Commission approves front‑corner basement egress window at 813 East Ann Street

The Ann Arbor Historic District Commission approved a Certificate of Appropriateness on May 14 for a new basement egress window and well on the east elevation near the front of 813 East Ann Street.

Staff reported that the house’s historic character is retained by placing egress openings in non‑character‑defining elevations when possible; the applicant had already received staff approval for three other egress wells further back on the same elevation and sought commission approval for this front‑corner well because of its proximity to the right‑of‑way. Applicant Scott Clawson told commissioners the lot geometry and interior configuration limit where a code‑compliant egress can be placed, and he said the proposed window will sit within the stone foundation and the well will match existing approved wells.

Commissioners asked for clarity that the installed window trim and well will be set within the stone and not extend past the siding plane; the applicant confirmed the trim will be below the siding and the well will be sized appropriately. The commission approved the application.

Next steps: Owner to proceed with installation and permitting consistent with the approved details.