Commission approves corner-lot pavilion and hot-tub deck in Seminole Heights with finish and lighting details to be finalized

Tampa — The Architectural Review Commission approved a modest pavilion and spa deck for the rear of a contributing corner‑lot house at 5302 North Central Avenue on May 5, while requiring the applicant to supply additional details on lighting and brick finishes for the addition.

Agent Alan Dobbs said the project, centered in the property’s rear yard, is a simple gabled pavilion roughly 18 by 16 feet with four wood box columns on masonry piers, a tongue‑and‑groove ceiling, and dimensional-asphalt shingles to match the main house. The pavilion will connect to the rear stair by a short roofed connector and will sit adjacent to a small raised deck for a hot tub. Dobbs showed before‑and‑after photos of the property, noting a prior second‑floor addition and updated front porch work were completed under an earlier ARC approval in 2023.

Historic Preservation staff found the new pavilion consistent with the Seminole Heights Design Guidelines and the Secretary of the Interior’s standards. Elaine Lund, historic preservation staff, recommended approval conditioned on submission of final material and lighting details; commissioners echoed that request. Commissioners asked for a 1x6 tongue‑and‑groove ceiling in the pavilion and confirmation that the masonry piers would use a precast cap with rounded corners to match existing character elements. The agent said the design will use a board‑and‑batten gable and simple boxed columns on masonry piers with an in‑kind concrete or broom‑finished floor.

The commission approved the Certificate of Appropriateness with the condition that the applicant provide final lighting specifications and brick/veneer finish details to staff for approval prior to permit issuance. The vote was unanimous by voice.

Outcome: Certificate of Appropriateness approved with conditions (lighting and brick finish details).