Commission gives design feedback, asks applicant to refine roofline for 49 William Street

Applicant counsel Donald O'Neil and designer Rafael Hernandez presented a substantial redesign for 49 William Street that they said responds to prior feedback, including a central entrance, raised rooflines and revised dormers. Hernandez described the materials planned: cement board siding, Harvey windows, asphalt shingles and wrought-iron railings.

Commissioners focused on roof pitch and dormer integration, urging the designer to "inset the dormer windows" and reduce the lower mansard overhang so the dormers appear part of the structure rather than added later. The commission left public comment open and advised the applicant to return later with site-plan materials, electrical and mechanical specs and landscaping details. The applicant accepted a continuation to Oct. 15 to pursue planning-board review and to refine the roofline as requested.