Lakewood Architectural Board of Review Meeting - April 11, 2024

The Board of Building Standards / Architectural Board of Review / Sign Review of the City of Lakewood met on April 11, 2024, at 5:30 PM in the City Hall Auditorium. The meeting covered multiple dockets including old and new business for architectural approvals, sign reviews, and a communication on proposed residential design standards. Key outcomes included approval of a contemporary home on Edgewater Drive after extensive debate, approval of several commercial and residential alterations, and conditional approval of signage for Blossom Cleveland.

Consent Calendar

• Docket 04-27-24 (14235 Madison Ave., Marathon Station): Approved as presented. The applicant proposes rebranding signage from Valero to Marathon.
• Docket 04-29-24 (17525 Madison Ave., Attaché Apartments): Approved as presented. The applicant proposes a non-illuminated monument sign.
• Docket 04-30-24 (13741 Madison Ave., La Mocha): Approved as presented. The applicant proposes vinyl window graphics and a replacement blade sign.

Public Comments & Testimony

• Docket 03-13-24 (17428 Edgewater Dr.): The homeowner, Nathan Chavez, stated that neighbors had positive reactions to the design and that no negative comments were received. A neighbor across the street offered to write a letter of support. A nearby neighbor who attended the previous meeting voiced concerns that were addressed by the applicant. One email was received from an interested party but no further comments were submitted.

Discussion Items

• Docket 03-13-24 (17428 Edgewater Dr.) – Old Business: Applicant Alexander Kolbe of evoDOMUS LLC presented revisions to a contemporary home design, including a new garage appearance, material samples (stucco, wood-like composite, stone), and confirmation of passive house compliance. Board members debated harmony with the neighborhood context. Some members noted the eclectic mix of styles on Edgewater and found the design appropriate, while others felt it stood out too much. City staff expressed reservations about consistency with zoning code standards. After public comment, the board voted to approve.
• Docket 03-16-24 (12102 Madison Ave., Hola Tacos) – Old Business: The applicant requested to table this docket. The board approved the tabling.
• Docket 04-22-24 (1276 Manor Park Ave.) – New Business: Applicant Jill Brandt of Brandt Architecture proposed a new front porch and dormer addition, matching existing brick, siding, paint colors (medium gray), and roof material. The board praised the design and approved unanimously.
• Docket 04-23-24 (17879 Lake Rd.) – New Business: Applicant Mark H. Reinhold (via owner Arvind Gaunder) proposed a front porch addition that will enhance the main entrance. Metal roofing on a side will be replaced with shingles to match. Approved unanimously.
• Docket 04-24-24 (15501 Madison Ave., Vital Pilates & Wellness Bar) – New Business: Applicant Lizandra Gonzalez (represented by Jake Zars) proposed exterior alterations including stucco, new storefront glazing, and removal of metal siding. Condition added to align transom divider lines with door frames. Approved with that condition.
• Docket 04-26-24 (16512 Detroit Ave., Cozumel) – New Business: Applicant Graham Post of Sixmo Architecture proposed outdoor dining with a trellis and a rear storage addition. A bifold window system will replace existing windows. Landscaping changes include replanting a removed tree. Approved unanimously.
• Docket 04-28-24 (14538 Detroit Ave., Blossom Cleveland) – Sign Review: Applicant Megan Robinson requested approval for vinyl cut window graphics exceeding allowable square footage. The board discussed the unique, transparent floral design but determined it covers approximately 85% of window area. Condition imposed: reduce overall window coverage to 50% (approximately 118 sq ft), either by lowering the graphic or pruning, with submission of revised drawing for administrative approval. Approved with that condition.
• Docket 04-25-24 (14414 Detroit Ave., The Marlowe Building) – New Business: Applicant David J. Maniet AIA of Maniet Architects proposed renovation of a historic commercial building, including restoring original window openings, new storefronts, and a rooftop trellis. Condition added that any unroofed patio may require BZA approval. Approved with that condition and based on revised drawings.
• Docket 04-31-24 – Communication: City staff presented proposed Residential Architectural Design Standards for ABR review. Board members provided extensive feedback on various sections (e.g., overhangs, materials, garage orientation). The document will be revised with the board's comments and forwarded to Planning Commission for adoption. The communication was received and filed.

Key Outcomes

• Docket 03-13-24 (17428 Edgewater Dr.): Approved. Motion by Jeremy Smith, seconded. Vote: Majority in favor (one opposed noted in transcript).
• Docket 03-16-24 (Hola Tacos): Tabled at applicant's request.
• Docket 04-22-24 (1276 Manor Park Ave.): Approved unanimously.
• Docket 04-23-24 (17879 Lake Rd.): Approved unanimously.
• Docket 04-24-24 (Vital Pilates): Approved with condition that transom divider lines align with door frames.
• Docket 04-26-24 (Cozumel): Approved unanimously.
• Docket 04-28-24 (Blossom Cleveland): Approved with condition to achieve 50% window coverage, subject to administrative review.
• Docket 04-25-24 (Marlowe Building): Approved with condition on BZA approval for roof deck if required, and based on revised drawings.
• Docket 04-31-24 (Residential Design Standards): Received and filed with noted comments; will be forwarded to Planning Commission.