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CORONADO, Calif. -- Developers are proposing major changes for a landmark Coronado home linked to tragedy.



The investment group that owns the Spreckles Mansion has proposed a restoration project on its original 1907 design.



The oceanfront mansion made national headlines after Rebecca Zahou, girlfriend of millionaire Jonah Shacknai, was found hanging naked from a balcony at the oceanfront property last summer. Investigators ruled her death a suicide.



“It’d be nice to change the conversation, less sensationalism about the recent tragedies and more about what the house represents as far as a significant piece of architecture here in Coronado and a significant property in itself,” real estate broker Scott Aurich said.



Aurich is working with the firm that is selling the remodeled home. The group would like to replace the slanted tile roof with a flat roof for a sun deck.



The finished design would resemble the Glorietta Bay Inn, architect Harrison Albright’s famous design.



“It’s a significant historical asset. It was built by John Spreckles, the guy who basically built the [Coronado] Island,” Aurich said. “Taking it back to that original architectural style preserves the integrity and the rich history of the house.”



It may be easier said than done. The sight is protected under the Mills Act, which means the city’s Historic Resource Commission has to approve any changes to the exterior. It took the previous owner years to get approval for adding awnings to the windows and French doors to the living and dining rooms.



The plan will come up for discussion during a hearing March 7.