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HARB continues Palm Row infill proposal; members raise fenestration and foundation concerns
Summary
The board continued an opinion of appropriateness for a proposed two‑story infill home at 0 Palm Row to July 16, asking the applicant to revise fenestration proportions, reconsider a continuous stem wall in favor of piers, and submit archaeological review plans.
The Historic Architecture Review Board on June 18 continued consideration of an opinion of appropriateness for a proposed two‑story residence at 0 Palm Row after detailed board comments about window scale, foundation strategy and archaeological sensitivity.
Staff summarized the conceptual proposal, describing traditional materials including cedar novelty siding, 1‑over‑1 wood window references and a continuous foundation faced with thin brick veneer. Applicant Erin Cowart clarified the intent that the foundation will be a solid concrete stem wall faced with thin brick veneer rather than traditional piers; Cowart said the design choice was intended to differentiate the new building from historic structures.
Board members raised concerns about the continuous stem wall’s visual and hydrological impacts in a flood‑prone neighborhood and urged the applicant to consider pier foundations that allow percolation. Multiple members criticized the proposed window proportions and placement on side elevations and asked for revisions that better reflect the scale and spacing of existing Palm Row houses. The board also emphasized the site’s archaeological sensitivity and urged the applicant to initiate archaeology review early.
The board voted to continue the application to the July 16 meeting and recommended the applicant submit revised elevations with taller windows, a site survey, revised foundation strategy and proposed small‑scale details (lattice, gable trim, rafter tails) to better integrate with the streetscape.
