03-05-14 PC Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION March 5, 20144 Commissioner Holewa discussed the proposed transparency coverage on the building. He was concerned that the Lexington Avenue façade would have the appearance of being the back of the building. Associate Planner Bachler explained this issue was discussed with the applicant. He understood the design of the east façade was a concern, but in order to accommodate restaurant tenants in the building, non-transparent windows were being requested in certain areas on three sides of the building. He indicated the proposed solution was preferred versus the use of spandrel glass. He believed that the frosted windows would allow light from the interior to pass through the windows giving an open appearance. Staff supports the solution proposed by the applicant. Commissioner Holewa indicated that the Planning Commission did not want the east façade to appear to be the rear of the building. He feared that the proposed windows would have this effect. Vice Chair Thompson invited the applicant to speak. Nicholas Roberts , Roberts Management Group, thanked staff for the thorough presentation. He stated his goal was to create a high end retail center that would be the showcase of the entire development. He stated that the building was designed to have four sided architecture given its visibility along Lexington Avenue and that the building was fully wrapped in brick. However, having transparent glass on three sides of the tenant spaces was not conducive to tenants with kitchens. For that reason, he was requesting an amendment to the PUD to address this concern. Mr. Roberts requested that the Planning Commission allow for the frosted glass as proposed. Commissioner Holewa recommended that the tenant space be designed to have the kitchens and restrooms located on the interior wall. This would eliminate the need for frosted glass. He believed that the tenants were just taking the easiest route. Mr. Roberts stated this would not be an option for Starbucks given the location of their drive- thru on the north side of the building. This may be an option for Noodles & Company. Commissioner Bartel agreed that the tenants were taking the easy route in terms of the interior layout. He recommended the developer view the Noodles/Caribou/Chipotle development in Eden Prairie. Commissioner Hames stated that the rear of the building did face Lexington Avenue and this façade had arched windows, brick, and awnings, as per the request of the Planning Commission. Vice Chair Thompson opened the public hearing at 7:05 p.m. Vice Chair Thompson invited anyone for or against the application to come forward and make comment. Vice Chair Thompson There being no comment, closed the public hearing at 7:06 p.m. Vice Chair Thompson opened the floor to Commissioner comments.