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February 20, 2019 <br /> Ware Variance Application — Project Narrative <br /> Property Address: <br /> 2587 Kelly Ave <br /> Orono, MN 55331 <br /> Submitted by Alex and Amy Ware along with Rehkamp Larson Architects <br /> The proposed detached garage and studio at 2587 Kelly Ave seeks a variance for three reasons; <br /> a variance to rebuilt an accessory building in the location of an existing non-conforming garage, a <br /> variance to locate plumbing within a non-conforming accessory structure, and a variance for a <br /> conditional use permit to locate a shower within the accessory structure.The need for the new <br /> accessory building is two-fold; the existing garage is structurally unsafe and the homeowners' desire to <br /> maintain the charm and scale of the primary structure, a lake cottage built in 1900. <br /> The existing garage is in disrepair, and is structurally unsafe. Due to the hydrostatic pressure of <br /> the surrounding soil,the southwest garage wall is failing, rending the garage unusable for any storage of <br /> value.The proposed accessory building would address site drainage through grading and drain tile to <br /> ensure longevity of the structure.The existing garage has a footprint of approximately 440 s.f. (20.2'x <br /> 21.8') and has a non-conforming side yard setback of 2.5'.The proposed garage has a modest footprint <br /> of 744 s.f. (31' x 24'), sized to park two cars and provide storage for lawn equipment and the family <br /> kayak. The back wall (SE) of the proposed garage would align with the back wall of the existing garage, <br /> thus located 2.5'from the property line. Due to the topography of the site and an existing ingress/egress <br /> travel easement with the adjacent property, rebuilding the garage in the existing location is logical.The <br /> parcel contains a pond in the front yard, rendering the front half of the lot unbuildable.The proposed <br /> garage location provides additional driveway beyond the easement boundary, necessary to maintain <br /> statutes of travel easement.The proposed garage is adjacent to neighbor's detached voluminous <br /> garage, concentrating building bulk across the two properties.Additionally,the location of the proposed <br /> garage preserves connectivity to the front of lot and does not block the view of the quaint lake cottage, <br /> maintaining the charm of the locality. <br /> The primary structure on the site is a charming 900 s.f. cottage built in 1900. The homeowners <br /> wish to maintain the integrity of the turn of the century cottage, but would like a little extra space when <br /> the family is at the lake.The existing cottage has only one full bath; the proposed accessory building <br /> would give the family additional showers for the family to use after a day out on the lake. Rather than <br /> add space onto the primary cottage,the proposed accessory building offers conditioned flexible space <br /> nestled within the roof structure.The volume of the detached garage and studio is sensible and <br /> diminutive, keeping inline with the character of the primary structure. Due to the topography of the site, <br /> the studio space is accessed from the lawn area shared with the primary structure. <br /> The goals of safe storage and additional conditioned space are attained with the granting of this <br /> variance.Thank you for your consideration. <br />