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Applicant for 55 LaForest Lane says small attic conversion preserves historic character; board closes hearing
Summary
Applicant counsel and the property owner told the ZBA that the proposed 3rd-floor habitable conversion at 55 LaForest Lane preserves historic character and is largely unseen from the street; neighbors submitted letters of support and the board closed the hearing.
Andrew Goldstein, representing the applicant, and principal Jacqueline Russell Williams told the Zoning Board of Appeals that a modest conversion of existing third-floor space at 55 LaForest Lane would preserve the house's historic character while providing additional habitable space for family.
Goldstein told the board the proposed change involves the conversion of about 210 square feet of attic space and the addition of two dormers; he said the gross floor area would remain compliant and the overall mass of the house would be unchanged. "3rd Floor use, habitable use has existed in the property for over 125 years," Goldstein said, noting the long history of habitable space in the house and the project's sympathetic renovation.
Jacqueline Russell Williams described her family's decades-long ties to East Hampton and said the modest addition is intended to accommodate grandchildren while preserving neighborhood character. "We really believe in the soul of this village and have cared about East Hampton, again, for generations and generations," Williams said.
Board members praised the applicants' outreach to neighbors and noted several letters of support were on file. One board member asked that, if approval is granted, the determination include a timeframe for installation; the board indicated that timeframe could be added to the written determination. After discussion the board moved to close the public hearing.
Next steps: the board will take the record and make a written determination; if the board approves the variance it may include conditions such as the installation timeframe referenced in the hearing.
