UIDRB oks replacement gutters at 1471 Michigan Ave, with color and like-kind wood conditions

The University District Design Review Board on March 26 approved a certificate of appropriateness for exterior alterations at 1471 Michigan Avenue, recommending the applicant install a 5-inch K-style gutter that wraps the front of the house and matches existing trim color.

Staff presented three options to restore the building's cornice line: an enhanced-profile replacement gutter, a 5-inch K-style gutter that wraps the eyebrows of the house (option 2), and a 6-inch K-style gutter that also replaces soffits and fascia. "Staff would recommend approval of option number 2 in accordance with city code 31.16(c), on the conditions that the replacement gutters be almond color to match the existing fascia and that any replacement of additional wood elements be in like kind and painted to match existing," the staff member said.

The applicant described existing small rectangular soffits and said he would reconstruct wood soffit where needed. Board members pressed for proportions and visual fit; one asked that the new gutter have sufficient vertical presence so it does not appear "stuck on." The applicant confirmed the existing soffits are painted wood and said the replacement would be designed to emulate the historic detail.

After discussion, a board member moved to approve option 2 with the staff conditions and the motion passed. The board's approval requires the gutters be almond in color and any replaced wood elements (fascia, soffits, trim) be like-kind and painted to match the existing finish.

The board's action follows an earlier denial of a different approach at the September 2025 hearing, after which the applicant requested rehearing on grounds of economic hardship. At the December 2025 rehearing the board asked the applicant to identify a solution to return the cornice line closer to its original condition and return for review. Staff noted the university district plan favors preserving character-defining features where possible but also allows building materials that provide visual interest and texture. The applicant will return with construction details documenting the exact gutter profile, installation approach and paint specifications as part of compliance with the board's conditions.

The board moved on to other agenda items after confirming the vote.