817 Esplanade Ave.

District: Faubourg Marigny - Full Control

Owner: Jeff Sbisa

HDLC Staff: Dennis Murphy

Rating: Contributing

Applicant: Jeff Sbisa

Permit #: 24-24431-HDLC 

HDLC Guidelines: 

Section 08, Page 19 of the Guidelines for Windows and Doors states that Traditionally, one of the best means of securing a property was to close shutters or apply night blinds. More recently, re-glazing, particularly tempered glass, has been used as a deterrent, providing a barrier that is difficult to break. Electronic security systems and warning devices can be installed at the interior of doors and windows without altering the historic appearance of the building’s exterior. If metal bars or grilles are considered the only acceptable method for securing a building, the HDLC encourages property owners to install them at the interior of the window, door or display window.

Section 10, Page 5 of the Guidelines for Site Elements states that fences, walls and gates must be historically consistent in style with the type and style of the building and that fencing is not permitted to be located on porches, stoops or stairs. 

Section 09, Page 10 of the Guidelines for Porches, Galleries and Balconies states that the installation of security cameras can be an appropriate option to provide additional security.

Staff Recommendations: 

The applicant has noted they are experiencing increased issues of people inappropriately utilizing the recessed front entry alcove and so they are requesting to install a new iron gate at the base of the stairs to prevent unauthorized  access and to increase security at this area. While there are several nearby examples of similar entry alcove gates, they may have been installed prior to the creation of the district, may be considered permitted non-conformities, or may have been installed more recently without HDLC approval. 

Staff recognizes the concern the applicant has about securing this area, acknowledges that this historic semi-enclosed architectural feature poses a unique challenge for security, and agrees that the proposed gate is a somewhat reasonable and potentially reversible modification that will provide the desired security. However, the HDLC Guidelines note that fencing and gates are not permitted to be installed on porches, stoops, or stairs. Additionally, the Guidelines also indicate that there are alternative options for enhancing security at the alcove that are less intrusive and potentially more compatible with the existing historic building. For example, simple metal security bars can be installed at the (interior or exterior) entry door and sidelight openings and discrete security cameras or motion-activated lighting can be installed to provide additional security and to make the area less suitable to unauthorized use. 

Based on this, Staff has no recommendation and leaves the decision to the discretion of the Commission . However, if approval is granted, Staff recommends that the new gate must be plain/simple and otherwise meet the Guidelines for metal fencing. 

• Staff Recommendation: At the discretion of the Commission, with a proviso that if approved, gate must be plain/simple and meet HDLC Guidelines for metal fencing