Commission signals likely approval for dormers if third-floor balcony is removed

Daniel Herkenrofer of Herkworks Architecture (speaker 12) presented updated plans for 3 LaSalle Place (Plat 09, Lot 136), explaining a series of dimensional reductions designed to reduce street-scale impact: the dormer length was reduced to about 22.5 feet and ridge height was lowered "to be 12 inches lower than the main roof ridge." He said the rear half of the dormer was pulled farther back to minimize the street view and that the front window size was reduced.

Commissioners expressed general appreciation for the adjustments but raised strong objections to an inset third-floor balcony and, from some members, to adding a front closet window that was never there historically. One commissioner said, "I would not be in favor of this at all," indicating the balcony and remaining dormer mass were problematic. Several commissioners indicated they would likely support a revised plan that removed the balcony and reduced visible dormer mass. The applicant asked to consult the owner and return with a revised proposal; the commission voted to continue the item to the September meeting.

The continuation gives the applicant an opportunity to present a revised design without the inset balcony or with other modifications to address precedent and massing concerns.