A significant architectural review took place at the St. Augustine Historic Architectural Review Board (HARB) meeting on June 18, 2025, focusing on a project at 32 St. Francis Street. The board discussed an application for after-the-fact changes that included extensive modifications to the property’s fenestration, balcony decking, and rear access stairs, as well as updates to the detached garage structure.

John Allman from JAA Architecture presented the revised plans, which were developed following feedback from a previous meeting. The new proposals included detailed specifications for a wood replacement window, specifically the Marvin Ultimate wood sash window, and a color-coded survey of existing windows and doors to clarify which would be replaced. The applicant assured the board that the new window sizes would closely match the original dimensions, adhering to the board's recommendations.

The modifications also involved changing the stucco finish from rough to smooth and reconstructing the entry canopy. HARB staff indicated that the updated plans were now consistent with the city’s Architectural Guidelines and Historic Preservation (AJHP), suggesting that the board could approve the application if it met the Secretary of the Interior's standards for rehabilitation.

Public comments were invited, with one resident expressing concern about the preparedness of applicants in previous meetings but showing support for Allman's efforts. Board members acknowledged the improvements made since the last presentation, noting the applicant's responsiveness to their requests.

In conclusion, the board emphasized the importance of compliance with historical standards and indicated that the project would require an additional application for archaeological review due to planned ground disturbances. The outcome of this meeting marks a step forward in preserving St. Augustine's architectural heritage while allowing for necessary updates to historic properties.