Commission approves seasonal galvanized pergola for backyard performances at National Hotel

The New Shoreham Historic District Commission approved a seasonal galvanized-steel pergola for the backyard performance area at the National Hotel, presented by Julie Natalyzia, general manager of Coastal Resorts Holdings.

Natalyzia said the hotel has used a white tent for outdoor musicians and wants to replace it with a temporary galvanized pergola because tents “blow and they rip.” She told the commission the pergola would be installed in mid-June and taken down in early September each year to provide shelter for a musician who performs nightly during the season. The proposed location is tucked along hedges away from the primary walkway and would not block circulation.

Commissioners characterized the pergola as a reversible, nonpermanent treatment and said they saw no adverse effect on the historic character of the National Hotel. One commissioner noted the National Hotel dates to 1887 and that the existing building fabric on the back of the hotel is relatively intact; commissioners said the proposed seasonal structure would not undermine that character. The application materials included aerial photos showing the area where four umbrellas currently sit; Natalyzia said the umbrellas are movable and the pergola would occupy that footprint when installed.

A motion to approve the installation as presented anticipated the season from mid-June to early September; the motion carried on a voice vote with commissioners indicating assent. The record shows the hotel began renovating the backyard and related amenities in 2012 and continues to use the space for seasonal performances.

The item was presented as a straightforward, temporary modification, and the commission closed the matter after the vote.