The Metro Historic Zoning Commission approved plans for a six-unit infill at 305 South Tenth Street on condition that rooftop patios be removed from the proposal.

Staff said the site is a noncontributing lot in the Laughlin Springs East End overlay and that the project otherwise met guidelines for setbacks, materials, orientation and proportion. The applicant had proposed two small roof patios on the front two units; staff cited revised Laughlin Springs design guidelines (section LSC 2) that prohibit roof access except to reach mechanical equipment and recommended removal of the patios.

Owner and nearby resident Chris Wright told commissioners the patios were intended to provide modest outdoor space for long-term owner-occupants, not amenities for short-term rentals. Wright offered design compromises: push patios farther back from the parapet, limit vertical elements to four feet, and write restrictions into the homeowners association covenants. Commissioners discussed alternatives including Juliet balconies or fully enclosed windowed features; several expressed concern about enforcement of HOA covenants and the tendency for roof terraces to acquire umbrellas, pergolas and other additions that change neighborhood character.

After discussion, the commission approved the infill with staff’s standard conditions and the specific condition that the rooftop patios be removed; the motion passed on a unanimous voice vote recorded in the meeting minutes. Staff will require revised drawings showing removal of the patios prior to final review.