In a recent meeting of the Metro Historic Zoning Commission (MHCC), significant concerns were raised regarding unauthorized modifications made to a historic property in the Hillsborough West End neighborhood. The applicant, Steve Alvarez, sought commission approval for alterations that deviated from previously granted preservation permits for a rear addition and historic roof reconstruction.

The commission had previously approved a rear addition in March 2024 and allowed for partial roof demolition and reconstruction in May 2024. However, during a routine inspection on July 24, 2024, MHCC staff discovered that the rear addition was constructed contrary to the approved plans. Notably, the wall height of the historic house was increased without permission, which staff determined did not comply with the design guidelines.

Staff presented visual comparisons of the permitted and constructed elevations, highlighting discrepancies in height, scale, and window design. The alterations included the replacement of historic window openings with non-historic proportions, which further violated the preservation guidelines.

In response, staff recommended disapproval of the project as constructed, urging the applicant to revert the wall heights to their original dimensions, reconstruct the rear addition to match the approved plans, and restore the historic window openings. The commission emphasized the importance of adhering to established design guidelines to maintain the integrity of the historic neighborhood.

During the meeting, Alvarez acknowledged the mistakes made during construction and expressed a willingness to comply with staff recommendations regarding window placements. He argued that the changes were not intended to disregard the guidelines but were a result of miscommunication with the construction team. Alvarez also raised concerns about potential damage to the original structure if modifications were enforced.

The commission is expected to deliberate on the staff's recommendations and the applicant's appeal in the coming weeks, with a decision that could have significant implications for the preservation of the historic property and the surrounding neighborhood.