Picture courtesy of the Vieux Carre Commission.
Members of the Vieux Carre Property Owners, Residents and Associates plan to attend a Nov. 17 New Orleans City Council meeting to oppose a proposal to install a balcony-like structure on a “rare” Bourbon Street building.
The VCPORA said it opposes a plan to build a gallery on the second floor of Fat Catz nightclub, located at 440 Bourbon St. because it will damage the historic character of the building.
The building is rated “green” by the Vieux Carre Commission, meaning it has local historical importance. A VCC staff report in July noted the building’s entire structure is “historic and of significant age.” The report noted that the millwork and masonry visible along Bourbon, St. Louis, Royal and Conti streets are typical of the 19th century. VCC officials previously denied the proposal but it was appealed by Mouton Long Turner Architects on Sept. 14.
“This green-rated structure, constructed in 1819 as part of the Pigneguy’s Stables, is a particularly rare Entresol building,” according to VCPORA. “A rare architectural feature at 440 Bourbon Street needs to be protected!”
The City Council is scheduled to hear the appeal during its Nov. 17 meeting. The meeting starts at 10 a.m and will be held at the City Hall building at 1300 Perdido St., and streamed online.