7417 Burthe St.

Description: Demolition of more than 50% of exterior wall structure for renovation and construction of a new addition at a Contributing rated, one-story, three-family residential building.

HDLC Guidelines:  

Section 12, Pages 23-24 of the Guidelines for New Construction, Additions and Demolition, state 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. As a result, the HDLC rarely considers the demolition of Significant or Contributing buildings or structures within a local Historic District or on a Landmark site to be an appropriate option.

Staff Recommendations: 

This multi-family, balloon frame home was constructed between 1909 and 1951, according to Sanborn Maps, and it's date of construction was estimated by FEMA as being between 1920 and 1930.  The style is an example of a transitional period in architecture, displaying a mix of both Classical Revival and Craftsman styles.  The original façade has been altered, and the second-story porch has been enclosed, yet the building retains its massing and some historic elemental details, such as its chimneys and porch columns.  The HDLC Inspector visited the building prior to the previous Commission hearing, and following that meeting, Staff and Director did, as well.   Some significant structural elements of the building were found to be in poor condition; however, the Inspector confirmed that, although there is some damage to the frame of the structure, typical of homes of this age, the home is not in imminent danger of collapse.   The floor system will likely require significant work--there are some low areas in the floor system where joists have rotted, or where foundation piers have settled dramatically. There was also evidence of rot and termite damage in the sill, typical for a pier and beam foundation of this age.  There is significant termite damage in the wall system, particularly at the wall plates.  Some substandard contemporary framing will need to be corrected to meet building code.  Some headers are undersized at window openings, and studs are missing around the chimneys.  Due to the poor condition of the framing and the sub-standard modern framing repairs, the applicant has requested that they be permitted to replace any compromised studs and reframe, in lieu of the HDLC's preferred method of sistering.  This amount of stud replacement would constitute demolition by the HDLC's definition, but Staff is not opposed, provided additional demolition does not take place without additional HDLC approvals.  

• Recommendation: Not opposed, provided applicant communicate with staff if it becomes necessary or desired for any additional demolition to occur outside of the areas currently factored into the HDLC's demolition calculation, as pictured in this report.  

Inspection Photos:

Demolition Calculations:

Current Drawings:

Sanborn Maps:

Street View:

Public Comment: