HARC postpones decision on Duval Street tiki huts after staff raises guideline concerns

The commission postponed review of an after‑the‑fact minor development application for two rear tiki‑style structures at the QS Hotel on Duval Street after staff flagged conflicts with HEART guidelines for accessory structures and roof materials. Bart Smith, representing the applicant, argued the huts are not visible from the streetscape and presented historic examples showing palm/thatch roofs in Key West. "Palm is actually, in the heritage of Old Town," the applicant said when citing archival photos.

Staff and several commissioners agreed on competing points: staff recommended replacing the thatch with metal shingles or 5‑V crimp roofing because the proposed thatch is incompatible with the contributing main structure; several commissioners said limited visibility and precedent could justify further consideration. The applicant requested and received a postponement; commissioners suggested exploring options such as a metal roof with interior treatments to preserve ambiance or narrower allowances for non‑standard materials before the next hearing.