In the heart of Austin, a significant discussion unfolded at the Historic Landmark Commission meeting regarding the future of 600 Hearthon Street. The proposal, which had undergone substantial revisions since its last presentation, now seeks to balance modernization with the preservation of historical integrity.

Originally, the application called for the complete demolition of all structures on the property. However, after consultations with the Architectural Review Committee, the applicant has pivoted towards a more nuanced approach. The revised plan includes the partial demolition of secondary buildings while committing to the rehabilitation of the main historic house, a structure that has stood since the early 1900s.

The buildings at 600 Hearthon Street tell a rich story, beginning with the Victorian home built by the Harthon family, who were integral to the area’s development. Dr. Hans Harthon, a notable musician and the first director of the Austin Symphony, once called this place home. The property later transitioned through various owners, including Dr. David Lane, a dentist who expanded the estate in the 1930s, adding an apartment building designed by his son, Roy C. Lane, a talented interior designer and musician.

The current proposal aims to remove non-historic additions, such as a modified garage and an enclosed patio, to reveal the original architectural features of the main house. While the circa 1930 apartment building and a heavily altered Victorian residence will still face demolition, the plan emphasizes restoring the main building’s stucco and tile roof, along with replacing windows and doors to match their original designs.

The Architectural Review Committee has voiced strong support for preserving the historic elements of the property, urging the applicant to incorporate these features into the new development. Their feedback has been instrumental in shaping the updated proposal, which now aligns more closely with the district's design standards.

As the commission deliberated, they acknowledged the importance of maintaining the character of the historic district while allowing for necessary updates. The staff recommendation was to approve the modified application, emphasizing that no demolition permits would be issued until the new construction plans receive further approval.

This meeting marks just the beginning of a two-part process, with the next step involving a detailed presentation of the new design. As Austin continues to grow and evolve, the balance between progress and preservation remains a critical conversation, one that will shape the city’s landscape for generations to come.