Commission restores rear windows at 1506 13th Street, citing egress and historical pattern

The Tuscaloosa Historic Preservation Commission on Dec. 10 approved a certificate of appropriateness (HPC 6525) to add two nonfunctional wood windows to the rear façade of a primary structure at 1506 13th Street.

Staff told the commission the case was first submitted as an October violation after exterior work had been done; the current proposal restores two wood windows matching original light patterns. Owner/representative Rebecca Lynch, who said she purchased the house in May and that many windows had been sealed shut by a prior owner, presented before-and-after photos and explained that returning two windows restored safe egress and the historic pattern at the rear of the home.

Commissioners sought clarification on spacing and exact placement; staff and the applicant stated the two windows would be placed at the locations of the original openings, maintaining approximately 12 inches between the new pair and the previously existing pattern at the facade. The commission acknowledged the October denial but accepted the restoration proposal and approved the certificate with unanimous support from the five members present.

Why it matters: The commission weighs both appearance and safety when evaluating alterations; the owner emphasized egress and restoring historic fenestration.

The applicant and contractor should coordinate final placement and measurements with city staff prior to construction and inspect compliance at the final inspection.