5400 Magazine St.

District: Uptown - Partial Control

Owner: Boutique Jefferson, LLC

HDLC Staff: Jesse Stephenson

Rating: Non-Contributing

Applicant: Heather Gorman

Permit #: 23-21427-HDLC

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 research estimates the building at 5400 Magazine was constructed from 1985-1995. The commercial building sits slightly off the public right of way on Magazine Street which is unlike most buildings on the commercial corridor. The massing is reminiscent of a double shotgun but clearly reads as a post-modern incarnation of said architectural style.

• The alternatives to demolition that have been explored by the applicant: None

• The difficulty or impossibility of reproducing such a building or structure because of its design, texture, material or detail: It is unlikely another building of this style would be constructed but demolition would give the opportunity for a new building. 

• The condition of the building or structure: Good

Staff Recommendations: An exterior visual inspection was completed by HDLC Staff and the building was found to be in good condition. The buildings odd siting and very specific programing has made it difficult for the building to remain in commerce in the post pandemic world where banking has gone more digital. The HDLC does not have jurisdiction over what goes back on the site but does feel that the prominence of this corner would entice new development for the Magazine Street corridor. For the aforementioned reasons Staff recommends no objection to the demolition to grade.

• Recommendation: No objection.