2006-12-12-DAC-MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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LEXINGTON DESIGN ADVISORY COMMITTEE December 12, 2006 To: Board of Appeals Re: 1720 Massachusetts Ave. The Commons at Lexington (formerly BGI) At its regular meeting on December 5, 2006, the DAC was presented with modifications to the design. The intent of the presentation was to review comments and suggestions made at the last DAC meeting on November 7, 2006. 1. Lighting: The quantity of light fixtures has been reduced and the architect is researching light fixtures that are classified as “dark sky” . 2. Street Trees: The lack of street trees along Waltham Street remains a significant drawback to the streetscape of the Center. It was suggested previously that two trees be introduced to the sidewalk in front of the storefront along Waltham Street. The architect has reviewed this with the project landscape architect and has cited the overhead power/telephone lines would make this difficult. Therefore the option of increasing the sidewalk into the street at each end of the parking garage entrance to make proper allowance for street tree planting. This would require manipulating the parallel street parking and possibly loosing one metered space. This solution has the added benefit of making the garage entrance safer for pedestrians and vehicles by improving site lines. This solution is strongly supported by the DAC since there do not appear to be any other alternatives for an allowance of street trees in this part of the Center. 3. Materials: There was continued discussion regarding the type of brick to be used. Both the water struck and sand struckbrick samples are used on surrounding buildings. A mock up panel was discussed in order to make a final decision on site with the HDC. The most recent changes to the building materials along Waltham Street (less precast concrete and more wood), as was suggested by the HDC is appropriate. The economics of using precast concrete over natural stone should be weighed since there is now less material. The difference would be a more durable material and sharper detailing. 4. Courtyard Plantings: The planter detail along the courtyard and garage entrance was reviewed and addresses previous DAC concerns. 5. Railings: The recommendation by the DAC to reconsider the color of the railings (from light color to dark) was given appropriate consideration. For well explained reasons, the applicant prefers to maintain the lighter color railings. The DAC recommends this project be approved, with the above-mentioned comments. Respectfully submitted, Colin P. Smith AIA, Chairman Lexington Design Advisory Committee Cc: Board of Appeals Board of Selectmen