Commission approves new house design for 1007 Rhode Island St. after emergency demolition

The Lawrence Historic Resources Commission on Aug. 21 approved a proposed replacement house and a subordinate accessory structure at 1007 Rhode Island St., following an earlier emergency demolition of the prior unsafe structure. Staff presented the proposal as a traditional, appropriately scaled replacement dwelling with fiber‑cement lap siding (to distinguish it from an original historic fabric), an asphalt shingle roof, a front porch with wood columns and proportioned windows that staff said align with the North Rhode Island Street Historic District’s vernacular patterns. Staff noted the accessory building is somewhat large but remains subordinate to the primary structure and is consistent with recently built garages in the district. “Staff is recommending that you approve the proposed project as it meets the standards of review in Chapter 22, section 22‑507, and the design criteria in Chapter 22, section 22‑508, and issue the certificate of approval,” the presentation said. Applicant architect Mike Myers and property owners were present; commissioners praised the design and the owners’ approach to a sensitive replacement. The commission voted to approve the project and also made the requisite determination under the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards that the replacement would not damage or destroy properties listed in the National Register of Historic Places in the area.