Commission asks applicant to test conventional veneer after review of magnetic 'garage skin' product

At 517 Northwest 40th Street, applicant Rebinder Romana (who goes by Rob) asked to install a garage door on a rear carport using a metal door with a wood 'garage skin' magnetic veneer. Staff said the guidelines allow a wood veneer on a concealed metal frame but that the commission had not previously reviewed a magnetic veneer panel system and was uncertain whether the product meets the intention of the guideline.

Rob said the system is an overlay that attaches to a standard metal door and may be a more affordable alternative to a full wood door; staff and commissioners expressed concern that if the magnetic veneer is removed in the future the remaining visible metal door would not have been approved. Staff offered a path that would allow administrative approval if the applicant used a conventional metal door with a fixed wood veneer finish instead.

Outcome: The commission continued the item to the May meeting and instructed staff to work with the applicant to identify a product that satisfies the guidelines or to process an administratively approvable conventional wood‑veneer door. If staff can approve an acceptable product administrative approval will spare the applicant a return to commission.