The Central Business District Historic District Landmarks Commission approved conceptual designs for the 30,000-square-foot hotel proposed for the vacant lot that formerly contained the Dixie Machine Welding and Metal Works warehouse at 1031 Annunciation St. The circa 1919 building was razed in December after the New Orleans City Council overturned the Historic District Landmarks Commission’s decision to deny demolition.
The designs include a hip roof at the corner of Annunciation and Poeyfarre streets to visually connect the two primary facades, recessed window bays to accentuate the vertical rhythm typical of warehouses, and the addition of a parapet to conceal HVAC equipment.
Eskew Dumez and Ripple architecture firm had presented initial designs to the CBD HDLC’s Architectural Review Committee at its March 19 meeting and revisions at its April 19 meeting. At the April meeting, the ARC gave conceptual approval of the designs but called for reconsideration of the gable roofs at the ends of the building, further articulation along the cornice and additional options for treating the windows, particularly on the first story.
The application will now return to the ARC to work out those details.
MaryNell Nolan-Wheatley is PRC’s Advocacy Coordinator & Public Policy Research Director.
