619 Gravier St.

Description: Review of design changes since previous approval for the renovation of a Significant rated two-story commercial building including restoration of previously existing window openings and installation of new exterior egress stair.

Previous ARC Recommendations & Commission Actions: 

11/05/25: The Commission voted to grant conceptual approval with a proviso that the restored egress door opening must utilize a solid wood door without glazing, and with the final details to be worked out at the Staff level.  

10/21/25: The ARC voted to recommend conceptual approval with the final details to be worked out at the Staff level. The ARC also agreed that:

• The proposed reinstallation of windows at the left side is considered appropriate based on the historic research documentation provided and the visible exterior evidence of the previous opening sizes, shapes, and locations.

• A clearer indication of the proposed egress path should be provided for Staff review.

• Information on the appearance and proposed details of the exterior egress stair should be provided for Staff review.

Summary of Changes Since Previous ARC Review: 

• The three arched windows facing the alley have been modified. The shorter arched window have been lengthened to match the other two windows. All three windows now are full height, going to the floor, and have stacked casement windows similar to the existing surviving rear window rather than double-hung windows.

• The top run of the fire escape is being replaced since it is not code-compliant under the NFPA, with an additional landing to make the runs work.

• The egress balcony run horizontally towards the rear and meets the landing of the fire escape stair rather than going up to the roof.

• The skylight on the roof has been updated to show its actual construction rather than an approximation. Any damaged components will be replaced in kind.

• The existing door at the rear of 217 Camp Street will be retained rather than replaced with a glazed wood door.

• The proposed additional wall enclosing the courtyard between 217 Camp Street and 619 Gravier Street will not be erected.

• The existing rear windows facing the courtyard between 217 Camp Street and 619 Gravier Street will be reopened and restored.

• New handrails are proposed for the stairs that meet code, rather than the helical handrails mounted to the existing stone columns.

• Light fixtures are proposed in different locations on the front and side elevations than proposed in the prior drawings.

Context Photos:

Current Drawings:

Previously Reviewed Drawings - 10/21/25:

HDLC CBD Historic Building Survey:

Street View: