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Design review panel approves granite steps and railings for Northfield Street home
Summary
The Montpelier Design Review Committee approved a proposal to install granite steps and pipe railings at 29 Northfield Street to improve accessibility for the homeowner; the committee found the work compatible with the district's design standards and staff said the permit can be issued the next day.
Montpelier Design Review Committee members approved an application to install granite steps and pipe railings at 29 Northfield Street to make the property more accessible while preserving the building's historic character.
The project, presented by Sandy on behalf of the property owner Brian, calls for standard granite steps and pipe railings on both sides of the approach, using locally quarried stone, with only soil excavation required and no alteration to the curb.
Committee members said the proposal meets the Design Review District criteria for exterior alterations. Meredith Crandall, a staff member, read the applicable standards aloud, and the committee voted to approve the application with all members present voting yes. Staff told the applicant the sign-off and permit paperwork could be completed the following day.
Sandy, the project presenter, described the work as a simple accessibility modification to allow the homeowner to remain in the house. She said the steps will be "standard rise and run" granite and confirmed the stone source: "Theyare from, Swenson. Is Swenson granite and berry, and they quarry from Woodberry. So yep." The applicant indicated the plan avoids cutting the curb and instead approaches from the side.
Committee members reviewed the Design Review District criteria, including compatibility with the massing and detailing of nearby historic properties, minimal removal of historic materials and that stairs and ramps be designed to connect sensitively with the existing building. The committee determined the proposal was acceptable under those standards.
Liz Pritchett commented on the pedestrian benefit after approval: "This will be a lot better to walk down than the driveway when it's slick." Staff indicated the permit could be issued promptly and asked whether the applicant wanted it mailed; the applicant requested mailing to the Northfield Street address.
The committee approved the application with recorded oral votes from the members in attendance. Staff said they would finalize the permit the next business day and would notify the applicant when it was ready for pickup or mailing.
The project is limited to site work for steps and railings; no alterations to the primary building façade were proposed that would affect historic ornamentation, and staff noted the removal would be limited to soil for the step installation.
