The Fredericksburg Historic Review Board voted to approve application 2024-1167706 for 706 West Schubert on Jan. 14 after staff recommended approval of a plan that restores the front porch, reuses on-site original porch columns and adds a rear porch and a small guest house.

City staff commended the applicant for prioritizing rehabilitation of the historic main house and for returning original porch columns to the project. Anna (city staff) told the board, “staff commends the owner and the applicant for prioritizing the rehabilitation of the historic house and thoughtful additions that adhere to the design guidelines,” and recommended approval as submitted.

The applicant said the property owner is a part-time resident from San Antonio who has renovated historic homes and intends to preserve the house’s original materials and simple elevation. The proposal preserves rooflines, retains original wood where possible and includes a double-loop fence to fit neighborhood character.

A board member moved to approve the application based on staff recommendation and the motion was seconded; the motion passed by voice vote with no roll-call tally recorded in the transcript. Board members encouraged sensitivity to garage door appearance but did not require changes as part of this approval.

The board and staff reiterated that this approval is separate from building permits, which the owner must secure before construction begins.