Commission urges caution on demolition at 1462 Brighton Road; asks for stronger justification and cost data

An applicant proposing demolition of a circa-1901 brick carriage house at 1462 Brighton Road was told by the Historic Resources Commission that demolition requires strong, documented justification and a clear demonstration that repair or adaptive reuse is infeasible.

Staff presented archival mapping and an engineer’s structural assessment that recommends masonry tie-rods and repointing in places where mortar has deteriorated. Commissioners noted the building retains original massing and much historic material; several members said the report indicated the structure could be stabilized and that demolition by neglect is not an accepted rationale for razing a contributing structure. Commissioners asked the applicant to provide detailed cost estimates comparing stabilization/repair and demolition/rebuild options, a site visit to confirm conditions, and alternatives such as an addition or reconfiguration that preserve much of the original fabric while meeting the owner’s program (e.g., ADU or modern garage dimensions).

No motion to demolish was made; the conversation concluded with guidance that demolition would only be considered if the applicant demonstrates compliance with the commission’s hardship criteria and documents that repair is impractical or dangerous. Staff recommended the applicant return with more information and welcomed creative preservation-minded solutions.