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DDRC approves two‑story duplex at 2311 Green Street after neighborhood objections about scale and student housing
Summary
The DDRC granted a certificate of design approval for a two‑story duplex at 2311 Green Street with conditions on setback, retaining wall review, landscaping and materials after staff described design changes and neighbors raised concerns about scale and conversion to student rentals.
The Design and Development Review Commission voted to grant a certificate of design approval for a proposed two‑story duplex at 2311 Green Street, approving a set of staff‑recommended conditions after a lengthy staff presentation and public comment opposing the project.
Preservation staff told the commission the project, previously presented in August 2024, had been revised to show site grading, a 20‑foot setback, a two‑story porch, reduced roof pitch (lowering the height by about 2 feet), and a plan to retain the existing front retaining wall where possible. Staff recommended approval with conditions: the setback not exceed 20 feet from the public right of way; if the existing retaining wall cannot be saved a new wall must return to staff for design approval; four‑ to five‑foot mature landscaping in front of the elevated foundation; horizontal cladding; and that remaining material decisions be deferred to staff.
Toby Ward, an attorney representing the applicant, said the applicant had “worked with staff over these last five months at some substantial expense” to produce the revised plans and that the project would add housing stock. Neighbors urged the commission to consider impacts on the block’s historic character and parking. Vivian Clark James, president of the MLK Laurel at Waverly Neighborhood Association, said the neighborhood has been “inundated” with duplexes rented to students and warned the new buildings were overshadowing the remaining historic dwellings. Dr. Bambi Gaddis told commissioners the new structures are “visually a horrendous deterioration of the spirit of that community.”
Staff noted the 23‑100 block has only two intact historic buildings and said the proposed building’s massing, fenestration, porch and reduced roof pitch make it generally compatible with the district’s guidelines. The commission’s motion adopted staff findings and conditions and passed in roll call with six yes votes; one commissioner voted no.
The approval allows the applicant to proceed under the conditions recorded by staff; any required changes to a retaining wall or unresolved material choices must be returned to staff for review.
