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Historic commission approves replacement windows at 26 Dean Street with conditions
Summary
The Tartan Historic Commission voted Jan. 16 to allow replacement windows at 26 Dean Street, requiring shop drawings, matching size and appearance for first-floor porch windows, and white double-hung 1-over-1 windows elsewhere; oversized front openings may use white aluminum frames.
The Tartan Historic Commission voted Jan. 16, 2025, to allow replacement windows at a residence on Dean Street, approving white double-hung windows without grills for most openings and permitting white aluminum frames for several large front windows with the condition that the commission receive shop drawings before installation.
The decision followed a presentation by an applicant representative and a contractor. Mariam German, who identified herself as a resident and spoke for the project, described the proposed work and sizing of the large openings. Dennis, of Elham Construction, answered technical questions about frame materials and structural concerns for oversized windows. Chair (unnamed), speaking for the commission, emphasized the need for drawings that show exactly what will be installed and said the commission’s priority is that the new windows “read well from the street.”
The commission’s requirements are: submit shop drawings showing the exact window profiles and divisions; use white aluminum frames for the very large front windows because of structural/weight considerations; install white, double-hung, 1-over-1 windows with no grills for the remaining openings; and match the size and appearance of the existing first-floor porch windows, which commissioners identified as the hardest windows to replicate. At the meeting a commissioner summarized the commission’s direction: “Double hung windows, no grills.” Another commissioner stated, “The larger windows… will be replaced with the existing current style.”
Applicant representatives told the commission the large windows measure about 39 1/4 by 80 inches for several openings and two taller openings at about 33 1/4 by 103 1/2 inches; they also said there are roughly six or seven large windows on the front elevation (applicant estimate). The contractor said the oversized front openings are better suited to a metal frame because of the size and weight of the glazing; the applicant also noted that storm windows will be removed during abatement work.
The motion to approve the proposal with the stated conditions was made, seconded, and approved by voice vote (recorded as “Aye”; no roll-call tally was given). The commission asked staff to require submission of shop drawings before permitting installation so the approved appearance matches what the commission reviewed.
Background: Commissioners and nearby residents repeatedly said the commission’s principal concern is how the windows will “read from the street,” especially the porch-level openings. Several speakers noted parts of the house are already aluminum-sided, and commissioners said matching visual character at the street is the overriding standard.
The commission did not supply a written permit at the meeting; staff will confirm the required shop drawings and follow up with the applicant.
Ending: The applicants left the meeting after the vote. The commission recorded the conditions on the approval and will expect the shop drawings and any required follow-up at a future staff review or meeting.
