HomeMy WebLinkAboutDRSC 07-25-17 - approved 08-22-17Design Review Subcommittee
of the Elgin Heritage Commission
July 25, 2017
Minutes
The meeting of the Design Review Subcommittee was called to order at 6:00 p.m. in the City
Council Chambers (Located on the 2nd floor of City Hall) by Chairman Wiedmeyer.
MEMBERS PRESENT:
Lynne Diamond, Rebecca Hunter, Bill Ristow, and John Wiedmeyer
MEMBERS ABSENT:
John Roberson, Dennis Roxworthy and Scott Savel
CITY STAFF PRESENT:
Christen Sundquist, Historic Preservation; and Cindy Walden, DRSC Secretary
APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
Motion made by Committee Member Hunter to approve the minutes of July 11, 2017, as
amended: pg. 5 (seconded by) Diamond.
The motion was seconded by Committee Member Diamond.
The motion passed unanimously.
RECOGNIZE OTHER PERSONS PRESENT:
None
PROPERTIES ON AGENDA FOR DISCUSSION:
Old Business
132 Hill Avenue – Reconstruction of front and side porch handrails
12 Hill Avenue – Restoration of siding; Re-creation of missing architectural features
New Business
481 North Street- construction of retaining wall, guardrails
844 Brook Street – Installation of Trellis
162 Franklin Boulevard – Restoration of original siding
704 N Spring Street – Rehabilitation of front porch
ITEMS TABLED:
Due to nonrepresentation, 132 Hill Avenue remained tabled.
OLD BUSINESS:
Design Review Subcommittee – July 25, 2017
Page 2 of 15
132 Hill Avenue – Reconstruction of front and side porch handrails
**This item was tabled due to the request for a new design of wood handrails at the front
and side porch to match the style of the home and not the style of the 1959 stoops.
The applicant has submitted an application for a Certificate of Appropriat eness to reconstruct
the front porch handrails. The COA application has been filed as a corrective action to the
following violations:
1. Removal of existing metal handrails and installation of wood handrails without a COA
and Building Permit.
The front porch has been altered several times since the building was constructed, however,
originally when the building was built there was a front stoop at the general location of where
the current front stoop is located.
The stoop roof at the front and side porch were installed in 1959 along with the metal
handrails. The applicant is proposing to install wood handrails at the front and side porches to
match the style of the home and not the style of the stoops.
Elgin Design Guideline Manual Specifications:
Porches
A. Should be maintained in their original design with original materials and detailing
B. Should be repaired or replaced to match the original in design, materials, scale and
placement
C. Should be screened only if the structural framework for the screen panels is minimal
and the open appearance of the porch is maintained. Screen panels should be
placed behind the original features such as columns or railings and should not hide
decorative details or result in the removal of original porch materials.
D. Should have steps of the same material as the porch floor (e.g. porches with wood
floors should also have steps made of wood, not concrete or brick)
E. Should have poured concrete steps if the porch, patio or terrace floor is made of
concrete (see section on Porch Steps).
F. Should have wood tongue and groove flooring running perpendicular to the façade,
if the porch floor is made of wood.
G. Should have trellises made of wood, if trellises are appropriate.
H. Should be filled in as traditional for the type and style of the house or with
decorative wood framed skirting, vertical slats, or lattice panels, if open areas in the
foundation exist.
I. Should not be removed if original to the dwelling
J. Should not be enclosed with wood, glass, or other materials which would alter the
porch’s open appearance.
Porch Columns and Railing
Design Review Subcommittee – July 25, 2017
Page 3 of 15
A. Should be preserved and maintained. Where repair is required, use materials to
match the original in dimensions and detailing.
B. Should be rebuilt in historic designs if the original columns and railings have been
removed or replaced
C. Should have new balusters for the railing, if required. Porch balusters (also called
spindles) should be appropriate for the building’s style and period. The height of the
railing should be in line with the window sill level, if present, and no greater than 30
inches in height.
Porch Staircases and Steps
A. Should be retained in their original location and configuration, if original to the
property. Wood and concrete steps should be repaired with materials to match the
original.
B. Should be replaced with wood rather than brick or concrete, if the porch floor is
made of wood.
C. Should have their tread constructed in either 5/4x12 or 2x12 lumber. The ends of
the treads should be bull-nosed and overhang the riser by no less than 1 inch.
D. Should have newel posts and balusters, treads and risers, to match original porch
construction.
Staff Recommendation:
Staff recommends approval of the Certificate of Appropriateness with the following
recommendations:
1. The handrail shall have a 2x4 top rail with chamfered edges, ¾” cove, 2x2 square
balusters, with a maximum spacing of 2.5”. That the bottom rail is a 2x4 with chamfered
edges, installed 2” above finished floor.
2. That the newel posts are added to the bottom of the stairs and shall be a 6x6 newel post
with a 1x base wrap, topped with a post cap and ball.
3. All front and side porch details shall match the attached rendering.
4. All front and side porch details shall be primed and painted.
5. That all other details meet the Design Review Subcommittee’s recommendations.
*****
No representation for this COA was present for tonight’s COA discussion, therefore the item
remained tabled. Staff noted there is an active complaint/violation case for this project. Staff
will reach out to the property owner one more time for scheduling of hearing by commission.
12 Hill Avenue – Restoration of siding; Re-creation of missing architectural features
**This item was tabled on July 11, 2017 due to non-representation.
Motion made by Committee Member Hunter to un-table items E2 for discussion
(representatives for the properties in attendance for tonight’s meeting).
The motion was seconded by Committee Member Ristow.
The motion passed unanimously.
Design Review Subcommittee – July 25, 2017
Page 4 of 15
The applicant has submitted a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) to restore the original siding
on the house and replace any missing architectural features. The house was formerly clad with
aluminum substitute siding. The applicant obtained a COA for the removal with the condition
that Staff conduct a site inspection following the completion of the siding removal.
Staff conducted a site assessment on June 29, 2017. At that time the substitute siding was
removed. It was found that the original siding (cedar shingles) was in good condition with select
areas in need of replacement including several window sills, window trim, window hoods, bed
molding, bell skirt at second floor and porch brackets.
Elgin Design Guideline Manual Specifications:
Wood Siding
A. Should be repaired rather than replaced, if original. If replacement is necessary, wood
siding and shingles should be replaced with new cement board or shingles to match the
original in size, placement, and design. Wood that has been concealed beneath
synthetic sidings such as aluminum, asbestos, or vinyl should be repaired and the
synthetic sidings removed. Following the removal of synthetic sidings the original siding
should be repaired to match the original, caulked and painted. If the "ghosts" or outlines
of decorative missing features are revealed, these should generally be replicated and
reinstalled. If these features are not replaced they should be recorded through
photographs or drawings for future replication.
B. Should be insulated if the addition of the insulation does not result in alterations to the
siding. The creation of plugs or holes for blown-in insulation is not acceptable.
C. Should have original asbestos shingles kept stained or painted. If asbestos shingle
siding is deteriorated or poses a health hazard, it may be removed and replaced with
wood or other substitute siding. Removal of asbestos siding should follow hazardous
material guidelines.
D. Should not be concealed beneath synthetic materials such as vinyl, masonite, or
aluminum, if original. Original siding should also not be concealed beneath wood based
materials such as particle board, gyp board, or press board. These materials generally
do not possess textures or designs which closely match original wood siding. However,
if more than 50% of the original siding material is damaged beyond repair, or missing,
substitute materials may be applied if the following conditions are met:
a. the existing damaged siding materials are removed prior to the installation of
substitute materials;
b. Vinyl material is not permissible. Rather, cement board is and should be
smooth without knots and be accented with trim
c. Finger jointed board stock is acceptable, however, natural continuous board
stock is preferable for use as siding.
The application of these materials must not result in the concealment of or removal
of original decorative detailing or trim including window and door surrounds.
Design Review Subcommittee – July 25, 2017
Page 5 of 15
However, if no trim or surrounds exist then new wood trim in the form of fascia,
corner boards, base boards, molding and windows should be installed.
Substitute materials should match the dimensions of the original wood siding as
closely as possible. The cement board should abut the wood trim and be caulked to
prevent moisture damage.
Paint Removal and Surface Preparation
A. Should be performed by manual scraping or by using appropriate chemical removers. A
paint shaver may be used, but with caution so as to avoid removal of wood siding .
B. Should be performed cautiously when removing paint through heat plates or heat guns
to avoid unnecessary damage to the wood through charring or fire.
C. Should not be removed by abrasive techniques such as sand or water blasting since this
can damage the wood and introduce moisture into the building.
Staff Recommendation:
Staff recommends approval of the Certificate of Appropriateness as submitted and with the
following conditions:
Siding
1. Damaged siding shall be repaired, epoxy preferred
2. Nail holes must be patched with putty, epoxy preferred.
3. New siding shall (cedar shingle) be installed only as necessary with replacements-in-kind
to match the original siding profile, size and details.
4. All replacement wood material shall be clear (no knots), cedar preferred and installed
smooth side out.
5. All deteriorated trim boards, window hoods, bed molding, crown molding and sills that
are beyond repair or missing shall match the existing in kind.
6. Bell skirting shall be installed at the area of missing shingles at north and south
elevations (gable ends).
7. Brackets at the front porch shall be recreated to match shadow line locations. The
brackets shall match the design of the attached photograph.
8. Entire home shall be prepped, primed and painted.
*****
Juan Rodriquez (owner), Jorge Sollis and Juan Varvaza (contractor and translator) were
present for tonight’s COA discussion:
No vapor barrier currently behind the siding. The owner wants to remove ALL siding and begin
from scratch for siding. All open areas need to be addressed. When the trim and detailing was
not covered, rain has come into thru the exterior wall.
It is cost effective to spot replace, than to replace all siding. Commission express concern of
removing any further existing older siding. Older siding has remained in good/great condition
for about 100 years. Water infiltration occurred because of the trim and siding pieces were
removed and not covered properly. Additionally, two major storms (last Friday and Sunday)
occurred during the applicant’s delay to bring this COA to the commission for hearing.
Design Review Subcommittee – July 25, 2017
Page 6 of 15
Homeowner expressed concerns of future leakage by water/storms. Commissioners indicated
if repaired properly, water will not get into the walls/structure. Contractor needs to take the
necessary steps to ensure the work is done correctly for prep, product and workmanship.
If shingles are place between the windows are cut they will need to install frieze board and
trim. Using a 1x for account for same thickness of shingle vs trim profile.
Motion made by Committee Member Ristow to approve with staff recommendations and the
following amendments: 1) staff to provide details for window hood and missing trim for
applicant to replicate, 2) raised chair rail to be used (no off the shelf stock), 3) staff to work with
contractor for section between windows (frieze board, trim, etc.)
The motion was seconded by Committee Member Diamond.
The motion passed unanimously.
NEW BUSINESS:
481 North Street- construction of retaining wall, guardrails
The property owner has submitted an application for a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) to
install a new retaining wall on the south side of the house where a rear basement door is
located. This is a corrective action as the work was being completed without a permit.
The applicant began work at this location as the basement area was flooding at this location.
The original stairs into the basement were perpendicular to the home. The replacement stairs
now run parallel with the home. Due to the height of the retaining wall (38”), guardrails are
required for this area.
The retaining wall is proposed to be concrete blocks (cast-stone – simulated concrete to look
like stone) and will be constructed with a cap. The stairs are also proposed to be simulated
stone – concrete blocks with caps.
The area of work is readily visible from the public right-of-way as the home is located on the
corner of North Street and Hilton Place.
Elgin Design Guideline Manual Specifications:
Retaining walls:
A. should be preserved and maintained, if original to the dwelling (or built before 19 45).
B. should be of poured concrete (not concrete blocks) or in stone designs such as cut
stone, random rubble, coursed rubble, or cobblestones. Retaining walls of brick are less
appropriate but may be constructed. If constructed of artificial or cultured st one,
textures, colors and random designs should replicate natural stone. If located in front
Design Review Subcommittee – July 25, 2017
Page 7 of 15
yards, the walls should be constructed using up to two courses and an additional cap
course, not to exceed twenty inches in height.
C. should not be removed or replaced with new materials, if built before 1945.
D. should not be built on the fronts of dwellings, if constructed of timbers or railroad ties.
Staff Recommendation:
Staff cannot recommend approval of the application as submitted, since the material (concrete
blocks) does not meet the material requirements of the Elgin Design Guideline Manual for
Landmarks and Historic Districts. Staff would recommend the following:
1. The retaining wall and stairs are of poured concrete.
2. The guardrail height and handrail height is no higher than 30” (upon receipt of the
handrail height waiver form) or no higher than 36” in height to align with the stone
water table.
3. That the guardrail and handrail are painted/coated black.
4. That the post caps are either acorn or ball and not a flat cap.
5. That the guardrails are affixed to the retaining wall and not to the home.
6. That the handrail is affixed on the same side as the guardrail and not on the side with
the home.
-OR-
If the retaining wall is approved as proposed, staff recommends that the Design Review
Subcommittee recommends the following:
7. The concrete block shall appear as a type of stone wall and tinted in a way that does not
appear as a gray concrete block.
8. The guardrail height and handrail height is no higher than 30” (upon receipt of the
handrail height waiver form) or no higher than 36” in height to align with the stone
water table.
9. That the guardrail and handrail are painted/coated black.
10. That the post caps are either acorn or ball and not a flat cap.
11. That the guardrails are affixed to the retaining wall and not to the home.
12. That the handrail is affixed on the same side as the guardrail and not on the side with
the home.
*****
Genaro Talavera (owner) and Armando Patricio were present for tonight’s COA discussion:
Various materials previously formed the old staircase/stairwell. Owner originally was repairing
a crack in the foundation (left of the door); then continued on to this point.
For long term and safety sake, poured concrete will last longer than a stacked block retaining
wall. A stamped pattern could be used on the new concrete to provide a decorative
appearance, possible to mimic existing split face stone. Top of concrete should be a smooth
finish, which will help with the longevity of the wall.
Owner was agreeable to the poured concrete for the walls and steps with a smooth finish.
Design Review Subcommittee – July 25, 2017
Page 8 of 15
Motion made by Committee Member Ristow to approve with staff recommendations (items
#1-6) and the following amendments: 1) poured concrete with smooth finish top, 2) Fence to
have a flat top design, 3) fence cap to be either a ball or acorn design, and 4) fence height of
36” (code compliance height) for safety.
The motion was seconded by Committee Member Hunter.
The motion passed unanimously.
844 Brook Street – Installation of trellis
The property owner has submitted a Certificate of Appropriateness application for the
construction of an approximately 15’ x 15’ wood trellis at the rear yard.
The applicants noted their preference for a simplistic design so as to not detract from the
overall house design. 7’-0” of the trellis may be seen from the public right of way during the
winter, however, in the spring and summer months the foliage in front and the existing fence
will hide the proposed structure.
One beam will be connecting into the home as the homeowners did not want to dig a concrete
pier so close to the home and the newly completed masonry work at the foundation.
To note, a trellis was once in this location extending past the house approximately 6’-0”. The
previous trellis was removed in 2015 for the upcoming rehabilitation work on the siding.
Elgin Design Guideline Manual Specifications:
Porches
A. Should be maintained in their original design with original materials and detailing
B. Should be repaired or replaced to match the original in design, materials, scale and
placement
C. Should be screened only if the structural framework for the screen panels is minimal
and the open appearance of the porch is maintained. Screen panels should be
placed behind the original features such as columns or railings and should not hide
decorative details or result in the removal of original porch materials.
D. Should have steps of the same material as the porch floor (e.g. porches with wood
floors should also have steps made of wood, not concrete or brick)
E. Should have poured concrete steps if the porch, patio or terrace floor is made of
concrete (see section on Porch Steps).
F. Should have wood tongue and groove flooring running perpendicular to the façade,
if the porch floor is made of wood.
G. Should have trellises made of wood, if trellises are appropriate.
H. Should be filled in as traditional for the type and style of the house or with
decorative wood framed skirting, vertical slats, or lattice panels, if open areas in the
foundation exist.
Design Review Subcommittee – July 25, 2017
Page 9 of 15
I. Should not be removed if original to the dwelling
J. Should not be enclosed with wood, glass, or other materials which would alter the
porch’s open appearance.
Pergolas, Arbors, Gazebos, Fountains, Tree Houses, Ponds and Statuary
A. Should be sited in rear yards or side yards
B. Should be of wood construction in designs appropriate for pre -1945 dwellings. Yard
features constructed of materials such as glass, metal or brick can be placed in yards
if situated near the rear of the lot and effectively screened by fencing or
landscaping.
C. Should not be located in street yards.
Staff Recommendation:
As the trellis would be minimally visible from the public right-of-way staff recommends
approval of the Certificate of Appropriateness as submitted and with the following conditions:
1. All details shall match the attached drawings.
2. All trellis elements shall be primed and painted or stained with a solid body stain.
*****
Karen TerHorst & Perry Pollock (owners) were present for tonight’s COA discussion:
Commission express of massiveness due to the 2x8 boards. Recommend 2x2 be set into the
proposed 2x8 framework, then it will not cause additional height to the structure.
Commissioners did acknowledge that with the current foliage, there is limited visibility of the
proposed structure.
Motion made by Committee Member Hunter to approve with staff recommendations and the
following amendment: 2x2 slats to be set within the 2x8 framework of the structure.
The motion was seconded by Committee Member Ristow.
The motion passed unanimously.
162 Franklin Boulevard – Restoration of original siding
The applicant has submitted a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) to restore the original siding
on the house and replace any missing architectural features. The house was formerly clad with
aluminum substitute siding. The applicant obtained a COA for the removal with the condition
that Staff conduct a site inspection following the completion of the siding removal.
Staff conducted a site assessment on July 19, 2017. At that time the substitute siding was
removed. It was found that the original siding (clapboards) was in good condition with select
areas in need of replacement including several window sills, window trim, and corner boards. In
addition, the window hoods were removed when the substitute siding was installed and are
proposed to be recreated to match the existing profile found on the home.
Design Review Subcommittee – July 25, 2017
Page 10 of 15
The rear portion of the home (appears as if an addition) has been altered several times over the
course of the history of the home. Per the Sanborn Fire Insurance Maps, this addition was once
one-story in a similar plan/size as it is currently. However, sometime after the 1950s, this
addition became two-stories. The adjacent home (160 Franklin) to the west is considered its
sister house, though, it has been altered as well.
It was found during the site visit that the siding at the rear portion of the home was completely
removed when the substitute siding was installed. To note, aluminum siding was installed on
top of this additional siding. The applicants are proposing to remove the existing siding on the
rear portion and install fiber cement board siding (smooth side out, no grain) to match the
same exposure found on the existing home. They are also proposing to match the size, detail,
profile found on the home to reconstruct the cornerboards, friezeboard, and trim around the
windows. The window hoods are proposed to be simplistic design with a drip cap rather than
replicating the pedimented window hoods found on the main primary facades. All elements to
be prepped, primed and painted.
The aluminum soffits are proposed to remain, unless applicant applies for the Substitute Sid ing
Removal Grant. If application is accepted, than all substitute siding shall be removed from the
home and original elements restored with spot replacement to match in kind at
deteriorated/beyond repair areas.
To note, the home was built sometime in the 1880s.
Elgin Design Guideline Manual Specifications:
Wood Siding
A. Should be repaired rather than replaced, if original. If replacement is necessary, wood
siding and shingles should be replaced with new cement board or shingles to match the
original in size, placement, and design. Wood that has been concealed beneath
synthetic sidings such as aluminum, asbestos, or vinyl should be repaired and the
synthetic sidings removed. Following the removal of synthetic sidings the original siding
should be repaired to match the original, caulked and painted. If the "ghosts" or outlines
of decorative missing features are revealed, these should generally be replicated and
reinstalled. If these features are not replaced they should be recorded through
photographs or drawings for future replication.
B. Should be insulated if the addition of the insulation does not result in alterations to the
siding. The creation of plugs or holes for blown-in insulation is not acceptable.
C. Should have original asbestos shingles kept stained or painted. If asbestos shingle
siding is deteriorated or poses a health hazard, it may be removed and replaced with
wood or other substitute siding. Removal of asbestos siding should follow hazardous
material guidelines.
D. Should not be concealed beneath synthetic materials such as vinyl, masonite, or
aluminum, if original. Original siding should also not be concealed beneath wood based
materials such as particle board, gyp board, or press board. These materials generally
do not possess textures or designs which closely match original wood siding. However,
Design Review Subcommittee – July 25, 2017
Page 11 of 15
if more than 50% of the original siding material is damaged beyond repair, or missing,
substitute materials may be applied if the following conditions are met:
a. the existing damaged siding materials are removed prior to the installation of
substitute materials;
b. Vinyl material is not permissible. Rather, cement board is and should be
smooth without knots and be accented with trim
c. Finger jointed board stock is acceptable, however, natural continuous board
stock is preferable for use as siding.
The application of these materials must not result in the concealment of or removal
of original decorative detailing or trim including window and door surrounds.
However, if no trim or surrounds exist then new wood trim in the form of fascia,
corner boards, base boards, molding and windows should be installed.
Substitute materials should match the dimensions of the original wood siding as
closely as possible. The cement board should abut the wood trim and be caulked to
prevent moisture damage.
Paint Removal and Surface Preparation
A. Should be performed by manual scraping or by using appropriate chemical removers. A
paint shaver may be used, but with caution so as to avoid removal of wood siding .
B. Should be performed cautiously when removing paint through heat plates or heat guns
to avoid unnecessary damage to the wood through charring or fire.
C. Should not be removed by abrasive techniques such as sand or water blasting since this
can damage the wood and introduce moisture into the building.
Staff Recommendation:
Staff recommends approval of the Certificate of Appropriateness as submitted and with the
following conditions:
Siding – Main Portion of Home
1. Damaged siding shall be repaired, epoxy preferred
2. Nail holes must be patched with putty, epoxy preferred.
3. New siding shall be installed only as necessary with replacements-in-kind to match the
original siding profile, size and details.
4. All replacement wood material shall be clear (no knots), cedar preferr ed and installed
smooth side out.
5. All deteriorated trim boards, window hoods, bed molding, crown molding and sills that
are beyond repair or missing shall match the existing in kind.
6. The window hoods shall be recreated to match the size, profile and desig n found on the
existing home (pedimented).
7. Bed molding shall be recreated and installed along the friezeboard.
8. Entire home shall be prepped, primed and painted.
Siding – Rear Portion of Home
Design Review Subcommittee – July 25, 2017
Page 12 of 15
1. Either clear cedar, no knots or new fiber cement board siding (smooth side out – no
grain) shall be installed at this location with proper trim around windows, corner
boards, base boards, fascia boards meeting the following requirements:
a. The exposure of the exterior siding is no more than 4¼-inch exposure (to match the
existing exposure found on the home).
b. Window trim be no less than 4 inches, with a top board and drip cap (window hood)
in a detail approved by staff.
c. Corner boards are no less than 4 inches wide.
d. Trim and cornerboards shall sit proud of the siding.
e. Bed molding shall be recreated and installed along the friezeboard.
2. Entire home shall be prepped, primed and painted.
Siding – Front Porch Roof
Due to the condition of the aluminum wrap at the front porch roof elements, it is
recommended the aluminum to be removed from the fascia, soffits, ceiling and box beam and
the architectural features underneath the siding be restored with spot replacement of
deteriorated elements to match the existing in kind with all elements to be scraped, prepped,
primed and painted.
*****
Hector Villicana (owner) and Juan Martinez (contractor) were present for tonight’s COA
discussion:
Some windows still have aluminum wrap, which will be removed.
Window trim should be done in cedar. Scrape and paint bead board. Weave the new cedar
siding in with the old siding where needed. Concrete sill under the door should be painted (no
board). Rear of building, verify the 4-4 ½” exposure for siding. Check house at 454 Villa (?) for
possible pediment to replicate.
Motion made by Committee Member Ristow to approve with staff recommendations.
The motion was seconded by Committee Member Diamond.
The motion passed unanimously.
704 N Spring Street – Rehabilitation of front porch
The applicant has submitted an application for a Certificate of Appropriat eness to reconstruct
the front porch guardrails.
The applicant is proposing to match as closely as possible to an older photograph. At this time,
only the guardrails are being proposed. If the stairs are reconstructed, handrails and newel
posts will then be required and the design will need to go before the Design Review
Subcommittee.
To note, at the regular scheduled Design Review Subcommittee meeting held on April 28, 2015
the applicant requested to install a lift at the front porch that will be hidden by shrubs. The
Design Review Subcommittee – July 25, 2017
Page 13 of 15
access onto the porch from the lift will be at the north return. This design request was
approved by the Design Review Subcommittee.
Elgin Design Guideline Manual Specifications:
Porches
A. Should be maintained in their original design with original materials and detailing
B. Should be repaired or replaced to match the original in design, materials, scale and
placement
C. Should be screened only if the structural framework for the screen panels is minimal
and the open appearance of the porch is maintained. Screen panels should be placed
behind the original features such as columns or railings and should not hide decorative
details or result in the removal of original porch materials.
D. Should have steps of the same material as the porch floor (e.g. porches with wood floors
should also have steps made of wood, not concrete or brick)
E. Should have poured concrete steps if the porch, patio or terrace floor is made of
concrete (see section on Porch Steps).
F. Should have wood tongue and groove flooring running perpendicular to the façade, if
the porch floor is made of wood.
G. Should have trellises made of wood, if trellises are appropriate.
H. Should be filled in as traditional for the type and style of the house or with decorative
wood framed skirting, vertical slats, or lattice panels, if open areas in the foundation
exist.
I. Should not be removed if original to the dwelling
J. Should not be enclosed with wood, glass, or other materials which would alter the
porch’s open appearance.
Porch Columns and Railing
A. Should be preserved and maintained. Where repair is required, use materials to match
the original in dimensions and detailing.
B. Should be rebuilt in historic designs if the original columns and railings have been
removed or replaced
C. Should have new balusters for the railing, if required. Porch balusters (also called
spindles) should be appropriate for the building’s style and period. The height of the
railing should be in line with the window sill level, if present, and no greater than 30
inches in height.
Porch Staircases and Steps
A. Should be retained in their original location and configuration, if original to the
property. Wood and concrete steps should be rep aired with materials to match the
original.
B. Should be replaced with wood rather than brick or concrete, if the porch floor is made
of wood.
C. Should have their tread constructed in either 5/4x12 or 2x12 lumber. The ends of the
treads should be bull-nosed and overhang the riser by no less than 1 inch.
Design Review Subcommittee – July 25, 2017
Page 14 of 15
D. Should have newel posts and balusters, treads and risers, to match original porch
construction.
Staff Recommendation:
Staff recommends approval of the Certificate of Appropriateness as submitted with the
following recommendations:
1. The guardrail shall have a 2x4 top rail with chamfered edges, ¾” cove, 2x2 square
balusters, with a maximum spacing of 2.5”. That the bottom rail is a 2x4 with chamfered
edges, installed 2” above finished floor.
2. The top of the guardrail shall align with the height of the window sill.
3. A round, newel post with ball cap shall be installed at the return of the porch to allow
for the installation of the guardrail and to accommodate the open area for the exterior
lift.
4. All front porch details shall match the attached renderings and sketches.
All new material shall be primed and painted in complimentary colors to the existing home.
*****
James DiFiglio (owner) and Lindsey Ehlers (assistant) were present for tonight’s COA
discussion:
Commission recommended rotating the propose spindles 45 degrees to give more shadow
lines. Railing may need to be widen to 4” to allow for the spindle modification.
Motion made by Committee Member Diamond to approve with staff recommendations and
the following amendment: 1) turn spindles 45 degrees.
The motion was seconded by Committee Member Hunter.
The motion passed unanimously.
ADDITIONAL STAFF COMMENTS:
457 Division St – Pergola – Homeowner has decided not to go through the Variation public
hearing process; and has removed pergola.
Ms. Sundquist completed the RRP (Renovation, Repair, and Preservation) certification.
CORRESPONDENCE:
None
ADJOURNMENT:
Motion to adjourn was made by Committee Member Hunter.
The motion was seconded by Committee Member Diamond.
Design Review Subcommittee – July 25, 2017
Page 15 of 15
The motion passed unanimously.
The meeting of the Design Review Subcommittee was adjourned at 7:35 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Cindy A. Walden Approved:
Design Review Subcommittee Secretary August 22, 2017