Historic Zoning Commission

Mechanicsville H: Level II

7-B-23-HZ

Applicant Request

New secondary structure (detached garage with accessory dwelling unit above). Rectangular garage will measure 24' wide by 28' deep, located approximately 28' from the rear of the primary structure and 3' from the left (southwest) side property line. The garage will be accessible via an existing driveway on the left side of the primary house. The garage features a front-gable roof (12/12 pitch) clad in architectural shingles, with two shed-roof dormers (4/12 pitch) extending to each side. The garage will be clad in 4" lap fiber cement siding, with fiber cement shake siding on the dormers. The façade (southeast) features two 8' wide carriage-style steel garage doors with transom windows, and two 1/1 double-hung composite windows in the gable fields. On the side elevations, three evenly spaced windows are located on each dormer, with two pedestrian access doors flanking a window on the ground level of both sides. The rear elevation (northwest) features an upper-level window in the gable field. Additional design elements include triangular wood brackets and 4" fiber cement trim around windows and doors.

Site Info

1.5-story frame residence with a side-gable roof clad in asphalt shingles and an exterior of wood lap siding. Roof features a centered front-gable dormer and overhanging eaves. Full-length recessed front porch with wood posts on brick piers. Exterior brick chimney.

1. 321 Deaderick Ave is a contributing resource to the Mechanicsville National Register Historic District and local overlay.

2. The garage and accessory dwelling unit will be placed behind the primary building at the rear of the lot. While the tax parcel extends to Cansler Ave, the lot of record is approximately 140' long; placement of the new garage will not hinder future development on Cansler Avenue. Placement of the secondary structure meets the design guidelines.

3. The secondary structure is smaller in height and massing than the primary structure, and the Craftsman style is aligned with the primary residence. The garage doors are compatible with historic Craftsman garage/secondary structure doors.

4. The roof pitch and detailing are compatible with the primary house. The proposed 4" fiber cement lap siding and trim and architectural shingle roof meet the design guidelines. While the design guidelines specify wood windows, in the opinion of staff, one-over-one, double-hung composite windows are appropriate for a new secondary structure.