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HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION 2017/08/23 MinutesThe City of Lake Forest Historic Preservation Commission Proceedings of the August 23, 2017 Meeting A regular meeting of the Lake Forest Historic Preservation Commission was held on Wednesday, August 23, 2017, at 6:30 p.m., at the City of Lake Forest City Hall, 220 E. Deerpath, Lake Forest, Illinois. Historic Preservation Commissioners present: Chairman Grieve and Commissioners Wells Wheeler, Elizabeth Sperry, Jan Gibson, Robert Alfe, Carol Gayle and Bill Redfield. Commissioners absent: none City staff present: Catherine Czerniak, Director of Community Development and Kate McManus, Assistant Planner 1. Introduction of Commissioners and staff, overview of meeting procedures. Chairman Grieve reviewed the meeting procedures followed by the Commission and asked the members of the Commission and staff to introduce themselves. 2. Consideration of the minutes of the July 26, 2017 meeting and July 31st, 2017 work session of the Historic Preservation Commission. The minutes of the July 26, 2017 meeting and July 31st work session were approved as submitted. 3. Consideration of a request for Local Landmark Designation of the residence located at 1579 Conway Road Property Owner and Representative: Scott Verschoor Mr. Verschoor introduced himself as the owner and resident of 1579 Conway Road. He explained that when he purchased the property he was unaware of the significance of the house. He stated that he desired to make some modifications that fit the original character of the home. He noted that he was approached by the children and wife of Balfour Lanza after he purchased the house and was able to find a significant amount of information on the architect and locate his original drawings. He reviewed the original blueprints from 1966 and noted that Mr. Lanza designed the home as his own residence. He reviewed images of the home dating from 1967 when it was constructed , 2015 prior to his purchase of the home and 2017, after he completed the recent modifications. He reviewed facts about Lanza’s body of work. He noted that he worked with Jerome Cerny before opening his own practice. He stated that he was active in the community and served on the Building Review Board. He noted that his designs were influenced by Frank Lloyd Wright and the property at 1579 Conway Road is a prime example of Lanza’s style. He stated that while conducting his research he visited 15 other Lanza designed properties. He stated that his home was showcased locally and recognized for its Wrightian inspiration. He reviewed typical characteristics Historic Preservation Commission Minutes August 23, 2017 - Page 2 of the Usonian style including the use of native materials, large cantilevered overhangs and the integration of the interior with nature. He provided details on the modifications he made to the house in 2016. He noted that the original details and forms were retained, the original garage door was reused and a new door was replicated based on the original. He stated that the original brick was reused where possible and reclaimed Chicago common brick was added as needed to complete the recent additions. He noted that the house and the recent addition have significant eave overhangs. He stated that no changes were made to the foundation except for the addition of a window well. He provided photos of the interior noting the consistency in style throughout the home. He stated that as requested by the Lanza family, he mounted a plaque on the house identifying Lanza as the architect. He stated that preserving mid-century homes is important. Ms. McManus explained that the recent additions were approved by the Building Review Board because the house was neither in the historic district, nor designated as a Local Landmark. She acknowledged that ideally, a nomination such as this would be brought forward prior to any alterations or additions to allow for review of any modifications by the Historic Preservation Commission. She stated that in this case, the owner recognized the importance of the structure after the alterations were well underway. She stated that the Commission should consider whether the additions negatively impact the historic integrity and importance of the house. She stated that staff recommends approval of the designation as requested based on the finding that the recent addition and alterations did not compromise the integrity or significance of the property. Commissioner Gayle stated that she visited the site and found the recent alterations to blend seamlessly with the original design. She stated that she is impressed with the continuity throughout the home. She stated that the home is a jewel. In response to questions from the Commission, Mr. Verschoor stated that he is passionate about the home. He confirmed that he proactively communicated with neighbors during the construction process. He confirmed that most of the open space to the west of the house is protected by a conservation easement. In response to a question from Commissioner Wheeler, Mr. Verschoor stated that the existing gravel drive was paved for convenience, ease of maintenance and safety. He confirmed that the driveway was squared off to be more consistent with the angles of the house. Commissioner Alfe noted that Balfour Lanza was a personal friend of his and stated his admiration for his work. He stated that the Verschoor residence is a strong representation of his work. In response to a question from Commissioner Sperry, Mr. Verschoor explained that he pursued landmark designation after learning about Lanza’s body of work and the importance of this house. He stated that in his opinion, Lanza’s work deserves to be Historic Preservation Commission Minutes August 23, 2017 - Page 3 recognized. In response to a question from Commissioner Sperry, Ms. Czerniak acknowledged that ideally this house would have been designated as a Local Landmark before any changes were made. She stated however that in this case, the alterations were reviewed by the Building Review Board and determined to be compatible with the original design. She stated that if the alterations, in the view of the Commission, significantly diminish the integrity of the house, then designation is not appropriate. She stated that a letter was submitted by the Lake Forest Preservation Foundation stating support for the designation recognizing that the recent additions are not a contributing feature of the house, but that the original structure retains its integrity and importance. In response to questions from Commissioner Gibson, Mr. Verschoor confirmed that he intends to consider pursuing listing the property on the National Register. He confirmed that there is no flashing on the roof. He stated that the trees in the center of the driveway were planted as an afterthought and noted that new plantings on the property are planned. He stated that a landscape buffer will remain but noted that the house should have some visibility from the street so some of the vegetation will be removed. In response to a question from Chairman Grieve, Mr. Verschoor stated that he is aware of what Local Landmark Designation means and understands the responsibilities that come with it. Hearing no further questions from the Commission, Chairman Grieve invited public testimony. Art Miller, 159 Wildwood Road and representative of the Preservation Foundation, stated that the Foundation is in full support of the nomination. He expressed appreciation for the research completed by the property owner noting that it highlights the mid-century homes in Lake Forest. He stated that these types of properties are threa tened but people are coming to appreciate them. Hearing no further public testimony, Chairman Grieve invited final comments from the Commission. Commissioner Gayle complimented the catalog of Lanza’s work compiled by the property owner. Commissioner Redfield noted the benefits of pursuing a tax freeze. Commissioner Wheeler stated that often, mid-century homes are replaced with new homes. He stated that it is reassuring to know this house is protected. Commissioner Alfe stated that Mr. Lanza would be very appreciative of the Historic Preservation Commission Minutes August 23, 2017 - Page 4 designation and the homeowner’s effort, research and respect for his work. Commissioner Sperry stated that this home is in the company of other very significant properties in Lake Forest which are designated as Local Landmarks. Commissioner Gibson stated that the home typifies Lanza’s work and commented that the recent alterations are consistent with the original design. She noted that in particular, the vertical windows and light fixtures are complementary to the design. Mr. Verschoor stated that he replaced the original fluorescent bulbs with LED bulbs and dismantled the fixtures and painted them by hand. Chairman Grieve summarized that the rigorous standards for landmark designation were reviewed by the Commission and the home presented for designation was found to meet the standards. He stated his appreciation that a mid-century property is receiving the recognition it deserves. Hearing no further comments from the Commission, he invited a motion. Commissioner Wheeler made a motion to forward a recommendation to the City Council in support of designation of the residence at 1579 Conway Road as a Local Historic Landmark. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Alfe and approved by a vote of 7 to 0. OTHER ITEMS 3. Opportunity for the public to address the Historic Preservation Commission on non- agenda items. Art Miller informed the Commission that the Preservation Foundation is hosting a Garden Stroll on Friday and on September 30th. He also noted that the City is holding a visioning session to discuss the future of Open Lands Park located on the southeast corner of Deerpath and Green Bay Road. He noted that the park was designed by John Brookes 30 years ago. He stated that the park is significant because Brookes was a prominent landscape designer who designed parks all over the world. 4. Additional information from staff. There was no additional information presented by staff. The meeting was adjourned at 7:16 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Catherine J. Czerniak, Director of Community Development