Commission denies Hibernia Street window‑replacement request without prejudice, asks owner to document rot

The Landmark Commission denied without prejudice a request to replace multiple windows at 2620 Hibernia Street in the State‑Thomas Historic District on May 5, finding applicants did not submit sufficient evidence to show the openings required replacement rather than repair.

Staff recommended denial after reviewing photos and finding apparent paint failure rather than documented wood rot or catastrophic failure. The task force echoed that recommendation and urged the applicant to consult historic‑window specialists or preservation window contractors to document any structural failure. Commissioners emphasized that careful selective repair and paint removal often resolve problems that appear severe in preliminary photographs and that replacement windows for contributing structures must be all‑wood and must express muntins on the exterior (not just simulated divided lights) if they are to match period fenestration.

The motion to deny without prejudice passed unanimously. Staff suggested the applicant engage a qualified preservation glazier or structural conservator, provide measured drawings and any forensic testing of wood…