Agenda Packet 11.7.24 - Laserfiche WebLink

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HEMA No. 2024-02 – The Dinsmore House (222 S. Cypress Avenue) November 7, 2024 Page 7 4 6 3 5 10.New additions and adjacent or related new construction will be undertaken in such a manner that, if removed in the future, the essential form and integrity of the historic property and its environment would be unimpaired. The project, as conditioned, complies with Standard No. 10. The addition proposed for legalization could be removed without impairing essential form and integrity of the historic property and its surroundings. Visual observation and background research indicates the addition was made to the building at what was then the north façade of the rear porch. Although available documentation may not reveal the precise design of the building at this location, the original plane and cladding materials of the wall at this location are known, and the could be restored to something approximating its original appearance with the use of cladding similar to that on adjacent areas of the exterior. In addition, even if the future restoration of the wall may diverge somewhat from the building’s original design at this location (for example, due to insufficient knowledge about the placement of any windows formerly at this location), restoring the wall to its original plane would sufficiently respect and restore the historical form and appearance of the building. Moreover, the addition is at a location that is not highly visible, such that changes to the building or site resulting from the removal of the addition would be inconspicuous from any public vantage point. Conclusion Staff has determined that the project, as conditioned, complies with The Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation. Specifically, the analysis indicates that the proposed replacement of vinyl windows with historically appropriate wood sashes, replacement of the metal rear handrail with a wood feature of a complementary architectural character, and limited and repair and replacement of the deteriorated or damaged features would be compatible and consistent with the historic architectural elements that reflect the property’s original Queen Anne- and Greek Revival-style architecture, while retaining or replacing in- kind all existing character-defining features. Further, all replacement features would meet current building code. Finally, the rear addition proposed for legalization is generally consistent, yet differentiated from and subordinate to, the Dinsmore House’s historical design and construction and could be reversed at a future date with no appreciable impact on the essential form and integrity of the residence. The role of the Historic Resources Commission is to issue a Certificate of Appropriateness upon finding that the proposed modifications do not substantially change the character and integrity of the historic properties per Santa Ana Municipal Code Section 30-6 and meet the Secretary of Interior’s Standards per CEQA and the City’s Certified Local Government agreement with the State of California. Staff finds that the historic exterior modification application meets the necessary criteria to be awarded a Certificate of Appropriateness and should be approved. It is also recommended that staff approve the exact materials and finishes to be used prior to installation to ensure quality and compatibility.