Commission ends demolition review for Shore Acres intern house at 1995 Sheridan Road

Lake Bluff’s Historic Preservation Commission voted Nov. 12 to terminate the demolition-review process for 1995 Sheridan Road, the intern house for Shore Acres Golf Club, after staff and commissioners discussed planned renovations and the building’s condition.

Shelton, the village staff member, said the village received a demolition letter of intent Oct. 20 for the property and that Lynch Construction contractor John Colquinn is handling renovations for owner Michael Drury. Shelton explained that removal of exterior walls classified the work as a demolition under village code even though the property will continue to be used as intern housing after renovations.

Commissioners who visited the site described proposed changes: replacing a flat-front roof with a gable roof, improving porches (including required railings), adding a fire-escape stair for second-floor egress, and re-siding the building. A commissioner noted that the building’s small white-cottage appearance and Shore Acres’ white-and-green trim will be retained.

Commissioner (speaker identified in the transcript as) moved to terminate the demolition review, saying the structure does not meet the criteria for designation. A roll-call vote recorded approvals by Member Nicholl, Member O'Connor, Member Maguire and Chair Bergman; the motion passed.

The termination means the commission declined to pursue landmark designation; the renovation may proceed subject to village permitting and the applicable demolition-review timing requirements.

Commissioners also discussed technical points such as applicant identity (the application should list the legal owner name rather than a manager) and archival interest in any original drawings.