HomeMy Public PortalAboutStatement/eusse// A/e-
Brief description: The planned project is to convert the existing separate garage into a
finished open studio space to teach private Pilates sessions. The space will not be
expanded; the exterior will not be altered with the exception of the addition a standard
door/service entrance. A half bath (sink and toilet) will be added into the existing space.
Interior drawings are attached.
Petition for Special Permits:
1. The separate garage is an appropriate location as it provides a large, open space with
ceiling height that can easily accommodate the tall equipment. Additionally, it does not
use any of the dwelling floor area and is significantly less than twenty-five percent of the
lot. Additionally, the garage largely conforms to Sec 4.03.
2. The proposed use of the structure will not adversely affect the neighborhood. No
exterior alterations will be made to the garage space that would suggest an alternate use
of the space. The exterior garage doors will remain.
The studio will have no employees beyond the petitioner; so no additional vehicles will
require parking. The studio will provide private instruction (defined as single client) the
vast majority of the time, with the maximum number of clients at any given time being
two. The driveway is more than adequate to hold two additional cars. Also, street parking
is legal and plentiful. The business will be heavily recruiting from the Cambridge area,
highlighting the 71 bus route at the end of the block. It is anticipated that the studio will
eventually see 20 to 25 clients a week. This will not increase (in fact, it will reduce) the
daily average number of trips to and from the home since the alternative is to have the
petitioner teaching at multiple other locations, coming and going frequently.
3. There is no potential for nuisance or hazards to vehicles or pedestrians. The studio
would not be receiving any deliveries; nothing will be built, manufactured, or shipped
from the space. The studio would not see clients outside of standard business hours; it is
planned for the latest training appointment to end at 8:30 pm.
Pilates is most commonly described as a mind -body exercise, requiring concentration and
is traditionally practiced without music. The equipment used in Pilates requires no
external power source so no noise beyond normal conversation is produced. Unlike other
exercise programs, there is no soundtrack, cheering, or shouted instructions. The
instructor cues the client in a normal speaking voice, and often only a tactile cue is
needed. In short, Pilates is quiet. Noise will not be an issue.
4. Appropriate facilities for the proposed use are minimal. Pilates instruction requires an
open space for a few pieces of specific equipment. The addition of a half bath is for the
comfort of clients.
RECEIVbU
JUL 10 1,139.
BOARD OF APPEALS
\ WATERTOWN, A