Applicants propose copper Juliet awning at 900 Fair Street; DRC asks for detailed brackets and context images

Steve and Kathy Scott, applicants for 900 Fair Street, asked the Design Review Committee (DRC) to review two awning options — a copper Juliet-style curved awning and a simpler straight shed option — before their formal Historic Zoning Commission hearing. The DRC’s preservation staff member, Elizabeth, told the committee that the guidelines recommend canvas or cotton-polyester materials for awnings and that “the use of metal awnings is seen on some Tudor style homes, but is not common in Franklin,” and therefore metal “is not supported as proposed.” Commissioners who spoke at the DRC said they had approved copper awnings previously and noted copper’s tendency to acquire a muted patina over time. Commissioner Lisa said the copper option can be “very attractive and appropriate for this residence,” while Commissioner Brian cautioned applicants to bring bracket details and any off-the-shelf components so the voting body can visualize attachments and finishes. Why it matters: The DRC meeting is an advisory step that guides applicants prior to a formal Historic Zoning Commission vote on a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA). The committee’s guidance affects whether the full commission will find the proposed materials and profiles compatible with the historic district. Key details: The opening the awning would cover is about 6 feet and the proposed projection is roughly 3 feet (similar to the existing projection). Fabricators advised the applicants that a painted metal alternative would likely show dents, rivet marks and look “cheap” compared with copper, which will patina. Staff noted that a fluted (curved) awning is uncommon on local residential buildings and that a straight-line awning is more typical. Discussion vs. next steps: This meeting was advisory only. Commissioners asked the applicants to bring a single proposal — the one they want considered — to the voting meeting with as much detail as possible: exact bracket drawings, material samples, close-up photos of similar local examples, and a mockup showing the awning adjacent to the neighboring openings. The committee advised against bringing two competing options to the formal vote unless clearly presented as primary and backup. Ending: The Scotts said they will refine the favored design, add bracket and mounting details, and submit the single preferred proposal for the Historic Zoning Commission voting meeting.