DRB Meeting 1/21/2026

Updated about 5 hours ago

The Design Review Board (DRB) generally meets each month's first and third Wednesdays at 2 p.m.

This volunteer board of the Town of Vail is responsible for reviewing development plans to ensure compliance with the town design guidelines and development standards. The Design Review Board (DRB) generally meets each month's first and third Wednesdays at 2 p.m. Participants may attend in person or virtually.

Chapters

Call to Order (00:00:00)
The Design Review Board meeting is officially called to order.

The chairperson officially calls the Design Review Board meeting to order, signaling the start of the meeting's proceedings.
Roll Call (00:00:36)
Roll call is conducted with all members present, including some online.

A roll call is conducted to verify the presence of board members. All members are present, including Molly and another member who are participating online.
Approval of Public Comment Guidelines (00:00:44)
Motion to approve the adoption of public comment guidelines is passed.

A motion is made to approve the guidelines for public comment, which includes limiting comments to three minutes. The motion is seconded and unanimously approved by the board.
Discussion: Zain and Associates Design Application (00:01:00)
Review and discussion of a design application by Zain and Associates for a building on Bridge Street.

The board reviews a design application submitted by Zain and Associates, which involves updating the design of a building on Bridge Street. The application includes changes to the building's colors, windows, doors, and stairway. The discussion covers the alignment of the design with the Tyrolean architectural style and urban design guidelines. The board provides feedback and requests revisions, focusing on maintaining aesthetic consistency with the area's style.
Public Comments (00:10:52)
No public comments are made during the meeting.

An opportunity is given for public comments both online and in person, but no participants come forward to provide comments on the agenda items.
Comments and Suggestions on Design Application (00:11:19)
Board members provide detailed feedback on the design application, suggesting improvements.

Board members provide feedback on the design application by Zain and Associates. Comments focus on the proportions of windows, the use of color, and architectural details to align better with the Tyrolean style. Suggestions include adding window boxes, shutters, and more decorative elements. The board agrees to table the application to allow for revisions.
Motion to Table Zain and Associates Application (00:24:59)
The board moves to table the Zain and Associates application for further revisions.

A motion is made and seconded to table the design application by Zain and Associates. The board decides to revisit the application at a future meeting after the suggested revisions are made. The motion to table is unanimously approved.
Discussion: Burgland Architects Application (00:25:19)
Review of Burgland Architects' application for design modifications at Mill Creek Circle.

The board reviews an application from Burgland Architects concerning design modifications to a property at Mill Creek Circle. Changes include adjustments to mechanical equipment placement and deck design to conform with town code. Staff comments have been addressed, and the application is ready for approval.
Discussion on Demolition and Rebuild Project (00:30:03)
The board discussed a demolition and rebuild project, focusing on the existing structure and the proposed new design, including setbacks due to Mill Creek.

The discussion centered on a project involving the demolition of an existing house and the construction of a new structure. Board members and applicants talked about the location near Mill Creek, the existing condition of the house, and the proposed design which includes a cantilevered balcony. The importance of maintaining the Mill Creek setback was emphasized. There was also a discussion about the transparency of the facade and the use of materials like stone and glass.
Public Comment on Demolition and Rebuild (00:32:00)
Public comments were solicited regarding the demolition and rebuild project, with one hand raised online for input.

The meeting opened the floor to public comments. The facilitator asked both in-room attendees and online participants to provide feedback on the demolition and rebuild project. One participant, Hans Bergman, who is also part of the applicant team, provided comments supporting the project and requested staff approval for certain changes.
Design Review Board (DRB) Motion and Approval (00:38:29)
The DRB moved and approved the project with conditions and findings on building materials and design.

The board discussed the findings related to building materials and design before making a motion to approve the project. The motion included conditions of approval as previously discussed by the staff and applicants. The approval was unanimous with all members in favor.
Discussion on Drive, LLC Project (00:39:39)
The board reviewed updates on a project by Drive, LLC, focusing on entry features and compliance with code requirements.

The planner Greg Roy presented updates on the Drive, LLC project, including changes made to meet code requirements. This involved removing an entry feature from the structure to comply with setback requirements. The board discussed the narrow and long design necessitated by the lot shape and the coordination with neighboring properties for site work.
Public Comment and Motion on Drive, LLC Project (00:44:56)
Public comments were solicited, and a motion was made to approve the Drive, LLC project with conditions.

The board solicited public comments on the Drive, LLC project, but no public input was received. The chairman then called for a motion to approve the project with conditions as presented, which was seconded and approved unanimously by the board.
Discussion on Forest Side Investments LLC Project (00:47:02)
The board reviewed a change for approved plans on a Forest Side Investments LLC project, focusing on a proposed deck structure.

Greg Roy presented a change for approved plans involving adding a deck over a parking area. The board discussed the intricacies of code regarding site coverage and the aesthetic impact of the proposed deck. The applicants, represented by Kyle Webb, explained the desire for additional outdoor space and discussed potential design adjustments.
Public Comment and Decision on Forest Side Investments Project (00:54:00)
Public comments were solicited, and the board discussed the aesthetic fit of the deck proposal, deciding to table the item.

After soliciting public comments and finding none, the board expressed concerns that the proposed deck did not fit the existing architecture. The board discussed the possibility of removing certain roof elements to improve aesthetics. Ultimately, the item was tabled for further review and potential design adjustments.
Discussion on Marvel Family Residence Project (00:56:00)
The board discussed a proposal for the Marvel Family Residence, focusing on demolition and rebuild of a two-family structure.

Cole Michaelson presented the proposal for demolishing an existing duplex and rebuilding a two-family structure on Vail Valley Drive. The presentation included photos of the current site and neighborhood context, highlighting the architectural style and natural materials commonly used in the area. The board discussed integration with the existing landscape and neighborhood aesthetics.
Presentation of Duplex Site Plan and Design Elements (01:01:41)
A detailed presentation of the site plan for the new duplex, highlighting driveway exits, landscape plans, and renderings. Staff comments on design elements like roof lines and material choices.

The meeting began with a presentation of the site plan for the new duplex. The presenter detailed the layout, indicating that both driveways would exit onto Vail Valley Drive, eliminating separate driveways on different streets. The presentation included renderings and landscape plans. Staff comments were provided, noting preferences for gabled and sloped roofs, and concerns about the materiality being heavy on concrete. Suggestions were made to integrate more natural stone and wood elements to soften the design and help it blend with the landscape. Retaining walls and their impact on the grade were also discussed.
Architects' Presentation and Response to Staff Comments (01:04:49)
Architects Kyle Webb and Debra Monroe present updates addressing staff's comments on the design, including changes to the site plan and materials.

Kyle Webb and Debra Monroe from KH Web Architects responded to the staff comments by discussing changes made to the site plan and materials to address concerns about the design's fit within the neighborhood context. They showed updates that included a newer site plan, highlighting existing trees to be removed and new landscaping to be added. They emphasized efforts to preserve as many trees as possible and to create a heavily landscaped south side. The unique challenge of having streets on both sides of the lot was noted, and comparisons to other contemporary houses in the area were made.
Public Comments on Duplex Design (01:08:29)
Beth Cochran, a member of the public, commented on the design, expressing concerns about the heaviness of concrete and a preference for natural materials.

During the public comment period, Beth Cochran expressed her understanding of the challenge in balancing new and old aesthetics in Vail Valley. She shared concerns about the heaviness of the concrete in the design and suggested integrating more natural stone and wood elements. She mentioned that over time the design could appear overly stark and urban, which she felt might not harmonize with the surroundings. The architects responded by explaining that the renderings might be confusing and clarified the intended materials and finishes.
Commissioner and Online Comments on Duplex Project (01:10:10)
Commissioners and online participants provided feedback, with mixed opinions on the modern design and material palette of the duplex project.

Commissioners and online participants shared their thoughts on the duplex project. Some commissioners were open to the modern design but suggested softening the materials to better fit the neighborhood. Concerns were raised about the flat roof not fitting well with the predominantly gabled roof neighborhood. An online commenter, Herb, appreciated the integration of concrete but cautioned the need for a skilled contractor to execute the design. Overall, the feedback highlighted a desire for the design to better align with the architectural style of the area.
Recusal and Transition to New Agenda Item (01:14:34)
A commissioner recused themselves from the next item due to a conflict of interest, and the meeting transitioned to the next agenda.

As the discussion on the duplex project concluded, one of the commissioners announced their recusal from the next agenda item due to a potential conflict of interest. This was noted, and the meeting proceeded to the next topic on the agenda, with another commissioner taking over the meeting facilitation.
Conceptual Application for Vail Village Redevelopment Project (01:15:12)
Staff presented the conceptual application for the Vail Village redevelopment, explaining the project's progress through various review stages.

The staff presentation covered the conceptual application for a redevelopment project in Vail Village. It was explained that the project had been through multiple stages, including reviews by the Town Council and the Planning and Environmental Commission (PEC). The focus was now on the Design Review Board (DRB) phase, which is concerned with the architectural and design aspects of the project. The presentation outlined the approvals and changes needed as the project progresses towards the final design and building permit stages.
Design Changes and Material Choices for Vail Village Project (01:17:01)
Updates on design changes and material selections for the Vail Village project, including the addition of wood elements and bay windows.

The design changes for the Vail Village project were highlighted, with a focus on incorporating more traditional Tyrolean elements to align with the Vail Village design guidelines. This included adding wood trim, bay windows, and stone elements to the building's facade. The staff emphasized the importance of maintaining a pedestrian-friendly scale and incorporating historical elements from the existing structures. The revised design aimed to balance modern aesthetics with traditional village characteristics.
Applicant's Presentation on Vail Village Redevelopment (01:30:04)
The applicant presented their vision for the Vail Village redevelopment, focusing on outdoor seating and architectural details.

The applicant provided a detailed presentation on their vision for redeveloping the Vail Village site. The focus was on enhancing outdoor seating areas to activate the space and improve the village experience. Architectural changes included introducing bay windows and adjusting window sizes to enhance the stucco facade. The applicant highlighted the importance of integrating the project with the surrounding environment while addressing previous feedback to soften the design and incorporate traditional elements.
Discussion on Redesign and Ornamentation (01:34:55)
Discussion on conceptual designs, ornate lighting, signage, and structural elements to enhance the building's aesthetics.

The meeting discusses potential designs involving ornamental lighting on column elements, signage improvements, stone caps on corporals, and maintaining arch elements at the entrance. The focus is on enhancing the building's aesthetic appeal while retaining some of the existing architectural features.
Discussion on Patio and Landscape Variance (01:36:46)
Discussion on patio design with accordion doors and landscape variance application pending approval.

A discussion is held about the current state of the patio design featuring accordion doors, and the need for a landscape variance application. The design aims to create an indoor-outdoor space, but approval is still pending, requiring further vetting with the fire department.
Exterior Materials for Residences (01:38:23)
Discussion on painting and matching window trims for residential units above the commercial space.

The discussion focuses on painting the trim and window trims to match the existing residential units above the commercial space. The involvement of residential owners and their interest in the project is highlighted, but decisions on siding or residing are up to the owners and HOA.
Public Comments on Design Changes (01:45:01)
Public expresses concerns over loss of casual dining, cultural impact, and urges for community-focused design review.

Several public comments emphasize the importance of maintaining casual dining options integral to the community's culture. Concerns are raised about losing iconic local eateries, the cultural impact of redevelopment, and the need for design considerations that support local businesses and community vibrancy.
Applicant's Response and Clarification (02:00:02)
Applicant addresses concerns, emphasizing compliance with guidelines and opportunities for outdoor seating expansion.

The applicant responds by clarifying design intentions, highlighting compliance with urban design standards, and discussing opportunities to increase outdoor seating. The discussion includes historical context, design improvements, and the balance between maintaining cultural elements and introducing new retail options.
Public Comments (02:08:40)
David raised concerns about retail space location and the practicality of below-ground food and beverage space.

David was given three minutes to express his concerns. He questioned the location of retail space, suggesting it should be on the creek side to maintain visibility for current restaurant owners. He also agreed with previous comments about the impracticality of underground dining spaces, likening it to a dungeon, and expressed preference for open spaces with windows and views.
Closing Comments by Applicant (02:10:44)
George discussed plans to advance building design and seek approval for outdoor seating variance.

George, representing the applicant, stated the intent to continue advancing the building design and mentioned a pending application with the Planning and Environmental Commission. The application seeks a variance to increase outdoor seating by replacing some landscaping. George emphasized the desire to add street life and vibrancy to Bridge Street and mentioned that the plan needs to be reviewed and approved.
Commissioner Comments (02:12:22)
Molly and other commissioners expressed concerns about the design's alignment with master plan guidelines, focusing on vibrancy and historical character.

Molly highlighted conflicts with the master plan and urban guidelines, emphasizing the need for vibrancy and alignment with Vail's Tyrolean architectural character. She read sections from the master plan that stress the importance of preserving pedestrian vitality and historic aspects. Other commissioners echoed concerns about design elements, vibrancy, and the impact of proposed changes on public spaces and street life. Suggestions included reconsidering the placement of retail and restaurant spaces to enhance vibrancy.
Adjournment (02:23:24)
The meeting was adjourned following a motion and vote to close the session.

A motion to adjourn the meeting was made and seconded. The participants voted in favor of adjournment, and the meeting was officially closed.

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