The historic Little Villa on Highland has been saved from demolition.
The historic Little Villa on Highland in Birmingham has been saved from demolition thanks to community efforts. Local activists rallied support, leading to the preservation of this 1923 architectural gem, which will undergo renovation. This victory highlights the determination of residents to protect their heritage and opens the door for potential restoration of nearby historical homes, including the Three Sisters.
Birmingham has some wonderful news to celebrate! The historic home known as the “Little Villa on Highland,” located at 2931 Highland Avenue South, has just been saved from the jaws of demolition. This charming piece of history will now be restored thanks to its new owner, who has serious plans to breathe new life into the property.
Not too long ago, the “Little Villa” was on the verge of being razed to make way for a new six-unit apartment building. The plans for demolition were officially submitted to the Birmingham Design Review Committee, which sent local residents into a frenzy. But the good-hearted folks in the community weren’t ready to let this treasured gem go without a fight. Local activists and neighborhood groups rallied together, launching a passionate campaign to save the beloved home.
This community-led effort gained momentum, bringing together nearly 2,500 people who signed a change.org petition urging for the home’s preservation. These actions did not go unnoticed. The Highland Park Local Historic Advisory Committee stepped in and decisively voted to deny the demolition request. In a remarkable turn, the Birmingham Design Review Committee ultimately tabled the demolition proposal, effectively stopping the project dead in its tracks.
Come January 15, 2025, the property officially exchanged hands. With the new ownership, a sense of excitement is in the air, as plans for the renovation have been confirmed. The “Little Villa” is a spacious 2,160 square-foot residence that boasts three bedrooms and two bathrooms. Built in 1923 by Mr. and Mrs. Colby, its architectural design draws inspiration from ancient Roman villas, crafted by the talented architect William Leslie Welton.
Interestingly, the “Little Villa” shares a distinct design aesthetic with the Colby Decorating Company Building, which is currently home to the vibrant Dread River Distilling Company. How lovely it is to see elements of history and heritage woven together in the very fabric of the neighborhood!
With the “Little Villa” having successfully evaded the looming threat of demolition, attention is now turning to the neighboring residences known as the “Three Sisters.” The George Harris and Robert Warner residences, which were built in the early 1900s, have stood vacant for decades and are currently up for sale as a combined lot for a cool $1,000,000.
The community is buzzing with excitement at the prospect of restoring these charming structures. The Eugene Enslen residence, one of the “Three Sisters,” underwent a restoration in 1994 and now houses Snable Attorneys at Law. However, the Robert Warner residence is missing its entire front porch, and both homes have succumbed to disrepair over the years. It’s time to bring them back to their former glory!
The successful preservation of the “Little Villa on Highland” is a testament to the power and determination of the Birmingham community. Their efforts didn’t go unnoticed and are now paving the way for potential restoration of the “Three Sisters” homes. Hopefully, this determination and passion for preserving history will continue to resonate throughout the city, reminding everyone that even in the face of development, community spirit can win the day!
Birmingham has proven that it still cherishes its history and is taking steps to ensure that the past remains a part of its vibrant future. Now, all eyes will be watching how these restoration efforts unfold as the “Little Villa” gets the careful attention it deserves, while everyone hopes to see the “Three Sisters” follow suit. What an exciting time to be in Birmingham!
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