Applicant proposes restoring larger kitchen window at Miller-Beasley House; staff asks for documentation

Kevin Coffey presented proposed window work at the Miller-Beasley House, 305 3rd Avenue South, saying the windows on the rear wing have been altered and that his designs would bring a taller window up to the lintel or replace with a double to improve light for a remodeled kitchen. "They're not particularly old," Coffey said of the existing rear sash, noting the opening appears to have been modified when the kitchen was relocated.

Staff noted the property is a contributing resource to the National Register and told the development review committee the proposal "does not meet the guidelines," because the historic guidelines recommend preserving historic windows and historic window openings. Commissioners asked the applicant to document the existing masonry and original openings with photographs, Sanborn maps and measured elevations to show whether a longer historic opening existed and where sills and lintels line up.

Several commissioners expressed willingness to support an option that preserves the historic masonry opening while allowing a taller sash where the opening can be shown to have been altered. Commissioner 5 said the design "is in the spirit" of the house if the team can show evidence of an original larger opening; Commissioner 6 and others recommended the applicant bring clearer photographic evidence and interior inspection where possible to confirm original sill location. The applicant said interior investigation is planned and that the proposed counter-height sill would be roughly 36 inches rather than the current ~48 inches.

Next steps: staff and commissioners asked Coffey to return with photographic documentation, a marked-up photo showing proposed and historic sill alignments, and measured elevations so the commission can evaluate whether the masonry opening can be preserved while meeting the owner's functional needs.