The Glendale Historic Preservation Commission voted 4–0 on Monday to require substantial restorative work at 1620 Idlewood (Bridal Wood Road) after staff reported extensive unpermitted exterior alterations to a contributing 1925 residence in the South Cumberland Heights Historic District.

Staff’s presentation described a pattern of post-purchase renovations that enlarged three short windows flanking the primary entry, removed half-timbering, altered the front door surround, added a widened entry landing and new steps (five risers where three previously existed), replaced or modernized garage and driveway elements, and installed multiple contemporary light fixtures and a new gate. Staff noted stop-work orders and that the case is currently with the City Attorney’s Office (a misdemeanor criminal matter). The staff recommendation called for returning the most important character-defining features to their former size, depth and detail: restore the three altered window openings to their former dimensions and recessed depth; require recessed block-frame windows with external simulated-divided lights and wood sills; restore half-timbering (using robust members and proper attachment and waterproofing); rebuild the porch/steps consistent with the historic appearance (staff allowed the commission to permit five shorter risers for safety if zoning and code allow); replace the contemporary walkway and driveway with materials and patterns compatible with the historic setting; reduce façade lighting to one or two period-appropriate fixtures; and replace the driveway gate with a more compatible metal or painted wood design that references the chevron motif above the front door.

Members of the public — including a neighbor who said the house had been a long-standing neighborhood concern, the Glendale Historical Society and a preservation consultant who urged "like-for-like" restoration — urged the commission to require full restoration rather than accept conjectural replacement. The owner, William Stepanian, said he purchased the property in 2020, cited urgent family health needs and said he relied on a contractor and a television-production schedule; the owner’s architect presented a restorative design proposal and said the changes aimed to address safety and livability.

Commissioners emphasized that contributors in a historic district remain subject to review for exterior changes visible from the street, pointed to a reasonable-accommodation process for documented medical needs, and discussed enforcement mechanisms (double permits fees, recommending Mills Act nonrenewal where applicable, and criminal-case coordination with the City Attorney). The commission directed staff and the applicant to move forward on a restoration-based set of conditions; staff will finalize details with the architect and return to the commission if deviations are necessary.

The motion passed unanimously (4–0; Commissioner Bartanyan absent). Staff will monitor implementation and the pending legal process.