Sykesville HDC approves rear window addition, relocation at 7332 Springfield Avenue

At its meeting, the Sykesville Historic District Commission approved application 2025-15 to add a rear window and relocate (raise about 6 inches) an existing rear window at 7332 Springfield Avenue, a building the applicant said dates to about 1912.

Kevin, the town staff member, told the commission that the commission’s residential window guidelines “typically” discourage changes to window location and size on front facades but allow more flexibility for rear elevations and windows not visible from public rights of way. Kevin said staff does not have “any concerns with the requested items” but recommended the applicant provide additional information about materials to ensure guideline compliance.

The property owner told the commission the existing window on one side sits much lower (about 29 inches off the floor) than the matching windows on the opposite side (about 35–36 inches). The owner said the change is driven by interior work: the kitchen sink is being reoriented to the rear section and the owner wants a window above the sink to create a balanced, symmetrical appearance. The owner said the intended sash pattern is 6-over-1 and that a potential off-the-shelf fallback would be an Anderson 400-series window sized to match the existing openings (the owner said that option was about $900), though the owner expressed a preference for wood windows and said he may remove later cladding to reveal and match original wood siding.

Commissioners discussed alternatives and recommended matching the existing configuration, sash pattern and proportions. One commissioner suggested considering other manufacturers (for example, Kolbe) for cost and appearance. The applicant also raised the question of an existing small awning; commissioners advised the owner that the commission cannot pre-approve items not part of the formal application but offered feedback that shortening or relocating the awning so it does not interfere with a new window may be appropriate.

A commissioner moved to approve application 2025-15 for the addition of a new rear window and relocation (raising) of the existing rear window, with recommendations that the applicant select a window compatible in style and sizing and that the awning be shortened or relocated if necessary. The motion was seconded and carried by voice vote. The record does not include a roll-call tally.

The commission’s staff report and the discussion emphasized that final approval is contingent on selecting materials and profiles that are compatible with the building’s character; staff asked the applicant to supply material and finish details for the administrative record.