A historic building sits at the corner of Frenchman and Decatur streets in New Orleans and is now the subject in a debate among many. Mike Motwani, a local businessman wants to add penthouse units to the building which is noted as “one of the most architecturally significant historic buildings in Faubourg Marigny.”
Locals from historic preservationists and groups from outside the Marigny are joining with the Faubourg Marigny Improvement Association to oppose the plans. Motwani feels the renovation will improve the Creole-style commercial building. Those that oppose foresee a large battle over what will become of New Orleans’ historic neighborhoods.
The building is currently under renovation to be redeveloped into a 43-unit boutique hotel. The problem is with the plans to demolish the existing roofline and replace it with nine new penthouses with balconies. The plans have already been denied by the Historic District Landmarks Commission.
“We have been getting a lot of feedback – phone calls, people pulling me aside in the checkout line at the grocery store. A lot of people are not in favor of this project,” says Freddie King District C Council member.
“Rooftop additions are prohibited on significant-rate buildings. We will repeat this statement yet again at the applicant’s appeal to the City Council; and so will others,” says Susan Johnson.
