Commission approves enclosure of existing porch at 4601 Alabama Avenue

The Chattanooga Historic Zoning Commission approved plans to enclose an existing covered porch at 4601 Alabama Avenue, a non‑historic structure built circa 2020, allowing the homeowners to convert the space to conditioned use with sliding doors and glazing that matches the building’s existing bronze‑colored window trim.

Staff report and proposal: Planning staff noted the footprint will not change; the work will enclose an existing porch by adding glass sliders on the front and rear and fixed glazing on the side stoop. Staff found the change compatible with the neighborhood and consistent with the Saint Elmo guidelines for additions to nonhistoric structures when visual impacts are minimal.

Applicant comments: Homeowner/agent Nate Heffner said the goal was to “maintain as open of a feel as possible” while making the space weather‑tight and usable as a sunroom, and that window and trim finishes would match existing bronze windows.

Commission action: Commissioners found the project straightforward and approved case HC‑25‑94 as submitted, with no additional conditions. The applicant may proceed to obtain building permits.

What happens next: The COA will be issued by staff and the applicant must secure necessary building permits to proceed with the work.