Collierville HDC approves exterior renovations for 111 Walnut, subject to conditions and town easement

The Collierville Historic District Commission on Jan. 23 approved a certificate of appropriateness for exterior alterations to the contributing structure at 111 Walnut Street, allowing restoration of wood siding and trim, window repairs, a new rear door and awning, a rear stoop and sidewalk that will require a town easement, and a service enclosure and fence, subject to conditions in the staff report.

The approval matters because the two-story, 0.073-acre building—built in 1886 and listed as a contributing structure in the town’s National Register district—will undergo work intended to convert it to a photography studio and small event space. Staff and the applicant emphasized retaining and repairing original fabric where possible and matching replacement wood siding and millwork to the existing profiles.

Staff presented the application and recommended approval provided the applicant submits the material information required by condition No. 1 so staff can verify compliance with the Historic District guidelines and the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation. Jamie (staff) told commissioners the next steps include submission of material samples, building and fence permits, and review by fire and code; the applicant also must secure an easement from the town because a rear ramp and sidewalk will encroach on town property.

Carson Looney, representing the applicant, described the building’s sound structural “bones” and said the…