Boosting curb appeal in Georgetown can lift buyer interest and sale price, but one thing matters as much as fresh paint or polished ironwork: OGB approval. If you change what people see from the street, you will likely need to clear the Old Georgetown Board before a permit. You want an upgrade that looks refined, reads historic, and moves through review without delays. This guide shows you what to improve, how to design it, and when to file so you can move forward with confidence. Let’s dive in.
OGB review in a nutshell
The Old Georgetown Board operates under the Old Georgetown Act and advises the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts on exterior changes in the Georgetown Historic District. Their focus is the appearance of exterior architectural features visible from public space. That includes height, materials, color, and texture. You can learn more about the Board’s role and history in this neighborhood overview of the Old Georgetown Act and OGB, and review the District’s process page for Old Georgetown review.
Projects likely to need approval
If passersby can see it, expect review before you file for a permit. Typical curb appeal work that needs OGB/CFA comment includes:
- Window or door replacements visible from the street or alley.
- Changes to front facades, stoops, porches, fences, gates, or garden walls.
- New hardscape in front yards, visible rooftop elements, dormers, or mechanical equipment.
- Painting previously unpainted masonry or adding thick coatings.
Some small repairs are often cleared as minor work by HPO, such as in-kind fence repairs, repointing, or roof replacements not visible from the ground. Always check the scope and visibility. See the District’s summary of minor work in Georgetown.
Design principles OGB supports
OGB expects changes that preserve character and fit the streetscape. A repair-first mindset, compatible materials, and minimal visual impact from public ways are consistent themes.
Windows: repair first, match profiles
Historic windows should be repaired when feasible. If deterioration makes repair impractical, replacement on visible elevations should match historic profiles and materials, often wood with appropriate muntin details. Interior storm windows are a favored energy upgrade that preserves exterior appearance. See the CFA’s window policy and guidelines.
Doors, stoops, and fences
Retain original doors, fanlights, and metalwork when you can. New fences or gates should be compatible in height, material, and pattern. Oversized or stylistically incompatible features are often discouraged. CFA appendices document these outcomes in detail, including guidance on ironwork, masonry, and more in this collection of Georgetown actions.
Masonry and paint
Be cautious with painting previously unpainted brick or using thick elastomeric coatings. These treatments change texture and are often discouraged without strong justification. In-kind repointing and modest repair are commonly accepted.
Lighting and mechanicals
Keep fixtures low profile and wiring concealed. Screen or set back rooftop or yard mechanicals so they are not visible from public streets or alleys. Documentation that proves limited visibility helps.
Signage and awnings for mixed-use or commercial
Signs must be scaled to the façade and use quality materials. Georgetown has rules that are more restrictive than elsewhere in the District. Review the Georgetown design standards and sign guidelines before you plan graphics or awnings.
Timeline and how to apply
OGB meets monthly, typically on the first Thursday except August. HPO coordinates intake, then OGB advises the CFA, which adopts an Old Georgetown Appendix that returns to the District for permitting. Simple, well-documented items may land on a consent calendar. Plan for at least one monthly cycle plus adoption time, and expect 4 to 8 or more weeks depending on complexity. Start with the District’s step-by-step guide on how to apply for Georgetown review.
A seller’s pre-submission checklist
Use this quick checklist to reduce friction and keep your listing timeline on track:
- Clarify visibility from public space with current photos and simple sightline notes.
- Gather documentation: a photographic survey, measured drawings, profiles, and manufacturer literature as needed. Use the CFA’s submission requirements as your guide.
- Align your design with repair-first and compatibility standards, especially on front elevations.
- Coordinate early with ANC 2E and neighbors. The District encourages public participation in Georgetown review.
- Confirm current filing deadlines and allow time for possible revisions. Start with the District’s page on how to apply.
Curb appeal upgrades that often work
- Restore, do not replace, historic windows and doors when possible. If replacement is needed, match profiles and materials on visible elevations and document conditions.
- Refresh front yards with traditional planting beds, brick or compatible pavers, and modest, historically appropriate low fencing or stone walls.
- Add refined, shielded entry lighting and clear address numbers with concealed conduit.
- Screen or set back rooftop or yard mechanicals from public view.
- Improve energy performance with interior storm windows, weather-stripping, and attic insulation that does not change the exterior view.
Common pitfalls to avoid
- Assuming modern “inserts” are acceptable by default. OGB looks closely at sightlines, muntins, and glazing area. Provide profiles and details.
- Painting unpainted brick or applying thick coatings without justification. These changes often face pushback.
- Skipping community outreach to ANC 2E or nearby neighbors. It can slow your case.
- Submitting incomplete drawings or product data. Incomplete packages cause delays and can miss consent calendars.
Set expectations and plan for success
Every property is reviewed case by case, but the Board’s preferences are consistent. Preserve original features, use compatible materials, and keep new elements modest and low visibility. With a complete package and the right design approach, you can elevate curb appeal and move through review on your timeline. If you are listing soon, start the documentation now and plan your improvements around the monthly meeting cycle.
Ready to position your Georgetown home for a premium result with curb appeal that passes review the first time? For strategy, timing, and presentation tailored to premium listings across the DMV, connect with Ikon Realty.
FAQs
What is OGB review for Georgetown exterior changes?
- The Old Georgetown Board advises the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts on visible exterior work in the Georgetown Historic District, and its recommendation is part of the permit path coordinated by the District.
How long does OGB approval usually take for curb appeal projects?
- Plan for at least one monthly meeting cycle plus adoption time, often 4 to 8 or more weeks depending on complexity and whether revisions are required.
Which curb appeal upgrades typically do not require OGB review?
- Minor work that is not visible from public space, such as roof replacement not seen from the ground, in-kind fence repairs, or repointing, is often cleared by HPO, but visibility governs.
Can you paint previously unpainted brick in Georgetown?
- Painting unpainted masonry or using thick coatings is often discouraged because it changes texture and character, and it may not be approved without strong justification.
What documentation do you need for window or fence changes?
- Expect a photographic survey, measured drawings, profiles, and manufacturer literature, plus elevation-specific details and sightline studies for visible work.
