Architectural Review Committee (ARC)
The community known as Old Leawood, and in particular, the area covered by the Leawood Homes Association, is unique within the Kansas City metropolitan area. Mature trees, older, quality-built houses on relatively large lots and a sense of character define our neighborhood. As the Kroh Brothers were developing Old Leawood, they included certain covenants and restrictions in all land deeds to ensure that the community would retain the original character and charm that we all still cherish. The responsibility for managing these requirements falls upon the LHA.
LHA homeowners who are considering an exterior renovation or addition to their current residence, or who are considering the demolition of an existing residence and construction of a new one, are required to obtain the approval of the Homes Association’s Architectural Review Committee (ARC) before beginning construction.
THIS APPROVAL PROCESS IS INDEPENDENT OF THAT OF THE CITY OF LEAWOOD’S BUILDING PERMIT PROCESS. ISSUANCE OF A BUILDING PERMIT BY THE CITY OF LEAWOOD DOES NOT CONSTITUTE APPROVAL BY THE LEAWOOD HOMES ASSOCIATION.
The ARC is made up of resident volunteers who generally possess design and/or construction experience. Submitted projects are reviewed against the LHA’s Remodeling and New Home Construction Standards. These Standards were written to preserve the original neighborhood character yet allow for today’s lifestyles, which require more physical space and amenities than were needed back when the original houses were built.
The Standards were prepared, and are periodically revised, by the LHA’s Board of Directors along with approval from the Association’s residents. The Standards focus on (among other things) size, massing, exterior materials and window style/placement. Adherence to these Standards is required to meet the Deed Restrictions of the properties within the LHA’s jurisdiction. Submittal requirements, a sample letter template notifying neighbors within 200 feet of the project, and formal appeal options are included in the Standards.
ARC Submission Checklist
Remodeling and New Home Construction Standards
Please contact us at arc@leawoodhoa.com with any questions.