In recent years, there has been a growing nationwide focus on adaptive reuse- the practice of repurposing historic buildings for new uses- as a key strategy for preservation. Adaptive reuse is broadly defined as modifying or using a structure to serve a different function than originally intended. Although adaptive reuse has gained popularity, it is not a new concept in the Village of Waterford, where it has long been used to preserve historic structures. For example, many former commercial properties on Main Street are now fully residential properties, and the Waterford Old School now serves as the Waterford Foundation offices and community center rather than a school. Adaptive reuse is a well-respected and documented method used by historic preservationists nationwide as it is one of the most sustainable ways to preserve historic structures long-term.
The Waterford Foundation (WF) Board of Directors has identified that the majority of the WF owned properties are not being used to their full potential in support of the WF mission to preserve the historic buildings and open spaces of the National Historic Landmark of Waterford, Virginia, and, through education, to increase the public’s knowledge of life and work in an early American rural community. Looking into how to adaptively reuse properties from what they were originally designed for to how they are best able to support Waterford now is the logical next step.
In 2023, the Historic Properties and Land Use Subcommittee was tasked with conducting a comprehensive review of all Waterford Foundation properties- excluding the Mill- to develop a preliminary report supporting the adaptive reuse of these sites. This report serves as a foundational resource, outline key information such as existing easements and zoning regulations, along with recommendations for potential modifications. It also assess the current use of each property and identifies preliminary work needed to make them viable for adaptive reuse.
Beyond individual properties, the report takes a broader look at the Village as a whole, evaluating the current needs of both residents and visitors. It examines how Foundation-owned properties can best serve these needs, ensuring that preservation efforts align with community priorities. Additionally, the report helps establish a framework for prioritizing properties for adaptive reuse, guiding future planning and resource allocation.
Report
The next step in finalizing and editing the report for adoption by the Waterford Foundation Board of Directors is to receive public input. Version 2.0. of the Draft Alternative Use Proposal is available below:
Below is a detailed table of contents of Alternative Use Report highlighting where in the report that each property’s proposal is:
| Introduction and Purpose | Page 4 |
| Approach | Page 5 |
| WF Property Information | Pages 6-42 |
| Observations from Full Village | Pages 43- 46 |
| Proposed Alternative Uses and Implementation Requirements Goals | Page 47 |
| Bond Street Barn and Meadow Proposal | Pages 48-52 |
| Chair Factory Proposal | Pages 53-55 |
| Corner Store Proposal | Page 56 |
| Forge Proposal | Pages 56-59 |
| John Wesley Community Church Proposal | Pages 60-64 |
| North Meadow Proposal | Page 65 |
| Old School Proposal | Page 65 |
| Phillips Farm Proposal | Pages 66-67 |
| Red Barn Proposal | Pages 68-70 |
| Schooley Mill Barn and Meadow Proposal | Pages 71- 72 |
| Second Street School Proposal | Page 73 |
| Water Street Meadow Proposal | Page 73 |
| Recommended Steps of Action | Pages 74-76 |
Survey
The HPLU subcommittee is seeking public comments through an online survey available below or through this link. Thank you for taking the time to read the report and fill out the survey to put in your comments. Your comments will be taken into consideration as the Historic Properties and Land Use Subcommittee continues to refine the report for V.3. The public comment survey will be open to receive comments through Monday, May 12th.
For questions about the report or if you have trouble filling out the survey, please email the Waterford Foundation historic preservation director at azurfluh@waterfordfoundation.org