Historical Commission Finally Approves Design Of Contemporary St. Elmo Home By Board Member Lewin

  • Thursday, January 18, 2018

After two deferrals, members of the Chattanooga Historical Commission on Thursday finally gave approval to a planned new house in St. Elmo deemed too contemporary by some neighbors.

All but one member voted approval for certifying the two-story, 2,200-square-foot home at 5010 Tennessee Ave.

The owner is Steve Lewin, a member of the historical board.

He was absent on Thursday due to a death in his family.

Justin White, builder, said all the delays were bringing a financial hardship and he was willing to make

He listed some additional concessions as moving to six-inch hardie plank siding and changing some of the front roof design to make it more acceptable.

whatever concessions the board required.

One late condition from the board requires centering a window at the front of the house.

Neighbor Tim McDonald said, "I just don't think this house fits in with the other houses in the neighborhood that are very traditional."

The dissenting board member called it "a cool design, but it's not compatible with the neighborhood."

Sarah Weeks, new staff member for the commission, said the guidelines allow new homes to have some contemporary elements to distinguish them from older homes.

Mr. White said every effort would be made to keep as many trees as possible on the steep lot. He noted that some trees near the bottom of the lot "must be over 200 years old. I could not get my arms around them."

The property will be reached by a rear alley. Ms. Weeks said that is encouraged in St. Elmo. 

 

Latest Headlines
Breaking News
Latest Hamilton County Arrest Report
  • 3/19/2024

Here is the latest Hamilton County arrest report: AWOLOWO, APRIL 105 EUCLID STREET ATHENS, 373030000 Age at Arrest: 36 years old Arresting Agency: HC Sheriff THEFT OVER $1000 BARNETT, ... more

Senator Colton Moore Challenger Hits "An Incumbent Bent On Self-Promotion Instead Of Humble Leadership"
  • 3/18/2024

Angela Pence, a Chickamauga resident who is making a race against 53rd District Senator Colton Moore, said she aims to bring principled, effective leadership "to a district that has gone unheard ... more

Wamp Pushing For Tighter Local Lobbying Rules, Tax Abatement Policies; Bigger Share Of Sales Tax
  • 3/18/2024

County Mayor Weston Wamp spoke to the Pachyderm Club on Monday about the significance of a state basketball title, the need for local lobbying regulations and tightening up on tax abatement policies. ... more