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Commission denies metal window screens and metal carport at 525 Mission, asks applicant to return with wood‑faced designs
Summary
The commission denied an application to replace historic wood window screens with metal screens and to build an all‑metal carport at 525 Mission, citing loss of historic character and a prior violation; applicant may appeal or submit revised wood‑clad options.
The commission on Jan. 21 denied a request from the owner of 525 Mission to replace historic wood window screens with full‑metal screens and to construct an all‑metal detached carport. Staff recommended denial for the metal window screens and for the metal carport unless the carport were wood construction with a standing‑seam metal roof and other stipulations.
Owner Benjamin Anka said many original wooden screens were in poor condition and not salvageable. He told commissioners he would explore alternatives such as adding a wood facade over new screens or wood‑cladding posts so the finished appearance is compatible with the King William historic district. The King William Association's Architectural Advisory Committee left a voicemail urging denial of metal screens and recommending reinstallation of wood screens; staff also documented that work occurred prior to a COA application and conducted site visits.
Commission action: Vice chair moved to deny the request consistent with staff findings to allow the owner to either appeal to the Board of Adjustment or to return with revised designs (for example, wood screens, wood‑clad posts or other treatments that maintain the building’s historic character). The motion passed on roll call.
Next steps: Applicant may submit a wood‑faced mockup or drawings showing a wood‑clad treatment of screens and posts, or pursue administrative appeal.
