621 Canal St

Description: Renovation of three-story commercial building including modifications to storefront, signage,  gallery railings, and other exterior changes.

Previous ARC Recommendations: 

03/16/21: The ARC made the following recommendations:

• The lighting proposal still does not meet the guidelines. The marquee-style bulbs around the entire perimeter of the gallery are not appropriate. The building uplighting should also be eliminated; lighting should be positioned so that only gallery or walkway surfaces are illuminated.

• Even with the removal of the chicken elements, the railing design is not appropriate. Although an alternative railing may be acceptable, a contemporary railing should be a simplification or interpretation of a more traditional railing type. The proposed railing does not relate to any historic fabric in the area.

• More consideration should be given to the new position of the entry in relation to the sidewalk. The sidewalk at that corner is sloped, so it may be difficult or not possible to create the level entrance as shown in the rendering. Sidewalk modifications should be considered in the design stage to avoid issues during construction.

• The ARC wanted to confirm that no changes would be made to the existing columns. The columns shown in the rendering do not match the detailing of the current columns.

The ARC voted to deny the proposed lighting scheme and railing design. The position of the main entrance and grading of the sidewalk should be further explored. A new lighting and railing proposal must be submitted to be considered.

02/23/21: The ARC agreed that the proposal in general is not appropriate and is not respectful of the historic building’s character. Although the removal of the awnings at the third floor windows and painting of the upper floors are acceptable, the ARC found that the other proposed design changes do not meet HDLC guidelines, including the painting of the granite at the first floor, installation of signage/paneling over the granite entablature, artificial foliage on the columns, branded railing design, removal of existing wood shutters, and replacement of existing sconces with globe light fixtures. Additionally, the service of food and beverage through service windows is prohibited in this area by the New Orleans municipal code, so the proposed walk-up takeout windows would not be permitted.

Context Photos:

Current Drawings:

Previous Drawings:

Street View: