The focal point of the meeting was case H23 D170, concerning a property within the Hamilton Park historic district. The applicant, Nelson Benavides, introduced proposed plans for a three-story rear addition, facade restoration, and interior renovations. The commission paid close attention to the details of the planned restoration, which included the stoop, entry doors, windows, and the use of historically appropriate colors and materials for the building’s facade. Benavides offered explanations for specific design choices, such as the positioning of the Parlor floor windows relative to the water table, which he noted was based on existing site evidence and adjacent building features.

Commission members expressed particular interest in the building’s ornamental ironwork, and there was a consideration that a similar restoration might have been conducted in the past. Throughout this discussion, the commission’s members maintained a focus on the details of the proposal, seeking to ensure the historical integrity of the renovations. However, there were no debates or disagreements; rather, the conversation was characterized by inquiries and clarifications regarding the restoration and addition plans.

The commission also revisited a 2016 approval regarding window replacements for a historic building. The use of resin for the windows had raised concerns among commission members, as this material choice could establish a new precedent for future restorations. There was discomfort expressed over recent alterations to top-floor rear facades and the consistency of these changes with the building’s historical character. The commission scrutinized the brick facade’s painted grout lines and the state of the bricks, and they debated the suitability of using cast iron for the front door. Ultimately, the staff recommended the approval of a certificate of appropriateness with conditions favoring the use of cast iron, alongside standard conditions noted in the staff report. The commission voted unanimously in favor of the recommendation.

Moving beyond individual building cases, the commission turned its attention to the long-pending matter of the French American Academy, which had been in limbo for nearly two years. The commission members expressed a desire to see progress on this case. In addition, the upcoming case involving the applicant for 205 12th Street was addressed, with the commission anticipating the applicant’s plans to incorporate a building into a planning board application. A brief discussion ensued about the necessity of the commission’s approval in the event that the applicant moved forward with the planning board application without it.

The commission also highlighted the need for resolutions during the meeting and noted that there would be no executive session. After concluding the discussions on the agenda, the meeting was brought to a close with a motion to adjourn, which was unanimously approved at 7:08 p.m.