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Commission approves ex‑post‑facto backyard playhouse in Lutherville with gabled‑roof condition
Summary
A 10-by-10 raised playhouse built without prior approval at 207 West Seminary Avenue was reviewed in an ex‑post‑facto application; the commission approved it on the condition the roof be changed from a shed/flat style to a gabled form.
The commission approved an ex‑post‑facto application on June 12 to finish a raised 10‑by‑10 playhouse at 207 West Seminary Avenue in Lutherville, provided the structure’s roof be changed to a gable roof as recommended by staff.
Preservation staff reported that staff was notified March 11 about a partially constructed accessory structure in the rear yard and instructed the owner to submit an ex‑post‑facto review. The structure sits on a raised wooden platform about 4–6 feet above grade and includes a small porch area accessed by steps. The owner told the commission the family proceeded without full understanding of the historic‑review process and said they are willing to change the roof pitch and screen the structure with evergreen plantings if required.
Staff recommended approval with the condition that the roof be gabled to read visually as a playhouse rather than a shed. A motion to approve with that staff condition carried in roll call; one commissioner recorded a “no” vote during the tally. Commissioners and staff also noted that structures over 15 feet require a zoning variance; the applicant confirmed the owner will coordinate with zoning if necessary.
The commission’s action regularized the existing structure subject to the gable‑roof condition and standard permit processing.
