Commission permits window-hierarchy exceptions at 6018 Buena Vista after compromise on shutters and fake windows

The Fairway Planning Commission on Oct. 27 approved exceptions to the window-hierarchy rules for a proposed single-family residence at 6018 Buena Vista, accepting a compromise that uses shutters and a "false window" feature to meet the city's window-percentage standard.

Basil, planning staff, said the applicant had added shutters because the plan otherwise fell short of the required window percentage. "The applicant did add, shutters, because he was not meeting the percentage," Basil said.

Architect Adam Pfeiffer of APD Studios explained that floor-plan constraints (garage, mudroom, and a screened porch) limit where real windows can be placed and that shutters or a non-glazed faux window had been used to meet the code percentage. "We could certainly look at that for the rest of the windows," Pfeiffer said about adding shutters, and he noted a "false window" has been used on the garage to mimic proportions.

Commission discussion focused on visual consistency. Commissioners debated whether adding shutters only on some elevations would create a "hodgepodge" effect versus requiring shutters on all windows or adding real glazing. Staff and the applicant said the design reached roughly 8.8% window coverage without the shutters (the code requires 15%), and the commission agreed to a compromise: remove one shutter on a rear window, keep shutters on the garage and key elevations, and grant an exception for the shortfall being less than 15 percent. A motion reflecting that compromise passed by voice vote.

The commission directed staff to record the exception and verify the final elevations when revised drawings are submitted.