Historic and Design Review Commission – June 17, 2020

Several proposed new construction and renovation projects kept us busy last week.  The Society delivered seven statements on cases in the Lavaca, Dignowity Hill, Monticello Park, and River Road historic districts.

3903 N. St. Mary’s – River Overlay District (RIO)
Result: Approved

And the tiger shall lie down with the giraffe  . . .  We supported the compromise worked out between the San Antonio Zoo and the Brackenridge Park Conservancy for more equitable signage on the new public parking garage.  In addition to the names of both treasured destinations, the exterior of the garage will feature eye-catching animal graphics. Read our full statement.

418 Barrera – Lavaca Historic District
Result: Continued

We opposed the design submitted for four, multi-story residences on this lot.  The density, lot coverage, and massing of this proposed project neither fit the neighborhood nor met the design guidelines.  Read our full statement.

2158 W. Kings Highway – Monticello Park Historic District
Result: Continued

The owner of this Tudor Revival style house had received approval to repair the damaged front porch.  However, the resulting work removed the original arches and enclosed the porch, altering the house’s historic character.  We encouraged the commission to enforce the original stipulations, which would restore porch’s arcaded appearance.  Read our full statement.

819 Lamar – Dignowity Hill Historic District
Result: Referred to Design Review Committee (DRC)

We agreed with Office of Historic Preservation (OHP) staff that many of the design elements on the new house proposed for this site didn’t fit the neighborhood.  Read our full statement.

1026 Hays – Dignowity Hill Historic District
Result: Approved (except front addition referred to DRC)

We objected to moving the front porch of this Arts and Crafts bungalow, which would have changed dramatically changed its original appearance. Read our full statement.

619 Dawson – Dignowity Hill Historic District
Result: Referred to DRC

Because the design for the front of this infill house didn’t fit the historic character of the neighborhood, we opposed conceptual approval.  Read our full statement.

335 Trail – River Road Historic District (Heard June 19)
Result: Denied

We continued to share the neighborhood’s concerns over the design proposed for new housing units facing Trail Street.  Although the developer replaced front-entry garages with carports, the parking still overwhelmed the front yards.  On the positive side, the project committed to preserving a heritage oak on the site.  Read our full statement.