The Design Review Board approved three infill duplex applications for 237 Chickamauga Avenue on Dec. 17, voting separately on Cases 12B25IH, 12C25IH and 12D25IH and attaching staff‑recommended conditions intended to ensure the homes meet middle‑housing and design guidelines.

Staff noted the duplexes meet several guideline elements (porch depth and roof forms) but requested modifications: front setbacks increased to conform with middle‑housing standards, walkways to connect to the street, addition of a recessed or projecting element on a side elevation to meet middle‑housing standards, foundation detail (porch to rest on a parged block foundation), and reduction of the oversized 5‑space parking pad on 12D25IH to the minimum for four spaces. Planner Melinda Woolert said the applicants revised plans address many staff comments but outstanding items remain: rear yard trees and parking pad size for 12D25IH.

Applicant Damon Falconer explained the additional parking space for 12D25IH was proposed to accommodate a 190‑sq‑ft accessory building that would house washers and dryers, and said the owner prefers to retain the fifth space to allow drive‑up access in inclement weather.

Board members debated whether a standalone accessory laundry building and the extra parking were appropriate; staff clarified accessory structures and communal use will be reviewed during permitting under base zoning and that the washer/dryer building could be removed or require further review. On separate motions the board approved 12B25IH and 12C25IH per staff recommendations, then approved 12D25IH with the staff-recommended reduction to four parking spaces.

Permitting will reconcile block‑face setback calculations and other zoning issues referenced in staff comments.