The case of 403 Mount Lucas Road involved the property owners’ request for a C2 variance to allow for an expansion of their single-family dwelling. This included a second-floor addition and a garage setback, which required the board’s approval due to the project’s deviation from local zoning regulations. The property owner, Eugene D, presented a case emphasizing the need for additional living space to accommodate their family’s requirements while maintaining the cottage character of the home. The owner aimed to minimize the environmental impact and preserve mature trees on the property. The board closely examined the design choices, including a proposed green roof on the garage, and discussed the project’s compliance with water management regulations and the preservation of the building’s modest character. The owner’s presentation, supported by detailed explanations and visual aids, culminated in the board’s approval of the requested variances.

Another application came from Andrew Magano and Christine Kristen Schroer, who requested a C1 variance for their property on McLean Street. The variances would allow the construction of a rear two-story addition, a basement window, and a patio, despite the property’s non-compliance with the required lot width, area, and setbacks. The property’s dimensions were smaller than the zoning requirements, prompting a discussion among the board members regarding the potential impact on the neighborhood’s character. Despite concerns, the board recognized the efforts made by the applicants to minimize the impact on the site and the neighborhood and approved the variances.

In the Witherspoon Jackson historic district, a proposal for a rear two-story addition to a property was presented, requiring variances for smaller side yard setback, combined side yard setback, patio setback, and basement egress window setback, as well as a variance for the height to setback ratio. The addition, which included a new kitchen, full baths, and other improvements, was favorably reviewed by the Historic Preservation Commission for its respect to the original streetscape and historic house. The property owners and their attorney faced the challenge of a severely undersized and slanted lot. The architect presented a design that aimed to respect the neighborhood, the existing home, and the neighbors while addressing the challenges posed by the lot’s shape and size. The board heard public comments and ultimately supported the application, acknowledging the effort to align the addition with the neighborhood’s historic character.

The meeting also included discussions on a property that was seeking approval for an addition that would impact the setbacks on the east side of the building. The neighbors were mostly supportive of the project, according to the applicant. The board inquired about specific details such as the placement of windows, the number of cars that could be parked in the driveway, and the proposed square footage of the house. After a examination of the challenges of accommodating the addition within the narrow space of the skewed lot, the board approved the sought variances.

Finally, Lori Kumar and Louisa Marle Clayton presented an application for a lot area variance to construct a new 5600 square foot home. The applicants expressed a desire to age in place in Princeton and a commitment to the natural environment. The architect demonstrated that though the lot was non-compliant with zoning regulations, the proposed house would fit in with the neighborhood’s character. The board members showed support for the application, which complied with the zoning ordinances, and the application was approved.