HPC approves site‑specific synthetic roof on 216 East Hallam over staff concerns

The Aspen Historic Preservation Commission voted to approve a certificate of appropriateness for 216 East Hallam with site‑specific conditions, allowing a DaVinci Select multi‑width synthetic shake in the aged‑cedar color with a 6‑inch exposure.

The homeowner told the commission the project is driven by fire risk and life‑safety concerns. The applicant said the chosen product preserves the look while adding durability: “My primary reason is life safety,” the applicant said during the presentation, and the contractor added that the proposed product carries a 50‑year life and a Class A fire rating. DaVinci’s representative explained the company’s “Select” profile and confirmed the reduced exposure and smoother texture were selected to better match historic shingles.

Staff had recommended against the proposed composite shake under the Historic Preservation (HP) design guidelines, noting differences in reflectivity, dimensions and texture compared with sawn cedar shingles. Planner Harry Valentine Wilson told commissioners the application "does not meet the guidelines outlined in chapter 2 and chapter 7 of the HP design guidelines," while offering an alternative motion that would allow staff‑approved alternatives or require architectural asphalt shingles if the board preferred.

Commissioners discussed visibility and material thickness — several members said the roof’s steep slope and its setback reduce street visibility — and amended the resolution to say the approval is site‑specific and not intended to set precedent. The motion to approve the amended resolution passed on a roll‑call vote.

The resolution (HPC Resolution 14, series 2026) includes the specific approved product and exposure; staff will follow up in the final application stage to verify installation details and monitor the finish.