The Historic Preservation Commission on Aug. 20 conducted a concept review for a substantial project at 357 South Millage Avenue that would selectively demolish rear additions, restore the original front block and add a large new rear wing connecting to the historic fabric.

Agent Katrina Evans presented a preservation‑minded concept that would “surgically” remove later, low‑integrity rear additions and build a new hyphen‑connected addition behind the house. The proposal would retain and restore the primary Tudor Revival‑style front massing and add new circulation and terraces to improve code‑compliant access and interior circulation. The applicant estimated the existing structure at about 6,400 square feet and a new addition of roughly 6,100 square feet; proposed materials include brick foundations and first‑floor brick with board‑and‑batten and simplified half‑timbering in the rear courtyard elevation.

Commissioners praised the intent to restore the primary facade while minimizing the addition’s visual impact, but asked for clearer documentation about which rear elements are original versus later alterations (Sanborn maps and aerial photos show multiple historic additions). Commissioners asked for a straight‑on street elevation and a roof plan to clarify how much of the new massing will read from the public right‑of‑way, and urged the applicant to simplify half‑timber detailing so the addition reads as separate and subordinate rather than a faux historic replication.

Members also recommended marking the portions proposed for demolition on plan views, documenting character‑defining interior and exterior features, and producing a roof plan and frontal view to show how subordinate the new massing will appear from the street. The project drew support from a speaker representing a fraternity slated to occupy the house, who emphasized the organization’s community service and need for assembly and residential space.

This was a concept review only; commissioners offered guidance to refine the design and documentation prior to a formal COA application.