After initially recommending deferral at its most recent meeting, the City Planning Commission staff has issued an amended report recommending approval for the proposed Bywater "poshtel," according to the project's spokesman.
The project at 4019 Chartres St., which is seeking a conditional use permit, also now has a name: Stateside.
Taking into account feedback from the HDLC's Architectural Review Committee and neighbors, the 16,000 square-foot courtyard originally planned has been split into two smaller courtyards (one with a pool), totaling 9,000 square feet.
A restaurant originally planned for Royal Street will now be in the center of the block, serving as a barrier between the two courtyards.
The project has also hired David Woolworth of Oxford Acoustics, Inc. to consult on "design and noise mitigation strategies." Noise has been a concern among neighbors who worried the hostel would "attract loud, drunk partygoers."
Developer Ted Kelso's presentation, which includes conceptual renderings by Eskew Dumez Ripple, includes more information on the project, which is being called a "boutique hotel/hostel." Stateside is slated to include a pool club, washateria (which will be open to the public), a sundries shop, and a coffee shop.
The presentation talks about "fostering community" and a "sense of belonging" at this hostel that aims to be "more than a place to sleep." Stateside bills itself as "a boutique property designed for casual exploration," rather than a sterile crash pad and party space.
Targeted toward young travelers who "want to explore New Orleans beyond Bourbon Street," Stateside seems to be grabbing at the Airbnb demo.
Stateside will be on the docket for the March 22 CPC meeting.
• Many Bywater Residents Aren't Too Thrilled About the Proposed "Poshtel" [Curbed NOLA]