Historic Zoning Commission

Fourth and Gill H-1: Level II

11-K-13-HZ

Applicant Request

Level II. Construction of addition or outbuilding.

Second level of stairwell proposed to be glassd in on the south side. The two mullions are to be 4-inch-wide steel covered with wood facing attached to window. Add 29-inch high concrete pad stair landing on south side and stucco all faces to match that on house. Cover brick wall on lower portion of newly constructed stairwell on south side with smooth-finished fiber cement board to match dimensions and profile of wood siding on main house. Appearance of detail of transition of siding to brick garage wall to be approved by staff. Window replacment on 2nd level of south side not yet approved.

Site Info

Two-story frame with weatherboard wall covering. Asphalt shingle roof covering with front gable, lunette attic vent. Two-over-two replacement windows. Two- story three-quarter front porch with c. 2011 replacement posts and balustrade. Brick foundation.Transom at front entry. Former two-story rear deck-- now removed.

1) No building permit or COA was issued for the initial construction of the south side two-story concrete stairs and landing with brick enclosure, which are all
partially constructed.

2) Given that the stair risers are proposed to remain open, the stairwell and its lower landing will remain open to the elements.

3) The applicant has not yet determined if an exit door is required by fire code at the location of the upper-story window that is being proposed for replacement with a door.

4) The newly proposed stairwell has a more open design than the previously submitted stairwell design, with the upper level being unenclosed. However, the addition is still highly visible from the right-of-way.

5) The coverage of the brick on the lower level of the recently constructed stairwell with fiber cement board siding will distinguish the stairwell structure from the brick garage. However, the abuttment of the siding to the brick behind and at its transition will require proper detailing in order to keep out moisture and present a finished appearance where the two diverse materials meet at the edge of the garage.

6) The brick stairwell enclosure will require a simple unobtrusive design in order to have a distinct and separate appearance from the garage and main house and to not alter or obscure the massing of the south elevation of the house. Due to the obtrusiveness of the steel mullions, the proposed design causes a lessening of historic character.

7) The proposed glass wall adds another material element to an addition that will already incorporate the materials of steel, concrete, fiber cement board and brick -- the steel mullions will add obtrusiveness and another vertical element to the facade; therefore, the proposal will add to the complexity and clutter of the previously approved proposal.

8) A 32-inch-high concrete pad has been poured for the south side at the base of the stairwell. Any surface 30 " or higher requires a 36" (residential) or 42" (commercial) guard railing according to building code.