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New Rochelle HLRB delays decision on 46‑window replacement at 31 The Boulevard to allow owner to consider wood options
Summary
The Historic Landmark Review Board adjourned an application to replace 46 windows at 31 The Boulevard to its March meeting so the owner can review wood or wood‑grain alternatives for street‑visible openings. The applicant said the like‑for‑like fiberglass windows improve energy performance.
Kevin Kane, Director of Planning and Sustainability, opened the Feb. 11 meeting of the Historic Landmark Review Board of New Rochelle and the board discussed a certificate of appropriateness application to replace 46 windows at 31 The Boulevard in the R‑1 Historic Zone District.
Nicholas Daddio, representing Infinity Replacement Windows by Marvin, said the project is a "like‑for‑like swap" of 46 Ultrix fiberglass windows in stone white, with the same grill patterns and no changes to opening sizes or exterior trim. He described the glass as a "low E3 ERS with argon gas" and said the replacements address seal failure and inoperable sashes that are affecting energy performance: "The homeowners are having a lot of trouble with heat retention, seal failure, so this is the main cause of the change."
Board members pressed on material choices and visibility. One member noted the board's long practice of preferring natural wood for windows that are visible from the street, and asked the applicant and owner to consider wood alternatives. Daddio said the company offers a wood‑grain product that would be painted to match existing trim and reiterated that most replacements are direct fits that will not alter trim or openings: "There will really be no aesthetic changes, but more of energy saving and updating their look."
Members of the public spoke during the hearing. Elena Harrison Cowie of the district said, "Windows are a major feature. Wood windows are a major feature," and urged consistent enforcement so residents understand expectations. Homeowner Priscilla Jean Baptiste identified herself as the owner of 31 The Boulevard and asked for clarity about visibility rules for her corner lot and "to have that discussion" with the board before a final determination.
After questions, public comment and additional discussion, the board voted to adjourn the application to its March meeting to allow the owner to explore wood or wood‑grain alternatives and supply any additional documentation for elevations that are visible from the street. No formal approval or denial was issued at the Feb. 11 meeting.
Next steps: the applicant and owner were asked to meet with staff, review wood and wood‑grain options, and return with samples or further information at the March hearing.
