El Paso HLC approves replacement windows with exterior 3-D muntins for 2901 Wheeling Avenue
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Summary
The City of El Paso Historic Landmark Commission approved a certificate of appropriateness allowing a property owner in the Manhattan Heights Historic District to replace existing metal windows with 6-over-1 double-hung units fitted with three-dimensional exterior muntins.
The City of El Paso Historic Landmark Commission voted to approve replacement windows at 2901 Wheeling Avenue in the Manhattan Heights Historic District, allowing the owner to replace the existing metal multi-light windows with operable 6-over-1 double-hung windows and exterior three-dimensional muntins.
Staff told the commission the house, built in 1923 and designated a contributing building, currently has metal multi-lite sash windows that are likely not original. Staff recommended approval, noting that while replacement materials may differ, the proposed windows match the operation, dimensions and general configuration of the existing openings and that staff could not document original windows for the house. “So again, staff has no issue with these windows,” a staff member told the commission.
Commissioners discussed neighborhood context and said similar upper-sash grid patterns appear on nearby properties. A representative for the owner, Joe Contreras, asked whether interior muntins would be acceptable; staff replied that exterior applied muntins are preferred for weather and visual depth and that the applicant had agreed to exterior three-dimensional muntins.
A motion to approve staff’s recommendation — permitting replacement with operable double-hung windows and exterior 3-D applied muntins — carried on a voice vote. The commission recorded no opposing votes during the motion.
The certificate approval requires use of operable windows matching the type and configuration of traditional double-hung sash on principal elevations, and the exterior muntins must be three-dimensional per the design guidelines. Staff will administratively follow up on final muntin profiles and color.
The decision resolves an application that sought an exception from an exact in-kind match because staff could not confirm the house’s original window design from archival photographs on file. The commission’s approval emphasizes matching operation and proportion over matching original material when the original is unknown.
The commission moved on to its next agenda item after the vote.
