FREDERICKSBURG, VA — A proposal to create new storefronts and entrances along William Street at the historic commercial building at 1001 Caroline St. is scheduled to go before the Fredericksburg Architectural Review Board during its Aug. 10 meeting. The application is listed under new business on the board's agenda.
Joshua Grady is seeking a Certificate of Appropriateness to alter the exterior of the two-story commercial building by adding new storefront windows and doors on the William Street elevation while restoring several historic features of the property, according to a staff report prepared for the meeting.
Planning staff is recommending approval of the application with three conditions: that the proposed awning provide at least 8 feet of clearance above the sidewalk, that Historic Resources staff verify final material specifications before a building permit is issued, and that the applicant use the design option featuring an entry vestibule with interior stairs.
The building, constructed around 1940, is a two-story Colonial Revival-style commercial structure that contributes to Fredericksburg's Historic District. Staff describes it as featuring a slate-clad false mansard roof, a decorative cupola, granite quoins and large storefront windows facing Caroline Street.
The proposal includes restoring the existing corner storefront at Caroline and William streets while converting the largely blank William Street wall into four storefront bays served by a new entrance vestibule. Three new storefront window systems would be installed along the William Street elevation beneath a continuous awning projecting about 4 feet from the building.
Work not requiring Architectural Review Board approval includes restoring the cupola, repairing masonry veneer, refinishing the existing Caroline Street storefront, restoring terrazzo surfaces and repairing trim panels, according to the staff report.
Historic Resources staff concluded the proposed storefronts are compatible with the existing architecture and meet the intent of the city's historic district guidelines.
"The proposed new storefronts are simple and compatible with the existing storefronts on Caroline and William Streets," the report states. Staff also found the design would "encourage pedestrian activity on this block of William Street" while repairing and restoring historic features of the building.
The report recommends the version of the project that places the entry vestibule with interior stairs rather than an alternative design with exterior stairs, citing easier maintenance. Staff also noted the applicant should confirm the awning material and ensure it provides the required sidewalk clearance.
Renderings included with the application depict a renovated corner building with new storefront glazing extending along William Street while retaining the building's historic character and restored cupola.
The Fredericksburg Architectural Review Board is scheduled to meet at 7 p.m. Aug. 10 to consider the application.
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