Webster Groves ARB approves addition at 712 Marshall Avenue after questions about skylights and window grids

The Webster Groves Architectural Review Board on May 15 approved a proposed addition at 712 Marshall Avenue after brief discussion about skylight placement and window grids.

The project matters to neighbors and reviewers because the board questioned whether the planned skylights, as drawn, would sit on the roof ridgeline and whether the new windows would match existing grid patterns. Tracy Collins, volunteer architect and Architectural Review Board member, asked for clarification on the skylights and noted they “look really close to the ridgeline of the roof and … they weren't shown in the elevation drawings.”

The applicant, identified in the meeting only as Jenny, told the board the skylights were under consideration and “at some point, we might decide not to” install them, and that the new windows in the addition will include grids to match the existing windows in the house. Board members noted that skylights cannot be placed on the ridge and said any installed skylights must be positioned where they can be properly flashed and installed.

After those clarifications, a board member moved to approve the project “as submitted.” The motion passed by voice vote; the minutes record multiple “Aye” responses and the chair announced the addition was approved.

The board did not place conditions in the meeting minutes about requiring revised elevations showing skylight placement; board members advised applicants that if skylights are installed they must be sited off the ridge and reflected in construction drawings. The applicant also confirmed only windows in the new section will be replaced and that those windows will include grids to better match the house’s existing, mixed window styles.

The board transitioned immediately to other agenda items after approving 712 Marshall Avenue; no additional materials or follow-up deadlines were announced at the meeting.