HomeMy WebLinkAbout2007 04 23 Public Hearing 502 Aesthetic Review of Merle Norman Signage
CITY COMMISSION
ITEM 502
Consent
Information
Public Hearin
Re ular
x
April 23, 2007
Meeting
MGR. ;V IDEPT
Authorization
REQUEST: The Community Development Department requests that the Commission hold a
Public Hearing for the Aesthetic Review of the Merle Norman window signage proposed for the
front of the JDC Town Center Building 16 (facing Tree Swallow Drive).
PURPOSE: To encourage creative, effective, and flexible architectural standards and cohesive
community development consistent with the intent and purpose of Article XI - Minimum
Community Appearance and Aesthetic Review Standards and aesthetic appropriateness set forth
in Subsection 20-321 (b) (1) of the Town Center Code. Section 20-327 (f) (1) states that "All
signs shall be subject to the Discretionary Aesthetic Review by the DRC in order that signs
are consistent and in harmony with the Winter Springs Town Center." These window
signs were not included in the aesthetic review and need Commission approval.
APPLICABLE LAW AND PUBLIC POLICY:
Section 9-601. Approval prerequisite for permits.
Section 9-605. Submittal requirements.
Section 20-321.Town Center] Administration.
Section 20-327. Architectural Guidelines.
CONSIDERATIONS: The submittal requirements for aesthetic review are set forth in
Section 9-605 and include: (c) illustrations of all walls, fences, and other accessory structures and
the indication of height and their associated materials; (d) elevation of proposed exterior
permanent signs or other constructed elements other than habitable space, if any; (e)
illustrations of materials, texture, and colors to be used on all buildings, accessory structures,
exterior signs; and (f) other architectural and engineering data as may be required. The
procedures for review and approval are set forth in Section 9-603. Subsection 20-321 (b) (1) of
the [Town Center] Code states that the City Commission (in its capacity as the development
review committee for developments with in the Town Center) "shall have authority within reason
for approving all aspects of site planning and exterior architecture, including aesthetic
appropriateness.. . and other site specific matters not delineated herein." Section 20-327 (f) (1)
states that "All signs shall be subject to the Discretionary Aesthetic Review by the DRC in
order that signs are consistent and in harmony with the Winter Springs Town Center."
April 23, 2007
Public Hearing Agenda Item 502
Page 2 of3
Subsection 20-327 (f) (3) states that a maximum sign area on a given fayade shall not exceed 10
percent of the applicant's fayade area. The Merle Norman portion of the fayade (29' tall x 18'
wide) is approximately 522 SF. The building-mounted tenant sign is approximately (2' x 10') 20
SF. Therefore, the maximum allowable window signage would be (522 x 0.10 = 52.2; 52.2 - 20
= 32.2) 32.2 SF. The applicant proposes 2 window signs and 1 door sign (approximately 4.6 +
4.4 + 3.5 = 12.5 SF), the total copy area of which is approximately 19.5 SF smaller than the
maximum the Code allows. Staff believes that provision of the proposed lettering on clear or
lightly tinted glass (tinted no more than the standard prescribed by the City Commission) would
be proportionate and tasteful. The sign detail notes that the sign will consist of cut vinyl
letters on clear storefront windows. The proposed signage would allow adequate and
appropriate advertisement while not blocking the view into and out of the storefront.
Pursuant to Section 9-603 of the City Code, the City Commission may approve, approve with
conditions, or disapprove the application only after consideration of whether the following
criteria have been satisfied:
(1) The plans and specifications of the proposed project indicate that the setting, landscaping,
proportions, materials, colors, textures, scale, unity, balance, rhythm, contrast, and simplicity are
coordinated in a harmonious manner relevant to the particular proposal, surrounding area and
cultural character of the community.
The proposed sign age appears to adequately address this criteria and fit appropriately
with the building, sign age, and other features.
(2) The plans for the proposed project are in harmony with any future development which has
been formally approved by the City within the surrounding area.
The proposed sign age appears in harmony with existing and future development in the
area. The lettering is similar in size to that approved and in place on the Dance and Aikido
studio.
(3) The plans for the proposed project are not excessively similar or dissimilar to any other
building, structure or sign which is either fully constructed, permitted but not fully constructed,
or included on the same permit application, and facing upon the same or intersecting street within
five hundred (500) feet of the proposed site, with respect to one or more of the following features
of exterior design and appearance:
(A) Front or side elevations,
(B) Size and arrangement of elevation facing the street, including reverse arrangement,
(C) Other significant features of design such as, but not limited to: materials, roof line,
hardscape improvements, and height or design elements.
The signage is not excessively similar or dissimilar to other buildings on the Doran site.
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April 23, 2007
Public Hearing Agenda Item 502
Page 30[3
(4) The plans for the proposed project are in harmony with, or significantly enhance, the
established character of other buildings, structures or signs in the surrounding area with respect
to architectural specifications and design features deemed significant based upon commonly
accepted architectural principles of the local community.
The proposed signage will enhance the character of the other signage nearby while
providing some of the necessary contextual diversity that is a vital component of an well
designed downtown or town center.
(5) The proposed project is consistent and compatible with the intent and purpose of this Article,
the Comprehensive Plan for Winter Springs, design criteria adopted by the city (e.g. Towne
Center guidelines, SR 434 design specifications) and other applicable federal state or local laws.
This requirement appears to have been met.
(6) The proposed project has incorporated significant architectural enhancements such as
concrete masonry units with stucco, marble, termite-resistant wood, wrought iron, brick, columns
and piers, porches, arches, fountains, planting areas, display windows, and other distinctive
design detailing and promoting the character of the community.
This signage appears to be on par with other signage within the Doran development.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Staff found the Applicant's request for Aesthetic Review in
compliance and recommends approval.
ATTACHMENTS:
A Proposed Sign age
COMMISSION ACTION:
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