Historic preservation board approves black window frames for landmark at 3401 Casablanca Ave.

The St. Pete Beach Historic Preservation Board voted unanimously on Nov. 6 to grant a certificate of appropriateness to replace leaking, deteriorated exterior windows with black-framed units at the locally designated landmark at 3401 Casablanca Avenue (case 25126).

Contract planner Lynn Rossetti told the board the property, originally built about 1920 and locally designated in 1996, had previously received repairs and a FEMA variance for substantial work. Rossetti said staff reviewed comparable Mediterranean‑and mission‑style homes across the Gulf beaches and concluded that black window frames are commonly used and appropriate for structures of this type.

“Looking at other properties around the area, I think that the color black is appropriate and acceptable,” Rossetti said during the presentation.

Board members discussed whether the color choice might affect a future National Register nomination. Rossetti and other staff said state review would be part of any National Register submittal and that comparable National Register properties have changed window colors without automatic disqualification. Member Hurley noted historic photos that appeared to show dark window frames on similar homes.

Chair Bill Lowery made the motion to approve the COA for replacement of exterior windows on the locally designated structure at 3401 Casablanca Avenue (case 25126); the motion was seconded and carried by roll-call vote with all voting “yes.”

Staff contact: Lynn Rossetti, contract planner.

Provenance: Staff presentation and board discussion (topicintro: 00:08:28; topfinish: 00:17:11).