Commissioners ask for simpler dormer options on proposed Lily Street garage conversion

Patrick of Pat Guthrie Design Associates presented a proposal to alter the existing mid‑1980s garage at 28 Lily Street, raising the roof and adding dormers to create a second‑floor apartment. He told the commission the plan keeps the existing garage footprint and door configuration while adding carriage‑door style overhead doors and a cottage entry.

Holly, the preservation planner, noted the lot is contributing within the historic district and recommended simplifying the dormer treatment—“1 dormer type should be proposed,” she said—and paying attention to placement and proportions to match the Old Historic District guidelines. Commissioners echoed those concerns: several asked for reduced fenestration, simplified dormer forms, lowering front eave lines and minimizing cheek walls so the addition reads as a simple, subordinate volume.

The commission voted to hold the application for revisions and asked the applicant to return with options showing consolidated dormer approaches and any adjustments to knee‑wall heights and plate lines to reduce the perceived height and shingle expanse. The applicant agreed to provide revised plans.