in the downtown.



Color:Not Recommended

l Color schemes that do not reflect the his-torical context of adjacent downtown build-ings

l Use of color to highlight insignificant build-ing features

l Use of color only for advertising exposure

l Color schemes that are not coordinated asa unified palette

l Use of “neon” type colors

l Faux paint finishes that imitate natural ma-terials such as marble, stone, wood, ormasonry



Exterior Lighting

Like the topic of color, exterior lighting on down-town Clayton buildings is an important consid-eration. Historically the buildings of early twen-tieth century in downtown Clayton were notadorned with exterior lighting. Interior lightingprovided for the display of goods and conduc-tion of business and with less emphasis on themore contemporary “extended” hours of busi-ness, the need for lit signage and building frontswas not important. The addition of lighting toan existing building or inclusion on new con-struction should be a complement to the build-ing and the surrounding streetscape as well asbeing integrated with the overall building de-sign.

Although downtown Clayton does not appearto have a large inventory of examples of “pe-riod” lighting, there are specific light styles,types, and general locations for lighting thatcould be a positive and contributing to the over-all downtown character.

Exterior lighting is encouraged to be designedand screened to limit the bleed of lighting toadjacent buildings and sites. The reduction ofhorizontal glare is important to maintain a bal-ance in general lighting and to improve nightsky visibility in Clayton.

While lighting is encouraged for the use andsafety of pedestrians and automobiles at build-ing entries, walkways, parking, circulation, andpublic areas, lighting is not encouraged foradvertising purposes.



Modernizing

The need for additional air conditioning, elec-trical service upgrades, and satellite serviceaccess are just a few of the “modern” updatesthat may be necessary in the downtown Claytonarea. Careful consideration should always begiven to the placement of utilities and equip-ment in order to minimize impact to the char-acter of the building and to protect the safety

and welfare of the general public.



Modernizing/Updates: Recommended

l Place utility/service entrances at the rear ofthe building

l Install roof top HVAC units so they are notvisible from the street level

l Install equipment such as vent stacks, an-tennas, and satellite dishes on the roof sothat they are not visible from the street level

l Screen exterior mechanical equipmentwhen in line of sight of the public

l Install utility lines underground when pos-sible

l Install new utilities to avoid damaging oraltering historical integrity of building

l Investigate methods for installing new up-dates on interior spaces to preserve histori-cal finishes and details



Updates Recommended



Modernizing/Updating:

Not Recommended

l Installing window air conditioning units thatwould cause damage and alterations to anexisting window

l Placing a window air conditioning unit onthe front, streetside façade

l Allowing roof-mounted equipment to be vis-ible from the street level

l Locating exhaust discharges that wouldadversely effect the general public

l Locating rooftop equipment that wouldobscure the view from an adjacent build-ing window

l Locating any new wire service that wouldappear on the front façade

l Locating of exterior equipment that is notscreened from the public view

l Damaging any building façade material toinstall new services

l Removing significant interior finishes to in-stall new services

l Installing lowered ceilings under existingdecorative ceilings

l Installing inappropriate exterior devices thatdetract from the building façade



Infill / New Construction

The development of Downtown Clayton cen-tered around the purchase and subsequent de-velopment of individual lots. Whether for com-mercial or residential purposes, lot acquisitionsoccurred commonly on a one-by-one basis.With no large-scale planned developmentsmore common in contemporary times, the po-tential existed for some lots to become devel-oped, leaving other ones open.

Historically, to maximize square footage, mostcommercial buildings were built to align withthe public sidewalk property line at the front.The building sides were built to the edge of theside property, usually resulting in neighboringbuildings to either share a common party wallor individual walls that were in full contact witheach other. This created a very strong, consis-tent streetscape line with the only variable be-ing the depth and coverage of the rear yard.With few exceptions, buildings in the downtownClayton area exemplify this pattern. These con-sistent lines are critical to the historical urbancontext and should be respected on any newinfill construction that may occur on any cur-rently or future vacant parcels.

Although residential lots in downtown do notmaximize coverage of a lot as a commercialbuilding, there is none the less a typical set-back building line, similarity of size and scale,and compatibility of context that would need tobe considered and respected in any new resi-dential development.



Infill/New Construction:

Recommended

l Enforce alignments of new constructionwith the line of existing streetscape facades

l Construct new infill that occupies the fullwidth of the lot in the downtown to create acontinuous streetscape

l Follow pattern of existing yard setbacks forlocating new construction in existing resi-dential areas

l Construct new infill that responds to exist-ing property lines, especially with anyangled corner lot

l Construct new facades to be consistentwith the planes of adjacent building facades

l Limit building heights in downtown area tofour stories; additional stories possible withupper story setbacks

l Encourage possible mid-block pedestrianconnections to parking

l New construction on corner lots shouldaddress the corner and utilize the uniquelocation for entry feature

l Integrate variety of materials, window open-ings, projections, and details to create in-terest and compatibility with adjacent struc-tures

l Engage pedestrians at the street level andencourage interaction

l Create civic/public spaces where possible

l Incorporate exterior materials that are du-rable and compatible with the existing his-torical architecture of downtown

l Encourage new construction and infill toreflect the traditional downtown characterwhere the street is a collection of mostlysimple building forms from the early-midtwentieth century

l New construction should become a goodneighbor to adjacent buildings and createan interesting and comfortable human en-vironment

l Encourage mixed use and upper floor resi-dential uses.



Infill / New Construction Recommended



Infill/New Construction:

Not Recommended

l New construction that does not align withadjacent buildings

l Removing existing buildings that will cre-ate gaps or voids in existing streetscape

l Constructing new infill construction that cre-ate gaps or voids in existing streetscape

l Building exterior walls that do not align withgeneral plane of adjacent buildings

l Creating infill shapes that are not consis-tent with surrounding shapes and forms

l Allowing overhangs or projecting portionsof new construction that exceed any cur-rent conditions

l New construction that does not encouragepedestrian interaction

l New construction that is void of sufficientwindow openings and entrances

l Large, unarticulated building planes

l Incorporating building materials, methods,and styles that are not compatible with sur-rounding historical context

l Creating forms that do not reflect thesimple, three-dimensional character of thehistorical downtown

l Creating new forms that are not integratedand lack visual unity

l New construction that does not orient to

and promote street level activity

l New construction that impedes visual orfunctional access to an adjacent existingstructure



ADA Accessibility / Upgrades

With the enactment of the Americans with Dis-abilities Act years ago, the entire country be-gan to address accessibility issues for users ofbuildings and sites. North Carolina has histori-cally been ahead of the curve and even prior toadoption of ADA has had codes in place toensure that facilities are accessible and usableby persons with disabilities. Today these codeshave all evolved and the North Carolina StateBuilding Code has further merged the statecode with the requirements of ADA, ANSI, andthe International Building Code.

Given that most of the original downtown build-ings were constructed prior to the developmentof any such accessibility requirements, reno-vations to existing buildings may present somechallenges for building owners and designersto meet new regulations. In some cases, newconstruction projects may have constraints ofthe particular site and existing adjoining condi-tions that will require creative solutions to solve.

Meeting the needs of the general public andfollowing the building/accessibility code shouldalways be in the forefront of any project. At thesame time maintaining the historical fabric andintegrity of specific buildings and adjoining sitesis very important. With the complexities of thevarious codes and the uniqueness of each caseit is advisable that professional consultation beincluded in any alteration or upgrade to exist-ing facilities. Additionally, property owners areencouraged to evaluate current conditions andmake improvements to accessibility when pos-sible.



ADA/Accessibility: Recommended

l Review existing conditions that pertain toentries and exits for users of the buildingand site

l Investigate possibility of providing dedi-cated handicap parking nearby

l Eliminate abrupt changes in a walking sur-face of more than ½”

l Review North Carolina State Building CodeChapter 11, Making Buildings and Facili-ties Accessible To and Usable By PersonsWith Disabilities

l Change door hardware to handicap acces-sible, lever-type

l Provide adequate doorway widths andclearances

l Avoid obstructions to the path of travel

l Verify that mounting heights of any exterioritems such as signs, boxes, lighting, etc…are within limits specified by accessibilitycode

l Consult with design professionals andbuilding code officials when planning modi-fications, renovations, or new constructionin the downtown area

l Integrate accessibility improvements withthe existing building to complement the his-

torical character of the original structure



ADA/Accessibility:

Not Recommended

l Avoiding making improvements when pos-sible to the accessibility of a building, busi-ness, or site

l Beginning improvements without consulta-tions with design professionals and/or thebuilding code inspectors

l Renovation or installations that further com-promise the accessibility of the property

l Accessibility alterations that are not sensi-tive to the existing historical character of thebuilding

l Improvements that remove historical build-ing materials and components

l Improvements that segregate the users ofthe building

Winstead Wilkinson Architectsobs landscape architects

Clayton Downtown Master PlanAppendix

A-1

A. Workshop #1Summary A-2Adgenda A-6Meeting Minutes A-7Current Factors Worksheet A-8Workshop Discussion A-10Workshop Sign-Up Sheet A-13

B. Workshop #2Summary A-14Adgenda A-15Sign-Up Sheet A-16Planning Board Update A-17Downtown Development Association Meeting A-18

C. Maintenance Checklist A-20

D. Additional Resources A-25

E. North Carolina Division of Archives & HistoryState Historic Preservation Office A-26

F. The Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation A-29

G. 2010 Workshop materialsVision Statement A-30Invitation List A-31Workshop #1 Adgenda A-32Workshop # 2 Adgenda A-33Current Factors Worksheets A-34Workshop Notes A-39

Table of Contents / Appendix

obs landscape architects Winstead Wilkinson Architects

Clayton Downtown Master PlanAppendix A

A-2

The process conducted, to develop the rec-ommendations of this plan, include the involve-ment of the community through two work-shops. Workshop #1 took place on Saturday,January 6, 2001, during the day and the sec-ond workshop took place on Tuesday Febru-ary 6, 2001, in the evening.

During the first workshop an inventory of landuses and observations of downtown Claytonwere presented for consideration by those inattendance. The participants of the workshopwere then divided into four smaller groups toidentify and discuss issues facing downtownClayton. The entire group then reassembledfor further discussion.

Issues or factors affecting downtown wererated by the four smaller groups as to theirpositive, neutral, or negative influence ondowntown. The factors evaluated and sugges-tions made during the discussion were as fol-lows:

Historic BuildingsHistoric BuildingsHistoric BuildingsHistoric BuildingsHistoric BuildingsHistoric buildings were viewed as a positiveinfluence on downtown. It was suggested dur-

Workshop #1

ing the discussion that while these structuresshould be preserved, there was room for aes-thetic improvement and that the opportunityfor adaptive reuse was an exciting prospect.

Appearance of DowntownAppearance of DowntownAppearance of DowntownAppearance of DowntownAppearance of DowntownThe current appearance of downtown wasrated as a neutral influence. While downtownClayton was not objectionable, it was felt thatthere is a great deal of room for improvement.More pride needs to be taken by business andproperty owners and more trees should beadded to parking areas. It was also suggestedthat clean up efforts by the town could be im-proved

Pedestrian AccessPedestrian AccessPedestrian AccessPedestrian AccessPedestrian AccessCurrently many of the attendees feel the pe-destrian access is a neutral attribute of down-town. Many participants felt that crossing thestreet, particularly Main Street, was very dan-gerous. It was noted further that improvementsare needed to address accessibility. Also thewidth of the streets, where parking along thestreets is allowed, seem too narrow, especiallywhen the businesses are receiving deliveries.

Chamber of Commerce

Participants in Workshop #1



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New ConstructionNew ConstructionNew ConstructionNew ConstructionNew ConstructionNew construction overall was seen as a posi-tive influence on downtown. One of the mainideas expressed by the participants was thatnew construction be designed to fit within theexisting fabric of the town. It was also statedthat some of the existing buildings should berehabilitated to reflect the fabric as well.

Public Open SpacePublic Open SpacePublic Open SpacePublic Open SpacePublic Open SpacePublic open space was viewed by the partici-pants as a nuetral influence on the town. Whilethe participants agreed that there needed tobe more open space they also expressed con-cern about too much open space. Businessowners felt open space could make busi-nesses too far apart and create a lack of con-tinuity along Main Street.

ParkingParkingParkingParkingParkingThe topic of parking was divided into twoseparate categories: availibility and location.Parking availibility was seen as a negative,while parking location was neutral. Many busi-ness owners stated parking along Main Streetis necessary, but that shop owners should notuse these spaces because they are intended

Workshop #1

for visitors. Many participants felt more offstreet parking was needed; however they feltusing the vacant lots in an unorganized fash-ion, as the lots are currently being used, wasunacceptable. Business owners explained thatthere was a desire to create new organized,paved parking areas with adequate signageto direct visitors to those areas.

VVVVVacant Lotsacant Lotsacant Lotsacant Lotsacant LotsThe topic of vacant lots was seen by the par-ticipants as a negative influence on Clayton.The participants felt the vacant lots should beused for something other than current park-ing. Some suggestions were parks, pavedparking lots, and new construction.

Participants in Workshop #1

Vacant Lot



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Workshop #1

Population GrowthPopulation GrowthPopulation GrowthPopulation GrowthPopulation GrowthPopulation growth was seen as a positive in-fluence on downtown and Clayton as a whole.Participants agreed that it was positive as longas it is planned for and helps prevent sprawl.

TTTTTrain Train Train Train Train TracksracksracksracksracksThe topic of the existing train tracks fell be-tween the neutral and negative aspects of thedowntown area. One of the major concernsexpressed by the residents was the safety atthe crossings. Another factor brought up bythe participants was the fact that the areaaround and near the tracks often gets weedyand full of litter. Many would like to see somesort of landscaping along the railroad right ofway.

Ident i tyIdent i tyIdent i tyIdent i tyIdent i tyThe identity of Clayton was seen as neutral.Many residents stated that they felt like Claytondid not really have an identity because it is notparticularly known for a specific item like an-tiques, art or a farmers market. In fact, manypeople who drive the Highway 70 corridorthrough Clayton do not know that there is a

downtown area. The business owners identi-fied a definite need for more marketing to pro-mote the downtown area and buisnesses.

Highway 70Highway 70Highway 70Highway 70Highway 70The Highway 70 corridor was seen as a neu-tral influence on downtown Clayton. Manypeople commented on the fact that a lot ofpeople use Highway 70, which makes it havecertain positive attributes. On the other hand,it was pointed out that the corridor draws busi-ness away from downtown and in order tocapitalize on the use of the corridor, more signsare needed to draw people downtown.

Mix of Land Uses / ServicesMix of Land Uses / ServicesMix of Land Uses / ServicesMix of Land Uses / ServicesMix of Land Uses / ServicesWhile there are many services offered in thedowntown area of Clayton, the participantsrated the mix of services as a negative. Sug-gestions included a desire for more after 5pmactivities, retail and resturants to create morevariety. Even though most participants wantedmore variety, they emphasized that they feltfamily owned businesses were very important.

Fayetteville Street

Workshop #1 Presentation



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Workshop #1Workshop #1Workshop #1Workshop #1Workshop #1

SignageSignageSignageSignageSignageThe topic of signage was viewed as negative.The main problem discussed was the lack ofsignage. Business owners and residents alikewanted more signs to get people to the down-town area from Highway 70, as well as moresigns directing people in downtown. A sug-gestion was made for the potential installationof a billboard promoting “historic downtown”.

SafetySafetySafetySafetySafetyWhile the residents of Clayton feel very posi-tive about the safety in their town, there werea few concerns brought up. Many peopleagreed that crossing the street was very dan-gerous and suggested more crosswalks beadded increasing visibilility for pedestriancrossings.

Civic BuildingsCivic BuildingsCivic BuildingsCivic BuildingsCivic BuildingsCivic buildings were seen as a neutral influ-ence on downtown Clayton. It was viewed aspositive that the civic buildings were locatedin the downtown fabric. However, it waspointed out that the current amount of civicspace is not adequate enough to meet theTown’s needs.

NCDOT Control of Main St.NCDOT Control of Main St.NCDOT Control of Main St.NCDOT Control of Main St.NCDOT Control of Main St.NCDOT control of Main Street was viewed ona whole as negative. It was stated that eventhough the street is supposedly managed byNCDOT, the town still did most of the repairwork and general upkeep. Many residentswould like to have Main Street removed fromDOT control. One question raised was, “WillDOT reimburse the town for what they will saveby not having to maintain the street?

TTTTTown Entriesown Entriesown Entriesown Entriesown EntriesThe lack of a defined entry was seen as anegative influence on the town. Participantsstated there was a definite need for an entry.Many people suggested NC 42 and Hwy70as good locations for the entries.

TTTTTraffic Flowraffic Flowraffic Flowraffic Flowraffic FlowThe traffic flow in downtown Clayton is viewedas a neutral to negative influence. Many sug-gestions were made to help out the traffic flowproblem. One was to pave more of First St.,extending it from Church Street to LombardStreet. Another idea was to extend Lombardto First Street creating more access to FirstStreet.

Main Street at Harvest Festival



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January 6, 2001

Town of ClaytonDowntown Improvements Project

Community Workshop #1 / Workshop Agenda

09:30 – 10:00 Background and Introduction

QuotesPurpose of workshopProject scope / boundaries / scheduleHistoryStrategic planWork completed to date

10:00 - 10:15 Goals and Mission Statement

10:15 – 10:45 Group Discussion Activity

10:45 – 11:00 Break

11:00 – 11:30 Group Reports

11:30 – 12:00 Additional Items

12:00 – 12:15 Further Discussion

12:15 – 12:30 Next Step in the ProcessFuture MeetingsClosing Remarks



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Clayton Downtown Improvement ProjectWorkshop #1

Minutes

Public Meeting at Clayton Town Hall1.6.01 @ 9:30 AM

Held By: Brian Starkey, Carl Winstead Shannon Coleman, & Kimberly Siran

• Brian opened the meeting by introducing the design team.• He explained the Town’s mission on building and revitalizing the downtown area.• Brain spoke about the local man, Mr. Talton, who in 1909, 1936, and 1961 wrote a small book de-

scribing Clayton and life in the town. He read a few quotes from these books.• Brian spoke of the Clayton Planning Department’s Strategic plan for guiding growth in the town.• Brian discussed the inventory process and the work OBS Landscape Architects and Winstead

Wilkinson Architects have completed to date.• After the scope of the project and the purpose of the workshop were discussed, the group of 33

participants was broken down into 4 groups to participate in a group activity.• Each group was given three separate worksheets and was asked to rate each of the topics found on the

worksheet, as they currently exist in Clayton, as a positive, neutral, or negative aspect of Clayton. (Thistook about an hour to complete.)

• After the group activity was completed, we posted each team’s results and created a compilationworksheet.

• The meeting adjourned after the discussion, approximately 12:30pm.

Attached you will find a copy of the compilation worksheet as well as the suggestions made during the discus-sion part of the workshop.

CC: Carl Winstead

If there are any inaccuracies in these minutes please notify Shannon Coleman @ OBS Landscape Architectswithin 2 weeks or the contents will be considered accurate.



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Clayton Downtown Improvements ProjectWorkshop #1 Discussion

Current Factors Suggestions

• Historic Buildings 1) Room for Improvement2) Some buildings are an eye sore3) Find better use for existing buildings.4) Definitely preserve them

• Appearance of Town 1) Clean-up needs improvement2) We should take pride in our businesses.3) Add more trees to parking areas

• Pedestrian Access 1) Crossing streets is dangerous2) Width of streets is a problem – when

cardoors open while parked alongstreets, delivery trucks stop and take upthe lane.

• New Construction 1) Good, as long as the design fits the existing fabric of the town2) Rehab the existing building so they

also fit.

• Public Openspace 1) Too much openspace causes lack of continuity along the street.2) Openspace can cause businesses to be

too far apart.

• Parking 1) Parking on Main St. is necessary2) Shop owner’s shouldn’t park in front of

the shops.3) Need Off Street Parking4) Vacant lots are being used as unorga-

nized parking areas, but there is still notenough.

5) Identify parking areas with signage6) Downtown parking should be paved, and

needs additional landscaping – possiblygazebo or natural area in center.



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• Population Growth 1) Positive if done correctly preventing sprawl and planned for.

• Train Tracks 1) Safety at crossings2) Maintain the land around the tracks – it

gets weedy and trashy3) Additional landscaping – trees – is

needed along the railroad right of way.

• Identity 1) Need more marketing efforts2) A lot of people do not know that there is

a downtown.3) Town doesn’t really have an identity –

i.e. it is not connected to anythingspecific like antiques, art, farmersmarket)

• Highway 70 1) A lot of people use it2) Draws business away from downtown3) Need better signage to get people to go

downtown rather than staying on 70.

• Mix of Landuses / Services 1) Need more variety of services2) Lots of businesses exist but need more

retail, restaurants, and after 5pm activi-ties.

3) Family owned businesses are important

• Signage 1) Need more to get people downtown.2) Need more around the downtown

area.3) More signs are need along Hwy 70 and

NC 42 to direct people to downtown andMain St

4) Possibly rent a billboard advertisingHistoric Downtown and Main St.

• Safety 1) Pedestrian vs. Vehicle is bad2) Crossing street is tough3) More crosswalks needed

• Civic Buildings 1) Not Adequate now2) Good that civic buildings are in down-

town and not located far away – onHwy. 70



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• NC DOT Control of Main Street 1) Town already pays for most of the repairs and upkeep2) Will DOT reimburse the town what DOT will save by not having to maintain Main St.?

• Town Entries 1) Definitely need one2) When you are on Hwy 70, traveling

West, the signage is good and the mergeoff to Main Street is good

3) NC 42 is also heavily traveled and wouldmake a good entry as well.

• Traffic Flow 1) Late afternoon is tough2) Pave more of First street3) Pave Lombard St. north of Main.

Possibly connect it to the extension ofFirst St.

4) Improve First St.; complete it fromChurch St to Lombard. This would allowaccess to some of the vacant land andallow new construction, while helpingtraffic flow



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Clayton Downtown Improvement ProjectWorkshop #1Sign-Up Sheet

NAME ADDRESS PHONE

Steve Biggs P.O. Box 879 550-8203

Dr. Jason Stokes 716 Kershaw Lane 359-9789Jessica Coutu P.O. Box 879 553-5002Cheryl McCardle 101 W. First Street 359-1354Rick Koobs 80 Austin Pond Rd 550-2694Larry Kristoff P.O. Box 495 553-1212Judy Belvin P.O. Box 746 553-7188R. Belvin (see above)Janet Lowry 101 W. First Street 553-2486Doug McCormac 320 Crescent Dr. 553-6254Ruby Atchison 304 S. Lombard St. 550-2910Warren Atchison (see above)Alex Atchison 312 S. Lombard St. 550-2062Ann Whitley 613 Candlewood Dr. 359-6058Ron Gurganus 2017 Deer Trail 553-2209Bob Ahlert 105 Cherry Laurel 550-0845John Lipscomb P.O. Box 451 553-3660Jodi Sager 105 S. Lombard St. 550-0174Rev. Bill Beyer 124 Falmouth Ct. 553-4784Mark White 104 Michael Way 553-6627Paul Parker P. O. Box 1142 553-4787Edwina Oliver 105 Edgewater Dr. 553-6515Barry Woodard 422-4847James Lipscomb 422-4704Thad Arunt 553-3945Butch Lawter 553-4466Matthew Ansley 833-2350


Clayton Downtown Master PlanAppendix B

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Workshop #2

Workshop #2 Presentation

Clayton Oil Mills Building

Workshop #2 was a presentation of concep-tual ideas fromed from the commentsreceived at the first workshop. Plans werepresented which illustrated the following:

Land IssuesDevelopment OpportunitiesPedestrian ConnectionsExisting / Future Parking AreasPrimary Vehicle RoutesFuture Community / OpenspaceStreet ImprovementsStreet Closures at the RailroadIdentity / Entry ImprovementsStructures which are contributing

Following the presentations those in atten-dance were asked to respond and offerinput on the conceptual plans.

In general terms the group was in agree-ment with the direction identified by theconceptual ideas.



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February 6, 2001

Town of ClaytonDowntown Improvements Project

Community Workshop #2 / Workshop Agenda

7:00 - 7:15 Review of Workshop #1

Purpose of workshopIssues / Factors

Questions

7:15 – 7:45 Further Analysis and Opportunities

EntriesConnections to rest of ClaytonContributing buildingsNon contributing buildings and land usesLand useOpen space

Questions

7:45 – 8:00 General Development Concept

Opportunities for improvement / developmentDefining and improving parking areasStreetscape designIntersection improvementsPedestrian connectionsLand uses

Questions

8:00 – 8:30 Architectural Guidelines

Questions

8:30 – 8:45 Next Step in Process

8:45 – 9:00 Summary / Closing Thoughts / Further Questions



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Clayton Downtown Improvement ProjectWorkshop #2Sign-Up Sheet

NAME PHONE ATTENDANCE @ WORKSHOP #1 YES / NO

Doug McCormac 553-6254 YESDr. Jason Stokes 359-9789 YESJessica Coutu 553-5002 YESCheryl McCardle 359-1354 YESLarry Kristoff 553-1212 YESBob Ahlert 550-0845 YESKimberly Mack 553-3710 NO402 Stonebrook Dr.Clayton, NC 27520Jerry Thornton 553-2323 NOSusan LaPresti 550-2600 NOAmy Whitley 553-5002 YESJodi Sager 550-0174 YESJoyce Blackly 553-6813 NOElton Pittman 553-6244 YESJoe Bunn 553-6244 NOLyn Austin 553-4439 NOJesse AustinJoan Harding 359-2075 NORichard Crowder 553-6224 NOMary Woodard 553-7549 NOBarry Woodard 422-4847 YESJames Lipscomb 422-4704 YESJohn Barbour 553-7521 NOJoyce Barbour 553-6523 NOButch Lawter 553-4466 YESPhilip Edwards 553-8757 NO



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February 26, 2001

Town of ClaytonDowntown Improvements ProjectPlanning Board Update

Workshop #1 Saturday, January 6th

With Downtown Development Association, community members, downtown merchants, town staff andelected officials we:

Identified the scope and goals of the studyPresented an inventory of downtown land usesConducted sessions to gain input regarding issues and concernsPrioritized issues

Workshop #2 Tuesday, February 6th

Based on the first workshop and the issues raised, we continued with our analysis of downtown andpresented conceptual ideas being considered.These included:

Development opportunitiesPedestrian orientationCommunity spaceRealigning Second Street at Main Street

Architectural design issues

Current Activities

Proceeding with the conceptual ideas, refining them and preparing drawings to illustate these ideas in arealistic format.

Authoring design guidelines

Next Steps

Council update 3.5.01

Present Draft Master Plan and Report

DDA Meeting 3.20.01Planning Board 3.26Town Council 4.2



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March 20, 2001

Town of ClaytonDowntown Improvements ProjectProgress Memorandum

Downtown Development Association Meeting

Presentation of Concept Sketches

Common to the philosophy of our current approach and the recommendations illustrated in theconcept sketches are the following goals:

Identify and portray opportunities for new developmentImprove pedestrian orientation of Main StreetIdentify and define parking areasCreate a community spaceEstablish a sense of entry at key approaches to downtown

Development Opportunities

Opportunities for new buildings are present along Main Street and Second Street with theremoval of incompatible and noncontributing buildings as well as currently vacant lots.From Church Street to past Lombard Street is defined as the center of downtown. It is feltthat in this area building heights could go as high as 4 stories and be compatible.

While there should be consistency with regard to the distance from buildings to street newbuildings could be set back slightly to allow for wider sidewalks and outdoor dining.

While opportunities along Main Street should serve primarily retail, office, and commer-cial space, opportunities along Second Street could accommodate residential land use

Pedestrian Orientation

Pedestrian orientation is improved by confining on street parking to one side along MainStreet and the creation of pedestrian corners at street intersection.

By taking control of Main Street from NCDOT the incorporation of special paving can beutilized to draw further attention to the pedestrian.

Pedestrian connections between new buildings from parking areas to Main Street are keycomponents.

Community Space

The most significant opportunity for a community space is provided by the propertyacross Main Street from the drugstore. Currently used as a parking area half of thisproperty would enable the creation of a central community space while continuing to



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provide parking in the short term. In the long term it is suggested that a buildingcould be constructed between the community space and the railroad. This futurebuilding should serve some community purpose such as an open market or transitstop.

Parking Areas

Unfortunately the dimensions of Main Street will not allow the introduction of angled parkingspaces and continued traffic flow in both directions. To provide some parking on Main Streetwhile improving the pedestrian nature parallel parking is limited to one side.

The concepts illustrate the development of parking areas behind the buildings fronting onMain Street.

Barbour Street is maintained as a one way street. However, the street width is narrowed.Parking areas connect with the street with exit only driveways.

Entries

A major entry from US 70 is defined at the intersection of Main Street and a realigned SecondStreet. The realignment serves to improve the safety of this intersection while creating thespace for the development of an entry feature.

In combination with the historic house, a sequence of walls and plantings create a sense ofentry at this intersection. The plantings continue between the street and the railroad continuethe sequence towards downtown

Current Activities

Continuation of conceptual ideas, refining them and preparing drawings to illustate these ideas in arealistic format.

Authoring design guidelines

Next Steps

Planning Board update 3.26

Town Council update 4.2

Present final Master Plan


Clayton Downtown Master PlanAppendix C

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Maintenance Checklist

Buildings are under constant exposure to theelements of nature and public use. It is there-fore important that building owners and ten-ants take an active role in observing the con-ditions that are effecting the physical prop-erty and participate in an on-going mainte-nance program to insure the longevity of eachbuilding. Most structures are able to with-stand some neglect, but the deterioration ratethat can occur increases dramatically withtime.

The following checklist is meant to be a be-ginning point to assist property owners andtenants in the evaluation of their property, toidentify any maintenance issues, and then todevelop an action plan. At the very least theitems on this checklist should be investigatedevery six months.



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A. ROOF

Identify roof type: flat sloped

Identify roof material: metal built-up w/gravel single-ply membrane

Water standing or ponding on roof areas: yes no

Evidence of past water ponding: yes no

Any blistering or “bubbles” in roof material: yes no

Skylight present: yes no Water leaks at skylights: yes no

Parapet flashing and cap conditions: ok need repair/recaulking

Vent pipe flashing conditions: ok need repair/recaulking

Flashing conditions /rooftop mechanical equipment: ok needs repair/recaulking

Chimney covers in place: yes no

Note: Limit amount of walking on roof areas as this can cause damage to the roofresulting in water leaks.

B. GUTTERS AND DOWNSPOUTS

Existing gutters: yes no

Clean and clear of any material: yes no

Joints in gutter watertight: yes no

Existing downspouts: yes no

Downspouts open and cleaned: yes no

Joints in downspouts watertight: yes no

Existing scuppers: yes no



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Scuppers clean and clear of any material: yes no

Any rusting of gutters, downspouts, or scuppers: yes no

Signs of water on building exterior walls adjacent downspouts: yes no

Caution: Water is one of the single most destructive forces that can act on a building. Carefulattention must be paid to ensure no roof leaks, and that water is being properly carried away formthe building with gutters and downspouts that are clean. Water infiltration into a structure can resultin damages that increase exponentially with time if left unattended.

C. EXTERIOR WALLS

Exterior wall material types: brick stone concrete stucco wood metal

Exterior cracks visible: yes no

Previously repaired cracks: yes no Condition: _____________

Exterior wall surface clean: yes no

Loose, broken, or missing brick: yes no

Condition of mortar joints: acceptable need repointing

Existing exterior wall surface painted: yes no Condition: _______________

Note: The cleaning, repairing, and repointing of masonry surfaces is a specializedprocess and should never involve high pressure water (power washing) or sandblasting. Cleaningshould be chemical and with low pressure water. Repointing of mortar should begin with an analysisof the existing mortar with new mortar matching the color, joint type, texture, and most importantly,the strength.

D. WINDOWS AND DOORS

Original windows: Replacement windows:

Original doors: Replacement doors:

Existing windows operable: yes no



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Window material: wood vinyl aluminum

Finish: painted clad natural metal

Broken panes: yes no

Operable hardware: yes no

Wood areas fully covered with paint: yes no

Visible damaged or deteriorated wood: yes no

Window sill material: wood masonry stone metal

Exterior jambs/heads/sills properly caulked: yes no

Exterior sill condition: acceptable need of repainting/repair

Visible signs of interior water intrusion around windows: yes no

Existing door material: wood metal aluminum

Broken glass: yes no

Existing door hardware operational: yes no

Existing doors properly weather-stripped: yes no

Wood areas fully covered with paint: yes no

Thresholds in place: yes no

E. STRUCTURE

New interior wall cracks: yes no

Visible change in existing wall cracks: yes no

Noticeable changes in floor levels: yes no

Any active water damage to roof structure: yes no



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Any wood structure in contact with soil: yes no

Recent termite protection: yes no

Vapor barrier installed over any crawl space areas: yes no

F. SYSTEMS

System type: gas oil electric

Air conditioning: yes no

Service contract current for mechanical systems: yes no

Filters changed: yes no

Air returns unobstructed: yes no

Any additional electrical loads added: yes no

Any plumbing leaks: yes no


Clayton Downtown Master PlanAppendix D

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Additional Resources

Town of ClaytonDirector of PlanningP.O. Box 879Clayton, NC 27520

Clayton Downtown Development Assoc.c/o Town of ClaytonP.O. Box 879Clayton, NC 27520Mr. Barry Woodard -Current President

Town of Clayton Building InspectionsP.O. Box 879Clayton, NC 27520Phone (919) 553-1545Fax (919) 553-1541Mr. Dan Schwoeble

United States Department of the InteriorNational Park ServicePreservation Assistance DivisionPO Box 37127Washington, DC 20013-7127(202) 343-9578

United States Department of the InteriorNational Park ServiceSoutheast Regional Office75 Spring Street SWAtlanta, GA 303003(404) 331-4998

North Carolina Department of Cultural Re-sourcesNorth Carolina Archives and HistoryState Historic Preservation Office515 N. Blount StreetRaleigh, NC 27605(919) 733-6547

North Carolina Department of InsuranceEngineering and Building Code410 N. Boylan AvenueRaleigh, NC 27603(919) 733-3901

North Carolina State UniversityCollege of Design LibraryBrooks HallNorth Carolina State UniversityRaleigh, NC 27695(919) 515-2207

National Trust for Historic Preservation1785 Massachusetts Avenue, NWWashington, DC 20036(202) 673-4000

National Trust for Historic PreservationSouthern Regional Office456 King StreetCharleston, SC 29403(803) 722-8852Mr. John Hildreath

North Carolina Main Street Program1307 Glenwood AvenueSuite 250Raleigh, NC 27605(919) 733-2850Mr. Rodney Swink

North Carolina Downtown DevelopmentAssociationP.O. Box 340Lexington, NC 27293-0340Phone: (336) 249-0383Email: [email protected]. Liz Parham


Clayton Downtown Master PlanAppendix E

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North Carolina Division of Archives and HistoryState Historic Preservation Office

Federal Preservation Tax Credits for Historic Building

What is the Federal Historic Preservation Tax Credit?

An incentive to taxpayers who contribute to the preservation of historic buildings by rehabilitatingthem.

Provides a dollar-for-dollar reduction of federal income tax owed equal to 20 percent of the cost ofrehabilitating “certified historic structures.”

Project must go through the three-part “Historic Preservation Certification Application” process atthe state and federal levels - the State Historic Preservation Office and the National Park Service.

Who may apply for the tax credit?

Owners of potential “certified historic structures.”

Lessees of potential “certified historic structures” with a lease term of 27.5 years of residentialproperty and 39 years for nonresidential property.

What buildings are eligible?

Buildings listed individually in the National Register of Historic Places or potentially eligible to belisted. Buildings not listed are required to be listed as part of the final certification.

Buildings located in a “registered historic district” or a potentially eligible district that contribute tothe significance of the district. Districts not listed are required to be listed as part of the final certifi-cation.

Must be a “certified historic structure” as determined by the National Park Service through the“Historic Preservation Certification Application Part 1 - Evaluation of Significance.”

Must be used in a trade or business or held for the production of income for either rental residentialor nonresidential purposes.

What rehabilitations qualify?

Must be substantially rehabilitated - expenditures must exceed the greater, the “adjusted basis of thebuilding or $5,000, within 24 months or 60 months for phased projects.



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Rehabilitation must be consistent with the historic character of the building and where applicable,with the district in which the building is located as determined by the National Park Service throughthe “Historic Preservation Certification Application Part 2 - Description of Rehabilitation.”

Must meet the Secretary of the Interior’s “Standards for Rehabilitation.”

What rehabilitation expenditures qualify?

Expenditures incurred in connection with the rehabilitation of a “certified historic structure” that areproperly chargeable to a capital account.

Includes: rehabilitation cost; construction interest and taxes; architectural and engineering fees; legaland professional fees; developer’s fees; and general and administrative cost.

Does not include: acquisition cost; enlargement cost; acquisition interest and taxes; realtor’s fees;paving and landscaping cost; sales and marketing costs; or new building construction cost.

When can a taxpayer claim the credit?

Generally, for the taxable year in which the rehabilitated building is placed in the service. If all of thecredit cannot be used, the excess can be carried back three years and then forward 15 years.

For phased projects, before completion for the entire project on the basis of “qualified progressexpenditures” if construction is planned for two or more years.

Must be a “certified rehabilitation” as determined by the National Park Service through the “HistoricPreservation Certification Application - Request for Certification of Completed Work” - a copy ofthis certified application must be filed with the tax return claiming the tax credit.

When are the tax credits subject to recapture?

None if a qualified rehabilitated building is held by the taxpayer for longer than five years after thebuilding is placed in service.

One hundred percent is recaptured if the owner dispose of the property within one year and theamount of such recapture is reduced by 20 percent for each full year that elapses thereafter.

What are the fees for processing rehabilitation certification requests?

The National Park Service’s fee for review of rehabilitation projects ranges from $500 to $2,500 forprojects with rehabilitation construction costs ranging from $20,000 to $1,000,000 plus.



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What is the 10 percent federal rehabilitation tax credit?

Available for non-historic buildings built before 1936 used for nonresidential purposes. No “His-toric Preservation Certification Application” required.

How does the State of North Carolina Historic Preservation Tax Credit work?

Effective for taxable years beginning on or after January 1, 1994, taxpayers who receive the 20%Federal Historic Preservation Tax Credit will also qualify for an additional 5% tax credit from theState of North Carolina.

This information sheet describes the Federal Historic Preservation Tax Credit program in very general termsonly. Taxpayers should consult an accountant, tax attorney, or other professional tax advisor, legal counsel,or the Internal Revenue Service for help in determining the tax and other financial implications of any matterdiscussed here. For further information regarding the National Park Service regulations governing theprocedures for obtaining historic preservation certifications, contact Tim E. Simmons, AIA, Preservation TaxCredit Coordinator, Restoration Branch, State Historic Preservation Office, North Carolina Division ofArchives and History, 109 Jones Street. Raleigh, North Carolina 27601-2807; 919-733-6547.


Clayton Downtown Master PlanAppendix F

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The Secretary of theInterior’s Standards for Rehabilitation

The following Standards are to be applied to specific rehabilitation projects in a reasonablemanner, taking into consideration economic and technical feasibility.

1. A property shall be used for its historic purpose or be placed in a new sue that requires minimal changesto the defining characteristics on the building and its site and environment.

2. The historic character of a property shall be retained and preserved. The removal of historic materialsor alterations of features and spaces that characterize a property shall be avoided.

3. Each property shall be recognized as a physical record of its time, place, and use. Changes thatcreate a false sense of historical development, such as adding conjectural features or architecturalelements from other buildings, shall not be undertaken.

4. Most properties change over time; these changes that have acquired historical significance in their ownright shall be retained and preserved.

5. Distinctive features, finishes, and construction techniques or examples of craftsmanship that characterizea historic property shall be preserved.

6. Deteriorated historic features shall be repaired rather than replaced. Where the severity of deteriorationrequires replacement of a distinctive feature, the new feature shall match the old in design, color, texture,and other visual qualities and, where possible, materials. Replacement of missing features shall besubstantiated by documentary, physical, or pictorial evidence.


Clayton Downtown Master PlanAppendix G

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Town of ClaytonDowntown Master Plan UpdateWorkshop #1

May 20, 2010

AGENDA

10:00 – 10:15 Background & Introductions

Purpose of Workshop

Tools- DDA Plan of Work 2010 - 2012- Historic District- Parking Needs Assessment & Inventory- Vision Statement- NC Main Street Resource Team Report


11:00 – 11:15 Break & Bring Lunch to Table

11:15 Share Activity Results

11:30 Review Master Plan Illustrations- Identify issues- Discuss potential solutions

12:50 Next StepsFuture MeetingsClosing Remarks



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Town of ClaytonDowntown Master Plan UpdateWorkshop #2

June 3, 2010

AGENDA

6:00 – 6:15 Background & Introductions

Purpose of Workshop

Tools- DDA Plan of Work 2010 - 2012- Historic District- Parking Needs Assessment & Inventory- Vision Statement- NC Main Street Resource Team Report


6:30 Share Activity Results

6:45 Review Master Plan Illustrations- Identify issues- Discuss potential solutions

8:15 Next StepsClosing Remarks



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Downtown Master Plan UpdateWorkshop # 2

Please rate each of the topics below, as they currently exist in Clayton, as apositive, neutral or negative aspect of downtown Clayton.

CURRENT FACTORS POSITIVE NEUTRAL NEGATIVE

Historic Buildings

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Appearance of Town

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Pedestrian Access

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New Construction

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Public Open Space

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Parking Availability

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Parking Location

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Vacant Lots

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Population Growth

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Train Tracks

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Identity

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Highway 70

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Mix of Land Uses/Services

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Signage

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Safety (Day)

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Safety (Night)

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Civic Buildings

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NCDOT Control of Main St

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Town Entries (Gateways)

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Traffic Flow

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Documents

Clayton · 8/20/2001 · Code and Strategic Growth Plan. The report is intended to promote a quality oriented downtown that serves as the social and cul-tural hub of Clayton. Buildings