Heritage Preservation Commission Meeting Date: October 7, 2026
To: Members of the Heritage Preservation Commission
From: Mathias Hughey, AICP, Interim City Planner
Title
Certificate of Appropriateness for 17 Bridge Square – Boston Shoe Store
Body
Action Requested:
The Heritage Preservation Commission (HPC) is asked to review and approve the Certificate of Appropriateness for specified work at 17 Bridge Sq. – the Boston Shoe Store.
Summary Report:
The applicant, Rob Schanilec, is seeking approval to replace the upper-story windows and construct a rear access stairway for the upper-story apartment for the Boston Shoe Store, located at 17 Bridge Sq. A detailed description of the scope of work is attached. The Boston Shoe Store, originally constructed in 1879, is listed as a contributing building in the district. The existing windows are modern replacements, and notably on the front façade of the building, the historic arched window transoms have been filled. The large central window was hinged to allow for loading of goods.
The applicant is proposing new windows that include rounded transoms that will fill the historic arched openings. The proposed windows will be clad on the exterior and match in color the new storefront below. The existing windows are not original, and do not fill the historic arched openings. The work qualifies as major work because the proposed new windows do not match the existing in size, and therefore do not meet the narrow definition for minor work.
The applicant is also proposing to add exterior stair access to the second floor on the rear of the building. The stairs will be constructed of treated lumber, with a neutral-colored composite decking and matte black clad aluminum railing and spindles. There likely used to be a rear access stair, though no photographs have been found, its presence is supported by an existing rear entry door.
Based on historic photographs, the large central window did not extend as low as proposed...
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