329 N Diamond St

Description: Review of updated proposed primary façade materials at a previously approved renovation of a Non-Contributing rated two-story warehouse building for conversion to hotel use.

Previous ARC Recommendations: 

06/18/24: The ARC voted to recommend conceptual approval with the final details to be worked out at the Staff level. The ARC agreed that:

• The proposed glazed terra cotta brick/tile proportions and subtle color variation are successful.

• The transom material and detail changes are successful because these elements now appear more industrial in character. 

• The applicant should investigate the feasibility of relocating the proposed gas meter box from the front elevation to the perpendicular interior wall of the adjacent entry vestibule so that it is a less prominent element of the façade. 

05/14/24: The ARC voted to recommend conceptual approval of the changes with the final details for the materials and infill storefront panels to return for additional ARC review. The ARC agreed that:

• The overall proportions of the façade are appropriate, and it appears balanced and considered.

• The rectilinear geometry of storefront panel Options 2 and 3 (obscured-view glazing and multi-light hopper window) is preferred, particularly Option 3 because the small light configuration helps to break up the rhythm of the façade better. The applicant should consider refining Options 2 and 3 without glazing.

• The proposed material palette, particularly the glazed CMU block and color, appears to be too institutional and may not be appropriate for the Warehouse District.

  • • The applicant should consider an alternative non-standard CMU size that is longer in dimension (such as 3:1 or 4:1 in length) that could provide a different size module for increased visual interest.

    • Glazed CMU is preferred, however, a stucco treatment over CMU may also work here, with a subtle change in the plane and paint color at the recessed area.

• The small window on the façade does not appear to relate to the size and proportion of the other façade elements and should be reconsidered. The applicant should either enlarge the opening (such as matching the width of the adjacent doorway) or remove it.

• The applicant should continue to study and refine the proposed material palette and infill storefront panel options for the next review.

04/05/23: The Commission voted grant conceptual approval with the final details to be worked out at the Staff level. 

03/15/23: The ARC voted to recommend conceptual approval with the final details to be worked out at the Staff level. The ARC also agreed the existing building has been so heavily altered in the past that none of the proposed exterior changes appear to negatively impact the building and its perception from the street.

Context Photos:

Current Drawings:

Previous Drawings - 06/18/24:

Previous Drawings - 05/14/24:

Previous Drawings - 03/15/23:

HDLC CBD Historic Building Survey:

Street View: