In a recent government meeting, commissioners expressed significant concerns regarding a proposed rooftop addition to a historic house, emphasizing its potential impact on the building's architectural integrity. The discussions highlighted the addition's flat roof design, which contrasts sharply with the existing pitched roofs, raising worries about its visibility and overall aesthetic.

Commissioner Chiu suggested that reducing the footprint of the addition could help maintain the original design intent, advocating for a setback that would prioritize the existing structure over the new addition. He also raised concerns about the scale of the windows, which he felt were oversized in relation to the existing facade, suggesting that a more subdued approach would enhance the overall comfort of the design.

Commissioner Chapin echoed these sentiments, describing the addition as resembling a \"porch stuck on top\" of the house, which detracted from its integration with the original architecture. He recommended that the design be revised to resemble a dormer more closely, with adjustments to the fenestration to improve cohesion.

Further critiques were directed at the addition's overall height and the awkwardness of certain design elements, particularly a splayed section that disrupts the roofline. Commissioners expressed a desire for a more understated color palette that would blend better with the historic character of the house.

Vice Chair added to the discussion by emphasizing the importance of preserving the architectural significance of the home, arguing that the proposed changes were too drastic for such a notable piece of domestic architecture. He called for a re-evaluation of the design to ensure that any modifications respect the building's historical value.

Overall, the meeting underscored a collective commitment to maintaining the integrity of historic structures while accommodating modern needs, with commissioners urging the applicant to reconsider the design to better align with the house's original character.