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.

HDLC Design Guidelines & Staff Recommendation:

Chapter 08, Pages 1 and 8-9 of the Guidelines for Windows and Doors state that windows are important elements of historic buildings because they can define the character of each individual building and provide a visual feature on the streetscape; help define architectural style, building type; help date the age of construction; provide natural light and ventilation and act as a transition from the exterior to the interior. When installing new or replacement windows, the the Guidelines require matching the original size, shape, configuration, type, operation, materials, muntin pattern, dimensions, profiles and detailing to the greatest extent possible with a salvaged or new replacement window.

Chapter 09, Page 9 of the Guidelines for Porches, Galleries and Balconies state that although fire escapes remain on some buildings, they no longer meet building code requirements as a safe means of egress in the event of an emergency. The HDLC recommends maintenance of an existing fire escape or its removal if alternate egress is provided. Mounting a new fire escape to a building or modifying an existing balcony or gallery for a fire escapes is not permitted.

• Staff Recommendation: Approve

Previous ARC Recommendations & Commission Actions: 

07/21/26: The ARC voted to recommend conceptual approval with the final details to be worked out at the Staff level, and for the application to return for additional ARC review if determined to be necessary by Staff. The ARC also agreed that:

• Lowering the sills of the reintroduced left-side window openings to create full-height windows is approved as shown.

• The proposed casement window types and introduction of a wide horizontal mullion between the upper and lower units are not considered appropriate. The ARC recommended returning to the previously approved double-hung windows to match those visible at the front elevation.

  • If the windows are to be single-hung rather than double-hung, they must have the full exterior appearance and detailing of double-hung windows.

  • New window millwork shop drawings must be provided for HDLC Staff review and approval prior to purchase, fabrication, and/or installation.

• Guardrails for the new full-height windows on the left side should be located on the interior side of the windows, if feasible. It was noted that locating them on the exterior side would allow for better window operability; however, the locations, depths, and design and detailing of any exterior Juliet-style balcony guardrails must be provided for additional Staff review. They must comply with the HDLC Design Guidelines and be appropriate for the Significant-rated building.

• The relocated egress path along the side wall of the building, rather than up and over the building roof, is considered appropriate as shown.

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 - Provided by Applicant:

• 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:

Previous Drawings - 10/21/25:

HDLC CBD Historic Building Survey:

Street View: