ARC approves relocation, rehabilitation and tax exemptions for building at 1807 North Morgan Street

The Architectural Review Commission voted to approve part 1 and part 2 ad valorem tax exemption actions and confirm that the completed rehabilitation of a relocated historic structure at 1807 North Morgan Street meets the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards.

The project moved a contributing historic structure from the southeast corner of Oak and Morgan to a lot across the street and rotated the building so the porch again addresses the corner. Architect Andrew Mattson described a complex relocation and rehabilitation that included laser-measuring the original foundation and pilasters, adding a basement to provide secure storage, constructing a four-stop elevator to provide ADA access, rebuilding porches and stairs, reusing and repointing original chimney brick where feasible, repairing or replacing damaged siding and trim, and reconstructing some porch elements where original fabric could not be reused.

Mattson said the project team prioritized repair over wholesale replacement, replacing only structural members deemed unsafe by the structural engineer and preserving original windows and trims where possible. “When we lifted the house, we were able to get underneath… and we repaired as much as possible and not replace,” Mattson said. Owner Harvey Schonbrunn said he undertook the work to preserve neighborhood character and to show what restored structures could look like. “I love this neighborhood… I wanted my neighbors to see that if they decided to fix up their houses, what the houses could really look like,” Schonbrunn said.

Project changes visible in the post-construction photos include removal of an earlier ADA ramp in favor of the elevator, reconstruction of porch pilasters and railings, a new basement and foundation system, repaired beadboard porch ceilings, restored trim and fireplace masonry where practicable, and a covered parking canopy at the rear of the parcel. The architect and contractor reported that some previously installed non-historic elements were removed and that new infill was executed with thin- or matching-brick to present compatible texture while meeting structural requirements.

Commissioners discussed technical elements including how much historic fabric was retained, correction of siding and paint removal procedures, and waterproofing for the elevator (the design includes a trench/drain detail and water diversion to protect the elevator machinery). Staff confirmed the project met part 1 requirements and found the completed work consistent with the Secretary standards.

The commission made two motions — to approve the part 1 recommendation and to approve the part 2 recommendation for the related ad valorem tax exemption — and both motions passed unanimously. The part 2 approval confirms the work completed on the relocated structure conforms to the part 1 approvals and supports processing of the tax-exemption paperwork under city rules.