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Hinsdale preservation commission approves renovation of Beck House at 640 South Park Street
Summary
The Hinsdale Historic Preservation Commission approved a preservation incentive application to permit a rear and side addition, covered patio and exterior alterations at the historically significant Beck House, with alternative bulk zoning waivers and expedited processing.
The Hinsdale Historic Preservation Commission on April 14 voted to approve a preservation incentive application for the historically significant Beck House at 640 South Park Street, allowing a rear and side addition, covered patio and exterior alterations, plus alternative bulk zoning waivers and expedited processing.
Commissioners approved the motion by roll call, with Commissioners Gonzales, Harlow and Olsen and Chairman Bonin voting aye. The application did not require Village Board approval for the items before the commission, according to staff.
Applicant Katie Knoebel, owner of Home Crafters, introduced the proposal on behalf of the homeowners, Jenny and Chris Sizer, who were not present. Architect Dennis Parsons described the plan to retain the house’s primary historic spaces: “we were able to keep the living room… we kept the dining room, and we kept the stairway,” while adding a larger family area and modernized services for a family of four. Parsons said the exterior details — overhangs, window types, siding exposure and floor-to-floor heights — will be followed to preserve the home’s character.
Parsons also noted restrictions tied to an easement on the front and porch area owned by the state and explained the project will expand to the west and restore an existing south screen porch in its current size and location. Commissioners praised the proposal as an example of the preservation program’s purpose: saving a significant historic home while accommodating an appropriate addition.
The commission’s formal motion (case HPC-5-2025) authorized the preservation incentive package, including waiver of certain bulk regulations and fee and processing accommodations; the motion passed by unanimous roll call vote of those present. The homeowners will proceed with building permits consistent with the commission’s approval.
The commission did not record any amendments to the motion during the vote. Staff noted alternative zoning relief for FAR (floor-area ratio) was among the requests the commission is permitted to grant under local rules.
