HARB approves in‑kind asphalt and slate‑look shingle replacements at 554 George Street

The board approved an in‑kind recommendation for 554 George Street to replace a failing upper slate roof with slate‑look luxury shingles and to replace existing porch asphalt shingles with similar three‑dimensional asphalt shingles.

Applicants told the board the upper roof slate is in poor condition with missing or falling slates. Board members reviewed applicant photographs and a slate look‑alike catalog and suggested the Victorian blue color matched neighboring roofs and the owner’s preference. The motion specified slate‑look luxury shingles in a color to match the existing slate (discussion named “Victorian blue” and reference to a stone‑gray option in the catalog) and three‑dimensional asphalt shingles for the porch roof.

Because the application was described as “in kind” — replacing existing materials with similar materials and colors — staff noted the board’s internal in‑kind approval process applied and the project can be handled administratively once the council receives the advisory recommendation. The board voted unanimously in favor of the recommendation and instructed applicants that, if municipal council concurs, they may proceed with building permits.

Applicants discussed gutters and confirmed the porch roof is asphalt and will remain asphalt in kind; board members recommended the applicant try to match the color and shape of the existing slate where practicable to preserve streetscape continuity. The applicant also said they are owner‑occupants and do not plan to sell the property after work.