626 Portage Avenue_COA 2025-1230

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HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION OF SOUTH BEND AND ST. JOSEPH COUNTY Phone: 574/235.9371 Fax: 574/235.9021 Email: hpcsbsjc@southbendin.gov STAFF RECOMMENDATION: The existing storefront is not original to the building, though it was with his- toric sensitivity in mind. Both proposed designs meet the Standards and Guidelines’ recommendations for replac- ing an existing non-historic storefront, which recommend the use of traditional design elements and a high degree of transparency (p. 58). The National Park Service’s Preservation Brief on historic storefronts further advises that replacement storefronts should respect historic scale and proportion, maintain the traditional storefront design framework, and maximize transparency (p. 8). While the proposed designs may result in a slight reduction in trans- parency compared to the existing storefront, Staff have worked with the property owners to develop an appropriate and sympathetic solution that best balances the requirements of the building’s historic designation and current use. Furthermore, the differences between Design 1 and Design 2 do not meaningfully affect either design’s adherence to the Standards and Guidelines or to national preservation guidance; rather, the distinction falls within the realm of design preference. As such, the Commission should refrain from “designing the project” for the applicant by approving only one design of the two. Instead issue a blanket approval or denial for both designs. Based on the information provided prior to this public hearing, Staff make a FAVORABLE RECOMMENDATION for both designs, with the final design to be chosen by the owner and communicated to Staff in the event of Commission approval. Prepared by Kate Himick, Historic Preservation Specialist