Design board approves 22 5th Avenue renovation with condition to drop corbels

The Design Review Board approved revised plans for 22 5th Avenue on July 22, granting historic-review approval for selective demolition, an addition, and exterior renovations provided the applicant uses the elevation without corbels (also referred to as dental blocks or rafter tails).

Nick Falco of Wicht Construction told the board the team enlarged first-floor windows, revised a circular window to a double-hung with a diamond grill, adjusted dental-block/rafter-tail spacing, extended the front porch footprint, and will use cedar siding with composite balusters and mahogany porch railings. Falco noted the project includes a small six-foot bump-out on the left side and a copper eyebrow roof detail over an existing eyebrow window.

Board members said the revisions addressed previous concerns about fenestration and proportions. The chair and multiple members said they preferred the more streamlined look without corbels; one board member called the project “a great project” and praised the use of natural materials. The motion to approve the application with the condition to use the design without corbels was made and seconded; the board voted to approve with that single condition.

The applicant may proceed with the approved exterior details and will follow the usual permitting and documentation steps identified by staff.