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Commission approves limestone driveway columns with gas lanterns at 403 Eccles Avenue
Summary
The commission approved construction of four limestone driveway columns with gas lanterns at a Twickenham Greek Revival property, accepting staff findings that the size and materials are compatible with the large setback and district context.
HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — The Huntsville Historic Preservation Commission on Wednesday approved four limestone driveway columns topped with gas lanterns at 403 Eccles Avenue, a contributing Greek Revival residence in the Twickenham historic district.
City staff presented site photos, plans and details showing two columns at the public frontage and two behind the gate; the columns are limestone with cut-stone caps and will be paired with a fan-pattern cobble driveway and a low stone knee wall previously approved. Staff recommended approval, noting the large lot setback limits the visual impact and the proposed material—limestone—is consistent with historic materials on the property and in Twickenham.
Property owner William Stender told the commission that the driveway slope required small adjustments to maintain symmetry as the columns are installed. “The driveway surprisingly slopes about 18 inches across the driveway in height,” Stender said in explaining minor asymmetry driven by site topography.
Commission discussion touched on cobble patterning: one commissioner questioned the fan-pattern cobble for the driveway as potentially out of character, while the owner’s contractor said multiple template options would be provided. Commissioners also discussed gas lantern presence in the neighborhood; one commissioner noted there are already several gas lanterns in Twickenham and acknowledged the precedent.
After public comment closed, the commission voted to approve the columns and lanterns as submitted. The motion carried by voice vote; the minutes record the motion as approved and staff noted builders will submit final installation details as part of permit review.
The commission’s approval included no change to the previously approved gate and allowed the owner to coordinate cobble patterning and final dimensions with staff as construction progresses.
