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Commissions press for Hosmer House roof scheme that preserves exterior proportions; recommend removing south skylight
Summary
The Historic District and Historical commissions discussed a CPC application to replace the Hosmer House roof; they objected to an exterior insulation detail that would extend trim by roughly six inches and favored removing a proposed modern south-side skylight and insulating the attic floor instead to preserve historic exterior proportions.
Commissioners reviewed a Combined Facilities Director application for replacement of the Hosmer House roof and associated exterior details at the Oct. 28 joint meeting.
Members said the design presented to the Historic District Commission included adding approximately six inches of rigid insulation on the outside of the roof sheathing, which would require extending the exterior trim and alter the building's historic proportions. Commissioners objected to exterior modifications that would change the roof's visible trim and recommended insulating the attic floor (an interior solution) and other like-for-like repairs instead.
On the skylight, several members recommended removing the existing south-facing skylight or not replacing it with a modern unit; reasons included cost, leakage risk and preservation of historic character. Griff Noble said removal would be cheaper and reduce leakage risk.
The commissions asked staff to request revised drawings that avoid modifying prominent exterior trim and said they would consider supporting the CPC application at a December presentation once the design team provides adjusted options. The district commission's next meeting is Dec. 5; CPC presentation options discussed included Dec. 4 or Dec. 18, with a later date preferable to allow revisions.
