Board continues large renovation and lift proposal at 195 Dyer Road for further study and neighbor input

The Historic Preservation Board continued consideration of an extensive rehabilitation, vertical lift and additions proposed for the contributing frame‑vernacular house at 195 Dyer Road, citing the need for alternative massing options and analysis of tree impacts and neighborhood scale.

Architect Russell Wierczcki presented a project that would raise the house approximately 2.5 feet (to meet flood‑elevation requirements), move the primary structure forward about 7 feet 3 inches, and add a two‑story element and a second‑story addition over a detached garage, while removing a later nonhistoric rear addition. The plan also calls for a new slate‑look roof and reintroduction of historic siding and details in some locations.

Staff described the property as a contributing structure in the El Cid historic district and noted the applicant’s request for exceptions and bonuses for lot coverage and FAR tied to preservation incentives. Neighbors asked the board to consider the impact on a large multi‑trunk pongam (sea grape) tree shared with adjacent properties and raised concerns about height and scale. Board members said they were sympathetic to the applicant’s desire to make the property resilient in a flood zone but that the proposed two‑story massing consumed the historic one‑story character. The board voted to continue the matter for one month and asked the applicant to explore alternatives that preserve more of the original single‑story appearance and reduce the perception of an imposing two‑story mass from the street.