Title/Name/Summary
Senft Residence - 14435 Beacon Avenue - Replacement of Front Porch, Windows, Stairs, and Door
History
Requested Actions: Certificate of Appropriateness
Project Attributes
Address: 14435 Beacon Avenue
P.I.N.(s): 27-09-211-016-000
Size: .07 acres
Comprehensive Plan Planning District: Downtown Planning District
Comprehensive Land Designation: Single Family Residential
Existing Zoning: OOH Old Orland Historic District
Existing Land Use: Single Family Residential
Surrounding Land Use:
North: OOH Old Orland Historic District - Single Family Residential
South: OOH Old Orland Historic District - Single Family Residential
East: OOH Old Orland Historic District - Open Space (Frontier Park)
West: OOH Old Orland Historic District - Single Family Residential
BACKGROUND
BACKGROUND
The Folk Victorian Style found in the Old Orland Historic District is defined by the presence of Victorian decorative detailing on simple folk house forms, and generally much less elaborated than the Victorian styles that they attempt to mimic. The details are usually of either Italianate or Queen Anne inspiration. The primary areas for the application of this detailing are the porch and cornice line. Common characteristics include porches with spindle-work detailing or flat, jig-saw cut trim; turned balusters used both in porch railings and in friezes suspended from the porch ceiling; roof-wall junction may be either boxed or open; simple window surrounds with simple pediment above.
According to the 2008 Residential Area Intensive Survey (RAI), the building identified in the survey as G-18 was constructed in 1894 and at the time of the survey was in good condition with medium integrity. The architectural style indicated in the RAI survey was Folk Victorian. The RAI survey indicates several alterations to the building, including foundation replaced (probably c1920), gabled roof dormers (c1980), windows replaced (c1980), and a garage/coach house constructed (c1980).
This COA is in response to a work without a permit citation and ongoing litigation.
DETAILED PLANNING DISCUSSION
Lot Coverage
The proposed improvements do not alter the overall lot coverage for the property. While there are minor adjustments to the orientation of the walkway connecting the driveway to the front porch, the scope of work is minimal and results in only a negligible impact on lot coverage.
Setbacks
No changes are proposed to the existing setbacks for this property.
Siding and Trim
The proposed 6” x ½” green bevel siding complies with district regulations and is appropriate for the historic district. The trim design is also consistent with the district’s design standards.
Section 6-209.F.2.k of the Land Development Code outlines the requirements for replacing existing features within the historic district.
Front Porch
The petitioner has begun work on replacing the front porch railings, which are proposed to be replaced in-kind to preserve the historic character of the home. In addition to the required work, the petitioner has voluntarily included decorative floral wood detailing along the full length of the porch. A sample of this detailing is included in the submitted plans for reference. The porch design complies with code requirements regardless of whether the floral detailing is installed. Overall, the proposed improvements are compatible with the historic district and appropriate in scale and appearance.
Section 6-209.F.2.f outlines the requirements related to the deteriorated architectural features, and Section 6-209.F.3.c outlines the requirements related to porches.
Village Code requires a building permit for the front porch work; and the permit will need to be submitted to the Building Division for separate review and approval.
Front Stairs
The plans indicate that the existing wood step will be replaced with a limestone step and new concrete pad, connecting the porch to grade. These improvements are appropriate for the Old Orland Historic District and align with preservation goals by incorporating traditional materials and maintaining the original design intent.
Village Code requires a building permit for the scope of work, which will be included with the front porch permit.
Windows
Windows 5, 6, 7, and 8
According to the submitted window schedule on sheet 1, the petitioner is proposing modifications to several existing windows. Windows 5, 6, and 7 are proposed to be replaced, while the relocation of window 8 is intended to better reflect the original configuration of the home.
The proposed windows are designed to maintain the traditional proportions, vertical orientation, and placement patterns that are consistent with the character of the Old Orland Historic District.
These renovations align with the intent of the historic design guidelines, which encourage the restoration or replication of historically appropriate window types and arrangements.
Per the LDC, non-contributing structures are encouraged to adhere to the design standards outlined for the Historic District. Specifically, Section 6-209.F.3.a.1 recommends that replacement windows retain the original size and placement of openings.
Section 6-209.F.2.k of the Land Development Code outlines the requirements of the replacement of existing features in the historic district.
Village Code requires a building permit for window work; and the permit will need to be submitted to the Building Division for separate review and approval prior to any construction.
Front Door
The proposed replacement front door is designed to be compatible with the architectural character and historic integrity of the Old Orland Historic Zoning District. The door is constructed of Douglas Fir for the exterior and White Oak for the interior, materials that are historically appropriate and commonly found in traditional wood doors of the district.
The proposed door contains two raised panels in the middle and two beaded bottom panels, all of which reflect traditional millwork techniques used in historic homes. A beaded edge is included on the bottom panels and sill, reinforcing the period-appropriate craftsmanship.
The door is framed with a plinth block, slate sill, and set above the porch floor, elements consistent and compatible with existing historic home.
Overall, the replacement door preserves the detailing consistent with the guidelines outlined in Section 6-209.F.b of the Land Development Code.
Recommended Action/Motion
The Certificate of Appropriateness for the Senft Residence at 14435 Beacon Avenue as depicted in the plans titled “14435 Beacon Avenue Front Porch Details, Including Stairs-to Grade, and Windows 5, 6, 7, & 8 Placement 2025”, hand delivered by the petitioner on April 11, 2025, has been administratively approved on April 16, 2025 subject to the following conditions:
1. Apply for all applicable Building Permits, and
2. Meet all Building Code related items.