Board tables townhouse duplex application over streetscape and parking concerns

The Winchester Board of Architectural Review on Thursday heard a staff presentation on BAR 26-94, a new application for two attached residential units on a previously approved lot. Staff explained that "the zoning ordinance has a 1 year clause for approvals," and that the earlier approval on this site had lapsed, prompting the need for a fresh certificate of appropriateness review.

Board members focused on design details and site logistics. Several members questioned the proposed Hardie panel siding and whether the reveal lines shown in the elevations would appear as visible seams from the street; others highlighted a split driveway easement that leaves 0.5 of the apron on the neighboring property and raised how the one-parking-space-per-dwelling zoning requirement would be met. Staff noted that front parking pads were proposed to satisfy the parking requirement but that the arrangement could affect the streetscape. The applicant indicated a willingness to adjust the layout and work with staff on alternatives.

After discussion, a board member moved to table BAR 26-94 to allow the applicant to pursue options that would bring the front plane of the buildings more in line with adjacent façades or revise the site plan to address the driveway easement and parking. The motion to table was seconded and approved by voice vote. The board directed staff to relay the feedback to the applicant and to return the item when revisions are available.