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HAHC splits on two Norhill two-story additions: 731 Key deferred, 1101 West Melwood approved with condition
Summary
After extensive public comment about neighborhood scale, the commission deferred a two-story addition at 731 Key Street and approved a similar addition at 1101 West Melwood with a condition to lower the garage ridge height by two feet.
The Houston Archaeological and Historical Commission split action on two related applications for two-story additions in the Norhill neighborhood.
731 Key Street: Commissioners deferred. Roman McGowan described a proposal to construct a two-story addition above a non-original attached garage and expand a side/rear portion of the house. Neighbors and the Norhill deed-restrictions board spoke in opposition, arguing the addition’s massing, proximity to the rear property line, and garage dormer would set an undesirable precedent for corner lots in Norhill. Lawrence Febo, Virginia Kelsey and multiple neighbors presented petitions and survey results urging the commission to protect neighborhood scale. Commissioner Blakely moved to defer to allow more negotiation with Norhill representatives; the motion carried.
1101 West Melwood: Commissioners approved staff’s recommendation with a condition. Roman McGowan said staff worked with the applicant on elevations and that community support letters were numerous. Neighbors and Norhill representatives again urged caution on scale and floor-area ratio. Applicant Allison Alexander said the owners plan to restore original 1x17 wood siding hidden beneath asbestos-style siding and to retain original windows where possible, adding space for a growing family. After discussion, a motion to approve staff’s recommendation carried with a condition requiring the applicant to lower the garage ridge (via lowering the garage plate height and/or roof pitch) by two feet. The condition aims to reduce the perceived bulk of the garage element, a focal point of neighborhood concern.
Both items prompted extended public comment: supporters and opponents emphasized different priorities — neighborhood-scale preservation versus adapting older homes for modern family needs. Commissioners said they considered context, precedent and available design guidelines in their deliberations.
731 Key will return if the applicant and the neighborhood produce a revised plan; 1101 West Melwood will proceed with the HAHC-imposed condition to lower the garage ridge by two feet prior to permit issuance.
