Historic, Victorian Aspen house to receive new foundation

The Aspen Historic Preservation Commission has approved additional development, relocation, and set block variations for a one-story, Victorian-era miner’s cottage that predates 1890.

Applicant BendonAdams LLC is proposing to install at the property — a 2,999-square-foot lot at 820 E. Cooper Ave. — an addition at its rear, including the excavation of a full basement to relocate the historic structure due to radon issues.

BendonAdams LLC also looks to install a one-story connector and a two-story addition. The plan also includes installing a brick walking path running perpendicular to the street to the new addition and a stormwater drainage system to protect the historic structure.

 “We are really proud of how this has shaped up,” said Sara Adams, representing BendonAdams LLC. “There are some major radon issues with this house, and that is the basis for this project.”

During full basement excavation, BendonAdams will lift the foundation by one foot to transfer the structure onto the new foundation. Additionally, they are asking to raise the ceiling height by two inches in the addition’s stairway to accommodate radiant flooring.

BendonAdams is required to use roofing and building materials similar to the historic building, ensuring the new foundation and addition matches the historic structure in design.

Historic Preservation Commission staff reviewed the guidelines and criteria, recommending approval of the final development application.

“Staff found that the materials meet the design guidelines, and the applicant presented the information very thoroughly,” Historic Preservation Principal Planner Kristen Armstrong said. 

The Historic Preservation Commission unanimously approved the application, with one member abstaining due to proximity to the property. Conditions for approval include working closely with all relevant city departments, providing a location for the fire department connection hook-up, including a one-foot pea gravel border around the historic resource, painting any roof vents black, and providing a relocation plan from an engineer to ensure the historic property can withstand the foundation rise. Additionally, a $30,000 bond is stipulated before the process can begin. 

BendonAdams owners expressed their satisfaction with the outcome, stating they are locals and plan to live in the house with their family.