The Webster Groves Architectural Review Board provided detailed design feedback on a proposed new home at 814 Edgar Road and indicated the application should be handled as a preliminary submittal to allow the applicant to revise elevations and site layout.
Katria Ott, who introduced herself as a property owner, described her family history with the house and listening to the board’s feedback: “I love the property's been in my family's in it since, like, the forties, so that's why we wanted to stay there.”
Board members said the proposed right‑side elevation includes “an awful lot of just plain siding” and suggested adding small windows in locations such as the pantry, the primary walk‑in closet, or on the garage side to break up the wall plane. Members also questioned the logic of a three‑stall, front‑facing garage in a block where most houses have smaller or side‑entry garages and suggested exploring a side‑entry configuration to improve driveway safety and provide more backyard room. One board speaker flagged that the building placement currently leaves about 6 feet between the rear of the house and the property line.
Why it matters: The board’s comments touch both on neighborhood compatibility — scale, roof pitch and garage orientation — and on livability for the owners (natural light, patio/walkout options, driveway safety). The board suggested the applicant revise site plans and elevations and resubmit as a preliminary application so feedback can be incorporated before a formal determination.
Board discussion and outcome: Members recommended design changes and discussed whether shifting the house forward or reconfiguring the garage to a side entry could create a safer driveway and more usable backyard. The board agreed to treat the packet as preliminary; staff will note the design comments in the minutes and the applicant is expected to return with revised drawings addressing fenestration, potential walkout/deck over the garage, and setback concerns.
Next steps: The applicants (Katria and Joe Ott) were advised to consider: adding fenestration to the right elevation; whether to provide a rooftop walkout or deck over the garage; and exploring a side‑entry garage or minor reconfiguration to increase rear yard depth. The board encouraged a resubmittal that presents options so the ARB can review final decisions before permitting.