Owners Propose Exterior Painting for Historic Home at 1305 James Street

In the heart of Syracuse, the Landmark Preservation Board convened on August 28, 2025, to discuss a project that reflects both the charm and the challenges of maintaining historic properties. The meeting began with a presentation from Sarah Wolf and Joshua Mayfield, residents of 1305 James Street, who sought approval for a certificate of appropriateness for their exterior painting project.

As they stood before the board, the couple described their plans to refresh their home’s appearance while respecting its historical integrity. “We’re looking to paint our house,” Sarah stated, emphasizing that the project primarily involves painting, with some necessary patching of existing flaws. The couple assured the board that they would not introduce any new materials to the historic property, maintaining the original character of the home.

The proposed color scheme, a new shade of green, aims to enhance the house's aesthetic while remaining in line with the Sedgwick Highland James Preservation District's guidelines. The couple confirmed that the trim and door colors would remain unchanged, focusing solely on the body of the house.

In addition to painting, the couple plans to power wash the exterior, ensuring that the stone and stucco surfaces are cleaned without damaging the historic materials. “We’ll be using a low-pressure wash to avoid blowing out the mortar joints,” Joshua explained, highlighting their commitment to preserving the property’s structural integrity.

The discussion around this application underscores the ongoing efforts of homeowners in Syracuse to balance modern needs with the preservation of the city’s rich architectural heritage. As the board deliberates, the outcome of this project could set a precedent for future renovations in the area, reflecting the community's dedication to maintaining its historical character while allowing for necessary updates.