DRB Meeting 12/17/2025

Updated 5 days 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 Design Review Board meeting is officially called to order by the chairperson.
Roll Call (00:00:08)
Attendance is noted with Tony and Molly absent and other members present.

Attendance is taken, noting that Tony and Molly are absent, while all other board members are present.
Agenda Item: Village Inn Plaza (00:00:14)
Overview of proposed changes to Village Inn Plaza, including architectural modifications and zoning considerations.

The meeting proceeds with the agenda item discussing proposed changes to the Village Inn Plaza. Planner Heather Knight introduces the project and the applicant, Current Architects. The discussion includes architectural modifications such as the removal of a chimney, the addition of a new staircase, and changes to the roofline. The board discusses the compatibility of the changes with existing structures, zoning issues, and the impact on public space.
Discussion on Canopy and Building Design (00:31:16)
The board discussed design elements of a building, including the canopy color and column placement, and potential alterations for better aesthetics and functionality.

During the meeting, there was a detailed discussion about the design of a building's canopy and other architectural elements. Participants debated the color and material of the canopy, suggesting that a green color might have been more appropriate. Additionally, the placement of columns, particularly one obstructing a window, was scrutinized. Suggestions were made to rearrange columns for better alignment and to consider using wood instead of stucco for the gable. The discussion aimed to ensure the building's design was both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
Public Comment on Building Design (00:37:00)
An architect offered positive feedback on the building design, appreciating the improvements made to an old architecture style.

John Martin, an architect, provided public comments on the building design. He expressed his support for the planned changes, noting that they improve upon the existing choppy architecture. Martin highlighted the removal of a large chimney as a positive change and praised the overall design direction as a significant enhancement to the building's aesthetic.
Direction for Staff and Board Comments (00:39:00)
The board discussed whether to approve the project or table it for future revisions based on received comments.

The board considered whether to direct staff to approve the project or table it for future revision. Comments from the board indicated that there were areas of the project that could benefit from changes, such as removing the canvas roof and altering some materials. It was suggested that tabling the project to allow for these changes would be appropriate. The board aimed to ensure that the project met aesthetic and structural expectations before approval.
Introduction of Geneva Drive LLC Project (00:42:23)
John G. Martin and Greg Roy presented plans for a new project on Geneva Drive, highlighting design challenges and proposed solutions.

Greg Roy introduced the Geneva Drive LLC project, with John G. Martin as the architect. The project involves a long, narrow lot that presented unique challenges for building design. The proposed structure features a standing seam metal roof, natural wood siding, and metal accents to comply with urban interface guidelines. The design aims to integrate with existing nearby architecture while maximizing the narrow lot's potential. The planners sought feedback from the board to refine the design before final approval.
Discussion on Narrow Lot Design Challenges (00:48:00)
The board discussed the architectural design for a narrow lot, focusing on the butterfly roof and coordination with neighboring properties.

John G. Martin elaborated on the design challenges of the narrow Geneva Drive lot. To avoid a 'double wide' look, a butterfly roof design was chosen. Coordination with neighboring properties is necessary, including regrading and a shared effort to bury utility lines. The board's feedback was sought on the architectural style and integration with the surrounding environment, emphasizing the importance of aesthetic cohesion and practical solutions.
Design Review Board Feedback on Proposed Canopy (00:57:00)
The board evaluated a proposed canopy structure, discussing its compliance with setback regulations and potential design modifications.

The board reviewed a proposed canopy design meant to enhance the entryway of the Geneva Drive project. Concerns were raised about its compliance with setback regulations, as the structure extends into the side yard. The board suggested exploring alternative designs that meet code requirements while maintaining the desired visual appeal. The discussion highlighted the need for creative solutions that respect regulatory constraints.
Public Comment on Agenda Item (00:59:46)
Public comment was invited on the current agenda item, but no members of the public, either in person or online, had comments.

The chair invited public comment on the agenda item being discussed. There were no public comments from attendees in the room or from those participating online.
Discussion on Architectural Design Changes (01:00:52)
An extensive discussion on the architectural design changes for a property development was held, including setbacks and integration with the environment.

During this segment, the planner Greg Roy and applicant representatives from Bergland Architects discussed the architectural changes and design considerations for a property development. They addressed how the design respects creek setbacks, the integration of patios and hot tubs, and overall harmony with the surrounding environment.
Applicant Presentation: Omega Vail, LLC (01:08:02)
The applicants from Bergland Architects presented the design concepts for the Omega Vail project, focusing on architectural elements and materials.

Presenters Courtney Gregory and Stephanie Lord Johnson from Bergland Architects provided a detailed presentation on the Omega Vail project. They elaborated on the modern design aesthetics, use of materials like glass and copper, and the challenges posed by the lot, such as stream setbacks. They highlighted the design's aim to minimize the visual mass from the street and its integration with the landscape.
Public Comment on Omega Vail, LLC Application (01:19:23)
The public was invited to comment on the Omega Vail, LLC application. Two individuals, including a landscape architect, expressed support for the project.

The chair invited public comments on the Omega Vail, LLC application. Scott, a landscape architect, praised the project, and Hans, another commenter, emphasized the efforts to minimize the building's visual impact and blend with the neighborhood. Both comments were supportive of the project's design and integration with the environment.
Adjournment (01:28:20)
The meeting was adjourned after a motion and second were made, concluding the session.

The meeting was adjourned following a motion and a second. The chair thanked the participants and wished them happy holidays, noting the next meeting will occur after a short break.

Town of Vail (90 Videos)

Updated 5 days ago

This playlist includes town of Vail-related videos, including Town Council, DRB, PEC, LHA, annual community meetings, candidate forums and more.