Chestnut Hill Historic District Commission


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Commission Members

Design Review Guidelines for Chestnut Hill Historic District

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An Introduction

The Chestnut Hill Local Historic District

    The Chestnut Hill neighborhood of Newton has long been recognized for the beauty and historical value of its architecture and gardens. In 1991, the Chestnut Hill Historic District was enacted by the city to protect this heritage for future generations. There are now two Local Historic Districts in Newton, and over one hundred statewide. Chapter 40C of the General Laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, enacted in 1960, defines the provisions under which Local Historic Districts operate. Historic District status does not affect use of buildings within the district, but does subject exterior changes to review by a Historic District Commission.

History of Chestnut Hill

    The land that forms the Chestnut Hill Historic District was first settled in 1650 by Thomas Hammond, Vincent Druce, and John Parker. The "Roade to Goodman Hammond's" was laid out in 1658, linking the Sherburne Road (now Heath Street) with Ward Street and Newton Centre. The Hammond family owned most of the land now included in the District and farmed it for over four generations. The original Hammond farmhouse was near the point where Essex Road joins Hammond Street, and the foundation of the huge barn can still be seen across the street. Three houses remain from this early period: 9 Old Orchard Road, built by Thomas Hammond Jr. c.1662; 521 Hammond Street, built by the Hammond family in 1675; and 137 Suffolk Road, originally built on Hammond Street by John Parker between 1680 and 1700 and moved to its present location in 1904. For over two hundred years, a close-knit farming community of Hammonds, Wards, Stones, and Kingsburys flourished in the area.

    In 1856, a new era began, when members of the Lee family, who had inherited one of the Hammond farms, planned a suburban development made possible by improved access via Beacon Street, completed in 1850, and the Charles River
Railroad, completed in 1852.

    Chestnut Hill is particularly known for the quality, consistency and architectural interest of the houses built from the mid-
1850s through the early 20th century. Many of these were architect-designed, and were intended to fit gracefully into the topography, amid the rocky outcroppings and tall trees. Colonial Revival, Georgian Revival, and Shingle styles predominate.
More modest houses were included, but these were also designed with concern for the architectural integrity of their surroundings. The gardens of Chestnut Hill are a special delight. Although the original chestnut trees died in a blight at the turn
of the century, copper beeches and rhododendrons have taken their place.

    The Chestnut Hill Historic District shows the development of architectural concepts over time within a consistent framework. The Commission intends to preserve and extend this heritage.

Historic District Ordinance

    The City of Newton Historic District Ordinance governs the Chestnut Hill Historic District. The Ordinance provides that no buildings or structures may be added to, removed, or changed in exterior features without a Certificate of Appropriateness issued by the Commission. If the proposed change is not subject to review by the Commission because it is not visible from a public way or body of water or for some other reason, a Certificate of Non-Applicability or Hardship will be issued. All applications for certificates must be submitted and approved before changes can be made.

Do All Changes Require Review by the Commission?

    Ordinary maintenance, repair, or replacement of existing exterior features which do not change the exterior design, material, or appearance do not require review. Landscaping with plants, trees, or shrubs is not reviewed. There are seven items which are exempt from review for which a Certificate of Non-Applicability is issued. Examples of the exemptions are paint color, storm windows and storm doors, and attached lighting fixtures. A property owner should refer to the Ordinance or inquire at the Newton Department of Planning and Development for specific information.

How Do I Apply For a Certificate of Appropriateness?

    Application forms are available at the Newton Department of Planning and Development. The application forms are self-explanatory. A completed application may be returned to the Commission at the same office.

What Is the Historic District Commission?

    The Commission consists of seven members appointed by the Mayor subject to confirmation by the Board of Aldermen. The Commission includes an architect, an attorney, a realtor, two members of the Newton Historical Commission, and
two residents or property owners of the District. Most of the current members of the Chestnut Hill Historic District Commission live within the District itself.

How Does the Commission Conduct Its Review?

    Applications are reviewed at the Commission's monthly open meetings. Applicants are notified of the date and invited to attend, although this often is not necessary.

    In cases requiring a Building Permit or involving significant changes, a public hearing will be held. The applicant and all abutters will be notified by mail. The Commission must respond to all applications within 45 days. Commission rulings may be appealed to the Metropolitan Area Planning Council within 20 days of a ruling.

What Items Require Application and Review?

    The ordinance requires that application and review be made for all changes. In the event that a review is not required, a Certificate of Non-Applicability will be issued.

    Among the types of alterations that will be reviewed for appropriateness to the property and the historic district are:

  • Exterior remodeling, additions

  • Demolition of any structure

  • Siding material

  • Doors and windows

  • Chimneys and brickwork

  • Fences and gates

  • Signs and signposts

  • Stone walls

 

How May One Obtain More Information?

    The Commission welcomes advance inquiries as to the applicability of the Chestnut Hill Historic District Ordinance. Inquiries may be made to the Historic District Commission staff at the Newton Department of Planning and Development.