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Board urges smaller footprint; 16 Hamill FAR request tabled
Summary
Owners at 16 Hamill were advised the proposed two‑story design exceeds expected FAR for the lot; the ARB asked applicants to reduce square footage (aiming for ~32% FAR), reconsider 10'/9' ceiling heights, and resubmit rather than vote on the current FAR request.
Owners Chris and Anne Cosni presented a FAR (floor‑area ratio) request for a new two‑story house at 16 Hamill Avenue. Board members questioned the packet’s justification that compared larger nearby lots and noted that FAR is tied to lot size; they encouraged the applicants to redesign to meet the lot‑specific FAR or resubmit without the FAR request.
Committee member (S4) told the applicants, "You would need to meet the FAR for your lot," and explained that relying on larger neighboring lots to justify an oversized house is not consistent with Webster zoning. Members recommended shrinking square footage, testing lower ceiling heights to reduce overall massing, and using 3‑D interior models with furniture to assess proportions. The board opted to table action and suggested the applicants return with revised plans or withdraw the FAR request for a standard review.
The owner confirmed they will resubmit. The board emphasized that when the applicants return they should include materials, clarified deck enclosure details and consider transom windows or other fenestration revisions to improve the home’s side elevations.
