DRB Meeting 9/3/2025

Updated about 3 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 meeting of the Design Review Board was officially started with the call to order, signaling the beginning of the proceedings.

The Design Review Board meeting was called to order, marking the official start of the meeting. This is a procedural step that officially opens the meeting and allows the agenda to commence.
Roll Call (00:00:05)
Roll call was conducted with members Molly Egan, Kid Austin, Tony Grant, and Herb Roth present, establishing quorum for the meeting.

During this part of the meeting, the roll call was conducted to confirm the presence of board members. Molly Egan, Kid Austin, Tony Grant, and Herb Roth were present, ensuring that there was a quorum to conduct business.
Agenda Item: ERWSD Final Review (00:00:27)
Final review of an exterior alteration for a generator pad by Eagle River Water and Sanitation District was presented and discussed.

The board reviewed a project submitted by the Town of Vail, represented by Eagle River Water and Sanitation District, for the final review of an exterior alteration involving a generator pad. The project location was discussed, including its proximity to Vail Mountain School and Booth Falls Road. The design includes emergency generators to be placed north of a parking lot, enclosed in a fireproof box painted dark brown. Additional landscape improvements were proposed to enhance the trailhead experience. The board discussed screening options including rusted corrugated metal and fake wood panels, and the importance of the project for disaster resilience and emergency preparedness was emphasized. The proposal was approved after deliberation.
Public Comments (00:09:29)
No public comments were made during this portion of the meeting, as confirmed by the absence of raised hands online and in person.

The floor was opened for public comments regarding the ERWSD project, but there were no public comments made. No attendees in the room or online raised their hands to provide input or feedback on the project.
Motion and Approval (00:09:55)
A motion to approve the ERWSD project was made and seconded, and the motion passed unanimously by those present.

Following the discussion of the ERWSD project, a motion was made to approve the project as presented. The motion was seconded, and a vote was taken. All members present voted in favor, and the motion passed, allowing the project to proceed.
Agenda Item: DRB LLC Review (00:10:54)
Review of plans for a duplex addition on Forest Road by Sto, Sir Vale Forest, LLC, represented by Sipes Architect Inc.

The board reviewed a proposal for an addition to a duplex located on Forest Road, near Rockledge, presented by Sto, Sir Vale Forest, LLC and represented by Sipes Architect Inc. The project involves maintaining the existing duplex structure while adding to the primary unit. The addition aims to blend seamlessly with the existing architecture, using matching materials. Key changes include reconfiguring the entryway and interior circulation, adding a 'crow's nest' for additional space, and updating the landscaping. The project was discussed in detail, with emphasis on maintaining aesthetic continuity and functional improvements. The staff suggested tabling the item pending resolution of minor review comments related to fire safety and landscaping, with the possibility of staff approval once addressed.
Discussion on Window Design and Facade (00:32:35)
The board discussed the design of the windows and facade, focusing on the divided light comparison and facade design.

The discussion focused on the comparison between the new and old windows, particularly the divided light aspect and proportions. There was also a detailed conversation about the facade design, including the celestial windows and the proportions of glazing on different elevations. The board and presenters discussed how the new design integrates with the existing architecture and the rationale behind design choices like the use of trapezoidal and undivided windows for modern elements.
Public Comments on Window and Facade Design (00:45:07)
Public commented on the facade and window design, generally supporting the architectural language and integration.

A member of the public, Jeff, expressed his opinion that the new facade and window design is complementary to the existing structure. He noted that the use of divided lights in most areas, except the tree house and some upper windows, helps integrate the new design with the old. He appreciated the repetition of building language and the blending of architectural elements like corbels and roof shapes.
Motion to Table and Approve Upon Resolution of Comments (00:47:16)
The board moved to table the item with direction for staff to approve once review comments are resolved.

Staff suggested tabling the current item with the condition that once all outstanding review comments are addressed, staff will approve the item. This motion is due to the need for other departments to review and provide input. The board discussed and seconded the motion, agreeing to the procedure.
Presentation on DRB Matterhorn, LLC Project (00:48:36)
The board reviewed the Matterhorn project, discussing design, materials, and site layout for a new duplex.

The presentation covered a duplex project on Matterhorn, accessed from both Matterhorn and Geneva with unique driveway configurations. The architect described the design intent, materials, and landscaping plans. The board discussed the facade design, use of stone, and siding materials, as well as the positioning of outdoor spaces relative to noise and views.
Review of DRB Geneva, LLC Project (01:03:01)
The board reviewed the Geneva project, focusing on access, elevation, and material choices for a new residence.

The Geneva project, accessed from Geneva Drive, was presented with focus on its design and material choices. The architect described the access points, elevation changes across the site, and the materials used, including a mix of stone, wood, and metal panels. The board examined the articulation of the building and how it fits within the neighborhood context.
Discussion on Building Designs and Materials (01:07:49)
The meeting discussed the design aspects of the houses, focusing on the color and materials of the metal panels, as well as the layout and roof forms.

The board engaged in a discussion regarding the design of two houses, focusing on the materials and colors of the metal panels. They considered the importance of ensuring that each house maintains a unique appearance while still fitting into a cohesive neighborhood design. The conversation included thoughts on the roof forms, the placement of gables, and how these elements contribute to the exterior aesthetic of the houses. The board expressed concerns about the potential for too much uniformity and the desire for each house to have its own character.
Public Comment Period for Design Review Board (01:12:00)
A public comment period was opened for the Design Review Board to receive feedback from the public. No public comments were made either in-person or online.

The board opened the floor for public comments regarding the current projects under review. Attendees were invited to provide their thoughts and feedback. However, no members of the public came forward to speak, and no hands were raised from online participants, indicating no public input was received during this session.
Board Motion and Approval on Design (01:15:00)
The board discussed and approved a motion for the design of the houses with specific conditions, including color variations and structural amendments.

Following the discussion, a motion was made to approve the house designs with several conditions. The board members discussed the importance of varying colors between the two houses and proposed amendments to the design to address concerns about material uniformity and elevation aesthetics. The motion included conditions recommended by staff and additional modifications agreed upon during the meeting. The motion passed unanimously with all board members in favor.
Second Public Comment Period and Further Board Discussion (01:25:00)
A second public comment period was held for another project, but no comments were received. The board continued discussions on design details.

The board opened another public comment period for feedback on a different project under review. Similar to the previous session, there were no public comments from in-person attendees or online participants. The board then continued to discuss specific design elements, such as the color of metal panels and the possibility of making further changes to the stone elements on building elevations.
Final Motion and Approval on Second Project (01:35:00)
The board approved the design of the second project with agreed amendments to the deck and stone elements, ensuring compliance with setback requirements.

After further discussion, the board made a motion to approve the second project's design, incorporating amendments discussed during the meeting. These amendments included changes to the deck design and stone elements to enhance the building's appearance while complying with setback requirements. The motion was seconded and passed with all members in favor, concluding the design approval for the second project.
Conceptual Review for New Development (01:40:00)
The board began a conceptual review of a new development near the Lionshead area, focusing on site plans, elevation, and design guidelines.

The board commenced a conceptual review of a proposed new development near the Lionshead parking garage. The presentation included detailed site plans, elevation drawings, and a discussion on the architectural design guidelines applicable to the project. The development aims to integrate into the existing urban fabric with a mix of materials and varied building heights. The review is intended to gather feedback before the submission of a final application.
Project Overview and Description (01:41:32)
Presentation of the combined parking structure and two connected towers, including layout and features.

The project now combines a singular below-grade parking structure with two separate but connected towers. The east tower includes penthouses and lofts, while the west tower features a rooftop deck, similar to a previously approved project. Access is provided via Lionshead Circle, with a diagonal connection to Lionshead Mall. The site includes a monumental stair, fire turnaround, and access points for trash and pedestrian circulation. A pocket park will be landscaped and redeveloped, and amenities include skier lockers and access.
Legacy Project Comparison (01:44:03)
Comparison of the current project with the previously approved legacy project, highlighting height and architectural character.

The current project is compared to the legacy project, with a similar building outline and under the maximum height limitations. The main change is a different architectural character and the connection of east and west towers with a central entry canopy.
South Elevation and Materials (01:45:04)
Discussion of the south elevation, materials used, and architectural design principles for the project.

The south elevation of the project is presented, showing a defined base, middle, and top. Various materials include two colors of stucco, a wood-like material called Sarah clad, and a natural limestone base. The design distinguishes the east and west towers as more like 'cousins' than 'twins', with differences in color and material application.
Building Design and Architectural Elements (01:46:19)
Discussion of architectural elements such as base, middle, top, and the use of materials to create architectural interest.

The design uses two colors of stucco and wood-look materials, intended for variation. The towers are designed as cousins with differences in color and style, aiming to provide architectural character. The project includes significant glazing for penthouse levels and uses variation of materials to define architectural elements.
Height and Contextual Analysis (01:50:03)
Explanation of building heights and contextual analysis in relation to surrounding buildings and master plan requirements.

The presentation covers building heights, contextual analysis with surrounding buildings, and compliance with zoning and master plan requirements. The design aims to meet the Lionshead redevelopment master plan in terms of building step backs and heights, ensuring it integrates with the neighborhood.
Design Challenges and Adjustments (01:56:48)
Discussion on design challenges, adjustments made, and considerations for material and color differentiation between towers.

The discussion focuses on the design challenges including material and color differences between the east and west towers. Adjustments include increased step backs at upper levels and ensuring the project meets design intent. The goal is to ensure the towers appear as distinct entities rather than a single large building.
Public Comment and Neighboring Property Concerns (02:09:09)
Public comment addressing concerns about neighboring properties and potential impacts on redevelopment plans.

A resident from Lionshead Arcade raises concerns about the impact of the project on their redevelopment plans, highlighting the need for coordination to ensure both projects can proceed. The resident suggests simultaneous development to align with the Lionshead redevelopment master plan and address parking and access issues.
Discussion on Parking Spaces and Master Plan (02:14:44)
Discussion about the relocation of parking spaces and alignment with master plan goals, with an invitation for further questions and collaboration.

The discussion focused on the issue of unilaterally relocating parking spaces without proper rights. The speaker emphasized aligning these changes with the master plan goals to ensure compliance and effectiveness. There was an open invitation for questions and a willingness to collaborate with attendees to further this agenda.
Conceptual Review of Oberlo Residence Duplex (02:15:47)
The meeting reviewed a conceptual plan for a duplex by Sam Maritz, LLC, with presentations from the architect and planner, focusing on design, materials, and site context.

The planner, Jamie, and the applicant, Sam Maritz, LLC, represented by Alpine Traditions, presented a conceptual review of a duplex at Oberlo Residence. The presentation included a site survey, plan layouts, zoning details, landscape plans, and material selections. Architect Michael DeMay provided a detailed overview of design elements, including roof structures and material choices such as wood siding and stone veneer. The board discussed and provided feedback on design aspects like window placements and elevation consistency.
Public Comments on Oberlo Residence Duplex (02:37:01)
Public comments were solicited regarding the Oberlo Residence Duplex, but no public input was received.

The meeting opened the floor to public comments for the Oberlo Residence Duplex project. Although there was an opportunity for online attendees to raise their hands for questions or comments, no public input was recorded during this session.
Adjournment (02:41:00)
The meeting was formally adjourned with a motion, second, and unanimous agreement from the board members present.

The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn, which was seconded and carried by all present members. The chair expressed gratitude to the participants for their time and contributions during the meeting, marking the end of the session.

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