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Architect says 98 Laurel Grove guest house addition meets zoning; ADR expresses support
Summary
The ADR reviewed plans to expand a nonconforming guest house at 98 Laurel Grove, hear an architect say the addition will dig into crawl space (keeping roof line) and that the structure is about 8 inches over the side yard setback; members generally supported the design and screening and asked clarifying questions about impervious surfaces.
At its July 21 session the Ross Advisory Design Review Group considered a request at 98 Laurel Grove to expand an existing nonconforming guest house and to recommend a nonconformity permit to the town council.
Jessica Smith of Polsky Perlstein Architects told the ADR the design would expand the guest house by occupying what was formerly crawl space, leaving the upper finished floor and roof elevation unchanged. "We're expanding the guest house by adding a level underneath the existing finished floor," Smith said, adding the project meets zoning requirements and is screened from surrounding properties. Staff had noted the guest house was already about eight inches into the side yard setback.
ADR members asked about impervious surface changes; Smith said the larger site project converts the drive court to permeable pavers, which offsets any small new patio area. Members also confirmed that the addition does not increase the primary footprint or massing and voiced support, noting the nonconformity is small and precedent exists for limited exceptions where appropriate. The group recommended staff forward the design review recommendation to town council for formal action.
