DRC presses applicant to cut proposed addition after demolition plan would raise historic‑footprint by more than 100%

Applicant representatives presented revisions to a previously discussed proposal for partial demolition and a new addition at 109 Everbrite Avenue. Staff told the committee the principal building (circa 1955) may be considered historic and that the latest plan results in an addition equal to approximately 117.6% of the historic footprint—well in excess of the DRC’s guideline norms. Staff recommended additional information and cautioned that the application in its current form does not align with guidelines.

Commissioner discussion centered on scale and precedent. Commissioners acknowledged the house’s unusual era and lot size but repeatedly urged the applicant to dramatically reduce the proposed addition’s footprint. One commissioner observed that the DRC has approved additions around the 60% range on larger lots and said, “I can’t rationalize 117.6%—that’s beyond where I would be comfortable.” The committee suggested tactics to reduce perceived mass: limit visible frontage, use subordinate siding materials rather than repeating primary brick, and break the addition into smaller masses or hyphens so new work reads as secondary.

Staff and commissioners recommended splitting the submittal if feasible—pursuing accessory structures or a garage package first while refining the main addition—so parts that comply can move forward and give the applicant predictable outcomes. They also asked the applicant to provide revised square‑footage calculations, 3‑D renderings showing public views, and a clearer justification for any demolition that must be replaced by new construction.

Next steps: Applicant was encouraged to reduce the addition scale, provide more detailed material selections and 3‑D massing studies, and consider separate filings for accessory elements to gain incremental approvals.