329 N Diamond St.

Description: Renovation of a Non-Contributing rated, two-story warehouse building for conversion to hotel use.

HDLC Guidelines: 

Section 8, Pages 12 & 20 of the Guidelines for Windows and Doors state that the arrangement, size and proportions of window and door openings are key components of a building’s style and character. Different window configurations are associated with specific architectural periods and styles. Altering the window type, style, shape, material, size, component dimension, muntin pattern or location can dramatically alter the appearance of the building. As a result, the modification or addition of window or door openings, particularly on more prominent building façades, is discouraged. This includes the infill of all or part of an opening to make it smaller or to visually remove it.

Section 11, Pages 10-11 of the Guidelines for Commercial Buildings state that making changes to storefronts or installing new storefronts can be a costly endeavor, which if not properly planned, might negatively impact a business. When contemplating storefront work, the HDLC recommends:

• Identify key historic elements  in the existing storefront or building style to determine what might be appropriate.

• Locate structural supports to inform where openings, such as windows and doors can be installed.

• Review other storefronts at other historic buildings. Existing storefronts can provide information about the size, location and pattern of doors and windows; the types of materials used; the design of the elements including the display windows, doors, bulkheads and cornice; and the detailing and proportions of the components.

• The new storefront design should be compatible in size, pattern, scale, material and color with the overall building and similar storefronts from the period. The elements of the design should be considered holistically and should not include elements from multiple buildings and styles.

Previous ARC Recommendations: 

• 03/14/2023: 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: 

HDLC CBD Building Survey:

Street View: