Setting

The setting of a house – how it is located on and sized to fit a lot – should also be compatible with the rest of the historic district. Most homes in Glenbrook Valley are one story in height and set back 30 feet from the street. They are typically positioned in the center of the lot.

The character of the neighborhood is more regular south of Bellfort Avenue. In the southern part of Glenbrook Valley, the lots are generally the same size and shape. They are arranged in semi-rectangular blocks. Houses are similarly sized. They include integrated garages or carports face the street.

North of Bellfort, the lots are larger and less likely to be rectangular. The houses are also less regular in shape and size. Garages or carports are often attached to a rear corner of the house. This allows the front entry to dominate the view of the house from the street. There is also some variation in terrain because of the proximity to the bayou.

When considering a building project within the Glenbrook Valley Historic District, please refer to this chart. It shows which setting-related elements are compatible and which are not. Definitions of common terms can be found in the glossary.

 CompatibleIncompatible
Driveways
  • Located to the side of the house on interior lots
  • Connected to the side street on corner lots
  • Parking pads in front of the building
Garages and Carports
  • Integrated, front-facing
  • Attached, side- or rear-facing (north of Bellfort)
  • Detached
  • Carports or garages attached to (projecting from) front of house
Height
  • One or two stories
  • Typical overall height less than 30 feet
  • Three or more stories
  • Overall heights greater than 30 feet
Front setback
  • 30-foot front setbacks on most blocks
  • 20-foot or greater side setbacks on large corner lots
  • Any setback inconsistent with the containing blockface