Architecture board tables Joshua Wade’s exterior-staircase proposal, asks for measured drawings

The Montgomery City Architecture Review Board on Jan. 30 voted to table an application from Joshua (Josh) Wade for an exterior staircase and related changes at 1355 Magnolia so the applicant can supply measured drawings, dimensions, and photographs showing the attic space and exact setback relationships.

Wade described the converted attic/loft space and said the existing narrow spiral stair is a liability that makes the attic difficult to use and potentially unsafe. He proposed removing part of an upper window casement to install a standard door and an exterior stair and landing, and said the stair would be largely hidden from the main street by landscaping.

Board members repeatedly asked for a single, definitive plan with measured drawings and elevations that show the landing size, window measurements and the stair’s relationship to the air-conditioner and property line. Several members said the presentation offered multiple options but not the precise, stamped or dimensioned drawings the board needed to approve construction that could affect setbacks or neighboring property lines.

Staff told the board the Old Cloverdale Association had reviewed the application and generally agreed with staff recommendations: approve the proposed exterior staircase and fence while tabling window replacements because material and product details for the windows were missing. Board members and staff recommended the applicant provide measured drawings, photos of the attic space and a clearer site plan showing setbacks before the petition returns to the board.

A motion to table the petition until the next meeting to allow the applicant time to produce the requested materials passed on a voice vote. The board indicated that with dimensioned drawings and clarifying information it would be willing to reconsider the staircase and fence request.