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. For a property on the Phoenix Historic Property Register, proposed exterior work that requires a building permit also requires historic-preservation review. Confirm the property’s status and proposed scope with City staff early; building permits and historic approvals are separate determinations.

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 City of Phoenix Historic Preservation Office to protect the integrity of your home while making it more functional for modern life.

What Is the City of Phoenix Historic Preservation Office?

The City of Phoenix Historic Preservation Office is part of the Planning & Development Department. It reviews changes affecting properties on the Phoenix Historic Property Register, including individually listed properties and properties within designated historic 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.

For permit-requiring exterior work, HPO staff determines whether a Certificate of No Effect (CNE) or a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) is required. Interior demolition on a property listed on the Phoenix Historic Property Register requires additional Historic Preservation review as part of permitting. We confirm the property’s status and the requirements for the specific work with City staff before proceeding through permitting. Consult the City’s current historic-preservation approvals and guidelines for the applicable route.

Why This Matters for Homeowners

For a designated property, discuss proposed exterior work with HPO staff; street visibility alone does not determine the review requirement. Examples to discuss include:

• 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.

2. Designing with Preservation in Mind

We focus on compatibility, reversibility, and maintaining original features whenever possible. Our designs aim for compatible scale, proportions, and materials while allowing new work to remain identifiable as new.

3. 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.

4. Managing Communication with the City of Phoenix

We submit the plans, follow up with city staff, respond to requests for clarification, and make any necessary design adjustments. We document the proposed work clearly and respond to the Historic Preservation Office’s project-specific requirements and review comments.

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

A hearing is part of the COA review route, not simply a response to a delayed or denied application. HPO staff decides whether proposed work qualifies for staff approval through a CNE or requires a COA. A COA requires a pre-application meeting and a public hearing before an independent Historic Preservation Hearing Officer.

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

We Evaluate and Refine the Application

We review staff feedback, refine the design where appropriate, and assemble the required supporting documentation. If staff determines that a COA is needed, we prepare for the required hearing as part of that review process.

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.

At the public hearing, the hearing officer may approve the application, deny it, or continue the hearing if more information is needed. The administrative-completeness review is a separate milestone and should not be treated as a promise of a decision within ten business days.

We Respond to the Outcome

After approval, the plans must reflect any stipulations and follow the City’s appeal-period and plan-stamping requirements before proceeding through permitting. Appeals of the hearing officer’s decision go to the Historic Preservation Commission; Commission decisions may be appealed to the City Council. Short filing deadlines apply, so confirm the current procedure with HPO staff and the City’s Certificate of Appropriateness handout.

This process may sound intimidating, but with Homework Remodels as your advocate, you’re never alone. Our planning process addresses the proposed work, the home’s historic character, and the review requirements identified by City staff. We prepare the required information and coordinate the applicable review process.

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 compatible with the original home and applicable preservation guidelines
• Full support in navigating the city’s review and permitting process
• Craftsmanship that honors the past while supporting today’s lifestyle

Learn about our Design-Build System that unites preconstruction planning, design, budgeting, and construction under one experienced team.

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 or  request a free consultation online!