Owners of 103 Tredebon win approval for bay bump‑out after flood‑risk and zoning discussion

Michael and Denise Bloomfield told the Historic District Commission on July 20 that they want to expand their Oxford home at 103 Tredebon with a second‑floor bay bump‑out toward the river, partial enclosure of a carport to form a first‑floor bedroom, interior renovations and a coordinated paint scheme.

Cameron Tavish, the architect introduced by the applicants, described the project as a light‑touch addition that preserves the existing ridgeline and keeps most changes interior while adding about 10 feet of habitable space toward the water. Commissioners reviewed elevations, roof pitch and headroom, noting the proposal aligns with the Baltimore row‑house tradition and is largely invisible from the river because of mature trees.

Discussion focused on structural and flood concerns at a nearby low‑lying corner of town. Commissioners and the Bloomfields debated options for stabilizing foundations versus elevating the building, and explored funding paths — including town facade grants, Maryland historic programs and potential federal tax‑credit rehabilitation — that could help cover costly foundation work. Speakers gave contractor estimates that ranged widely; one presenter cited figures in the $40,000–$100,000 range for substantial foundation work.

Commissioners also discussed short‑term strategies: renting the upstairs apartment to generate income while larger mitigation or special exceptions are pursued, and coordinating with upcoming town stormwater projects that may reduce flood risk in the block.

After the discussion the commission moved to approve the remodel plans as presented. Commissioners advised the applicants to pursue grants, engage structural experts for foundation stabilization, and coordinate with town engineering before major foundation work.

Next steps: applicants were advised to follow up with staff on any permitting conditions and to pursue funding or engineering assessments for the building base.