Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Historic Preservation Windows topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Historic Landmark Commission approves modified window treatment and gable shake replacement at 1118–1120 N. El Paso St.
Summary
The Historic Landmark Commission approved a reconsideration that requires the applicant to submit drawings and install a solid wood mullion and a framed trim to simulate the original 1-over-1 sash on the main façade window and to replace the gable wood shake to match the original.
The City of El Paso Historic Landmark Commission on an amended motion approved a reconsideration for exterior work at 1118–1120 North El Paso Street in the Sunset Heights Historic District, requiring the applicant to provide a sketch and to install a solid wood mullion and framed trim that replicate the original window appearance and to replace the wood shake at the gable to match the historic photo on file.
The commission's staff presentation said the structure, built in 1938 and zoned R-3-H (apartments historic), suffered a fire and subsequent unpermitted work. Staff recommended approval with modifications, citing the city's historic-district design guidelines and the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation. Staff asked that the picture window on the main façade be treated to match the original appearance and that accurate, detailed drawings be submitted showing framing members to be replaced.
Applicant representatives provided pricing and scheduling context during the meeting. Alex Alvarez said contractors had quoted a custom replacement and that the window in question measures roughly 62 by 83 inches; Alvarez said a full functional sash at that size would be custom, costly, and could require several weeks to deliver. Alvarez offered a proposed alternative: "apply wood right in the middle to make it look like it's a single hung window," saying that a solid wood mullion could "serve as the look that we're all trying to keep" and allow the site work to continue.
Commissioners emphasized that any applied division must be proportional and detailed, not a simple piece of plywood. One commissioner asked for a submission that shows the mullion, a surrounding frame, paint color, materials and dimensions. Staff confirmed the sketch would go to the historic preservation office and be considered as part of the alteration/permit review. The commission also required the wood shake at the peak of the front gable be replaced to match the original photograph in the file.
A motion was made directing the applicant to submit a sketch showing the frame around the window, the dividing mullion, the color, material and dimensions, and to replace the shake on the gable to match the original. The motion was seconded and carried: commissioners present voted in favor and none opposed.
What happens next: the applicant must submit the requested sketches and material details to the Historic Preservation Office; staff indicated those drawings will be reviewed and an alteration/permit will not be issued until required details are received and approved.
The commission cited design guidelines that advise that when repair is not feasible, door and window products are reviewed case-by-case for architectural and historical compatibility, comparison to original profile, and significance to the structure's style. The Secretary of the Interior's Standards were also cited, which require distinguishing new work from historic fabric and matching replacements in design and visual qualities where replacement is necessary.
