Laurens City Council Approves South Carolina’s First Housing Pattern Book
On September 16, 2023, the Laurens City Council reached a significant milestone by unanimously endorsing South Carolina’s inaugural housing pattern book. This groundbreaking initiative aims to facilitate the construction of new homes while simultaneously preserving the distinctive character that defines the city of Laurens.
The newly introduced housing pattern book is designed to serve as a strategic resource for builders and prospective homeowners. It provides a collection of pre-approved home designs that align with the city’s architectural and zoning requirements. By adopting one of these standard plans, builders can expedite their projects, significantly reducing bureaucratic delays and associated costs. This streamlined process stands to make homebuilding more accessible, mirroring the need for affordable housing without compromising the small-town charm that Laurens is known for.
Mayor Nathan Senn highlighted the voluntary nature of this initiative, stating, “This is an incentive, not a mandate. Builders and homeowners can still pursue their own designs, but the pattern book makes doing the right thing—building homes that feel at home in Laurens—easier and more affordable.” The mayor emphasized that the pattern book represents a pragmatic approach to accommodating community demands for more housing while ensuring aesthetic consistency within existing neighborhoods. He characterized the initiative as beneficial for builders seeking efficiency, families aiming for affordability, and the city’s efforts to maintain its unique character.
The implementation of the housing pattern book follows recent updates to local zoning codes and reflects a broader commitment to revitalizing current neighborhoods, promoting infill development, and protecting architectural heritage. The designs featured in the pattern book range from quaint cottages and accessory garage apartments to multi-family dwellings, all curated to integrate harmoniously with Laurens’ historic streetscapes.
As Mayor Senn remarked, “Laurens is blessed that so much of our traditional architecture remains intact. As our city grows, we’re committed to ensuring new homes are connected to the fabric of our existing neighborhoods rather than standing apart from them.” This initiative seeks not only to accommodate growth but also to perpetuate the historical and cultural identity of Laurens.
The concept of utilizing a pattern book for home design is not without precedent; it echoes early 20th-century practices when companies like Sears Roebuck provided home kits that shaped American communities. The Laurens Housing Pattern Book draws on that practical approach, aiming to foster a seamless blend of contemporary living with historical integrity.
The Housing Pattern Book is now accessible online, providing a valuable tool for residents and builders alike. For more information, the book can be found at www.cityoflaurenssc.com. This innovative step could set a precedent for other cities in South Carolina and beyond, demonstrating a balanced approach to growth and preservation.
