Birmingham Design Review Committee Recap – September 25, 2024
The city of Birmingham is actively working to enhance its historic and commercial districts through the efforts of the Design Review Committee (DRC), which convened on September 25, 2024. The committee meets twice monthly to evaluate proposed modifications to buildings in various neighborhoods. The decisions made during the DRC meetings are final, meaning applicants are responsible for adhering to the approved plans. Any changes made after approval will require resubmission to the committee for consideration.
Recent Projects Reviewed
This month’s agenda covered a variety of projects centered around signage improvements and renovations. Here’s a breakdown of some notable items discussed during the meeting:
Avondale Park Signage – 430 41st Street South
The DRC approved a new signage plan for ALG Labels & Graphics. The existing signs were weathered and showcased an outdated logo. The approved signage will replace the old signs, focusing on those facing the parking lot. Importantly, none of the new signage will be illuminated, adhering to city guidelines.
Lakeview Signage – 3005 Fourth Avenue South
Next, Shelby General Contractors sought approval for a signage package following their recent expansion. The new signs feature internally lit, individually mounted white letters, which will be positioned along a perforated metal band that aligns parallel to the roofline. The design received the committee’s approval.
The Marble Ring Signage – 3115 Third Avenue South
The proposed signage for The Marble Ring was discussed, despite the absence of representatives from the signage company. Though the neighborhood committee had previously approved the project, further discussion revealed the need for a Master Signage Plan (MSP) due to the building’s multi-tenant usage. The committee decided to hold off on a final decision while the staff communicates this requirement to the sign company.
Brasfield & Gorrie Digital Display – 3021 Seventh Avenue South
Another interesting review involved Brasfield & Gorrie, which seeks to install a digital display board on one of their new structures. This display will be internally mounted but visible from the outside, intended to support city events through rolling graphics. The committee, recognizing the trend towards digital signage, chose to table this item for further discussion in a dedicated work session with the company’s marketing team.
Metropolitan Day School Addition – 2817 Lomb Avenue
The Metropolitan Day School also presented a proposal for an addition to accommodate their growing needs. The committee approved the design, noting that the new exterior would match the current structure while mimicking the building’s distinctive blue angled roof.
Fairway Social Renovation – 114 13th Street
Plans for exterior renovations at Fairway Social were reviewed next. Proposed changes include a green-framed entry for wayfinding efficiency, a new free-standing canopy, and unified railings across the campus. The committee approved the plan, contingent upon reviewing the proposed lighting and railing standards to maintain a cohesive campus look.
Dunkin’ Refresh – 2109 Sixth Avenue South
The nearby Dunkin’ is getting a fresh look. The redesign will match the brand’s new colors, featuring a redesigned exterior and updated signage. Additionally, the drive-thru awning will be relocated to accommodate new digital menu boards. This plan received the committee’s nod of approval as well.
Tracking Projects from Previous Meetings
The DRC has been active in recent months as well. In August, they revisited the Woodlawn Cookhouse project, an initiative by the owner of Eugene’s Hot Chicken. The committee approved exterior renovations while requiring adjustments to the landscaping to support tree health.
Similarly, in July, they addressed a new home construction in Roebuck Springs, which had started before committee approval due to a permitting error. This construction, replacing a fire-damaged house, was ultimately approved as presented.
Finally, a Master Signage Plan was introduced for a multi-tenant shopping center on Huffman Road, receiving approval with stipulations for new tenants to abide by the established guidelines.
As Birmingham continues to modernize while preserving its historic character, the work of the DRC remains vital to maintaining a balance of progress and preservation in the community.
