Commission approves certificate and incentives for Bagley House restoration; architect outlines scaled-back restoration plan

Douglas Gilbert, architect for the applicants, presented plans to restore the Bagley House and to remove several nonoriginal rear additions. Gilbert said his clients decided not to proceed with a previously proposed contemporary wing because of changing circumstances and cost; instead, the plan restores the historic envelope, salvages leaded glass and some shingles, and replaces a failing garage with a larger three-car garage configured to accommodate storage and flexible use.

Gilbert walked commissioners through photographic and plan evidence, noting uncovered original wood shingles and historic details that will be replicated or reused where feasible. He said the proposed north-entry vestibule will reuse salvaged leaded-glass doors and sidelights and that some 1980s-era glazing and later additions will be removed to return the house closer to its historic appearance.

Staff clarified zoning: a detached garage may include a bathroom or a kitchen but cannot be an accessory dwelling unit; the applicants chose the bathroom option. Commissioners asked about roof pitch, foundation drainage and compliance with height limits; the architect said the garage design meets the 15-foot mean roof-height requirement and that the project team will submit building permits shortly.

Votes: The commission moved and unanimously approved three motions on the case: a certificate of appropriateness for the designated landmark, a building-permit fee waiver with expedited processing, and a recommendation to the village board for a property-tax rebate and matching grant (preservation incentive).