629 Webster St

District: Uptown - Partial Control

Owner: Curren John G Jr

Rating: Contributing

Applicant: Senso Architects

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:

FEMA survey and Sanborn map research indicates the existing building was likely constructed between 1885 to 1895 and it first appears on the 1896 Sanborn map. The applicant is proposing to remove approximately 74.6% of the existing roof to construct a new camelback and rear addition. Because the proposed camelback is appropriately located a minimum of two historic rooms back from the front building wall, as per the HDLC Guidelines, Staff has no objection to the partial roof demolition application.

• Staff Recommendation: No Objection