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Aberdeen Architectural Conservation District

The Aberdeen Architectural Conservation District was designated in 2001.

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Apply for Design Review Online

The Aberdeen Architectural Conservation District Commission (AACDC) meets on the second Thursday of each month to review exterior alterations. Interested in becoming a commissioner?  Please see details about nomination in the district's Study Report and check the commission information section at the bottom of this page. If you see an "apply online" button, we have an opening on the commission and you're able to apply for it.

DESIGN REVIEW PROCESS

All proposed exterior work visible from a public way is subject to the review of the AACDC.

  • To save time and costs, review the district Standards and Criteria early in the planning process.
  • Review all instructions and documentation requirements before submitting your application to ensure it is complete. Incomplete applications will not be added to a public hearing agenda.
  • Submit your application online well in advance of a filing deadline in case additional or revised information is needed.
  • Staff won't be able to review applications for completeness immediately upon submittal.
  • Do not begin any work, or buy materials, until after confirmation that your project was approved by the Commission.
HISTORY

The Aberdeen section of Brighton (annexed by Boston in 1873) was developed after 1887, with a high degree of architectural unity. The trolley line along Beacon Street helped Aberdeen develop as a “Romantic Suburb” of free-standing residential buildings. The large, ornate houses built along winding roads that follow the land’s natural contours, were intended for Boston commuters on the newly electrified trolley system. Aberdeen’s architectural styles include the Colonial Revival, Georgian Revival, Queen Anne, and Shingle styles.

For further historical background, please check out the Aberdeen Architectural Conservation District Study Report.

Resources

Resources
1. Check to see if you're in the District:
2. Find out what work is allowed:
3. When can my application get on the agenda?
4. Apply for work
5. RECEIVE DECISION LETTER
  • Once your application has been ruled on by the commission, your decision letter will be emailed to you.
  • If approved, use the decision letter to obtain your building permit with the building department. Be sure to display your approval placard on site, visible to the public, for the duration of the project. 

In the Aberdeen Architectural Conservation District, apartment and condominium houses have a large presence throughout the neighborhood. Window replacement, when necessary, should match throughout the building. Below you will find a running list of previously approved window replacements to assist you in finding the correct window replacements.

Property owners are still expected to obtain written approval from their condominium board and apply to the Commission to replace their windows. However, when this is done you must use the previously approved windows for your specific building. If you don't see your building listed, please check with Commission staff for guidance. 

Project Address
2023 agendas
2022 agendas
2021 agendas
2022 meeting minutes
2022 meeting minutes
2021 meeting minutes
AACDC 2023 recordings
AACDC 2022 recordings
AACDC 2021 recordings

Commission Info

  • Department:
    Energy, Environment and Open Space
  • Stipend:
    No
  • Total Seats:
    7
Resources:
Enabling legislation
Boards and commissions information
We have openings:
Apply online

Current members

Member Appointed Expires Status
Sharon Cayley 5/6/2020 6/30/2021 Holdover
Helen Pillsbury 5/6/2020 6/30/2021 Holdover
Kirsten Hoffman 9/23/2016 6/30/2018 Holdover
Edward Bredenberg 3/1/2023 6/30/2026 Active

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