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Princeton University to restore façades and install insert windows at 18–40 Edwards Place; HPC endorses preservation‑first approach
Summary
The commission approved a University‑led preservation and energy‑upgrades project for 12 townhouses at 18–40 Edwards Place that will remove exterior triple‑track storms, install Marvin insert windows, repair trim and repaint, and replace some rear porch elements; the HPC supported insert windows to retain original casing and weight boxes.
The Princeton Historic Preservation Commission on Oct. 20 approved a coordinated preservation and maintenance project for 12 row‑house units at 18–40 Edwards Place owned by Princeton University. The work, presented by counsel and the project architect, focuses on exterior conservation, energy improvements, and limited non‑historic‑fabric replacement.
Key elements approved by the commission:
- Remove existing exterior triple‑track storm windows on front facades and install Marvin clad‑wood insert replacement windows sized and detailed to replicate the existing divided‑light patterns (six‑over‑six at the street facade, two‑over‑two at selected rear elevations). The commission accepted the applicant’s proposal to retain the existing historic window frames, weight boxes and sash weights in place and to install reversible insert windows rather than wholesale sash replacement.
- Repair and repaint wooden cladding, trim and architectural details in kind; repoint limited foundation masonry as needed; maintain existing brick stoops and metal railings after surface repair and repainting.
- Replace storm doors (aluminum) with full‑light wood storm doors and to update mailbox/delivery openings and lighting fixtures with age‑appropriate finishes (aged bronze hardware and warm‑temperature LED fixtures no greater than 2,700 K).
- Replace basement in‑swing awning windows with new Marvin awning units where required; repair window wells where needed.
Commission staff noted the building’s documented construction period (circa 1885–1888) and that the currently installed sash units are not original; the project team said earlier sash work likely occurred mid‑20th century. Commissioners discussed dimensional differences introduced by insert windows (a modest reduction in the daylight opening) and concluded the conservation benefit — retaining historic frame and weight boxes while removing visually heavy triple‑track storms — outweighed the small dimensional change. The commission recommended that original weights and any historic materials recovered be retained or cataloged.
The commission voted unanimously to approve the project, with standard HPC conditions for final cut sheets and paint samples. The University team said the work will improve energy performance and maintain the building’s historic appearance from the public right of way.
Ending: The HPC’s approval clears the project to proceed to permit drawings; final sample boards and product cut sheets will be submitted to staff as specified in the motion.
