Oh So Unoriginal: Integrity Losses

Neighbor's original carport.  Photographer unknown.

Key to submitting a property for the National Register of Historic Places is the building's integrity. As stated by the National Park Service, "the National Register traditionally recognizes a property's integrity through seven aspects or qualities: location, design, setting, materials, workmanship, feeling, and association." Of the approximately 35 Gavello built homes, only this one posted to the right retains its original two-car carport. Given the low-slung roofline, a carport appeared to be the most logical decision...along with its affordability. Garages, additional living spaces, and modified carports have all replaced this original design throughout the tract.

There are several features here that should be noted: to the left of the carport is the home's laundry/pantry/hobby room; a feature favored in many Eichler floor plans by Anshen + Allen Architects, Claude Oakland, and others. Within the carport's right bay is a small storage room, accessed by an interior side facing door. The laundry room's elongated ventilation door (more on those later), grooved redwood siding, and the redwood post and beam construction appear to be original.

Rob & Tom's modified carport.  Photographer unknown.

Unfortunately for us, we are inheriting this cockeyed garage remodel. Built to accommodate the roofline, the left door is so small that few cars can fit, and there is no room to install a garage opener. When the door is open, I can easily hit my head on the door. The placement of the storage area at the head of the bay also limits the length of car that can fit. Hopefully, my little compact will be snug, and I will be capable of driving through this needle eye to park.

The larger door barely allows for Rob's Jeep. Lucky for him, he's inheriting what's likely to be one of the oldest garage door openers in the neighborhood. Anyone nearby will hear when Rob's coming or going.

The siding of course does not match the existing grooved redwood siding, but the original carport configuration is intact. Do we return it to carport status for integrity purposes? Or do we remodel this end of the house to accommodate modern lifestyle needs? It will be some time before we have an answer, but please feel free comment.