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Commission approves renovation at 35 Pleasant Street; approves modified roof break and window placement
Summary
The HDC approved Option 2 for a renovation at 35 Pleasant Street, asking for several detailing changes and recording two opposing votes. The commission required reduced roof massing, relocation of a 32‑light window to a rear elevation, and dormer clarifications.
The Nantucket Historic District Commission on April 29 approved an application for changes at 35 Pleasant Street, approving the applicant’s Option 2 design after revisions and debate over dormer and window details.
Applicant architect Ethan presented two design options that responded to earlier HDC direction to reduce the rear mass and make the addition visually subordinate to the original circa-1920s home. Preservation planner Holly flagged several concerns with applied details, noting that adding pilasters, a water table and certain window types would “create a false sense of history” and recommended the commission not adopt those additions. A preservation advisory group (Historic Structures Advisory) recommended Option 2 — the version that drops the rear plate height and “mimics the existing condition.”
What the commission decided: the HDC voted to approve Option 2, which includes the rear roofline break that reduces plate height and keeps the previously approved bay window. Commissioners asked the applicant to alter dormer detailing to remove excessive shingle side space and to use gray shutters. The commission also discussed a 32-light picture window; the final decision was to locate that window away from the Pleasant Street façade (approved on a side elevation) and to accept the applicant’s suggestion to adjust the 32-light to a smaller arrangement or ganged windows if needed to better read as a sun porch.
Vote and dissent: the motion carried on a voice vote; the minutes record that two commissioners — Angus and Abby — opposed the final approval.
Why it matters: the project alters a visible dwelling within the Old Historic District. Commissioners balanced preservation of character with the applicant’s desire for an updated design that integrates historic-looking elements in a modern renovation.
Next steps: the applicant will submit final details for staff review, including dormer refinements and shutters in the agreed color and the final window configuration for the 32-light area.
