428 Elmira Ave.

Staff Recommendations: 

On August 14 HDLC Staff performed a visual inspection and noted that work had been completed at the property without an HDLC Certificate of Appropriateness. The original 6-over-6 double-hung windows on the right and left sides of the building were removed and replaced with vinyl windows with internal muntins and half screens. Window patterns and configurations are linked to a building's period of construction and style. Since all of the components and details of a window essential to defining the construction period and style, the pattern and configuration of proposed replacement windows should be historically appropriate to the building.

Since the violation notice, the applicant has been working with the window supplier to provide a more appropriate window type, but an agreement has not been reached. The applicant is requesting retention of inappropriate windows installed without a CofA, citing the financial hardship of replacing windows for a second time.

In lieu of a full replacement, the HDLC staff is providing two options for the Commission's consideration:

1. Replace the four (4) windows (two each on the side elevations) of the original one-story, double shotgun structure with new wood or metal clad wood windows to fit existing openings and match existing in size, shape, configuration, operation, dimension, and relief; while retaining the windows, but removing the half-screens, on the front and side elevations of camelback addition.

2. Remove half-screens and install full screens at all windows.