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Designers present major rooftop and dormer revision for 126 State Street; commission asks for more detail
Summary
Owner Brian Johnson and Winter Holden architect presented a plan to add dormers, a rotated gable and a multi-story projecting bay to 126 State Street to create a second bedroom; commissioners praised the direction but asked for more detailed roof plans and bay details at a follow-up work session.
PORTSMOUTH — At a May 6 work session, owner Brian Johnson and architect Brandon Holden of Winter Holden presented a substantial redesign for 126 State Street that would add dormers, a rotated gable and a projecting two‑story box bay to create additional living space.
Johnson described the project as a way to preserve family occupancy: they “have been there for 13 going on 14 years” and need a second bedroom, the owner said. Architect Brandon Holden said the design responds to the building’s long, narrow form by creating a strong termination at the street with a rotated gable and a simplified box bay. “We took all the feedback you received and developed the design,” Holden said.
Commissioners largely welcomed the revision as a significant improvement over the existing configuration but asked for more convincing details at the junctions where the proposed bay and new gable meet the existing roof and sidewalls. Several members suggested exploring alternative dormer profiles (shed vs. gable), refined bracket and bay detailing, and a clearer roof plan and sections to resolve water management and visual separation between the new bay and the main roof.
The commission agreed the project shows promise and asked the design team to return to a subsequent work session with roof plans, additional section cuts and refined trim and bracket details so the board can evaluate materials and finalize guidance.
