Board approves Elwood Avenue renovation, including raised second floor and new rear deck

The Architectural Review Board approved alterations at 7 Elwood Avenue, including a raised second floor, a new rear deck and changes to exterior siding and trim.

The application, represented in the hearing by a design professional identified as Shahid and the owner (identified as Ina H Billy), described revisions made since the prior submission: a new hip roof replacing a gable, front porches revised to wrap the facade, new siding (described as green on the submitted materials) and brick veneer detailing to match existing first-floor brick. Shahid said the applicant will use a full 4‑inch brick veneer and specified a colored mortar to help the new veneer blend with existing brick.

Commissioners reviewed material samples and suggested choices for shingle color and trim. One commissioner recommended a shingle called “Saddlewood Ranch” (applicant identified the selected shingle by that name) and emphasized that mortar color and weathering should make new brick blend with the older façade. The applicant agreed to show mortar color on the plan and to provide a site plan that documents existing landscaping and the street relationship.

The board voted to approve the application as submitted. Commissioners also requested that the applicant prepare a site plan showing existing landscaping conditions and to ensure the new and existing siding meet at transitions in a way that avoids a disjointed appearance.

The board did not place additional conditions beyond requiring documentation of the mortar color and the site/landscape plan, and the approval was recorded as unanimous among commissioners present.