4051 Tulane Ave.

District: Mid-City - Partial Control

Owner: C Dematteo LLC

HDLC Staff: Krista J. Guzzo

Rating: Non-Contributing

Applicant: Ovella Enterprises, LLC

Permit #: 23-20306-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:  The building is a concrete industrial structure which first appears on the 1940 Sanborn Maps.  Due to its unremarkable aesthetic and poor condition, it does not contribute to the streetscape.

• The alternatives to demolition that have been explored by the applicant: None are known at this time.

• The difficulty or impossibility of reproducing such a building or structure because of its design, texture, material or detail: Although the structure is old, it does not have any remarkable features, and its industrial concrete construction and rectangular shape would not be difficult to replicate.  

• The special character and aesthetic interest that the building or structure adds to the local Historic District:  The current condition of the building detracts from the aesthetic of the streetscape.

• The condition of the building or structure:  Poor

Staff Recommendations: An exterior visual inspection was conducted by the HDLC Inspector on 8/30/23, and the building was found to be in poor condition.  Organic staining, graffiti, missing trim along the parapet, and holes within the parapet allowing for water intrusion all contribute to the deteriorating condition of the building, which appears not to have been utilized since the early 2000's.  Given the building's blighted condition and Non-Contributing rating, Staff recommends approval of the demolition request.  

• Recommendation: Approval of demolition.