Historic district panel approves most of 14 Mountain Road garage plan but asks for wood or composite doors

The Town of Farmington Historic District Commission on Nov. 18 approved the bulk of a plan to build a two‑car detached garage at 14 Mountain Road while reserving judgment on the garage doors.

William Clark, the property owner and applicant, told the commission he had provided spec sheets showing Goraga Village steel garage doors with simulated divided lights and an X‑style panel layout. "They're white, with the simulated divided lights," Clark said, and provided drawings and hardware selections for the record.

Commissioners said they often avoid approving metal garage doors in the historic district and preferred wood or composite doors. "Haven't we always steered away from metal doors?" Commissioner Jim Calciano asked during deliberations. Commissioners also discussed the visual effect of vinyl‑clad windows and noted that aluminum‑clad or wood‑clad windows have been approved in similar cases.

After discussion, the commission adopted a motion to approve the proposed siding, shingles, lighting fixtures, patio doors, hardware and other exterior details as submitted, but to require the applicant to replace the proposed steel garage doors with wood or composite alternatives or return with equivalent options for review. The commission added an amendment requiring an exterior submolding detail on the awning windows so the window treatment more closely matches other historic examples on the street.

Shannon Rutherford, the town planner, said the commission could treat the unresolved garage‑door detail under "old business" so Clark could return with alternate door designs. Clark agreed to consult his architect and provide composite and wood options.

The commission recorded the approval by voice vote; members present signaled assent and no opposing votes were recorded. The applicant may return with revised door samples or pursue review of that one remaining element at a later meeting.