32A-124 NarrativeThe project proposes the addition of a net 430 s.f. addition on two levels to the existing 1,800 s.f. second (upper) level apartment at the rear of an existing single-story elongated
building on King Street in the Central Business District. The project involves the removal of and replacement of the existing egress stair (upgrading it to an interior stair) and removal
of the existing single carport and replacement with an enclosed double secure garage.
The owners of the A2Z Science and Learning Store, presently situated in the building, have determined that their lives would be improved by the addition of an acoustically separate space
independent of the open-planned apartment, as well as additional storage, providing a double secure. Enclosed garage space in place of the existing carport, and adding a residential
elevator (or lift) to facilitate their access as they and their friends age.
The proposed wall construction and exterior siding will maintain a "Type 3B Construction" according to the State Building Code.
Exterior wall cladding will continue the colorful metal panel siding of the present building, but with a wood siding to the walls immediately adjacent to the second floor level deck.
Windows will be metal-clad wood windows and the roof finish will be asphalt shingles — in both cases matching the existing.
With the innocuous character of the surrounding buildings and the inconspicuous location of the proposed addition, we have simply attempted to apply our architectural skill and common
sense to the design of this proposed addition. The proposed addition is stylistically compatible with the existing non-historic building in a manner that we believe to be consistent
with the intent of Section III Applicability of the Design Manual
However, beyond the architectural design of the project there lies the positive benefit of its essence as a residential unit - providing residential accommodation for the owners and
operators of the retail business located immediately below. This conjugation of business and residence directly enhances the pedestrian scale character, culture, economy and welfare
of the Northampton downtown.
Relevant Sections of Regulations:
The Application seeks an adjudication of conformity with the Guidelines of the Central Business Architecture code and design manual (a copy of which was not obviously available on the
City website despite a statement in Section 156-4 (A) noting that it was “included at the end of the Chapter”)
Alternatively the Committee might chose to determine whether the project is entitled to an Exemption under the terms of 156-5C (14) that would declared the addition an “anomaly building”.
The Applicant has spoken with abutters/neighbors about the proposed addition.
Photographs of the existing situation:
View from SouthEast
View from East
View from SouthEast