1024 St Anthony St.

Staff Recommendations: 

Removal of masonry chimney:

The applicant removed one of the two previously existing chimneys sometime between 2019 and 2021 without a CofA. Subsequently, the applicant has provided no documentation related to the previous condition of the chimney, so Staff is unable to verify whether or not it was substantially deteriorated or structurally deficient to warrant its removal. The rhythm and placement of chimneys typically reflect the internal organization of a building and represent an important exterior building feature. Removal of historic chimneys is only approved by the HDLC if they are structurally deficient. While HDLC Staff does not condone the removal of  historic chimneys without approval, this exterior architectural feature has been fully removed and reproducing historic masonry chimneys can be difficult, cost-prohibitive and lead to other issues such as flashing and water intrusion at the roof. Based on this, Staff has no objection to the request for retention.

Removal of original wood entry door trim and installation of inappropriate front entry door and transom:

The applicant removed the existing wood front entry door, surrounding wood door trim and original wood oval-light transom window sometime between 2019 and 2021 without a CofA. The original ornamental wood Greek-Key style door trim was replaced with inappropriate flat trim. The entry door was replaced with a door that appears to be Spanish or Mediterranean in style and is not considered inappropriate because it is not consistent with the overall type, style and age of the historic building. Additionally, the original oval-light wood transom was removed and replaced with a rectangular plate-glass transom that is not considered appropriate because it does not reflect the original size, shape, dimensions, profiling or detailing of the previous original transom. Because these changes do not meet the HDLC Guidelines, were not reviewed or approved in advance, and are prominently located on the most visible elevation of the building, Staff recommends the Commission vote to deny the request for retention. Additionally, Staff recommends the applicant reinstall the previously existing Greek-Key door trim and replace the entry door and transom with approvable new elements that match more closely with the previously existing, and are more compatible with the age, type and style of the building.

Removal of original windows and installation of inappropriate replacement windows: 

The applicant removed two original 6-over-6 wood windows at the right side elevation and replaced them with new inappropriate vinyl windows sometime between 2019 and 2021 without a CofA. These new window units are inappropriate because they do not have sash profiles and dimensions that match the previous wood windows and because they do not utilize simulated divided light. Instead, the muntin grid is located only between the two panes of glass. Additionally, the window unit frame is nearly flush with the surrounding trim casing which may preclude the installation of simple wood screens, for example. Because these replacement windows do not meet the HDLC Guidelines, are highly visible from the street, and because this scope of work was not submitted for review or approval, Staff recommends the Commission vote to deny the request for retention and recommends these windows be replaced with appropriate window units.