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Board denies design alternative request to exceed color coverage for 417 Nassau on tie vote
Summary
The board rejected a design-alternative request to allow a primary color to exceed 75% coverage for the 417 Nassau project after a 3–3 tie; the applicant can resubmit a compliant palette for staff-level approval.
The Historic Architectural and Preservation Board voted on April 9 on a design alternative under Chapter 87, Section 10.4(a)(2) that would allow the primary color for 417 Nassau to exceed the code—5% limit. Agent Sam Hardy argued that many 1926 houses historically appear as a single color and said the owners sought a low-maintenance solution. Board members suggested introducing accent colors on architectural elements or the new addition to meet the ordinance's intent.
After debate the motion to approve the design alternative resulted in a 3–3 tie with the chair abstaining; by rule the tie means the alternative was denied. Attorney Lewis and staff clarified that the applicant may instead present a compliant combination of colors that meets the required percentages to staff for approval, avoiding a return to the board. A staff note recorded: the denial was based on the percentage (not the specific color) and applicants can adjust percentages or present additional accent elements to meet the code.
