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BUILDING REVIEW BOARD 2017/05/03 Minutes Page 1 of 13 May 3, 2017 The City of Lake Forest Building Review Board Proceedings of May 3, 2017 Meeting A regular meeting of the Lake Forest Building Review Board was held on Wednesday, May 3rd, 2017 at 6:30 p.m., in the Council Chambers of City Hall, 220 E. Deerpath, Lake Forest, Illinois. Building Review Board members present: Chairman Ted Notz and Board members: Jim Diamond, Ross Friedman, Robert Reda, Mike Bleck and Fred Moyer Building Review Board members absent: Peter Dunne Staff present: Kate McManus, Assistant Planner and Catherine Czerniak, Director of Community Development 1. Introduction of Board members and staff, overview of meeting procedures – Chairman Notz Chairman Notz reviewed the role of the Building Review Board and the meeting procedures followed by the Board. He asked the members of the Board and staff to introduce themselves. 2. Consideration of the minutes of the April 5th, 2017 meeting of the Building Review Board. The April 5th meeting minutes were approved as submitted. 3. Continued consideration of a request for revisions to a previously approved plan for 20 N. Western Avenue. (Partial demolition, alterations, additions) Owners: Zac and Megan Zarling Representatives: Michael Hrusovsky, designer Adam Lyons, architect Chairman Notz asked the Board for any Ex Parte contacts or conflicts of interest. Board member Friedman stated that he had a conversation with the petitioner’s representative, but stated that the conversation will not affect his ability to review the petition impartially. Chairman Notz invited a presentation from the petitioner. Mr. Hrusovsky introduced the owners and stated that they are requesting approval of changes to the previous approved plans for modifications to the Page 2 of 13 May 3, 2017 existing house. He reviewed the history of the property and provided background on the original owner. He stated that after the prior Board’s approval, and once construction of the approved addition got underway, unanticipated structural issues were encountered with the rear portion of the house. He stated that he initially believed that the rear wing was newer than the original house but noted that it may actually predate the rest of the house. He stated that there may be a future addition on the rear of the house, but stated that no new construction at the rear of the home is proposed at this time. He stated that the owners are seeking approval of the removal of the existing rear wing. He stated that the existing house, without the rear addition will be a fully functioning house. He noted that a kitchen is proposed in what was previously the dining room and noted that a rear door and small rear porch are proposed on the west elevation where the rear wing is currently located. He noted that there are no changes proposed to the previously approved second floor addition. He reviewed the elevations and noted that no changes are proposed to the previously approved front elevation. He stated that new windows are proposed on the rear elevation where the one story wing will be removed. He stated that the exterior materials will match the existing house and he provided a color rendering of the rear elevation with the rear wing removed. Ms. McManus stated that the Board continued consideration of this petition to get clarification on the scope of the work proposed as part of this project. She stated that the request now before the Board is for approval of a partial demolition consisting of the removal of a rear, one story wing and approval of minor modifications to the rear elevation to enclose the gap that will be left by the removal of the rear addition. She stated that staff is recommending approval of the petition as presented. In response to questions from Board member Diamond, Mr. Hrusovsky stated that since the last meeting, debris was removed from the yard. He agreed that the floor plans as presented incorrectly number the bedrooms and stated that there are 3 bedrooms in the home. Hearing no further questions from the Board, Chairman Notz invited public comment. Hearing none, he invited final comments from the Board. Hearing no further comments from the Board, he invited a motion. Board member Reda made a motion to recommend approval of the petition based on the findings detailed in the staff report which document that the plans as presented and as modified by the recommended conditions of approval, meet the design standards and requirements of the City Code as detailed in this staff report. Approval is recommended subject to the following conditions: Conditions of Approval Page 3 of 13 May 3, 2017 1. Plans must be submitted consistent with the parameters outlined below and consistent with other applicable Code requirements. If modifications are made to the plans presented to the Board, either in response to Board direction, or as the result of final design development, the modifications shall be clearly called out on the plans and a copy of the plans that were provided to the Board shall be attached to the revised plans, with changes highlighted, for comparison purposes. Staff is directed to review any changes, in consultation with the Chairman as appropriate, to determine whether the modifications are in conformance with the Board’s direction and approval prior to the issuance of any permits. a. Plans submitted for permit shall be clearly detailed, drawn and stamped by a licensed architect. b. The exterior materials and detailing shall be consistent with the plans as originally presented to the Board for approval. All siding, trim and windows shall be wood consistent with the representations made to the Board. 2. A timeline for construction shall be submitted to the City prior to the issuance of approval of the revised plans to document that the project will be completed, and a Certificate of Occupancy obtained in compliance with the Code requirements. 3. Work must proceed in full accordance with the approved plans. If unanticipated conditions are found at the site, work must be stopped and revised plans and the necessary supporting documentation deemed necessary by the Director of Community Development must be submitted for review and will be subject to approval prior to work proceeding. 4. A lighting plan, including specifications on all exterior fixtures proposed, shall be submitted and must be in full compliance with the City Lighting Guidelines. Fixtures shall direct light down and all light sources shall be screened from view. The dark sky, right to night concept shall be followed. Exterior lights shall be turned off by 11 p.m. 5. No modification to the grade or topography of the property is permitted unless and until a final grading and drainage plan is approved by the City Engineer. 6. Tree protection fencing as required by the City Arborist must be installed and remain in a secure and upright position throughout construction and until the City Arborist authorizes removal of the fence. 7. Prior to allowing work to proceed at the site, an updated materials staging and construction vehicle parking plan must be submitted to the City for review Page 4 of 13 May 3, 2017 and will be subject to City approval in an effort to minimize and manage visual impacts and congestion on the neighborhood during construction and minimize impacts on trees intended for preservation. Due to the location of the property near an at grade railroad crossing, and given the narrowness of the Western Avenue roadway, no on street parking or staging of construction vehicles or contractor vehicles are permitted. 8. This project must abide by all of the terms, conditions, restrictions, and provisions of The City of Lake Forest City Code, and all other applicable codes, ordinances, rules, and regulations. The motion was seconded by Board member Friedman and passed by a vote of 6 – 0. 4. Continued consideration of a request for approval of an addition to the Performing Arts Center at Lake Forest Country Day School and related alterations. The property is located at 145 S. Green Bay Road. Owner: Lake Forest Country Day School Representative: Doug Pasma, architect Chairman Notz asked the Board for any Ex Parte contacts or conflicts of interest. Hearing none, he invited a presentation from the petitioner. Mr. Pasma stated that he was before the Board in December, 2016 and received approval for modifications to the south wing, the Athletic Center of the Lake Forest Country Day School , and direction on modifications proposed to the north wing of the school, the Performing Arts Center (the PAC). He provided a massing model and pointed out the areas where modifications were made in response to comments at the last meeting. He stated that the intent of the changes is to create more harmony between the existing elements of the PAC and the proposed additions and to improve the appearance of the Green Bay Road streetscape and the front of the school overall . He stated that the existing covered walkways that extend between the wings of the school will be enclosed. He stated that the interior spaces of the PAC will be reworked and a lobby and seating area will be added. He stated that the lobby has a triangular footprint and that large windows are proposed on the west façade of the PAC to relate to the previously approved changes to the gymnasium. He noted that his team reviewed the minutes from the previous Board meeting and identified the key points raised by the Board. He stated that the main concerns included the form and details of the main entrance to the PAC, the existing intense exterior lighting on the campus and its offsite impacts, the relationship of the proposed windows on the west elevations of the PAC and the Athletic Center, and the massing and rooflines of the proposed additions to the PAC. He provided an image of the existing PAC entrance and roof line and explained that the plans were modified Page 5 of 13 May 3, 2017 to retain the existing gable and to step back the taller addition from the existing plane of the building. He provided a comparison of the previous proposal and the revised proposal. He noted that there was discussion regarding the eave detail and the elliptical window and noted that the eave detail was enhanced. He stated that the window element was retained noting that it breaks up the expanse of wall on the south facing elevation of the PAC. He stated that a metal material is now proposed for the exterior wall of the addition noting that it is a rain screen product, with a vertical shingle effect, in a bronze tone. He stated that the eave detail consists of a crown mold and a drip edge and is identical to the detail at the existing main entrance. He described the gutters. He stated that the height of the projecting roof element on the addition was reduced by 2 feet to minimize visibility from off of the campus. He stated that a limestone cap is proposed on the roof of the lobby. He noted that simulated divided lites will be used on the west facing windows and that the trim and dormer details will match and will be a cream color. He noted that both windows will incorporate a motorized shading device. He stated that signage previously proposed on each building was removed to simplify the appearance and to allow the school to determine whether additional signage is needed after the renovations are completed. He reviewed the locations of the existing light fixtures noting that they will be removed and replaced with 14 steel bollards with illuminated tops. He noted that perforated metal screens will be added to mitigate light impacts, if necessary. He noted that recessed fixtures will be used as needed on the building and confirmed that offsite light impacts will be eliminated. He reviewed the proposed landscape enhancements. Ms. Czerniak reiterated that in December the Board approved alterations to the gymnasium and generally endorsed the alterations and additions proposed to the PAC. She noted however that the Board encouraged further study and refinement of the architectural details and massing and encouraged an approach that distinguishes the addition from the existing structure. She stated that the school campus, although it has historic aspects, has evolved over time. She noted that the changes proposed to the exterior lighting will be a significant improvement given the existing high intensity lighting on the site. She asked for input from the Board on the bollard fixture and whether or not shielding of the light source should be required consistent with the lighting guidelines. She suggested that a condition could be added directing staff to review a mock-up of the fixture on site before full installation. She stated that minimal changes are proposed to the landscaping on the site and noted that no trees that are in good condition will be removed. She stated that as needed additional plantings will be added over time to screen the additions and modifications as needed and to infill the streetscape buffer. She stated that the staff report includes findings in support of the petition. Page 6 of 13 May 3, 2017 Chairman Notz invited the Board members to step down from the dais to view the model. The Board reconvened. In response to questions from Chairman Notz, Mr. Pasma confirmed that the roofline was dropped down 2.5 feet and that the project no longer requires a height variance. In response to questions from Board member Diamond, Mr. Pasma stated that he did not bring a sample of the metal material proposed as siding for the addition, but said that it will have a matte bronze, historic appearing finish. He clarified that the fin element of the roof is proposed as an architectural composite metal with a honed look while the roof on the addition to the PAC is proposed as a different metal, rain screen product. In response to questions from Board member Friedman, Mr. Pasma stated that the size of the metal panels can be customized, but as proposed, the panels are 16 inches by 9 inches and vertically oriented. He noted that there is a 3/8 reveal between panels. In response to a question from Board member Diamond, Mr. Pasma stated that the rain screen product allows for drainage behind the panels. He noted that the coverings over the walkways will be painted wood, consistent with what exists today. He stated that the bollards are slender, 4.5 inches square, and he confirmed that there is an option of a perforated metal sleeve to shield the source of the light. In response to questions from Board member Friedman, Mr. Pasma stated that the flat roof area is a single ply membrane. He confirmed that the columns will be carpenter built, finished in the field and will most likely will be cedar. He stated that the columns will be painted a cream color to match the trim on the rest of the school. He stated that Pella windows will be used to enclose the walkways noting that the trim will be the same cream color. He noted that many of the windows in the school were replaced in 2005. He confirmed that the trusses are exposed in the interior of the PAC addition, but the HVAC system will not be exposed. He noted that the trusses have very thin members. He explained that the curve over entrance to the PAC will be sided with brick veneer. He stated that this element is necessary to accommodate a seating circle on the inside and to achieve sufficient head room. In response to questions from Board member Moyer, Mr. Pasma stated that the lettering over the entrances was removed and confirmed that as now proposed, there is no signage directing people where to go, consistent with the current conditions. He acknowledged that some type of directory signage may be considered in the future. Page 7 of 13 May 3, 2017 Ms. Czerniak stated that once the improvements are completed, the City and school can work together on directory signage, if needed. Board member Moyer stated that setting back the addition and new roof form from the plane of the existing building is a good solution noting that it allows the existing roof to be retained. He stated that he is disappointed that the exterior material of the addition will appear bronze and suggested that consideration be given to achieving a color more consistent with the gallery addition and fin roof element. He noted that the rendering depicts more of a gray tone, rather than a bronze tone, consistent with the new fin element. He stated that the rendering presents a strong color scheme and stated that the 2 elements should be visually connected. In response to Board member Moyer’s comments, Mr. Pasma stated that he sees the fin addition as progressive and the new roofline on the south facing elevation as more a part of the existing building. He confirmed that both elements could be sided with the same material. Board member Moyer acknowledge that the approach described is valid and is well thought out. He encouraged the petitioner to explore use of the same material on both forms. In response to questions from Chairman Notz, Mr. Pasma confirmed that the dormers on the PAC have a flatter roof form than previously proposed. He stated that the detailing on the new south facing gable will not be replicated on the north side because there is not an existing open gable on that end and because the north elevation is not part of the scope of the project. He stated that the existing conditions do not allow the roofline to be stepped back on the north elevation. Chairman Notz suggested study and refinement of the north elevation to assure that the appearance is not inconsistent with the rest of the building. He noted that there may be some visibility of the north elevation from off of the site. Hearing no further questions from the Board, Chairman Notz invited public comment. Art Miller, 169 Wildwood Road, stated that he is a member of the Lake Forest Preservation Foundation and stated that the Foundation supports staff’s recommendation. He noted that the project has been carefully thought out and the elevations are balanced, despite not being symmetrical. He stated that the windows proposed on the west elevations are successful on the PAC and gymnasium. He noted that the proposed brick banding helps to diminish the Page 8 of 13 May 3, 2017 scale of the building and support for consistent colors on the new elements to avoid calling too much attention to the additions. He suggested that the elliptical window be removed. In response to public testimony, Mr. Pasma stated that the elliptical window was influenced by the original window on the building and was drawn from historic precedent. He stated that in his opinion it enhances the gable. Board member Moyer observed that the elliptical window is shown differently in the rendering than in the drawings. He noted that in his opinion, the larger window configuration is better. He noted that eliminating the window could make the elevation appear to be too contemporary. He noted that that he is supportive of introducing the elliptical window in the larger configuration. Mr. Pasma stated that the elliptical window plays to the history of the elevation and reinforces that the distinctions between the existing building and the addition. Board member Reda stated that he is supportive of the revised plan as now presented. He stated that either color option for the new elements appears to be acceptable in his view. He suggested that the decision on the specifics of the bollard light fixture be referred to staff. He stated that he is comfortable with the north façade of the building as proposed acknowledging that it is beyond the scope of the project. Board member Bleck stated that the mitigation proposed for the exterior lighting will be an improvement to the current conditions on the site. Board member Friedman complimented the project and stated that it will be a great asset to the community. Board member Diamond stated that he is supportive of the petition and suggested that the petitioner be directed to can work with staff to resolve the colors and light fixture details. Chairman Notz stated that he favors retaining the elliptical window and asked that staff verify that the addition is integrated appropriately with the existing north elevation. Hearing no further comments from the Board, Chairman Notz invited a motion. Board member Reda made a motion to recommend approval of the petition based on the findings detailed in the staff report which document that the plans as presented and as modified by the recommended conditions of approval, meet the design Page 9 of 13 May 3, 2017 standards and requirements of the City Code as detailed in this staff report. Approval is recommended subject to the foll owing conditions: 1. Building Plans - The plans submitted for permit shall be consistent with the plans submitted to the Board with modifications, refinement or additional detailing as directed by the Board and specifically, as noted below. If other changes are made to the plans as a result of final design development, the changes must be clearly called out on the plans submitted for permit. The plans as approved by the Board should accompany the plans submitted for permit to allow for a full understanding of any changes made. Modifications to the plans presented to the Board will be subject to review by staff in consultation with the Chairman as appropriate. a. Attention should be given to visually integrating the addition into the existing north elevation to the extent possible. b. The extended gable addition on the south elevation of the Performing Arts Center shall be generally consistent in color with the addition. 2. Interior Lighting – Plans submitted for permit shall detail plans for interior shades for all large expanses of glass to mitigate off site light impacts during evening events. a. Interior lights should be located and fixtures selected to minimize off site light impacts. b. Interior lights in areas of expansive glass must be turned off after activi ties in each space are concluded for the evening. 3. Exterior Lighting - Details of any proposed exterior lighting shall be provided on the plans submitted for permit. All fixtures shall direct light downward and the source of the light shall be fully shielded from view. a. Existing exterior lighting on the Athletic Center and on the Performing Arts Center shall be updated at the time of work on each building wing to bring the lights into conformance with current requirements. Light must be directed downward and the source of the light fully shielded to avoid off site impacts on adjacent streets and residential properties along Green Bay Road and on Onwentsia Road. b. An overall plan for exterior lighting reflecting, at a minimum, all exterior lights on the Athletic Center and on the Performing Arts Center, shall be submitted and will be subject to City review and approval. The plan shall identify safety and security lights which, if fully shielded, may remain on at all times, and lights that will be used only during times of activity on the Campus. c. The proposed bollard light fixture shall be mocked up on the site for review by City staff prior to the issuance of a permit authorizing full installation. 4. Construction Parking/Staging - Prior to the issuance of a building permit, a materials staging and construction vehicle parking plan must be submitted to Page 10 of 13 May 3, 2017 the City for review and will be subject to City approval. Parking of construction vehicles or contractors vehicles on public streets is not permitted. 5. Tree Protection Plan – Prior to the issuance of a building permit, a plan identifying trees in the vicinity of the proposed construction activity, construction parking or staging of equipment must be submitted along with a plan for protecting the trees during the construction. 6. Landscaping - Prior to the rough framing inspection for each building wing, a landscape plan reflecting any proposed additional landscaping shall be submitted and will be subject to final review and approval by the City Arborist. The Arborist shall verify the following: a. Adequate foundation plantings are provided at the new building entrances and around the additions, as space permits, to meet minimum requirements. b. Enhancements, if any are proposed or determined to be necessary to soften views of the proposed additions or mitigate light impacts, are detailed on the plans. 7. Prior to the issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy a site inspection shall be conducted by City staff to evaluate whether building additions and light impacts from interior and exterior lights are adequately mitigated. Additional landscaping or modification of light placement, fixtures or shades shall be required if determined to be necessary. 8. Photo documentation of the existing buildings must be submitted to the City in a digital form for the purpose of documenting the buildings in the City archives. 9. This project must abide by all of the terms, conditions, restrictions, and provisions of The City of Lake Forest City Code, and all other applicable codes, ordinances, rules, and regulations. The motion was seconded by Board member Moyer and passed by a vote of 6 – 0. 5. Review and input on the plan for reconstruction and replication of an historic stable and a lodge. Relocation and adaptive reuse of the structures was approved as part of the Westleigh Farm Subdivision at 210 S. Ridge Road. Property Owner: Reilly Ridge Road, LLC and Reilly Family Farm Limited Partnership (Robert Reilly, Mary Reilly and Antoinette Hudecek) Contract Purchaser and Developer: North Shore Builders – Representative, Nate Wynsma Page 11 of 13 May 3, 2017 Chairman Notz asked the Board for any Ex Parte contacts or conflicts of interest. Hearing none, he invited a presentation from the petitioner. Board member Bleck recused himself as his company was previously involved in an earlier project proposed for this site. Ms. Czerniak noted that this is Board member Bleck’s last meeting and thanked him for his time on the Board. Board member Bleck left the Council Chambers. Mr. Wynsma introduced the project and explained that a 34-lot single family home subdivision was recently approved for this 40-acre parcel. He stated that it is his intent, as the developer, to restore the historic house located on the site. He stated that the historic stable, which is visible from Ridge Road and sits at the south end of the property, is in serious deterioration. He stated that it was designed by Howard Van Doren Shaw and is a traditional frame structure. He stated that the stable will be de-constructed once measured drawings of the structure are completed, and reconstructed on the site for use as a maintenance building. He stated that the gardener’s lodge is a very simple structure and will also be de-constructed and relocated on the site for use as a resident clubhouse. He reviewed the proposed elevations of each structure noting that the exterior materials will be salvaged where possible. He reviewed the plans for the lodge and stated that the roof will be hunter green asphalt shingles. He stated that the club house will have bathrooms and an open entertaining area. He that the French doors will be replicated. He stated that outside the lodge, there will be a pergola with a stone patio overlooking the existing pond. He reviewed the landscape plan which includes a tiered garden. He stated that both structures will be located on a new slab and the exteriors will be replicated. He stated that the doors and cupola on the stable will be restored and reused if possible. He reiterated that the two structures will be deconstructed noting that because of their poor condition, the structures cannot be relocated in whole. He stated that it is the intention to replicate the historic nature of the buildings, while making the structures viable for ongoing use and to reduce maintenance costs. Ms. Czerniak stated that this project was referred to the Board by the Plan Commission for oversight and approval of the intended process for deconstructing and replicating two existing outbuildings located on a 40-acre development site. She noted that the concept of replicating the 2 structures was approved as part of overall subdivision plan. She stated that the replication of the structures and incorporation of the structures into the new development was viewed positively by the Plan Commission and City Council. She noted that although the structures are in serious disrepair and unstable condition, they are important to the history of the community. She clarified that this is an opportunity Page 12 of 13 May 3, 2017 for the Board to provide direction and input on how the replication project will be approached. She noted that measured drawings and photo documentation of the structures are in progress and noted that an historic resource assessment of each structure was prepared by Susan Benjamin to guide the replication work. She noted that asphalt singles are appropriate adding that careful attention to window details and exterior materials will be important to achieve the intent of the project. She acknowledged that there will need to be a balance between true replication and achieving a structure that will be functional and can be maintained in a reasonably economic manner. She stated that consistent with the City’s Design Guidelines, natural materials should be used for the exterior of the buildings. She stated that Board input and direction is requested, but no formal action from the Board is required on this unique project. Board members Moyer and Reda expressed support for the project. In response to questions from Board member Friedman, Mr. Wynsma stated that the color palette for the stable consists of a white exterior with a green roof. He stated that the stable is currently light gray and tan. He stated that the windows will have simulated divided lites, in a dark green color. He noted that the driveway material in the area near the stable is proposed as chip and seal. He stated that the historic barn door will be used for pedestrian access. He confirmed that no lighting is proposed for cupola. He stated that they will investigate whether electrical wiring exists in the structure today to support a light in the cupola but noted that lighting will not be added where it did not exist historically. In response to questions from Board member Diamond, Mr. Wynsma stated that the replicated stable will have an open truss system. He stated that there is an apartment in the existing stable which will not be replicated. He confirmed that a cementitious siding, such as Hardieboard, is proposed for the stable because it is more durable and requires less maintenance than wood. He noted that given the size of the structure and the fact that it will need to ultimately be maintained by the Homeowners’ Association, a lower maintenance product is desired. Hearing no further questions from the Board, Chairman Notz invited public comment. Art Miller, 169 Wildwood Road, stated that he is representing the Lake Forest Preservation Foundation and stated that the Foundation supports staff’s recommendation with respect to this project. He explained that the stable was built in 1905 and that the massing, details and materials of the replication should be close as possible to the original structure. He noted that the property was where F. Scott Fitzgerald courted Ginevra King adding that courtship and Fitzgerald’s time in Lake Forest inspired the novel, the Great Gatsby. He stated that in many ways, the stable is more unique than the main house. He noted that Page 13 of 13 May 3, 2017 the cupola served a functional purpose for the structure by providing for air circulation. He agreed that natural materials should be used for the exterior to add more character and evoke the era during which it was originally constructed. He suggested that canoes could be used on lake and historic street names selected to enhance the unique character of the site. In response to public testimony and to questions from the Board, Mr. Wynsma clarified that the dock near the pond shown in the earlier plans is no longer proposed. He noted that hip roofs are original to Adler’s plans for the lodge. Hearing no further questions of comments, Chairman Notz asked for a motion. Board member Reda made a motion stating the Board’s support for the project and the approach described for deconstructing and replicating the stable and lodge as part of the Westleigh Farm Subdivision. The motion was seconded by Board member Friedman and was approved by a vote of 6 to 0. OTHER ITEMS 7. Opportunity for the public to address the Building Review Board on non- agenda items. There was no additional public testimony presented to the Board. 8. Additional information from staff. There was no additional information presented by staff. The meeting was adjourned at 8:07 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Kate McManus Assistant Planner