Design Review Board approves Austin's new saddle railing for Greenwich Point Road project

The Design Review Board (DRB) of Reston, Virginia convened on May 20, 2025, to address several applications and appeals concerning residential modifications. The meeting focused on ensuring compliance with design guidelines while fostering community input.

The first significant discussion revolved around an appeal concerning the color of railings proposed by a homeowner. A board member expressed concerns about the initial application, stating that the selected railing color did not harmonize with the existing architecture of the home. The applicant, Austin Powers, clarified that a clerical error had led to the miscommunication regarding the color, and he confirmed that the revised application sought to install saddle railings, which were deemed more appropriate.

Following this clarification, a motion was made to accept the appeal based on the misapplication of the guidelines. The motion received a second and was put to a vote, resulting in a 4-0-3 decision in favor of accepting the appeal, with three members abstaining from the vote.

Subsequently, the board moved to approve the revised application for the railing installation. A motion was made to approve the application with the stipulation that the railing be in the Trex enhanced saddle color, complemented by black aluminum balusters. This motion was also seconded and passed unanimously with a 7-0 vote.

The meeting then transitioned to the next agenda item concerning another property at 11576 Greenwich Point Road, where the applicant was present and ready to discuss their proposal.

Overall, the DRB meeting underscored the importance of community engagement and adherence to design guidelines, ensuring that residential modifications align with the aesthetic values of the neighborhood. The board's decisions reflect a commitment to maintaining harmony within the community while accommodating homeowners' requests.