Commission approves rear‑addition and deck at 706 Forest Avenue with rear‑door light‑pattern condition

The Preservation Commission approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for 706 Forest Avenue to demolish a non‑original rear deck, construct a single‑story mudroom connector and raised deck, and alter fenestration with new windows and patio doors. The applicant, Sebastian Cozio, identified himself as the owner and developer and described interior gut renovation, new mechanicals and a rear connector needed to join the kitchen and family room.

Commissioners questioned details of the new rear elevation, roof slope and the pattern of windows proposed for a former enclosed porch. Kate (staff) asked about window type and confirmed proposed windows are aluminum‑clad outside and wood inside and that the new lights will match existing divided‑light patterns. One commissioner noted an apparent error in the roof slope on the submitted drawings; the applicant said that was a drawing mistake and that the roof will be continuous across the new connector.

After deliberation, a commissioner moved to approve the application as presented with a condition: the rear door must replicate or be similar to the light pattern of the front door, with final design details to be determined by staff. The motion was seconded and the commission voted in favor. The presiding officer announced, "All in favor of the project? Aye ... It passes unanimously." The commission asked staff to handle final permit details; no further review of the rear door will be required before permit issuance, per staff comments.

Discussion items included preservation of original windows and material continuity: commissioners supported refurbishing existing windows rather than wholesale replacement, using cornice/freeze board continuity and coordinating stucco finishes so the addition reads as integrated rather than a conspicuous new element. Commissioners did not raise a formal appeal or overturn staff permit routing decisions discussed later in the meeting.