Commission postpones decision on after-the-fact window, porch and chimney work at 1705 Jefferson Avenue

The Knoxville Historic Zoning Commission on June 18, 2026 postponed consideration of an after-the-fact Certificate of Appropriateness for 1705 Jefferson Avenue to allow the applicant to provide clearer documentation of existing and proposed conditions.

Staff reported that multiple original window openings had been altered or infilled and vinyl windows and non-original siding were installed without permits; porch supports were replaced (tapered wood posts on brick piers had been removed) and an exterior chimney was demolished between February 2024 and March 2026. Staff recommended conditional approval of Andersen 100-series Fibrex simulated divided-light replacement windows only if the final specifications "reflect the overall size, number, and arrangement of the originals" and if exterior trim and recessing match historic profiles. Staff also recommended reconstruction or retention of character-defining porch elements (tapered posts on brick piers) and recommended after-the-fact denial of the chimney removal above the roof line.

Applicant Muhammad Erd, identifying himself as executor of the estate, told the commission the incorrect windows were installed and that he intended to "put the right ones in and match the siding." He said porch repairs were driven in part by safety concerns about deteriorated stairs and that he would work with planning staff on the porch solution. A neighborhood representative did not provide additional comments.

Commissioners and staff agreed that the record lacked sufficient documentation for a clear field inspection and that inspectors would benefit from annotated photographs, elevations with dimensions and manufacturer specifications. A motion to postpone for 30 days pending additional documentation was moved, seconded and approved by voice vote.

Next steps identified by commissioners and staff included submission of annotated site photos or elevations with dimensions, a clear specification sheet for proposed windows, and coordination with planning staff to address porch restoration and the chimney reconstruction question. The applicant may expand the scope of the postponed application to include siding or other repairs as needed for completeness.