Historic Zoning Commission

Old North Knoxville H-1: Level II

8-E-08-HZ

Applicant Request

Level II. Replacement/repair

Rebuild wooden front steps as concrete steps with sloping brick buttresses down each side and wrought iron railing, either one central or two (one on each buttress)

Site Info

Two story frame with weatherboard wall covering. Gambrel roof with asphalt shingle covering, recessed Gothic arched section in gambrel ends with wood shingles. Double hung one over one windows. One story full front porch with round wood columns with Doric capitals and brick piers with lattice panels. Partial second story balcony recessed under roof with recessed transom and sidelights at door. Two interior offset brick chimneys. Brick foundation with interlocking bricks at corners of projecting bay on south elevation. Irregular plan. Recessed transom and sidelights at front entry.

The wood steps accessing the front porch were repaired when the house was rehabilitated a few years ago, and have already deteriorated through exposure to the weather. The installation of concrete steps and brick buttresses, which are consistent in size, material and design with other front steps in the district, will correct an ongoing maintenance problem. The front porch does not have a railing; installation of a simple wrought iron railing is not only appropriate for the house's style, but is also the least obvious solution to the safety issue of a tall front porch without a protective railing.