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<br />LEXINGTON DESIGN ADVISORY COMMITTEE <br />November 9, 2006 <br /> <br />To: <br />Board of Appeals <br /> <br />Re: <br />1720 Massachusetts Ave. <br />Battle Green Inn Development (BGI) <br /> <br />At its regular meeting on November 7, 2006, the DAC was presented with modifications <br />to the design of BGI that was approved at Town Meeting. In general, the DAC found the <br />changes to be “minor in nature” and an improvement to the project as a whole. <br /> <br />Although material samples were provided and specific details discussed, the development <br />team is seeking advice from HDC and DAC before finalizing selections. The DAC made <br />the following comments: <br /> <br />1. Reduce the quantity and impact of sign lighting on the surrounding sidewalk. The <br />lighting should be minimal, enough to support it’s intended function, while allowing <br />retail storefront and street lighting to light public sidewalks (consistent in effect, with <br />other sign lighting techniques in town). A “dark sky”, cut off fixture was recommended <br />for this application. <br />2. It was recommended that the developer consider two street trees along Waltham Street <br />(there are currently no street trees along Waltham Street). It was suggested by the <br />developer that funding for this effort be drawn from the town improvement fund, created <br />by this project, at the discretion of the Board of Selectmen. The DAC strongly <br />encourages the implementation of street trees at this location. <br />3. The “water struck” brick sample was preferred over the “sand struck” sample, for its <br />color and variation in appearance, similar to brick used on adjacent buildings. <br />4. The DAC recommended the entry drive courtyard screening element be reconsidered <br />to address the view from Waltham Street (more planting/view, like what is rendered on <br />the elevations, but not supported in the details presented). <br />5. The DAC requested that the color of the railings be reconsidered (presented as white). <br />Although the proposed color would match the trim used on the building, there was some <br />concern over the ability to keep the railings clean and white when used on railings or <br />fencing tends to be more opaque in appearance. A darker color tends to be softer in <br />appearance, creating a filigree of transparency on the building, minimizing the overall <br />massing. <br /> <br />The DAC recommends this project be approved, with the above-mentioned <br />considerations, and appreciates the thoroughness with which the developer continues to <br />exhibit on this important project. <br />Respectfully submitted, <br />Colin P. Smith AIA, Chairman <br />Lexington Design Advisory Committee <br />Cc: Board of Appeals <br />Board of Selectmen <br />