Evanston preservation panel continues Asbury Avenue addition, asks for new renderings

The Evanston Preservation Commission continued consideration of a certificate of appropriateness for 26PRES0019 Asbury Avenue after questioning the proposed eyebrow detail and the volumetric representation in the submitted renderings.

John Wilson, the project's architect, presented a proposal to add a single‑story addition to the rear of the house to enlarge and reorient the kitchen. Wilson described materials and detailing he said would match the existing house — including stucco with control joints, painted wood trims and a brick base — and noted the proposed French doors and Marvin Elevate windows.

Commissioners focused their deliberation on an eyebrow trim above a flat‑topped triple window. One commissioner stated, "I would like to see the arch either have arch windows underneath it or just go away." Commissioners said the existing orthogonal elevations and the perspective provided did not make the volumetric relationship between the addition and the gable end clear and asked for a three‑quarter perspective that shows the addition in relation to the house. The architect offered to produce an oblique perspective and a 2‑D section showing awning clearances.

A motion to grant a continuance for case 26PRES0019 (Asbury Ridge Historic District) was made to allow the applicant time to either rework or remove the eyebrow feature and to submit a new three‑dimensional perspective; the motion was seconded and approved by voice. Staff indicated the commission intends to review the revised materials at its May meeting and will confirm the date with the applicant. The continuance preserves the item's status while requiring the applicant to return with clarified drawings.