Submitted by Carole Malakoff
The Allegheny West Local Review Committee, along with the Allegheny West Civic Council, announces the 10th Annual Allegheny West Historic Preservation Awards. These awards are presented to property owners in Allegheny West who have completed exterior projects over the past year, retaining or restoring appropriate elements of historic character, and adhering to our neighborhood guidelines. The success of these projects was attained by doing research, creating well thought-out plans, following neighborhood guidelines, and working with the neighborhood LRC and the City HRC to seek advice on the application process and guidelines. The 2018 award recipients are:
831 Western Avenue
Susan and Frank Remcheck, owners
When Susan and Frank purchased 831 Western over a year ago they inherited a large project that was initiated by the previous property owner. The brick had already been stripped and cleaned, and new wood windows had been installed, but there was so much more to do. These new homeowners took over the renovation of the entire façade, paying close attention to historic detail and existing architectural elements. First floor window hoods were added, reflecting in scale and design those existing on the second floor. A wood hood, brackets, and decorative elements above the front door were made to match those on 833, next door. Other work included fencing, side entry steps, and a new door. This project reflects the significant research and planning that were done to complete it successfully.
840 N Lincoln Avenue
Debra Kelly and Douglas Debelak, owners
It’s evident that, if you walk the streets and allies of Allegheny West, lately there has been an interest in auxiliary structures, garages, carports, designated places to park our cars. This project is a garage construction. The original garage on this property was deemed unsalvageable due to structural deterioration, and so was demolished. The HRC determined that the new structure be moved to the other side of the property so that it would be aligned with the existing gate at the front of the house. It was also designed to be compatible with the house in scale, materials, architectural elements, and trim colors. This project demonstrates how a new auxiliary structure can be designed to be compatible with an historic building.
852 N Lincoln Avenue
Greg Kobulnicky, owner
Talk about research and planning! This project reflects both! Greg completed an entire façade restoration at 852, from removing the fake front, exposing the original brick, to installing new stone front steps to match the existing, and redesigning and rebuilding the dormers to match the original. All were done in accordance with the HRC Guidelines. Other projects include brick cleaning and pointing, installing new wood windows, replacing window and door surrounds and brackets, and even replacing chimney pots. This project sets the standard for restoration in our neighborhood.
852 Beech Avenue
Katie and Robin Zoufalik, owners
Here’s another example of an auxiliary structure that is a well-planned design with a gabled roof to match that of the adjoining property and a wood paneled garage door resembling stable doors. The paint colors selected add to the attractiveness of the carport and doors.
These four projects add to the historic ambience of our neighborhood streets and alleys, contribute to the economic development of our neighborhood, and enhance the quality of life in Allegheny West. To celebrate Historic Preservation Month, these awards will be presented at the May Membership Meeting of The Allegheny West Civic Council on Tuesday, May 8th at 7:30 pm. Please attend and honor these neighbors.