Design Review Subcommittee Of the Elgin Heritage Commission. November 12, 2013

Transcription

1 Design Review Subcommittee Of the Elgin Heritage Commission November 12, 2013 The meeting of the Design Review Subcommittee was called to order at 6:05 p.m. in the City Council Chambers (Located on the 2 nd floor of City Hall) by Chairman Stroud. MEMBERS PRESENT: Steve Stroud, William Briska, Dennis Roxworthy, Scott Savel, Pat Segel, and John Wiedmeyer MEMBERS ABSENT: John Roberson CITY STAFF PRESENT: Amy Munro, Historic Preservation & Grants Planner RECOGNIZE OTHER PERSONS PRESENT: Dan Miller PROPERTIES ON AGENDA FOR DISCUSSION: OLD BUSINESS Hill Ave. Replace stair treads and second floor front hand railing (Tabled ) Bent St. Reconstruct garage NEW BUSINESS Geneva St Install front porch balustrade and stairs Division Install windows May St Replace two front entrance stoops; replace rear stoop; remove side (east) entrance Douglas Ave Rehabilitate front porch APPROVAL OF MINUTES: No minutes were submitted for approval. ITEMS TABLED: N. Spring St Install windows - the property owner or a representative was not present to discuss or answer questions of the Subcommittee Bent St. Reconstruct garage - the property owner or a representative was not present to discuss or answer questions of the Subcommittee. OLD BUSINESS:

2 Page 2 of 10 Motion made by Committee Member Wiedmeyer to untable the items. The motion was seconded by Committee Member Roxworthy. The motion passed unanimously. 115 Hill Ave. Replace stair treads and second floor front hand railing THIS ITEM WAS TABLED ON OCTOBER 22, 2013 DUE TO LACK OF PROPERTY OWNER REPRESENTATION. Project Background: The owner has submitted an application for a Certificate of Appropriateness to repair his front porch stairs (two treads) and to replace the second story porch balustrade. He has also proposed the installation of replacement balusters as necessary to match the existing balusters. Upon Staff s recent site visit, Staff noted that the upper story balustrade appeared to be a new installation and that it does not match the front porch balustrade; however, its balusters match the front porch stair hand railing square balusters. Additionally, the front porch appeared to have new newel posts. The existing newel posts do not match the previous newel posts (per the 2008 Historic District survey). Elgin Design Guideline Manual Specifications: Porch Columns and railings 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 Stairs 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:

3 Page 3 of 10 Staff recommends approval of the Certificate of Appropriateness as submitted and with the following conditions: 1. That the existing second story balusters be removed and replaced with balusters to match the existing front porch balusters rather than the front stair hand railing balusters. 2. That the existing newel post cap be replaced with pyramidal post cap to match the attached photo. ******** The property owner, Jose Ramirez, was present to answer questions of the Subcommittee. Mr. Ramirez explained that the replacement newel posts were installed due to address safety concerns with the deteriorated condition of the former posts. A new owner to the historic district, Mr. Ramirez expressed that prior to installing the newel posts and parade porch balustrade, he was unaware that replacements-in-kind required a Certificate of Appropriateness. He also explained that the replacement newel posts had been installed by his contractor prior to his final approval. The Subcommittee discussed the project and advised Mr. Ramirez that all new construction must follow the Design Guidelines which will only serve as a benefit to preserving his building s historic character. The Subcommittee discussed the newel posts and parade porch replacements and agreed that the replacements were not appropriate. The Subcommittee proposed the following changes to the COA request: 1. The bottom stair newel posts must be replaced with newel posts that match the front porch newel post located at the top of the stairs exactly in dimension, design, and materials. 2. The existing parade porch balustrade must match the front porch balustrade exactly in dimension, design, and material, i.e., spindles must be turned, gooseneck handrail. The Subcommittee asked Mr. Ramirez if he was open to the Subcommittee s proposed COA recommendations. Mr. Ramirez stated his agreement; however, he also advised the Subcommittee that due to the project costs, it would take him additional time to complete the project. Mr. Dan Miller, a member of the public, offered his technical assistance to Mr. Ramirez. Ms. Munro advised Mr. Ramirez that he has a period of six months to complete his project. If after the six months, components of the project remain incomplete, Ms. Munro advised Mr. Ramirez that he can file an extension request. Motion made by Commissioner Wiedmeyer to approve the request as submitted and with the amendments as stated above. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Savel. The motion passed unanimously. NEW BUSINESS:

4 Page 4 of Geneva St Install front porch balustrade and stairs Project Background: The property owner has submitted an application for a Certificate of Appropriateness to replace the front balustrade and front stair treads. The property owner has requested approval to install square balusters and newel posts and to keep the center balustrade in its current configuration. The property owner does not intend to replace the porch columns. Elgin Design Guideline Manual Specifications: Porch Columns and railings 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 Stairs and Steps D. should have newel posts and balusters, treads and risers, to match original porch construction. Staff Recommendation Although Italianate style buildings typically have turned columns and balusters, the building has been altered significantly both in its porch roof design and installation of the square columns. Therefore, Staff would recommend approval of the COA as submitted and with the following conditions. 1. The handrail shall have a 2x4 top rail with chamfered edges, ¾ cove. That the bottom rail is a 2x4 with chamfered edges, 2 AFF. 2x2 square balusters, with a maximum of 2.5 on center, square corners. To ensure that the balusters have straight corners rather than round corners, it is recommended that the balusters be cut from 4x4s. 2. That the balustrade is 30 in height. 3. That the stair handrail height is installed parallel to the porch handrail. 4. That a newel post is added on the bottom stair tread. 5. That the newel post shall be a 4x4 to match the attached drawing. 6. That the newel post caps are re-installed. 7. Should the stair treads require replacement that the treads be constructed in 2x12 lumber and bull-nosed with 1 overhang on three sides, min. 10 wide. ********

5 Page 5 of 10 The property s representatives, Kathleen Reichert and Clifford McCue were present to answer questions of the Subcommittee. Ms. Reichert confirmed that she does not intend to remove the existing porch posts. She also requested permission to retain a center handrail. The Subcommittee discussed the project and advised Ms. Reichert that the handrails should be continuous. The Subcommittee also approved the retention of the center handrailing and proposed the following changes to the COA request: Front Porch Balustrade The handrail shall have a minimum 2x6 top rail with chamfered edges, ¾ cove. That the bottom rail is a minimum 2x6 with chamfered edges, installed 2 AFF. That the balusters (spindles) are turned to match attached specifications (3 x3 ) and installed with a maximum of of air space (not on-center) in between each baluster. That the balustrade is installed 30 above finished floor That the newel posts are no more than 36 in height. That the newel posts shall be 6x6 posts with 5-6 ball caps. Front Stair Handrailing That the stair handrail height (side and center) is installed parallel to the porch handrail. That the center handrailing is attached to the center column face. That the balusters and railings match the porch balustrade design and dimension details. That the newel posts are attached to the bottom riser. That the stair handrail height is installed parallel to the porch handrail. That the newel posts shall be 6x6 posts with 5-6 ball caps. That the newel posts are no more than 36 in height. That the newel posts are added on the bottom stair tread. That the stair treads are constructed in 2x12 lumber and bull-nosed with 1 overhang on three sides, min. 10 wide. Motion made by Commissioner Wiedmeyer to approve the request as submitted and with the amendments as stated above. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Roxworthy. The motion passed unanimously. 330 Division St. Install windows Project Background: The property owner has submitted a Certificate of Appropriateness to replace 22 windows located on the building s west and rear (faces north) elevations. Although the number of

6 Page 6 of 10 windows proposed for replacement is significant, both elevations will still contain their original windows. The applicant has proposed the installation of vinyl windows with a pattern to match the existing window design. The existing windows are wood, double-hung with two over two horizontal divided lights. On November 1, 2013, Staff inspected the windows. The windows exhibited signs of deterioration. Staff met with the applicant s representative, Mark Seigle, and discussed the Historic District Guidelines pertaining to windows. At that time, Mr. Seigle was advised that the Guidelines do not permit vinyl replacement windows. He was also advised of the COA appeals process. Upon discussion with Mr. Siegle, he advised Staff that the Synagogue wishes to pursue the vinyl windows for economic and maintenance reasons. Elgin Design Guideline Manual Specifications: Windows A. Which are original should be preserved in their original location, size, and design and with their original materials and numbers of panes (glass lights). B. Which are not original should not be added to primary facades or to secondary facades where readily visible. C. Should be repaired rather than replaced, but if replacement is necessary, the recommended replacement should be in-kind to match the originals in material and design. Windows clad in aluminum or baked-on aluminum are acceptable as replacement windows for use throughout the structure. Factors to be considered in determining whether the severity of deterioration of windows requires replacement shall include but not be limited to the following factors: damage, excessive weathering, loss of soundness or integrity of the wood, deterioration due to rot or insect attack, and cost to repair. As to the factor of the cost to repair windows, a particular window may be permitted to be replaced rather than repaired if the estimated cost to repair the windows is more than the estimated cost of the purchase and installation of appropriate replacement windows. D. Which are original of steel or aluminum should be repaired with materials to match the original. If repair is not feasible, replacement should be with new windows to match the original as closely as possible in materials and dimensions. Aluminum extruded windows are an acceptable replacement substitute for original steel sash windows, as long as their size, shape and profile match the original windows. E. Vinyl extruded windows are not permitted for use in historic districts. F. Which are new should not have snap-on or flush muntins. True divided muntins are preferred over these types of muntins which do not have the same appearance as historic windows. New muntins which are an integral part of the window sash and installed on both sides of the glass are preferable to snap-on simple grilles. G. screens and/or storms should be wood or baked-on or anodized aluminum and fit within the window frames.

7 Page 7 of 10 H. that are approved for replacement may be fitted with new double-paned Low-E glass that will improve the energy conservation on the interior. Only low-e glass that does not contain a tint should be used. Staff Recommendation: The proposed window replacements to the proposed vinyl replacement windows not meeting the Design Guidelines, Staff does not recommend approval. However, Staff would approval of the Certificate of Appropriateness with the following condition: 1. That the proposed window replacements be either wood or aluminum clad wood replacement windows to fit the existing opening, match the original windows in size, design, shape and profile, and if low-e glass is used, that it does not contain a tint. ******** The property s representatives, Mark Siegle and Dan Marshall were present to answer questions of the Subcommittee. Mr. Siegle advised the Subcommittee that the proposed vinyl windows have been proposed in a style that is similar to the existing wood windows. The vinyl replacement windows have been proposed for economic and energy efficiency reasons. He further advised the Subcommittee that the windows are a high quality vinyl window, and also asked the Subcommittee to take into consideration the fact that the building is not an identified historically significant building within the District. The Subcommittee discussed the project and advised that even though the building is not a significant building, it still must comply with the Design Guidelines. Mr. Siegle was asked if he would consider wood or aluminum wood clad windows. For economic reasons, Mr. Siegle said that the Synagogue wishes to pursue the vinyl windows. Motion made by Commissioner Savel to approve the request as submitted. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Roxowrthy. The motion failed (0-5: Briska, Roxworthy, Savel, Segel, Wiedmeyer). Following the Subcommittee s decision, Ms. Munro advised Mr. Siegle of his right to appeal the Design Review Subcommittee s decision. 369 May St. Install two front entrance stoops, remove west elevation entrance Project Background: The property owner has submitted an application for a Certificate of Appropriateness to close over the east elevation entrance, to replace the two front entrance stoops, to replace the rear stoop, and to also repair/replace the following items (proposed for administrative approval): 1. Roof (architectural shingles on house and garage); 2. Gutters (k-style aluminum- house only); 3. Repair basement window;

8 Page 8 of Soffit/fascia (house and garage); 5. Scrape and Paint (house only); and 6. Install garage doors. The stoops will match the attached drawing. The work requested is being considered for a residential rehabilitation grant funded by the City s CDBG program. Elgin Design Guideline Manual Specifications: 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 windowsill 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 COA as per the following conditions: 8. That the flooring is 1x4 wood, tongue and groove and installed perpendicular to the house. 9. The handrail shall be at a minimum 30 but no more than 36 in height above finished floor. 10. The handrail shall have a 2x4 top rail with chamfered edges, ¾ cove. That the bottom rail is a 2x4 with chamfered edges, 2 AFF. 2x2 square balusters, with a maximum of 3 on center, square corners. To ensure that the balusters have straight corners rather than round corners, it is recommended that the balusters be cut from 4x4s. 11. That the stair handrail height is installed parallel to the porch handrail. 12. That the newel posts are located on the bottom stair treads. 13. That the newel post shall be a 4x4 wrapped 1x. 14. The newel posts shall have a top and bottom 4 x 4 wrapped square design with cove molding and cap.

9 Page 9 of That the skirt frame shall be 1 x 6 with a 1 x 4 lower board. 16. The skirting board shall be 1 x 4 and installed behind the frame, 1 spacing with 8 header. 17. That the stair tread shall be constructed in 5/4 or 2 x 12 lumber and the treads shall be bull-nosed with 1 overhang on three sides, min. 10 wide, and overhang the risers by That the infill siding to cover over side entryway is staggered, clear cedar (no knots) installed smooth side out with a profile to match the existing siding profile and exposure. 19. Nail holes must be patched with putty, epoxy preferred. 20. All wood to be primed and painted. 21. That all other proposed project details meet the Design Guidelines. ******** Ms. Munro advised the Subcommittee that due to the CDBG application component of the project, she would represent the property. The Subcommittee discussed the project and concurred with Staff s recommendations as well as the submitted drawing with an amendment that the newel post caps be hipped. A motion was made by Commissioner Savel to approve the request as submitted and with the post cap amendment. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Wiedmeyer. The motion passed unanimously. 711 Douglas Ave. Rehabilitate front porch Project Background: For the Design Review Subcommittee s review, the applicant has submitted a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) to rehabilitate the front porch. The rehabilitation project will include the replacement of two front newel posts to with wood posts match the original newel post design. Additionally, the front porch stairs, balustrade, skirting, and column bases will be repaired or replaced (as needed) to match their respective dimensions and design. The COA request also includes repairs to the garage and house exterior paint which will be approved administratively. Elgin Design Guideline Manual Specifications: Porch Columns and Railings (Applicable Guidelines) 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

10 Page 10 of 10 window sill level, if present, and no greater than 30 inches in height. Porch Stairs and Steps (Applicable Guidelines) 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. 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. ******** In order to represent the property, Commissioner Wiemeyer recused himself from the board. Mr. Wiedmeyer gave an overview of the proposed project. The Subcommittee discussed the project and inquired about the original features that will be replaced. A motion was made by Commissioner Savel to approve the request as submitted. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Segel. The motion passed with one abstention (Commissioner Wiedmeyer). STAFF COMMENTS: CORRESPONDENCE: None. ADJOURNMENT: Motion to adjourn was made by Commissioner Segel. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Briska. The motion passed unanimously. The meeting of the Design Review Subcommittee was adjourned at 7:18 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Amy Munro Approved: Historic Preservation & Grants Planner December 10, 2013