In a recent meeting of the Design Review Board in Knoxville, significant discussions centered around two proposed residential projects that aim to enhance the community's architectural landscape while adhering to design guidelines.

The first project involves a new single-story home featuring a vinyl board and batten exterior with brick veneer accents. The design includes an 8:12 pitch front gable roof and a block foundation clad in stucco. Board members emphasized the importance of aligning the house closer to the front lot line, with a recommended setback of approximately 40 feet. The proposal also includes a large gravel driveway, which board members suggested should be revised to minimize its impact on the front yard.

Key recommendations from staff included ensuring the final site plan incorporates a walkway from the front porch to the sidewalk, revising the porch depth to a minimum of 8 feet, and adding an additional window to the rear elevation to enhance the building's aesthetic. The board also stressed the need for consistent siding materials across all elevations, advocating for clapboard-style lap siding instead of the proposed board and batten, which is typically allowed only as an accent. Furthermore, the plan must include at least one tree in both the front and rear yards, preserving existing healthy trees where possible.

The second project discussed was an addition and deck at 3124 Clearview Street. This addition, designed to replace an existing deck, will feature compatible materials such as lap siding and asphalt shingles that reflect the existing house's style. The board noted that the addition's design meets the guidelines for placement and massing, with a roofline that complements the original structure.

Board members raised questions about the choice of stucco for the foundation instead of brick, citing structural complexities. The applicant explained that the design aims to differentiate the addition from the main house while maintaining compatibility. Suggestions were made to enhance the base of the addition with decorative landscaping to protect the stucco from wear and tear.

Both projects received positive feedback from the board, with motions to approve the designs contingent upon meeting the outlined conditions. These developments reflect the board's commitment to maintaining the character of Knoxville's neighborhoods while accommodating new construction that meets community standards. As these projects move forward, they promise to contribute positively to the local architectural fabric and enhance the living experience for residents.