2014-03-19-HC-min - Laserfiche WebLink

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HC COMMENTS: Ms. Zimmerman explained that the house is older than 1903 as the chimneys are eccentric, she recommended to Mr. Duggan that he take the time to understand what is on the existing structure. She added that a building such as this one needs to be acknowledged as a survivor. Ms. Zimmerman noted the porch is new and the windows have been replaced, she mentioned the gunstock posts in the corner and the th 19 century doors. Mr. Kelland commented that Bowman Tavern was in much worse shape than this house and it is now in first class shape today thanks to a sensitive builder that had good solutions for sagging beams. Mr. Kalsow suggested that the applicant seek the guidance of a preservation architect. Mr. Kalsow stated that no where in the engineer’s report did it indicate that it would be technologically infeasible to repair and stabilize the house. Mr. Kelland added that the charm of these houses is that they have unusual features and there are people who do find value in these unusual features. Ms. Zimmerman explained the Demo Delay bylaw to Mr. Jonar and added that she felt the demolition of this house would be detrimental to the historical heritage of the Town. Ms. Zimmerman commented that the house looks like a preferably preserved structure. PUBLIC COMMENTS: None MOTION: moved by Ms. Zimmerman, and seconded, to find the demolition detrimental to the historical resources of the Town and to find the house preferably preserved. VOTE: 3-0 in favor. Town of Lexington Historical Commission March 19, 2014: AGENDA ITEM # 3 (8:44PM) Informal discussion on potential project at 19 Maple Street with Elise Braceras Stone, Architects, 288 Old Marlboro Road, Concord, Ma 978-371-1512 SUMMARY: Ms. Elise Braceras Stone, architect, explained to the Commission that her client would like to take down the sun porch and add onto the back of the house at 19 Maple Street. She indicated that a second floor would also be added to create a master suite. This addition would require the removal of the back staircase. The proposed plan will keep all the existing fireplaces and the second floor bedroom would remain as is. The master suite would include a bathroom and another three bedrooms with a bathroom. Ms. Stone added the proposed plan would include removing the vinyl siding and refurbishing the windows and doors. The proposed plan also reflects the new family room in the back with the master which will create a peaked roof and will not rise above the existing roof. Ms. Stone explained to the Commission that the garage will be a simple garage and approximately 24 x 24. She is seeking feedback from the Commission prior to a formal hearing to allow the demo of the sun porch and back wall. Ms. Zimmerman commented that the removal of the vinyl siding will reveal elements of the original detailing and asked if the windows could all be restored. She included that storm windows work very well and may be an appropriate future option. Ms. Zimmerman advised that Ms. Stone look carefully at what is under the siding. Mr. Kalsow reviewed the proposed plans and stated that Ms. Stone has been respectful to the original front of the house and that the scale works well. He also noted that the rear addition has been kept to the rear. Ms. Zimmerman suggested that Ms. Stone continue to do her research and learn about the people that lived previously in the house as that will reveal how the house has evolved. Ms. Stone then asked to be added to the agenda for the April 2014 HC meeting. 4