Heritage Preservation Commission Meeting Date: June 3, 2026
To: Members of the Heritage Preservation Commission
From: Mathias Hughey, Associate City Planner
Title
Certificate of Appropriateness for Window and Door Replacement at 411-413 Division St. S. - the Hamre Building.
Body
Action Requested:
The Heritage Preservation Commission (HPC) is asked to approve a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) to replace the upper story windows and the apartment entry door and clearstory window on the front façade at 411-413 Division St. S. - the Hamre Building.
Summary Report:
The applicant, REO Properties, seeks approval to replace the existing single-hung upper story windows with a modern window insert featuring bronze-colored coated aluminum exterior finish. They are also seeking to replace the exterior door and clearstory window that provide access to the upper story apartments. A detailed description of the work is attached.
The Hamre Building is a contributing building in the historic district. The current upper story windows have had raw aluminum screen and storm windows installed on the exterior to improve their function. This treatment is undesirable and negatively impacts the character of the building. The existing condition of the upper story windows varies, it is not clear if they are original, but in several instances, the lower sash does not match the upper and can be reasonably considered to be later replacements. City records include a 1995 enforcement order to correct broken windows in the apartments.
City records also include two building permits from the 1980’s, one is for replacing and reframing an unspecified door to the apartments, and the other is for replacing the rear door and windows. A 1965 photo included in the historic survey file shows a different apartment access door on the front façade.
The Downtown Design Guidelines recommend replacement windows and doors to be simple in design and match, as closely as possible, originals when possible. Painted wood or “baked enamel” finishes on metal are the preferred materials.
Staff Recommendation
Staff recommends approval of the COA for the proposed work at 411-413 Division St. S. - the Hamre Building.
City Plans & Policies Relevance:
Approval of the project is consistent with the City’s plans. The Comprehensive Plan identifies the following strategies that would be advanced by this project:
Access:
Strategy 2: Develop in a compact, sustainable, and fiscally responsible pattern
Strategy 6: Design for resiliency and sustainability
Sustainable economic future:
Strategy 1: Strengthen Northfield’s Downtown Core
Resilient Infrastructure:
Strategy 5: Reduce solid waste through diversion, recycling, and reuse
Alternative Options:
The HPC could approve the COA with conditions, or deny the COA. Both options require modifying the resolution to provide justification and findings.
Financial Impacts:
NA
Tentative Timelines:
NA