Design Review Board roundup: sign approved, three infill cases approved with staff review, duplexes postponed
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Summary
At its Feb. 18 meeting the Knoxville Design Review Board approved a sign revision for Mechanics Bank, approved single‑family infill at Savoy and Adcock with staff review and conditions, and postponed two duplex certificates for 30 days. Minutes were approved and staff reported no Level 1 approvals since last meeting.
The Knoxville Design Review Board on Feb. 18 handled several routine infill and signage items and set follow‑up actions for staff.
Minutes: The board approved the January 21 meeting minutes by voice vote.
Certificates postponed: Staff requested postponement of two infill‑housing certificates (cases referenced in the packet as 12E25IH and 2A26IH); the board approved a 30‑day postponement by voice vote.
Mechanics Bank sign (612 South Gay Street): Staff presented a revision to a previously approved projecting sign for the Mechanics Bank and Trust Company building after the applicant submitted a manufacturer drawing that changed bulb count, spacing and size. Applicant Randy Ridge confirmed the revised layout; staff recommended approval subject to submission of a final plan showing the theater name for staff review. The board approved the sign per staff recommendation.
3323 Savoy Street (case 2B26IH): Staff recommended approval of a narrow, two‑story infill house subject to conditions (walkway to the street, driveway extended to meet a minimum depth past the main massing, porch depth increased to 8 feet, foundation height shown for staff review, and at least one front/rear tree). Board members emphasized accurate elevation drawings and depiction of site grade and stairs; the applicant agreed to revise plans and the board approved the application with final review by staff to ensure the driveway, porch and stair details meet the board’s guidance.
1130 Adcock Avenue (case 2C26IH): Staff recommended approval of a one‑story house subject to engineering‑required relocation of the driveway to the north side and an extension of the driveway 20 feet behind the main massing; the packet recommended allowing a reduced corner side setback to 7.5 feet to maintain consistent side setbacks on the block. The applicant confirmed planned tree retention and noted a light pole intruding into the yard (a KUB utility matter); the board approved the application per staff recommendation and delegated final detail review to staff.
205 & 209 Chickamauga Avenue (cases 2D26IH and 8B25IH): The board considered two proposed, nearly identical two‑story duplex buildings. Staff recommended postponement to allow the applicant to differentiate the two buildings, reduce foundation height where possible and correct stair and sidewalk depictions given steep site grades. The applicant described site drainage concerns and potential grading solutions; the board voted to postpone both cases for 30 days pending resubmittal.
Adjournment: The board adjourned the meeting after the evening’s business.