Oh, how I want to replace the existing storefront. I think it a face only a parent could love. Since I'm the parent and I don't love it, my child is under investigation for cosmetic surgery.....
A plug here for the architect, Scott; he likes the existing storefront. Maybe one needs a trained eye to appreciate its uniqueness.
We met today with City/State preservation experts to advise us on the possibilities of a building face lift. There was some risk they could tell me I MUST refurbish and leave the existing structure. This seems a more remote response after today's meeting.
Historic preservation of street facing facades seems to fall under consideration of two guiding principles: 1) existing structure is deemed historic if greater than 50 years old and 2) "pre WWII" structures come under significant approval rigor before granting renovation allowances.
We've confirmed my existing storefront was built after 1942; perhaps in the 50's or 60's by the Friedman's Jewelry family who operated out of this location. We can also confirm the "original storefront" was NOT recessed. This provides some confidence I might be able to put it back nearer its original configuration and have some flexibility in the design. But, for now it goes back to the City Preservation counsel for consideration and future guidance.
Meanwhile, I can not start demolition on the storefront. My considerations pending counsel review:
- existing storefront renders approximately 200 sq. ft. of space useless for modern commercial/retail business requirements
- maintaining historical integrity is important to me - the definition of "historical" will be interesting
- interior ground floor needs more light which would occur by removing recessed entrance
- eligibility and receipt of Historic Tax Credits may swing possibilities for my future renovations
- I'm not in love with the existing storefront (this needs mentioning often)
