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Landmarks Board unanimously approves conditioned landmark alteration certificate for new accessory building at 432 Concord Ave
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Summary
The Boulder Landmarks Board voted 5–0 to conditionally approve demolition of a noncontributing accessory building and construction of an approximately 500 sq ft accessory building at 432 Concord Ave, with staff to review missing materials and details before final clearance. The decision is subject to a 16‑day city council call‑up period.
The Boulder Landmarks Board on March 4 conditionally approved a landmark alteration certificate (HIS202600036) to demolish a noncontributing accessory structure and build an approximately 500‑square‑foot accessory building at 432 Concord Avenue in the Mapleton Hill Historic District.
Staff recommended approval, saying the existing shed was built between 1987 and 1999 and does not contribute to the district’s period of significance; the proposed one‑story garage, about 22 by 23 feet and roughly 13 feet tall, was described as subordinate in mass and compatible in materials and scale with the primary house. "Staff recommends that the landmarks board approve the request for demolition," Claire Brandt, the city’s historic preservation planner, told the board.
The applicants, Ian Arthur and Jennifer Wells, described the design as intentionally simple and compatible with neighboring alley garages and said the plan preserves backyard space. "We think this design fits well within the neighborhood and is in keeping with the historic district," Ian Arthur said during his presentation.
A virtual public commenter questioned whether the application needed full‑board review: "It meets everything — it should've just gone through as a staff approval," said Lynn Siegel. Board members acknowledged that city rules require full board review for freestanding construction over 340 square feet and said they appreciated the clarity of the application.
Chair Renee Globick moved adoption of the staff memorandum as the board’s findings; the motion was seconded and passed by roll call (John Decker, Abby Daniels, Michael Ray, Chelsea Castellano and Chair Globick recorded aye votes). The board approved the application with conditions that staff identified, including final details for garage doors, fencing, exterior lighting, and the materiality and permeability of hardscaping.
Next steps: the decision is subject to a 16‑day city council call‑up period; if council does not request review, staff will verify that the conditions are met and clear the landmark alteration certificate. Claire Brandt said the certificate is valid for one year once conditions are satisfied.
