District: Lafayette Square
Owner: Excel Advertising Group LLC
HDLC Staff: Wendy Cargile
Rating: Unrated
Applicant: John Rupley
Permit #: 21-10119-HDLC
Description: New construction of six-story commercial building.
ARC Recommendations:
4/20/21: The ARC agreed that the proposed design, which creates the appearance of a two-story historic building with a contemporary addition above, is not successful and creates a false narrative. As the whole building is new, it should be designed holistically from the ground up. The ARC felt the contemporary steel and glass portion was more successful, but a more traditional style could also be used, as long as it is cohesive throughout. The ARC also had concerns about the two separate garage entrances, since they take up such a large percentage of the ground floor facade. It would be preferable if the garage could be reworked so that the ramp can be entered from the interior and a second garage door is not required.