Board approves revised final design for Charles Street site, requires cut sheets for metal screening

The Beaufort Historic Review Board approved final design for the Charles Street replacement building after discussing fenestration, parapet elements and materials. The board removed one of staff’s recommended conditions, kept conditions two through six, and modified condition two to require the applicant to provide cut sheets for the proposed perforated metal screening to staff for approval.

Board discussion focused on how the new design differs from the previously approved adaptive‑reuse scheme. Staff and the architect noted changes to massing and setbacks required by code; the architect said the new design maintains the previously approved aesthetic while meeting code and safety requirements. Board members debated whether to retain a parapet element to honor the prior structure and whether metal‑wrapped columns and perforated metal screening are appropriate at street level. One member urged a mock‑up for public review; others and staff suggested that manufacturer cut sheets or a physical sample would suffice for staff review before final installation.

The board voted to remove condition 1, retain conditions 2–6, and change condition 2 so the applicant must submit cut sheets of the perforated metal to staff for approval. The motion was seconded and approved by the members present.

What happens next: the applicant must provide the required cut sheets and any additional details requested by staff; staff will review the submitted materials and may request the project return to the board if issues remain.