Working with the City of Phoenix Historic Preservation Office for Remodels and Additions

Working with the City of Phoenix Historic Preservation Office for Remodels and Additions

Historic neighborhoods in Phoenix, such as Willo, Encanto-Palmcroft, F.Q. Story, and Roosevelt, are filled with unique, character-rich homes that reflect the city’s architectural heritage. Remodeling or adding onto one of these properties is a privilege, but it also comes with special requirements. Suppose you live in a home protected by the City of Phoenix Historic Preservation Office (HPO). In that case, you’ll need to navigate a review process before any exterior changes, additions, or major renovations can begin.

At Homework Remodels, we specialize in historic home remodeling and design-build additions in Phoenix’s designated historic districts. We understand the regulations and respect the process, and we know how to work hand-in-hand with the Historic Preservation Office to protect the integrity of your home while making it more functional for modern life.

 

What Is the Phoenix Historic Preservation Office?

The Phoenix Historic Preservation Office is a city department responsible for protecting and preserving the architectural, cultural, and historical integrity of Phoenix’s 35 historic residential districts. The HPO reviews proposed exterior modifications—including remodels, additions, and demolitions—to ensure that any changes are consistent with the neighborhood’s original character.

Suppose your home is located within one of these designated districts. In that case, you must receive Certificates of No Effect or Appropriateness before making substantial exterior changes—even if the work doesn’t require a standard building permit.

 

Why This Matters for Homeowners

If your home is in a historic district, any addition or renovation project that alters the visible exterior (from the street or alley) may require review and approval. This includes:

  • Room additions (including second stories or casitas)
  • Window or door replacements
  • Roof modifications
  • New garage construction
  • Removing or relocating architectural features
  • Installing solar panels or skylights

Failure to follow the proper approval process can result in costly project delays, fines, or even the requirement to undo completed work.

 

How Homework Remodels Helps You Navigate the HPO Process

At Homework Remodels, we’ve worked extensively in Phoenix’s historic districts and understand both the spirit and the specifics of HPO guidelines. When you partner with us, you don’t have to guess your way through the paperwork or risk making a misstep—we manage the entire process for you.

  1. Identifying Historic Status and Requirements

Before any design work begins, we research your property’s historic status. We confirm which district your home is in, whether it’s individually listed, and what level of review will be required. We also look at your neighborhood’s architectural style and era to inform appropriate design decisions.

  1. Designing with Preservation in Mind

We focus on compatibility, reversibility, and maintaining original features whenever possible. Our designs are creative but respectful, blending old and new seamlessly.

  1. Preparing Submittals and Documentation

We handle all required documentation, including:

  • Site plans
  • Elevations
  • Materials and finish specifications
  • Historic context statements
  • HPO applications and supporting materials

Whether your project requires administrative approval or a formal hearing with the Historic Preservation Hearing Officer, we know how to prepare accurate and complete packages that facilitate smooth approvals.

  1. Managing Communication with the City

We submit the plans, follow up with city staff, respond to requests for clarification, and make any necessary design adjustments. We’ve built strong working relationships with the staff at the Historic Preservation Office, and we speak their language—both technically and professionally.

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  1. Managing Communication with the City

We submit the plans, follow up with city staff, respond to requests for clarification, and make any necessary design adjustments. We’ve built strong working relationships with the staff at the Historic Preservation Office, and we speak their language—both technically and professionally.

 

  1. Navigating the Historic Preservation Hearing Process (If Needed)

In most cases, our well-prepared submittals receive administrative approval without issue. However, there are times when a project’s scope or proposed materials may be questioned or not approved by HPO staff. In those situations, you have the right to request a Historic Preservation Hearing.

If your application is denied, significantly delayed, or if there’s disagreement about whether a proposed design meets the city’s preservation guidelines, the next step is to present the project before the City of Phoenix Historic Preservation Hearing Officer.

Here’s what to expect—and how we help you prepare:

We Evaluate and Refine the Application

If concerns arise, we’ll meet with HPO staff to understand exactly what elements are in dispute. Often, we can resolve the issue with minor design changes or supplemental documentation. If not, we proceed to hearing preparation.

We Prepare Visuals and Justification Statements

Our team creates a compelling presentation, including renderings, architectural references, and a written narrative that supports the design’s approval. This might include:

  • Precedent examples from your neighborhood
  • Historical research to justify materials or scale
  • Contextual drawings showing how the addition or renovation fits the property

We Represent You at the Hearing

You’re welcome to attend the hearing with us, but you won’t need to speak unless you choose to. We act as your advocate, presenting the project, answering questions, and explaining how our design complies with the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards and local preservation goals.

Hearings are public but generally informal and professional. The Historic Preservation Hearing Officer will review the presentation and issue a decision, typically within 10 business days.

We Respond to the Outcome

If the decision is favorable, we proceed with final approvals and permitting. If conditions are placed on the approval, we will revise accordingly. On rare occasions, if a project is denied again, you may appeal the decision to the city’s Planning Commission.

This process may sound intimidating, but with Homework Remodels as your advocate, you’re never alone. We’ve successfully guided numerous Phoenix homeowners through hearings when necessary, always to balance respect for history with the realities of modern living.

What Types of Projects Are Common in Historic Districts?

Many homeowners in Phoenix’s historic neighborhoods are interested in updating their homes to fit a modern lifestyle while preserving their homes’ charm. Popular renovation and addition projects include:

Kitchen and Bathroom Remodels

These rooms often need full upgrades for modern plumbing, layout, and energy efficiency. We renovate interiors with modern comfort while maintaining historic style and flow.

Rear and Attic Additions

We design home additions that are compatible with the original architecture. These often include new primary suites, expanded kitchens, or family rooms, set back from the street to preserve the façade.

Garage Additions and Casitas

Detached garages and guest houses can add both value and functionality when designed to match the scale and character of the original home.

Restoration of Original Details

We restore original features, such as wood siding, historic windows, stucco details, tile roofing, porches, and trim, to meet preservation standards and enhance curb appeal.

Common Challenges—and How We Solve Them

Challenge: Matching Old Materials

Solution: We source or custom-fabricate materials (like wood trim or historic-style windows) to closely match original elements.

Challenge: Modern Needs vs. Historic Aesthetics

Solution: We design discreet ways to integrate modern features—such as open floor plans, climate control, and storage—while maintaining the exterior’s historical accuracy.

Challenge: Delays in Approval

Solution: Our detailed submittals and proactive communication minimize delays, building trust with city officials.

 

Historic Neighborhoods We Frequently Serve

We’ve completed remodels, additions, and restorations in many of Phoenix’s most beloved historic areas, including:

  • Willo Historic District
  • Encanto-Palmcroft
  • F.Q. Story
  • Roosevelt Historic District
  • Coronado Historic District
  • Garfield and Ashland Place

Each neighborhood has its own guidelines, common architectural styles, and preservation priorities—experience matters.

 

Our Promise: Respect the Past, Renovate for the Future

Historic home remodeling is a specialized craft. It requires design sensitivity, technical knowledge, and a deep appreciation for Phoenix’s architectural heritage. At Homework Remodels, we’re honored to renovate homes that have stood the test of time—and to prepare them for the next generation with care, integrity, and excellence.

When you work with us, you’ll receive:

  • A team that values historic preservation
  • Design solutions that blend seamlessly with original structures
  • Full support in navigating the city’s review and permitting process
  • Craftsmanship that honors the past while supporting today’s lifestyle

 

Start Your Historic Home Renovation with Confidence

If you’re ready to renovate or expand your historic home in Phoenix, trust the team that understands both construction and conservation. Homework Remodels will guide you every step of the way, from initial concepts to city approvals to the final finish nails.

📞 Call us at (602) 478-5102
💬 Request a consultation online