The Metro Nashville Historic Zoning Commission on Tuesday recommended landmark design guidelines for Peabody Manor, a 1923 apartment building at 1901 Capers Avenue, and voted to forward the designation to Metro Council.
The recommendation follows staff findings on the building's architectural significance and a presentation about its history. Robin, historic zoning staff, told commissioners the building was designed by architect Henry C. Hibbs and recommended adoption of design guidelines to protect its character.
The designation matters because Peabody Manor represents a period of apartment-building growth in Nashville and is tied to Hibbs's local work, staff said. Robin noted Hibbs's other projects in the city and his role in the local architecture community.
Ross Edwards, who identified himself as the building's owner, spoke in favor of the designation and described the building's long maintenance and notable past residents. "I've owned the building for 22 years," Edwards said, describing its historic features and condition.
Commissioner Mayhall moved to approve the designation; Commissioner Williams seconded the motion. The commission passed the recommendation with no recorded opposition.
Commissioners and staff clarified that the commission's role is to determine eligibility and make a recommendation to Metro Council, and that Council will take the formal action on designation. The commission also reminded applicants that a preservation permit and building permits are separate: Robin said, in public comment earlier, that "the preservation permit is not the same as a building permit" and that work cannot begin without codes administration review.
The designation will now move to the Metro Council for final action under the city's process for historic landmarks.