[aggie2008]

I don't really understand why they would have used the number of floors to turn this down. This was conceptual approval. From HDRC's website:

"Once applicants have met with staff and attended the DRC meeting, it is recommended but not required, that the applicant submit an application for Conceptual Approval by the HDRC. Conceptual Approval is HDRC approval of the "concept" of the project in order to give the applicant feedback about the design and scope of the project prior to completion of 80% construction documents and significant investment by the applicant. Final Approval of an application requires 80% construction documentation for review by the HDRC before a Certificate of Appropriateness can be issued."

They're asking to double the allowed height according to zoning on this site. I can see why they wanted to get an early sign of conceptual approval before investing time and effort into the exact design.