Quincy ZBA approves revised garage addition at 32 Bayview Avenue with small cupola limit

The Quincy Zoning Board of Appeals on Oct. 7 approved a revised plan to build a two-story attached garage and other exterior work at 32 Bayview Avenue, with the condition that any cupola not exceed three feet above the roof ridge line.

Architect Samantha Cusick of Cusick Architecture presented the revised site and elevation plans on behalf of homeowners Brandon and Christina Nadeau. Cusick said the garage footprint was pulled back roughly two feet on the west and six feet on the south and that the height was reduced by about six feet; the design preserved a double-height car space with a loft to accommodate a car lift.

“By reducing the height and massing we believe the new garage is much more proportional with the dwelling,” Cusick said while showing the revised elevations to the board. Several board members praised the changes; one member said, “You’ve done everything that I asked for you and the board asked for you. I think it’s beautiful.”

Neighbors raised no sustained objections during the hearing. Board members discussed a small decorative cupola; the applicants agreed to limit the cupola’s size. The board’s approval included a written proviso that the cupola not exceed 3 feet above the ridge line.

Motion and outcome: The board voted to allow the variance and special permits to construct the addition, two-story attached garage, porches, terraces and retaining walls at 32 Bayview Avenue, with the proviso that any cupola not exceed three feet above the ridge. The motion passed by voice vote.

The applicants and their architect were advised to coordinate final permit details with the building department before construction begins.