1100 Elysian Fields Ave.

District: Faubourg Marigny - Full Control

Owner: Elysian Fields Development LLC Walgreens-Store 2262

HDLC Staff: Dennis Murphy

Rating: Non-Contributing

Applicant: Leon Oscar

HDLC Guidelines: 

Section 12, Pages 23-24 of the Guidelines for New Construction, Additions and Demolition states that the demolition of all or portions of historic resources within a local Historic District or Landmark site are considered drastic actions, since they alter the character of the area. Once historic resources or buildings that contribute to the heritage of the community are destroyed, it is generally impossible to reproduce their design, texture, materials, details and their special character and interest in the neighborhood. When reviewing demolition applications at properties located within a Historic District or at a Landmark site, the HDLC uses the following criteria in its evaluations:

• The historic or architectural significance of the building or structure as designated by its “rating”: Non-Contributing

• The importance of the building or structure to the tout ensemble of the area:  FEMA survey records indicate the existing building was constructed between 1940 and 1950. However, it does not appear on the 1950 Sanborn map and a Times Picayune article confirms it was likely constructed sometime after July 10, 1982, outside the period of significance for the local historic district.

• The alternatives to demolition that have been explored by the applicant: No alternative proposals have been submitted.

• The difficulty or impossibility of reproducing such a building or structure because of its design, texture, material or detail: Based on the size of the building, its limited exterior detailing, and contemporary construction methods and materials, it would likely not be difficult or expensive to reproduce the current structure.

• The special character and aesthetic interest that the building or structure adds to the local Historic District:  The massing and footprint of the modest one-story commercial building appears to have been designed to mimic a historic corner store with wrap-around awning that previously occupied the site, as per the 1908 Sanborn map. However, the CMU structure has limited exterior architectural features or detailing with the exception of some simple stucco banding and wood shutters along St. Claude Avenue, is not considered historic building fabric, and does not contribute aesthetically to the surrounding historic district. 

• The condition of the building or structure: HDLC completed an exterior visual inspection from the public right of way on April 26, 2023 and determined the building to be in fair to good condition. The overall exterior envelope, including visible portions of the roof and exterior walls, appear to be watertight and all door and window openings are securely protected. The awning structure and roof appears to be in good condition. A majority of the building is covered in graffiti. 

Staff Recommendations: 

The current building appears to be a historic corner store with wrap-around canopy, however, it is actually a contemporary building constructed of CMU and stucco. It was likely built sometime after 1982 and outside the period of significance for the local historic district. The applicant has submitted redevelopment plans which indicate the area will be treated as new rear parking for the existing Walgreen's building following demolition. This treatment will include the installation of new flush paving, fencing and landscaping to match some already existing at this rear area. The HDLC Guidelines typically discourage the demolition of existing structures for the maintenance of vacant lots or for additional parking. However, because the building is Non-Contributing rated and lacks historic building fabric, and because the applicant has provided staff approvable redevelopment plans for this area, Staff has no objection to the request for demolition to grade.

• Recommendation: No objection