Recommendation
Recommend AGAINST concept design for new rowhouse on lot 20, which, as proposed, has not changed from previous concept design under case OG 03-47 which was NOT approved, will be too tall in relation to the two–story houses in the immediate neighborhood and will have an adverse impact on the historic character of this block. The historic character of the existing 1500 block of 32nd Street is defined by mostly two–story houses, the narrow street, and the existing large trees. The original concept design in 1998 proposed only two row houses in this location across the street from a one–story garage and a three–story house at the north corner with the alley. In that context, the concept had been approved. However, the addition of this and a second new house to the row greatly increases the adverse impact to the Residentials across the street. Taken as a whole, the group of four houses should be no taller than two–stories high. All measures should be taken to protect the existing large trees, including further setbacks from the curb and careful studies of changes to the grading and installation of sidewalks. File new submission of revised concept design for four two–story high houses on the south end of the street for review by the Commission when ready. Note is made that the ANC 2E has appealed to BZA to review previous zoning rulings on this project.