Historic commission approves reconstruction of front porch at 615 West Oak Street

The Denton Historic Landmark Commission on a unanimous voice vote approved a certificate of appropriateness to reconstruct the front porch at 615 West Oak Street in the Oak Hickory Historic District.

Miss Roberts, historic preservation staff, presented the application and said it was "for a reconstruction of an original porch at property at 615 West Oak Street. The home was built circa 1910." She showed historic photographs, current-condition images and proposed elevations, and described the proposed materials as brick, cast stone and matching clapboard siding.

Staff recommended approval "as submitted" and said the commission was reviewing the proposal under the Oak Hickory Historic District standards and section 2.9.2 of the Denton Development Code. The presentation included details on existing framing, roof plan and color samples; Roberts noted that the commission's review focuses on materials and design rather than administrative color approvals.

Applicant Jacob Moses was present for questions. Commissioners asked about why the porch was missing; a commissioner noted the previous owner had removed it after it deteriorated. Commissioner Treat moved to approve the application "as presented"; Commissioner Gregory seconded. The commission then approved the certificate of appropriateness by raised hands.

The approved work includes rebuilding the porch with brick and cast-stone railings and columns, retaining existing steps to the driveway and restoring wooden clapboard siding to match the existing exterior. Staff said additional administrative approvals (for colors and minor finishes) will be handled separately as required by code.