BZA approves second‑story addition to carriage house for accessory apartment at 1111 Buchanan St. NW

The Board of Zoning Adjustment on April 9 approved Application 21266, allowing a second‑story addition to an existing accessory structure at 1111 Buchanan St. NW to create a garage and accessory apartment (ADU). The vote was recorded 4–0–1.

Owners Julia Howell and Marco Davis described the project as an accessibility‑focused unit intended to house aging parents near the primary home. Architect Greg Upwell said the existing structure is a taller, masonry accessory building that differs from the smaller one‑story garages seen elsewhere in the neighborhood; the proposal would preserve the brick façade where possible while providing interior improvements and a modest roof extension.

Joshua Mitchell of the Office of Planning said OP reviewed the proposal, and OP and DDOT provided no objection. OP recommended approval, noting the project would not create undue visual intrusion or shadow impacts and would remain within applicable zoning height and bulk standards. The board discussed the structure’s unusual size but agreed OP’s analysis supported granting a special exception to allow the increased building area for the accessory apartment.

Vice Chair Carl Blake and other members said the application met the special‑exception standards and recorded votes in favor. The board instructed staff to issue an order reflecting OP’s report and the board’s decision.