Historic Landmarks Commission Packets
Regular MeetingSuffolk, VA · February 9, 2017
Agenda
HISTORIC LANDMARKS COMMISSION
February 9, 2017
THE REGULAR MEETING WILL BE HELD AT 9:00 A.M. IN
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
CITY HALL BUILDING
NOTE: IF YOU CANNOT ATTEND THIS MEETING, PLEASE CALL
THE DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING
BY 12:00 NOON, WEDNESDAY, February 8, 2017
514-4060
RANDY HICKS
CHAIRMAN
PREPARED BY THE CITY OF SUFFOLK
DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
DIVISION OF PLANNING
AGENDA
Historic Landmarks Commission Meeting
Thursday, February 9, 2017
9:00 a.m.
I. Call to Order: Chairman
II. Roll Call
III. Approval of the Minutes
IV. New Business
1. REQUEST FOR CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS HC-2016-24,
submitted by Scott Alperin of Suffolk Tower Holdings, LLC, property owner, for
the replacement of 17 wood windows with vinyl clad windows and the
restoration of 11 Palladian windows at 181 N. Main Street, Zoning Map 34G18,
Block (A), Parcel 324. The affected area is further identified as being located in
the Suffolk Voting Borough, zoned CBD, Central Business District and HC
(Historic Conservation Overlay District).
V. Staff Reports
A. Enforcement Update
B. Administrative Approvals
VI.
Adjournment
2
MINUTES
HISTORIC LANDMARKS COMMISSION
January 12, 2017
9:00 A.M.
The regular meeting of the Historic Landmarks Commission was held on Thursday, December
8, 2016, 9:00 a.m., in the Council Chambers of the City Hall, 442 W. Washington Street,
Suffolk, Virginia, with the following persons present:
MEMBERS PRESENT: STAFF:
Randy Hicks David Hainley, Director of Planning & Com. Dev.
Susan Coley Bob Goumas, Assistant Director of Planning
John Faircloth Karla Carter, Associate City Attorney
Oliver Hobbs Kevin Wyne, Principal Planner
Walter Boyette Amy Thurston, Planner I
Edward King Jillian Scott-Hale, Office Assistant
Vivian Turner
Mary Austin Darden
MEMBERS ABSENT:
Merritt Draper
The meeting was called to order by Chairman Hicks. The roll was called by Mr. Goumas and
the Chairman was informed that a quorum was present. The minutes of the previous meeting
were approved as presented.
3
REQUEST FOR CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS HC-2016-00027, submitted by
Charles Parr, property owner, for the replacement of the current metal shingle roof with
architectural shingles on property located at 514 West Washington Street, Zoning Map
34G17, Block (2)A, Parcel 1*2. The affected area is further identified as being located in the
Suffolk Voting Borough, zoned CBD, Central Business District and HC, Historic
Conservation Overlay District.
The first item of business was introduced by the Chairman, followed by a staff report by Amy
Thurston, Planner I. Ms. Thurston stated the property is located in the West End Historic District,
within the Suffolk Historic Conservation Overlay District. This property is located on West
Washington Street, between the blocks of North Broad Street and Brewer Avenue. Based on the
National Register of Historic Places Continuation Sheet, the subject property is a contributing
structure constructed circa 1885-1900 in Queen Anne architecture. The structure is noted as
having a gable cross metal shingle roof. Ms. Thurston stated that in April, 2010 the property
received a COA for the replacement of the existing metal shingle roof with 30-year architectural-
grade shingles but since the work did not commence within 6 months a new COA is required.
Ms. Thurston stated that the National Register of Historic Places Registration Form states that the
roof materials historically used in the West End District include metal, tin, asphalt shingles and
slate. Ms. Thurston stated that surrounding neighboring properties contains a combination of
metal standing seam roofing and architectural shingles in the area.
Ms. Thurston stated that existing metal tiles that are peeling and chipping; they have experienced
substantial weathering that has caused leaks on the interior of the attic. Ms. Thurston stated that
4
water damage and discoloration has occurred on the wood sheathing, and there are gaps in the
wood sheathing where you can actually see sunlight, with several areas of the roof where no
protection is being provided at all. The applicant submitted a contractor statement (from
November 2016) from Mr. James Durden, Jr. of Durden Construction, stating that the existing
roof materials are beyond repair. Mr. Durden recommended replacement of the wood sheathing of
the upper roof and new architectural shingles that will better protect the home. Ms. Thurston also
stated the specific architectural shingle to be used would be the GAF Timberline Natural Shadow
33- square foot charcoal laminated shingles.
Ms. Thurston provided an overview of the neighboring properties, generally describing the
roofing materials of each noting that many have architectural shingle roofs and noting whether
they were contributing structures. Ms. Thurston stated that when re-roofing becomes necessary,
then, at a minimum, the roofing materials shall be upgraded to an architectural-grade shingle.
Based on the above findings-of-fact, staff recommended approval of the application, HC2016-27,
with the conditions noted below:
1. The main roof will be replaced with GAF Timberline Natural Shadow 33-square
foot Charcoal Laminated Architectural Roof Shingles.
2. Any additional improvements shall require a Certificate of Appropriateness.
3. All required permits shall be obtained from the City of Suffolk.
The public hearing was opened and speaking in favor of the application was John Jones, 468
Milford Lane. Mr. Jones stated that he is the co-owner of the house with Charles Parr and
5
concurs with staff recommendations. Mr. Jones re-iterated that several existing homes in the
district have the agricultural shingles. Mr. Jones stated that the Board has in the past approved the
agricultural shingles and the shingles on the house is in dire need of the renovations.
There being no more speakers in favor or opposition, the public hearing was closed.
Commissioner Boyette made a motion to approve staff’s recommendation and the motion was
seconded by Commissioner Faircloth and approved by a recorded vote of 7-0-1.
(Commissioner Mary Austin Darden abstained)
New Business: Enforcement Update
Donald Bennett, (Planning & Community Development) reported on the following properties:
201 N. Main Street – court cased continued until February 2, 2017
212 Grace Street – fined $100.00 for property maintenance code violation
New Business: Zoning Update
Frederick Sample, (Planning & Community Development) reported on the following properties:
181 N. Main Street – Property in litigation, case continued until March 22, 2017
216 Bank Street – Case being sent to court
302 Bank Street – Case being sent to court
6
Commissioner Hobbs expressed interest in having a training class that will inform and aid the
Commissioners in regard to making subjective decisions based off the historic district guidelines
and the bylaws.
Chairman Hicks followed up stating that would be a good idea and stated the city has in the past
provided Commissioners the opportunity to attend historic trainings.
Mr. Goumas stated that he would look into this request for the Commissioners.
There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 9:35 a.m.
7
HISTORIC LANDMARKS COMMISSION
Motion:
To Approve
Staff’s Recommendation
1st: Boyette
January 12, 2017
2nd: Faircloth
ATTENDANCE HC-2016-00027
VOTE: 7-0-1
COMMISSIONERS PRESENT ABSENT YES NO
Boyette, Walter, Vice-Chairman X X
Coley, Susan M. X X
Austin-Darden, Mary X ABSTAINED
Draper, Merritt X
Faircloth, John X X
Hicks, Randy, Chairman X X
Hobbs, Oliver X X
King, Edward L. X X
Turner, Vivian X X
8
CITY OF SUFFOLK
442 W. WASHINGTON STREET, P.O. BOX 1858, SUFFOLK, VIRGINIA 23439-1858
PHONE: (757) 514-4060 FAX: (757) 514-4099
DEPARTMENT OF
PLANNING & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Division of Planning
To: Historic Landmarks Commission
From: Kevin M. Wyne, AICP, Principal Planner
Date: February 9, 2017
Subject: REQUEST FOR CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS HC-2016-24,
submitted by Scott Alperin of Suffolk Tower Holdings, LLC, property owner, for
the replacement of 17 wood windows with vinyl clad windows and the restoration
of 11 Palladian windows at 181 N. Main Street, Zoning Map 34G18, Block (A),
Parcel 324. The affected area is further identified as being located in the Suffolk
Voting Borough, zoned CBD, Central Business District and HC, Historic
Conservation Overlay District.
STAFF REPORT
Proposed Action
The applicant is seeking an after-the-fact approval to replace 10 wooden double-hung sash
windows and approval to replace an additional 7 wooden double-hung sash windows on the
second floor of the Suffolk Tower building located at 181 N. Main Street. The original windows
are wood six-over-one, double-hung sash that are off-white in color. The applicant states that
these are beyond repair and proposes to replace them with six-over-one, double-hung, Pinnacle
vinyl clad windows in Sandstone, which closely matches SW 2822 Downing Sand in the
approved Sherwin Williams Victorian Color Palette. Only windows on the second story are
slated for replacement as a part of this application.
The second story also contains 11 Palladian windows that will be restored and preserved as a part
of this application. This will be accomplished by scraping and removing the existing paint and
repainting them with SW 9110 Malabar, which also closely matches SW 2822 Downing Sand in
the approved Victorian Color Palette. The remaining windows on the south façade and two
smaller one-over-one and single pane windows on the west façade were not included with this
application.
Public Notice
Public notice of this meeting was published in the newspaper and notices were mailed to
HC2016-24
February 9, 2017
Page 2
adjacent property owners on January 25, 2017
Overview of the Subject Property and Surrounding Area
The subject property is located within the Original Suffolk District (1987), which is significant
due to its architectural integrity and its association with state and regional commercial, industrial
and transportation history. As noted in the National Register Nomination Form, the district
includes a variety of architectural designs that span from the late eighteenth century through the
1930s, including Vernacular, Federal, Italianate, Victorian, Neoclassical and Bungalow-style
buildings. The North Main Street corridor contains commercial spaces, several substantial late
nineteenth-century churches, a Masonic Hall, a U.S. Post Office, and Suffolk's oldest railroad
depots. To the east and west of North Main Street are residential neighborhoods which contain
dwellings built by workers and captains of industry during the late nineteenth and early twentieth
centuries reflecting the intensified industrial growth that centered on the lumber and peanut
processing trades. The Suffolk Historic District exhibits a cohesive architectural and historical
fabric throughout.
The subject property features a contributing structure built in 1924. Presently being used as an
apartment house, the Suffolk Towers was known as the Elliott Hotel well into the 1960s. The
eight story, four bay building was built in the American Renaissance style and consists of brick
in a stretcher bond pattern and has a parapet roof. The building incorporates classical motifs
throughout the façade, including jack arches with keystones and a full classical entablature below
the parapet with triglyphs and modillions. The building is one of three high rise structures
located within the Historic Conservation Overlay District and is the only high rise included in the
footprint of the Original Suffolk District (1987). The building, along with the other two
downtown high rises, dominates the downtown skyline and is a testimony to the final years of
Beaux Arts-influenced architecture before the Depression.
The windows on the building are a collection of both original and replacement windows. Most of
the existing windows consist of double-hung, six-over-one configuration; however, a handful of
one-over-one, six-over-six and nine-over-one windows have been installed.
Case History
On April 22, 2016, it came to the City’s attention that window replacement was taking place at
181 N. Main Street without the required Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) for exterior
improvements made on structures within the City’s Historic Conservation Overlay District. A
site visit revealed that windows were indeed being replaced without the required COA and the
City’s Community Development division issued a stop work order the same day, April 22, 2016.
On April 29, 2016, the City observed additional windows being installed without the necessary
COA and contacted the property owner, Suffolk Tower Holdings, LLC. During this
conversation, the need for a COA was discussed and the City was informed that the contractor
would be told to stop work. The property owner informed the City that he was unsure of how
many windows his contractor had replaced and that his firm purchased the property in 2006,
noting that many windows had been replaced prior to that time.
HC2016-24
February 9, 2017
Page 3
A formal Notice of Violation was issued on May 1, 2016, and the owner was given three (3) days
to file a completed, after the fact, COA application. A completed application was not filed within
this time frame and the violation was referred to General District Court on June 6, 2016. The
case first went before the court on August 4, 2016, where it was continued until November 3,
2016, to allow the property owner additional time to file the required application. An application
was filed on October 4, 2016, and reviewed by staff for completeness. On October 19, 2016, the
property owner was informed that the submitted application was incomplete and the City
requested additional information that would be required before the application could continue to
be processed.
The case was once again continued in court on November 3, 2016, as the City worked with the
applicant towards procuring a complete application. The Planning division followed up with the
applicant on December 9, 2016, as the required additional information had not yet been received.
On December 15, 2016, the applicant provided a response to the City’s request for additional
information, thus securing a place on the Historic Landmark Commission’s (HLC) February
2017 agenda. Another court hearing was continued on January 5, 2017, to allow the application
to go before the HLC.
Several site inspections have been conducted at the property which has revealed over 100
windows that are not original to the building. The applicant has stated that only the 17 windows
are slated for replacement, as requested in the addendum to the application received on
December 15, 2016. As of this writing, at least 10 of the 17 sash windows on the second story
have been replaced. At this time, the submitted application is only for the restoration of the 11
second story Palladian windows and replacement of 17 second story sash windows. City staff
will continue to work to determine when the other original windows throughout the rest of the
structure were replaced.
One previous Certificate of Appropriateness, HC2014-00035AD, was approved for this property
in November 2014 for a 32 square foot wall sign on the Market Street side of the second story.
Contractor Statement
In support of the Certificate of Appropriateness application, the applicant has provided a
contractor’s statement which notes that the current wood windows are deteriorating and that
some are in poor/bad condition. Replacement of these windows is recommended by the
contractor, as many of the existing windows are non-functional due to deterioration to the point
that many cannot open. Additionally, the contractor’s statement states that replacement of these
deteriorating windows would allow for increased energy efficiency.
Applicable Regulations and Analysis
A. Unified Development Ordinance (UDO)
1. Section 31-413(f)(1), Certificate of Appropriateness: Where exterior appearance
of any structure as viewed from any street or public way is involved, the Zoning
Administrator shall issue no permit for erection, alteration, or improvement unless
HC2016-24
February 9, 2017
Page 4
and until a Certificate of Appropriateness has been issued.
2. Section 31-413(g)(2), General Considerations
B. The appropriateness of the general design geometry and proportions,
structural arrangement, building materials, texture and color of the
proposed building, structure or appurtenant element in relation to such
factors as the compatibility with similar features of buildings or structures
within the area circumscribed by the subject overlay district(s).
C. The historical or architectural value and significance of the building,
structure or appurtenant element and its relationship to the historic or
architectural value of the area in which it is proposed to be located.
D. The extent to which the building, structure or appurtenant element will
be harmonious with or architecturally incompatible with the historic
buildings within the subject overlay district(s).
E. The compatibility of planned improvements and renovations with the
architectural and historic quality, character, and scale of the historic
buildings in the City of Suffolk.
3. Section 31-413(g)(7), Approval of Major Action by the HLC
(v) Any alteration to exterior building materials or color of materials
B. Suffolk Historic District Design Guidelines
1. Chapter 1, Section E, Categories of Significance within the Historic Conservation
Overlay District, Contributing Structures: Historic or non-historic structures
contribute to the overall historic character of the historic district through the
compatibility of their design, character, scale, material, and detailing. They are
not, however, significant enough to be designated as landmarks.
2. Chapter 2, Section E, Certificate of Appropriateness: A Certificate of
Appropriateness is similar to a building permit in that it is required whenever the
exterior appearance of any structure in the Historic Conversation Overlay District,
as viewed from any street or public way, is erected, altered, or improved.
3. Chapter 4, Exterior Elements, Materials and Colors, Section C. Window
Openings: Windows and door openings are a major character and style-
determining feature of an historic building. These elements usually act together
visually to define the directional emphasis and proportions of the façade as well
as the style. It is very important that the windows of an historic building be
preserved where possible to maintain their size and details (e.g. muntin patterns,
mullion spacing and width, transoms, trim details, etc.).
4. Chapter 4, Exterior Elements, Materials and Colors, Section C.2. Typical Window
Types:
HC2016-24
February 9, 2017
Page 5
• Double-Hung Sash is the most common type of windows and is used on
all styles of architecture. As noted in the following examples, their
appearance can vary with the number of panes in each sash and building
style:
5. Chapter 4, Exterior Elements, Materials and Colors, Section C.3. Guidelines for
Window Preservation:
• Preserve Original Windows: Insure that all hardware is in good operating
condition, that caulk and glazing putty are intact and in good condition,
and that water drains off the sills.
• Maintain Original Windows: Maintain original windows by patching,
splicing, consolidating or otherwise reinforcing the wooden members.
Wood that appears to be in bad condition because of peeling paint or
separated joints often can be repaired. Uncover and repair covered-up
windows and reinstall windows where they have been blocked in. If the
window is no longer needed, the glass should be retained and the back side
frosted, screened, covered with dark painted plywood on the inside, or
shuttered so that it appears from the outside to be in use. If repair of an
original window is necessary, repair only the deteriorated element to
match the original in size, composition, material, dimension, and detail by
patching, splicing, consolidating, or otherwise reinforcing the deteriorated
section. The removal of historic materials shall be avoided.
• Avoid Replacing Original Windows: Replace windows only when they are
missing or beyond repair. Reconstruction should be based on physical
evidence or old photographs, when available. Replacement windows
should be designated to match the original in appearance, detail, material,
profile, and overall size as closely as possible. Do not use inappropriate
materials or finishes that radically change the sash, depth of reveal, muntin
configuration, the reflective quality or color of the glazing, or the
appearance of the frame.
• Maintain the Original Window Patterns: Do not change the number,
location, size, or glazing pattern of windows by cutting new openings,
blocking in windows, or installing replacement sash that do not fit the
window opening.
• Improve Thermal Qualities: Improve thermal efficiency with weather
stripping, storm windows (preferably interior), caulking, interior shades,
and if appropriate for the building, shutters (blinds) and awnings. Install
interior storm windows with airtight gaskets, ventilating holes, and/or
removable clips to insure proper maintenance and to avoid condensation
damage to windows. Install exterior storm windows that do not damage or
obscure the windows and frames. The storm windows divisions should
HC2016-24
February 9, 2017
Page 6
match those of the original window. Avoid unpainted aluminum storm
sashes. This type of window can be painted an appropriate color if it is
first primed with a zinc chromate primer. Avoid replacing a multi-paned
sash with new thermal sash utilizing false snap-in muntins. Do not replace
windows or transoms with fixed thermal glazing. Do not use tinted glass
on major facades of the building.
• Appropriate Use of Shutters: Use shutters only on windows that show
evidence of their use in the past. They should be wood rather than metal or
vinyl and be mounted on hinges attached to the frame. A correctly sized
shutter will only cover the glass. Shutters are generally inappropriate on
composite or bay windows.
• Maintain Consistency of Window Types: Maintain window types that
reflect those types found in the district.
• Preserve and Maintain Historic Solid/Void Ratio: Preserve the ratio of
solids (walls) and voids (windows and doors) of new buildings as they
relate to and are compatible with adjacent historic facades. Historic
residential buildings have a higher ratio of wall to window than do
commercial buildings.
• Preserve Proportions and Rhythm of Windows: Maintain the rhythm and
placement of windows on the facades of new buildings as they relate to
neighboring historic buildings. Maintain the proportion of window
openings or the relationship between height and width to be similar to and
compatible with those on surrounding historic facades. Most residential
windows have a vertical proportion. However, these individual vertical
windows may be grouped in such a way as to form a composite window
that has a horizontal proportion.
• Preserve Historic Articulation of Window Openings: Preserve the
articulation of openings as they relate to historic building types. Frames
should be recessed in masonry openings and raised frames should be used
on wood buildings. New windows should not be flush with the wall
surface.
• New Window Materials: New windows may be constructed of painted
wood, metal clad or vinyl clad. Unfinished or anodized aluminum is not
permitted. When evaluating the acceptability of replacement windows, the
following criteria shall be used:
o Kind and texture of materials;
o Architectural and historical compatibility;
o Comparison to original window profile;
o Level of significance of original windows to the architectural style
HC2016-24
February 9, 2017
Page 7
of the building; and Material performance and durability.
• Conditions Statement: A signed statement, with exhibits, from a licensed
general contractor stating the condition of the existing windows, ability to
be repaired, need for replacement, proposed corrective measures, and
options to replacement is required as supporting documentation for any
application for a Certificate of Appropriateness.
C. Secretary of Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation and Guidelines for Rehabilitating
Historic Buildings
• Windows - Identify, Retain and Preserve – Recommended:
o Identifying, retaining, and preserving windows--and their functional and
decorative features--that are important in defining the overall historic
character of the building. Such features can include frames, sash, muntins,
glazing, sills, heads, hoodmolds, paneled or decorated jambs and moldings,
and interior and exterior shutters and blinds.
• Windows - Identify, Retain and Preserve – Not Recommended:
o Removing or radically changing windows which are important in defining the
historic character of the building so that, as a result, the character is
diminished.
o Changing the number, location, size or glazing pattern of windows, through
cutting new openings, blocking-in windows, and installing replacement sash
that do not fit the historic window opening.
o Changing the historic appearance of windows through the use of inappropriate
designs, materials, finishes, or colors which noticeably change the sash, depth
of reveal, and muntin configuration; the reflectivity and color of the glazing;
or the appearance of the frame.
o Obscuring historic window trim with metal or other material.
o Stripping windows of historic material such as wood, cast iron, and bronze.
o Replacing windows solely because of peeling paint, broken glass, stuck sash,
and high air infiltration. These conditions, in themselves, are no indication
that windows are beyond repair.
• Windows – Replace – Recommended:
o Replacing in kind an entire window that is too deteriorated to repair using the
same sash and pane configuration and other design details. If using the same
kind of material is not technically or economically feasible when replacing
windows deteriorated beyond repair, then a compatible substitute material
may be considered.
• Windows – Replace – Not Recommended:
HC2016-24
February 9, 2017
Page 8
o Removing a character-defining window that is unrepairable and blocking it in;
or replacing it with a new window that does not convey the same visual
appearance.
Staff Analysis
As noted above, the applicant is requesting to replace 17 wooden, six-over-one, double-hung
sash windows on the second story with vinyl clad double-hung, six-over-one windows that will
be beige in color. As previously noted, 10 of the requested 17 windows have already been
replaced. The replacement windows appear to be all vinyl windows with interior grids and are
not in compliance with District Guidelines. Vinyl clad windows, which are requested by the
applicant, are constructed of wood with a vinyl cladding that provides the finish and helps
protect against the elements. This type of window can provide a structure, depth, and profile
similar to wood windows and may be permitted when original wood windows are beyond repair
and replacement is necessary.
As required under Chapter 4 of the Historic District Guidelines, original windows are to be
replaced only when they are missing or beyond repair. Reconstruction should be based on
physical evidence, and replacement windows should match the original in appearance, detail,
material, profile, and overall size as closely as possible. The Guidelines specify that
inappropriate materials or finishes that radically change the sash, depth of reveal, muntin
configuration, the reflective quality or color of the glazing, or the appearance of the frame shall
not be used. When new windows are used, the Guidelines specify that they may be constructed
of painted wood, metal clad or vinyl clad.
The Secretary of Interior’s Standards also recommend identifying, retaining, and preserving
windows that are important in defining the overall historic character of the building, and
replacing with like materials when necessary.
As noted in the contractor’s statement provided by the applicant, the original sash windows are
deteriorating and some are in poor condition. Although the contractor recommends replacement,
there is no indication that all of the windows are beyond repair. Windows that can be repaired
should be restored and retained in compliance with the Guidelines, as is the case with the
ornamental Palladian windows. Because the second story is a prominent and cohesive part of this
building’s façade, any windows that must be replaced and are visible from adjacent streets
should be wood and of the same design and profile as the original windows to maintain visual
consistency.
The replacement windows proposed by the applicant are to be vinyl clad and will utilize a six-
over-one sash configuration like the existing wood windows. However, the existing wood
windows are true divided light windows, with muntins exposed on the exterior. Specifically, the
existing windows possess a noticeable muntin depth, thickness and exterior exposure that are
easily evident from street level even at the highest floors of the structure. The applicant does not
indicate whether the replacement vinyl clad windows would utilize applied grids or muntins. The
replacement windows that have already been installed are simulated divided light vinyl windows
HC2016-24
February 9, 2017
Page 9
with interior grids that have no exterior exposure. Both the material and the profile of these
windows impact their visual appearance as they lack the character defining quality and depth of
the original windows from the adjacent streets.
In addition to the replacement of the 17 double-hung windows, the applicant is proposing to
restore 11 Palladian windows on the second story. The applicant will scrape these windows of
the existing paint and repaint them beige. Staff finds this proposed action to be consistent with
the City’s Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) and the District Guidelines, as well as the
standards established by the Secretary of Interior for rehabilitation of historic structures. With the
exception of one window that has already been replaced, the windows on the south façade are
not included as a part of this application. In addition, two smaller one-over-one and single pane
windows were excluded from this application.
The Suffolk Tower building is located at one of the most visible intersections in Suffolk’s
historic downtown area, and, as mentioned above, dominates the City’s downtown skyline. The
lower two floors of this building are directly adjacent to N. Main and Market Street, and all of its
architectural details are readily apparent. As such, replacement of important architectural
features should be handled carefully and stay true to the original craftsmanship and design the
structure was afforded during its construction in 1924. The design, detail, and material of the
proposed replacement windows, particularly in this prominent location and on such a notable
structure, must be compatible with the District Guidelines and with the intent of the City’s
Unified Development Ordinance.
Summary and Recommendations
Staff finds the restoration of the Palladian windows on the second story appropriate and
consistent with the guidelines and regulations controlling exterior improvements within the
Historic Conservation Overlay District. However, staff finds both the design of the proposed
replacement windows and the use of vinyl clad to replace solid wood windows on the prominent
façades of the Suffolk Tower building inconsistent with the requirements outlined within the
District Guidelines and the Secretary of Interior’s standards and the regulations found within the
UDO. Specifically, the replacement windows will not achieve a design that will match the
original windows in appearance, detail, material, profile, and overall size as closely as possible,
as instructed in the district guidelines.
After evaluation, staff believes that the criteria of the Historic District Design Guidelines can be
met based on the above findings-of-fact and the conditions outlined below. Therefore, staff
recommends approval of the following actions and conditions in regard to HC2016-24:
1. Restoration of the second story Palladian windows by scraping the existing paint and
repainting the windows using SW 9110 Malabar.
2. Repair and retention of wood sash windows on the second story where feasible. A signed
statement, with exhibits, from a licensed general contractor stating the condition of each
original window, ability to be repaired, need for replacement, and proposed corrective
measures shall be provided.
HC2016-24
February 9, 2017
Page 10
3. Replacement of irreparable wood sash windows and previously installed vinyl windows
on the second story with double-hung, six-over-one wooden windows compatible in
design, profile, and configuration with the windows original to the structure.
4. Painting of all windows with SW 2822 Downing Sand or equivalent from the approved
Sherwin Williams Victorian Color Palette.
5. No additional exterior changes shall be permitted without the issuance of a Certificate of
Appropriateness.
6. All required permits shall be obtained from the City of Suffolk.
HC2016-24
ZONING MAP
(HC2016-24)
CBD
RM
RM
MAI N
34G18(A)*324
CBD
s
HC2016-24 181 N. Main Street
Replacement Windows
Original Windows
HC2016-24 181 N. Main Street
HC2016-24 181 N. Main Street
Replacement Windows Original Windows
HC2016-24 181 N. Main St.
HC2016-24 South Elevation (Second Story)
From: Tracey Unch
To: Kevin M Wyne
Subject: FW: Suffolk Tower Window Replacement HLC Application
Date: Thursday, December 15, 2016 11:37:49 AM
Good morning Kevin,
Sorry for the delay and here you go:
Happy holidays,
Tracey
-How many windows have already been replaced? Only a few, we began installing in
March and promptly stopped after we received the city citation of stop work
notice.
-How many windows are scheduled for replacement? How many windows will be replaced
in total? 17 windows and only on the 2nd floor.
-Are replacements proposed for all faces of the building? Yes, 2nd floor windows facing
Main Street will be replaced except for the Palladian and ornamental windows.
-In reviewing the application, it appears the current windows are/were white in color and
are proposed to be replaced with Sherwin-Williams 9110 Malabar. Is this correct? Yes.
-There are many 6 over 1 double hung windows on the first and second stories. Are these
slated for replacement as well? Yes and only on the 2nd floor.
-The 6 over 1 windows on the Market Street elevation have side lights on each side, will
these windows and side lights be replaced or restored? No, Only 2nd floor with 6/1
replacement windows.
-Could you provide details pertaining to the restoration of the ornamental and Palladian
windows on the second floor? Colors and methods to be used? The doors will be
scrapped with hand held scrapers and then hand painted with the Sherwin
Williams 9110 Malabar paint.
-According to Virginia DPOR records, Mr. Jesse Cox is a Class B General Contractor, is this
accurate? Yes, do we need a class A contractor?
-Are any of the 6 over 1 windows slated for restoration or are they all scheduled for
replacement? 2nd floor are the scheduled windows for replacement.
-Could you please provide us with color illustrations of the proposed
replacements? Sherwin Williams SW 6149 Relaxed Khaki
I understand that this is a great deal of information, however, it will be necessary to ensure
we have the best information in moving the application forward to the HLC. To ensure we
have time to adequately advertise your public hearing for November 10, we will need your
responses no later than close of business tomorrow, as an ad needs to be submitted by noon
on October 21. My apologies for the short turnaround.
I look forward to working with you during this process. If you have any questions or
require any additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me through email or at
757-514-4065.
Thank you,
Kevin
Kevin M. Wyne, AICP
Principal Planner
City of Suffolk
442 W. Washington Street
Suffolk, VA 23434
p: 757-514-4065
f: 757-514-4199
Property Maintenance Code Enforcement Update
February 2017
ADDRESS CODE VIOLATION(S) STATUS
342 N MAIN ST PROPERTY MAINTENANCE REISSUED SUMMONS FOR 3/2/17
220 PINNER ST PROPERTY MAINENANCE REISSUED SUMMONS FOR 3/2/17
222 PINNER ST PROPERTY MAINENANCE REISSUED SUMMONS FOR 3/2/17
215 GRACE ST PROPERTY MAINENANCE REISSUED SUMMONS FOR 3/2/17
216 PEARL ST PROPERTY MAINTENANCE ISSUED NOTICE OF VIOLATION
212 GRACE STREET PROPERTY MAINTENANCE ISSUED NOTICE OF VIOLATION
118 PINNER ST PROPERTY MAINTENANCE SCHEDULED FOR COURT ON 2/2/17
Zoning
General District Court Docket
February 2017
PROPERTY OWNER(s) LOCATION VIOLATION(s) JUDGEMENT INSPECTOR
Zoning - replacing
Suffolk Tower Holdings LLC 181 N Main St windows, no COA Continued 3/2/2017 Ricky
Nansemond Wharf Southside Zoning - Missing
Properties 216 Bank St features, no COA Court 3/2/17 Ricky
Raven P. Coston 222 Pinner St Zoning NOV Sent Ricky
Zoning - Replacing porch
Lakeisha Bradley 302 Bank St decking, no COA Court 3/2/17 Ricky
Get email alerts for Suffolk
A daily email when new agendas and minutes are posted.