4914-4916 N Rampart St.

Staff Recommendations: 

A renovation application was submitted primarily for interior work and included installation of new gutters and downspouts. After reviewing the property, Staff noted the original windows and window trim on the right side had been removed sometime between 2014 and 2015, and inappropriate windows and trim were installed without approval. At that time, the inappropriate windows were 9-over-9 internal muntin vinyl windows with half screens and inappropriate, unpainted trim. The applicant agreed to replace these items as part of the overall renovation project and a CofA was issued in October 2022. The CofA specifically indicated that "Proposed new window specifications, shop drawings or salvage photos must still be submitted [to Staff] for review and approval prior to purchase and installation" and that the replacement windows "must utilize simulated divided light." The CofA also indicates that all inappropriate window trim must be replaced with new "5/4" x 4.5" wood trim, drip caps and sills" as per the standard HDLC details provided. 

Unfortunately, neither the applicant or contractor provided the proposed window specifications for review and the new replacement units and trim that were installed at the left and right sides of the building do not meet the HDLC Guidelines. The current vinyl windows are now 6-over-6, however, they do not utilize simulated divided light, have inappropriate "apron" trim below the sill, and the unpainted casing installed are much thicker than the required 5/4" size. Staff appreciates that the applicant tried to work with the HDLC to correct these items, however, the current issues could have been avoided if the windows had been submitted and the approved details followed.

While the windows at both sides are visible from the street, they have been correctly adjusted from 9-over-9 to 6-over-6 and now more closely relate to the age/style of the existing building and the previously existing wood windows. Based on this, Staff recommends the Commission vote to approve the request for retention of the windows with a proviso that all inappropriate wood trim be removed and replaced with standard flat 5/4" painted wood trim and sills, and that simple wood window screens be installed at the left and right side openings to help obscure the view of the inappropriate window units from the street.