Commission approves ADU conversion and carport solar at 221 E. Oklahoma, subject to variances

The Knoxville Historic Zoning Commission on Sept. 18 approved a certificate of appropriateness to convert a contributing historic outbuilding at 221 East Oklahoma Avenue into an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) and to add a new carport with a solar array, subject to conditions and necessary variances.

Staff described the proposal (COA 7J25HC) as retaining the existing outbuilding footprint while removing the existing concrete slab, windows and garage door, and installing 3 1-over-1 double‑hung wood windows, casements and transoms, and in‑kind board‑and‑batten siding. The proposed carport will measure 32 feet 11 inches wide by 20 feet deep and be accessed from the alley; the project includes a solar tube on the ADU and a solar array that takes up most of the carport roof and both planes of the ADU. Staff recommended approval provided that any necessary variances are granted by the Board of Zoning Appeals and the project meets applicable City Engineering and zoning standards.

Applicant Ethan Fields, representing FE Trainer Construction, said the existing split‑face concrete block that faces the house is not visible from the alley or right of way and noted some existing reinforcement to the roof framing. “It is a split face block that faces towards the house, so it's not visible from the alleyway or the right of way,” Fields said, and added that the project team would coordinate with the solar contractor to confirm load capacity.

Staff emphasized that design guidelines discourage the use of exposed concrete block on accessory buildings and recommended that exposed sections be parge coated or clad in stucco or brick veneer. Staff also requested documentation—either comments from the contractor or an engineer’s statement—that the historic roof truss can support the solar array, or that necessary reinforcement will be performed.

Commissioners asked clarifying questions about missing photos in the application, the condition of existing CMU (concrete masonry unit) to be retained and the unusual window shapes on the rear elevation; no neighborhood input was reported. The applicant said final product specifications and any required reinforcement plans would be provided to staff.

A motion to approve the COA based on staff recommendations was made and seconded; the commission voted in favor and the motion passed.

Staff noted that the applicant must obtain any necessary variances (interior side setback) at a Board of Zoning Appeals hearing scheduled for Oct. 20; if variances are denied, the project must return to the Historic Zoning Commission. The commission adjourned after recognizing Commissioner Eason and presenting a certificate of appreciation for his service.