The Board of Architecture Review denied an application to retain vinyl replacement windows at 737 West Main Street, concluding the replacements do not comply with the LFUCG design guidelines for the Western Suburb Historic District.

Staff presented photographs showing the property’s original six-over-one wood windows and the later vinyl replacements and recommended disapproval, saying the replacements removed historic profiles and used wrapped frames that are inconsistent with the district. The staff report noted the Western Suburb Historic District has been in place since the 1970s and that the standard guidance favors repair or in-kind replacement of historic window material and profiles.

Applicants Colton Scranton and Taylor Provost said they had purchased the house recently and were told by the realtor the property was not in a historic district; they said they had used a contractor to do the work and thought they were matching the original appearance. Board members and staff advised the applicants to consult the Historic Preservation Office and mentioned rehabilitation tax-credit resources available through the State Historic Preservation Office and the Bluegrass Trust.

After discussion the board moved to disapprove retention of the vinyl windows; the motion passed on a voice vote and the applicants were told to pursue replacement with appropriate wood windows under a COA application.

Why this matters: The decision reaffirms the board’s consistent position that vinyl-clad windows are not acceptable in Lexington’s long-established historic districts and underscores the importance of disclosure by realtors and consultation with staff before exterior work.