Things are looking up for University Heights residents concerned about the condition of a 100-year-old residence dubbed the Log Cabin House because of its distinctive exterior.
Los Angeles resident Dan Ramirez bought the property this month, despite its increasingly fragile condition. Ramirez has begun talks with San Diego's Historical Resources department to determine what he can do to rehabilitate the 2,600-square-foot home.
Once a home receives a historic designation, as the Log Cabin House did in 2002, an owner must consult with the city to determine whether the work he has proposed meets federal guidelines. Owners also become eligible for tax breaks.
The home fell into disrepair under the previous owner, who had planned to turn it into a bed-and-breakfast. When that fell through, the preservation effort stalled, and the owner became the target of a city code enforcement case.
Ramirez, who restores old homes, spotted the North Avenue residence this summer while out driving with a friend. He was charmed, and later found what appear to be original fixtures, from hinges to doorknobs. The discovery delighted him. Within weeks, he acquired the property.
Yet he believes part of the two-story home, including a rear addition built about 1920, must be razed because of damaged wood. Talks with the resources board continue, but Ramirez wants construction to begin this year.
Local resident Kristin Harms monitored the previous owner's lack of progress on the home and warned the Historic Resources Board two years ago that the situation had deteriorated further.
“It has been an embarrassment to our community,” Harms said.
Bruce Coons, who leads the restoration group Save Our Heritage Organisation, said he has toured the property with prospective owners who were not experienced enough to take on the massive renovations. Coons estimated the project will cost at least $350,000, and praised Ramirez for stepping in.
“It sounds like it got what it needed – someone who would really love it,” Coons said.
Jennifer Vigil: (619) 718-5069; jennifer.vigil@uniontrib.com
