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Commission approves window and door replacements at 311 2nd Street but rejects removal of historic chimney
Summary
Commissioners approved replacement and addition of windows and a new door at 311 2nd Street but voted down a separate motion to remove the building’s brick chimney after members said the stack remains a visible character element and removal would be irreversible.
At its May 14 meeting the Ann Arbor Historic District Commission approved replacement of five windows, installation of two windows in former openings, and replacement of a non‑original front door at 311 2nd Street, finding the proposed work compatible with the Secretary of the Interior Standards and local guidelines.
Planning staff described the windows and new openings as compatible and recommended approval of that portion of the application. The commission voted to approve the window and door work (motion moved by Commissioner Ross and seconded by Commissioner Calderon).
The owner’s team urged removal of a deteriorated brick chimney, citing storm damage and interior constraints. Project representatives said the chimney has lost mortar and the chimney cap was dislodged after a recent storm; they argued the masonry is failing and the chimney impedes interior reconfiguration. The applicant said composite trim and a modest 1x3 picture‑frame trim would be used for the new window openings.
Commissioners debated whether the chimney is a character‑defining roof feature; some members said chimneys on simple gable‑front houses are important to read the historic form and noted a neighboring house retains a matching chimney. The motion to remove the chimney failed by roll call (reported as 2 in favor, 4 opposed), so the exterior chimney will remain unless the applicant returns with further documentation or a revised plan.
Next steps: The window and door work may proceed under the approved certificate; the owner and staff may discuss preservation options for the chimney or present further documentation if removal is still desired.
