THE DETAILS

The property at 1513 Rear Grove Avenue is located in the alley south of the 1500 block of Grove Avenue in the Fan. Before this project, it was a garage built ca.1910 as an automobile repair shop. For years knowing of the building, the client purchased the property to convert it to a distinctive single-family residence.

The structure is situated in a unique alley, coexisting with a private park, a single-family residence across the alley, and two additional garages. Johannas Design Group (JDG) started the design for the home in 2019. At that time, the dilapidated structure was being used for storage. In February 2020, JDG submitted an Special Use Permit application to convert the property; the proposed design included a recess for a west-facing patio, an upper-level deck facing the alley, and a garage for two smaller cars. The project exemplifies an excellent opportunity to salvage an important historic structure while retaining the historic fabric and adding a home of exceptional quality.

After receiving SUP approval in October 2020, the final design started to come to fruition as construction began. The client, a neighborhood property owner, self contracted the venture, finishing the project while maintaining the industrial character of the building. The repaired existing trusses are left visible as a design feature. The original roof decking remains exposed evincing the beauty of the original timber. Installed steel structural members support a new upper-level roof deck and an intimate dining area, continuing the industrial theme. The lower-level west recess creates an outdoor space adjacent to the living room, both sharing a double-sided fireplace. The steel windows in the open living area have been made for the project by local manufacturer Wellborn+Wright. The upper-level primary suite and an office overlooking the main living space have two new dormers.

This endeavor required an heroic amount of work to save the building. The client’s toil with a failing structure has brought to the neighborhood an exceptional two-bedroom, three-bathroom home containing an office, an open living area, two outdoor spaces, and a two-car garage.