Commission splits decision on window work at 86 Warren; subcommittee to review damage and product

The Italian Village Commission voted to approve part of an application for 86 Warren (COA2501282) while continuing the question of full historic-window replacement pending a subcommittee review.

Staff told the commission that the property features 24 original wood windows that, in staff’s view, remain historic and repairable based on a site visit and submitted photos, but noted two nonoriginal aluminum windows that staff recommended be replaced as part of part A of the application. Staff recommended splitting the application: approve replacement of the two nonoriginal windows and continue consideration of the original windows so the applicant could provide additional evidence of the level of damage and proposed attachment details.

Architect Steve Erb of Urban Order Architecture said repairing old wood windows is often “arduous” and can leave operability problems. "I've done it... it's mostly... not as successful," Erb said, arguing that replacement could improve function and allow removal of deteriorated storm windows that can conceal original fabric.

Commissioners requested clearer, labeled photographs that show jamb and frame deterioration and discussed potential lead-abatement funding mechanisms; one commissioner noted a lead-abatement tax-credit/grant program with an approximate cap discussed in the hearing. To reach a final determination, commissioners formed a subcommittee (Joe and Page volunteered) to review additional photos and details about how the proposed window would attach to existing brick mold and to confirm final casement style. The commission approved the application contingent on the subcommittee’s final approval of the submitted supplemental materials; the transcript records voice votes in favor but does not contain a numeric roll-call tally.

Next steps: the subcommittee will review supplemental photos and attachment details and report back; if members determine the damage warrants replacement, the submitted Marvin Ultimate product would be acceptable per the motion.