Commission approves sensitive alterations and garage insertion at 2321 Webster Street with preservation conditions

Planning staff presented and the Commission approved with conditions a Certificate of Appropriateness for 2321 Webster Street, an 1878 Italianate contributing house in the Webster Street Historic District.

Shelly Caltagironi (preservation staff) said the proposal would add a two‑car garage at basement level, reconstruct a rear deck and annex, restore the front porch and entry hood, replace non‑original porch elements, excavate for seismic foundation upgrades, and insert new windows on rear and side elevations that will not be visible from the public right of way. Staff recommended approval with two conditions: (1) document and update designs if additional evidence about the original entry hood is uncovered when the porch is removed; and (2) provide evidence that the original porch steps were brick or else revise to wooden steps typical of the district.

Owners Michael Okada and Pamela Lehi Okada described efforts to preserve the house’s historic character and support sensitive restoration. Ruth Todd of Page & Turnbull reviewed the historic context, noted their approach to distinguishing original vs. later additions, and explained the intention to reuse historic fencing and to keep the project sensitive to the district’s character. The Commission discussed the one public letter opposing the garage insertion on parking grounds but noted the project would replace one on‑street space with two in the garage; commissioners asked for final material samples and details to ensure compatibility. After questions, the Commission voted to adopt findings and approve the COA with the stated conditions (motion carried unanimously, 6–0).