Caring for Your Nob Hill House
Nob Hill’s earliest development dates to 1916, and many of its additions are listed in both the New Mexico Register of Cultural Properties and the National Register of Historic Places. These registers identify places that have been surveyed and deemed worthy of preservation. For most Hilleños, Nob Hill’s historic character is a core community value—something we actively work together to protect.
A common question from homeowners is: “What features of my house contribute to its historic character, and how should I preserve them?” The Monte Vista and College View Historic District Nomination offers helpful guidance. In general, a home retains its historic character when:
- Original massing remains visible, even if additions have been made.
- Original materials, textures, and architectural details are largely intact, or altered lightly enough that the style is still clear.
- Front‑facing elements—yards, porches, garages, doors, and windows—maintain their relationship to the streetscape, preserving the look and feel of the block.
To support homeowners, CABQ Preservation Planner Leslie Naji has created a practical handbook for sensitive renovation. It includes advice on foundations, stucco, roofs, porches, doors, and windows, along with principles for maintaining historic streetscapes and enhancing property value.
You can find the handbook here: Guidelines
CABQ Historic Preservation Team: PlanningLC@cabq.gov