Historic and Design Review Commission – December 2, 2020

The Society delivered statements on nine cases.  Most of our comments reflected design concerns for new construction projects in historic districts, including the new Rosario’s restaurant.  We also supported findings of historic significance for the Liz Davies greenspace on Fredericksburg Road and three, mid-20th century dairy buildings linked to the former Bacon-Steubing farm off De Zavala Road.

1038 Dawson – Dignowity Hill Historic District

Result:  Sent to Design Review Commission

Construction of two, two-story residential structures and two, one-story residential structures, for a total of four structures.

6439 De Zavala/Bacon-Steubing Farm

Result: Approved finding of historic significance

This site contains the last three remaining buildings from a large, 20th-century dairy farm. The barn, milk house, and feed room date to c. 1948-1954.  This case will go to City Council for approval of landmark designation, which the owner opposes.  See coverage in the Express-News.

701 Evergreen – Tobin Hill Historic District

Result: Denied unanimously.

Request for front porch and window modifications on an Arts and Crafts bungalow.

726 Fredericksburg Road/Liz Davies Greenspace

Result: Approved finding of historic significance

This triangular greenspace, flanked by Spanish Colonial Revival style buildings, is named for a former Conservation Society president and the first president of the Beacon Hill Neighborhood Association. City Council will consider its designation as an individual landmark.

522 N. Hackberry – Dignowity Hill Historic District

Result: Sent to Design Review Commission.

Construction of a two-story residence.

819 Lamar – Dignowity Hill Historic District

Result: Approved with staff stipulations.

Construction of a one-story residence.

253 Lotus – Lavaca Historic District

Result: Continued for 30 days

Applicant applied stucco over wood siding and replaced historic windows without permits. The case continuation allows staff to verify the applicant’s claim that his property is not in the historic district.

722 N. St. Mary’s St. (Rosario’s) – Lavaca Historic District

Result: Approved with staff stipulations.

Request for partial demolition of the former El Mirador restaurant (preserving interior remnants of 1860s O’Hara-Mitchell House), new construction of a two-story restaurant for Rosario’s, house relocation (Dixon House/Pig Liquors on S. Presa), and site modifications.  See earlier coverage in the San Antonio Heron.

245 W. Wildwood – Olmos Park Terrace Historic District

Result: Sent to Design Review Commission

Construction of two-story rear addition, window modifications, and other exterior alterations.