District: Algiers Point - Full Control
Owner: RC Home Concepts LLC
HDLC Staff: Chad Spurlin
Rating: Contributing
Applicant: Steve Thompson
Permit #: 25-22426-HDLC
Description: Retention of a visually prominent wall-mounted HVAC mini-split equipment at the right side of a Contributing rated, one-story, single-family residential building installed without a Certificate of Appropriateness.
HDLC Guidelines:
10: 8-9 -- Guidelines for Site Elements
Retention Items:
Visually Prominent HVAC Mini-Split Equipment: Approve
Staff Recommendations:
On June 27, 2025, the new owner was notified that work performed by the previous owner was performed at the property which violates City Ordinance. Since this matter was not resolved, the new owner is now responsible.
Visually prominent HVAC mini-split unit and associated supply conduit had been installed at the right-side of the building without a mechanical permit or HDLC approval. The HDLC Design Guidelines note that the design and location of modern mechanical equipment, while representing a necessity of modern life, can have a significant negative impact on the historic integrity of the building and area.
The cottage at 515 Bouny St. appears on the Robinson Atlas of New Orleans, with an estimated construction between 1830-1840, making this cottage one of the oldest surviving buildings in Algiers Point.
However, the original parcel has since been subdivided to an extent that there is no rear yard and minimal side yards along the building. Based on these factors, Staff recommends approval of the request for retention of the mini-split unit at its current location.
Recommendation: Approve
Case History:
07/10/25: Applicant applies for permit for re-roofing and is notified that a final inspection cannot be completed until violations are abated.
06/27/25: New owner notified of violation.
08/23/24: Previous owner cited for installation of inappropriate mechanical equipment without a Certificate of Appropriateness.
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