The Leesburg Board of Architectural Review (BAR) convened on July 23, 2025, to discuss significant architectural proposals, including the construction of a new rear deck and the renovation of a historic property at 210 Cornwall Street Northwest.

The meeting began with a public hearing regarding the proposed deck at 110 Slick Lane Northeast. Board members expressed their support for the use of composite materials, specifically Trex, while voicing concerns over vinyl materials. Local resident Tom Burram spoke in favor of the project, highlighting the benefits of using composite materials to mitigate issues such as carpenter bee infestations. The board unanimously approved the construction of the deck, emphasizing that any alterations would require further review.

The second major topic involved the historic property at 210 Cornwall Street Northwest, which has recently been purchased after years of deterioration. The new owner plans to relocate an existing accessory structure, construct a new garage, and add a small rear addition to the historic house. The BAR discussed the importance of preserving the accessory structure on-site rather than demolishing it, noting that it could be restored and reused.

The proposed garage, which would be attached to the accessory structure, raised questions about its design and connection to the historic building. The board generally supported the garage's simple design, considering it appropriate given its distance from public view. However, they encouraged further discussion on the connection between the two structures.

The proposed addition to the historic house was described as significant but consistent with the guidelines for such projects. The board noted that the addition's design would have minimal impact on the historic structure, allowing for potential future restoration. Concerns were raised about the alignment of windows and the materials used for the foundation, with suggestions made to ensure consistency with the existing historic elements.

After thorough discussion, the board approved the proposal for the Cornwall Street property, subject to conditions that included maintaining the integrity of the historic structure and allowing flexibility in the design of the garage and foundation. The approval reflects the board's commitment to preserving Leesburg's architectural heritage while accommodating modern needs.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the importance of restoring historic properties and the positive impact such projects have on the community. The BAR's decisions underscore a balance between preservation and development in Leesburg's historic district.