Commission continues Crown Heights addition review at 916 Northwest 8th Street pending documentation

The Historic Preservation Commission continued action on an application by Holly Hunt of Sam Gresham Architecture on behalf of Michael Purcell for work at 916 Northwest 8th Street (Crown Heights). Commissioners voted to continue all items to the June 4 hearing to allow the applicant to provide clearer documentation of which earlier additions are historic, a demolition/retention plan, accurate elevations and lot coverage figures.

Why this matters: the proposal includes a two‑story rear addition and modifications to an existing garage that may increase the garage’s height and massing. Commissioners and staff focused on whether portions of the building that were added prior to 1977 should be counted within the existing historic footprint (which affects the allowable size of new additions under the guidelines), and whether the proposed work would remain subordinate to the historic house.

What staff and the applicant said: Katie (Historic Preservation staff) said the commission must judge what is part of the historic footprint and noted the guideline that new additions “shall not exceed 50% of the square footage of the footprint of the existing historic structure, enclosed space only, or 750 square feet, whichever is larger.” The applicant’s architect, Holly Hunt, said many neighboring houses have substantial rear additions and argued the proposed work is compatible and in character with nearby properties. Hunt said the main first-floor addition would add about 520 square feet and that most of the additional area would be stacked above an existing portion of the house.

Areas needing clarification: commissioners asked for (a) county assessor or other documentary evidence about when earlier rear additions were constructed; (b) a clear demo plan showing which walls/floors will be retained; (c) accurate lot‑coverage and rear-yard measurements; and (d) clearer elevations showing the distinction between existing and new work so the commission can confirm whether the new work reads as secondary.

Garage concerns: commissioners noted the proposal to add a half‑ or full story to the existing garage and asked for justification and comparative examples of two‑story garages in the immediate context. Several commissioners suggested reducing the dormer size or modifying roof pitch to keep the garage subordinate.

Next steps: the commission continued all items to the June 4 meeting. Staff recommended the applicant meet with staff between meetings and provide additional drawings (including demo plans and revised elevations) so issues that can be resolved administratively do not return to the commission.

Direct quotes in this article are drawn from the meeting transcript and are limited to individuals listed in the speakers section below.