Historic District Board Approves Dormer Addition and Garage Renos But Rejects Connector Proposal

A proposed renovation project in Lexington is stirring debate among city officials, particularly regarding a connector between a historic home and a new garage. During the July 23 meeting of the Board of Architectural Review, discussions centered on the design and implications of the connector, which some board members believe could disrupt the historic character of the neighborhood.

The project involves a one-and-a-half-story bungalow that is set to receive a new garage and an extension of its dormer. While the dormer extension has garnered support for its alignment with design guidelines, the proposed connector has raised concerns. Staff recommendations indicated that the connector does not fit the established pattern of development in the East Bell Court Historic District, suggesting it could overwhelm the streetscape.

Board members expressed mixed feelings about the connector's visual impact. Some argued that it could add unnecessary mass to the property, while others acknowledged the functional benefits it would provide for the homeowners, particularly for elderly family members visiting. The design team emphasized that the connector is intended to facilitate easier access between living spaces, especially for families with young children.

Despite the push for the connector, the board is leaning towards separating the approval of the dormer and garage from the connector, allowing for further review and potential redesign of the latter. The board's consensus appears to favor moving forward with the garage and dormer while postponing a decision on the connector until more detailed plans can be presented.

As the discussion continues, the board is set to vote on the garage and dormer, with conditions for further refinement, while the fate of the connector remains uncertain. This decision reflects a broader commitment to preserving the historic integrity of Lexington's neighborhoods while accommodating modern living needs.