Historic commission approves outdoor shower but requires evergreen screening and specific construction

The Nantucket Historic District Commission on June 17 approved an application to install an outdoor shower at 5 Holders Court but attached specific conditions on materials, height and permanent screening.

The commission voted to require the shower enclosure be a 6-foot-high vertical board structure "natural to weather" and ordered that the current Rose of Sharon screening be replaced with evergreen shrubs or small trees, so the feature remains concealed year-round.

Commissioners spent substantial time reviewing site plans and photos, and several members expressed concern about visibility from two adjoining streets and the proximity of utilities. Commissioner Ray said the small house has utilities and vents clustered along the only wall where the shower fits and moved the motion that the shower be "natural to weather, 6 feet high, board, vertical board" with the plant substitution. Commissioners discussed moving the shower toward the middle of the lot but staff and the applicant explained that windows, a gas line and a hot-water unit constrained alternative locations. Several commissioners requested rough dimensions and a drawing of the shower; the board adopted an exhibit condition to capture those details.

On the vote, the motion passed with most members in favor and two recorded oppositions (Commissioner Angus and Commissioner Abby). The commission also required that the screening be maintained and asked staff to make the approved drawing (Exhibit A) part of the Certificate of Appropriateness.

The approval is limited to the shower as shown on the accepted site plan and does not authorize utilities alterations.

The applicant must submit the detailed exhibit and comply with the required plant substitution and construction materials to receive a final COA.