They usually include features introduced at certain times in the past, and thus represent the evolution of the site. Accurate historical information about specific period details is essential to appropriate treatment, and if it is not available, appropriate treatment should not be attempted. Old house landscapes often represent a uniquely local continuum of past, present and future, which permits us to both understand and appreciate our built and social environments, and which strongly speaks of stability in both institutions. Clearly, virtually all of us stand to gain much by approaching our landscapes with as much care and forethought as we lavish on our houses. Because historic landscapes are as widely varied as historic architecture, the application of general preservation guidelines is appropriate.
Any historic landscape presents a number of development options.
These factors are usually a function of the historic significance of the site or area and of its intended use. Broad historical research is needed to establish character and pattern to be reproduced Which of these approaches you use for your old house landscape depends entirely on your unique situation. DPO's typical to old house architecture, landscapes are inherently dynamic and evolve over time. Generally, Conservation has some bearing upon, and therefore a place adjacent to, all the other approaches. So before you put on the pith helmet, get out the machete and pick-ax, and sally forth to hack, whack, pull up, dig up, cut back, chop down, lop off, top, and otherwise do battle with what has become a wild and wooly jungle over the years, it is especially important that you do your homework.