Landmarks Commission approves replacement shed at 71 West Columbus Street with painted wood siding

The Canal Winchester Landmarks Commission on July 28 approved an application to replace an existing 8×8 playhouse in the rear yard of 71 West Columbus Street with a new 10×16 accessory shed. The applicant told commissioners the new structure will be built on site, placed at grade with a small ramp and double doors, and finished to match the property’s existing white siding and charcoal trim. Staff described the prior approvals on the property (a garage approved in 2005 and administrative variances at that time). The new shed’s drawings show wood siding (T1‑11 in the applicant’s drawings) and asphalt shingles; the applicant said he prefers a painted wood composite product marketed as SmartSide but indicated he will accept the painted wood look that matches the house and garage. Commissioners noted the commission typically does not approve vinyl but found painted wood or SmartSide acceptable to match existing materials. The commission approved the application with the condition that the new shed use vertical painted wood siding and be painted white with charcoal trim to match the garage. The roll call vote in favor recorded Pete Lynch, Roger White, Linda Henry, Patrick Lynch and Rich Davenport as yes. Clarifying details provided during review: the existing accessory was an 8×8 former playhouse; the replacement is 10×16 and will sit on a gravel and timber foundation; windows and trim will match the property; the ramp and foundation elements in contact with the ground are expected to be pressure treated. The applicant said asphalt shingles will be selected to approximate the house’s multitone “driftwood” sample; he also said the contractor estimate assumed SmartSide materials but would accept the painted option approved by the commission. The applicant may proceed and must follow normal permitting for accessory buildings.