1016 N Roman St.

District: Esplanade Ridge - Partial Control

Owner: De La Rose Calvin

HDLC Staff: Jesse Stephenson

Rating: Significant

Applicant: Debbie Champagne (Code Enforcement)

Permit #: 24-30149-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”:  Significant

• The importance of the building or structure to the tout ensemble of the area: The building is the only remaining 19th century building that still exists on the blockface and speaks to the history of the Treme historic district. 

• 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: The replication of the building would be extremely difficult and highly unlikely. 

• The condition of the building or structure: FEMA survey research estimates the date of construction of 1016 N Roman to have been completed around 1850. The building is a three bay creole cottage clad in wood weatherboards and a stucco front façade. The building retains it's decorative window cornices, pedimented front entry, and central dormer.

The overall condition of the building is poor and was only seen from a visual inspection from the public right of way as Staff did not have access to the interior of the building. The building is not in an active state of collapse. Steps have been taken over the years to board the windows and mothball the building as much as possible. Staff does not believe at this time the building is beyond rehabilitation.

Staff Recommendation:

As of October 1, 2024 a Certificate of Review has been issued in order to allow the applicant to secure the building with the assumption that it will eventually be restored. For the aforementioned reasons, Staff recommends denial of the demolition.

• Staff Recommendation: Denial