DRB Meeting 3/18/2026

Updated about 12 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

Roll Call (00:00:12)
Roll call was conducted. Members present were Raleigh Chesbro, Kit Austin, Herb Roth, and it was noted that Tony Grant would not be present. Molly may join online or in person.

The meeting commenced with a roll call. Raleigh Chesbro, Kit Austin, and Herb Roth were confirmed as present. Tony Grant was confirmed absent, and it was mentioned that Molly might join later either virtually or in person.
Review of Christopher D. Stansberry Trust and Anna M. Rasmussen Trust Property (00:00:49)
The board reviewed changes to the Christopher D. Stansberry Trust project, involving a two-story addition to a single-family residence, addressing previous design concerns.

The meeting continued with a review of the Christopher D. Stansberry Trust and Anna M. Rasmussen Trust property, presented by Cole Michelson and representatives from Collective Architecture and Pinnacle Mountain Homes. The board discussed changes to the original plans, which included a two-story addition to the residence, replacing a previously approved one-story addition. The new design aimed to better integrate with the existing architecture and neighborhood aesthetics, addressing previous board concerns about roof styles and glazing. The changes were well-received, and the board moved to approve the updated design.
Public Comments on Stansberry Trust Project (00:12:48)
Public comment was invited for the Stansberry Trust project. No public comments were made either in-person or online.

Following the presentation on the Stansberry Trust project, the floor was opened for public comments. Attendees in the room and online were invited to participate, but no comments were raised. The board then proceeded with the motion to approve the project.
Motion to Approve Stansberry Trust Project (00:13:09)
Motion to approve the Stansberry Trust project changes was made and seconded. The motion passed with a 4-0 vote.

A motion was made to approve the changes to the Christopher D. Stansberry Trust and Anna M. Rasmussen Trust residence project, along with the associated findings. The motion was seconded, and the board voted unanimously in favor, with a 4-0 tally.
Concert Hall Plaza Redevelopment Review (00:13:44)
Final review of the Concert Hall Plaza redevelopment was conducted. Changes included pedestrian path revisions and commercial space maximization.

The board conducted a final review of the redevelopment plans for Concert Hall Plaza, led by planner Heather Knight and representatives from Ello Planning Group. The review focused on significant changes from previous designs, particularly the interior pedestrian path and the maximization of commercial spaces. The project team presented revisions made in response to planning commission feedback, including alterations to the north elevation and the pedestrian portal. The board discussed the proposed materials, massing, and deviations from the master plan which had been previously approved with conditions.
Design Review Board Presentation (00:33:48)
The Design Review Board discusses the architectural guidelines for a new project in Lionshead, focusing on pedestrian experience and architectural design.

The Design Review Board presentation covers the architectural guidelines for a new project in Lionshead, focusing on site planning, architectural projections, building materials, and pedestrian experience. The guidelines emphasize the importance of visually dynamic variations at the pedestrian level, using historical alpine references, and ensuring that new developments or redevelopments have inviting and friendly portals. The presentation highlights key elements like bay windows, balconies, outdoor lighting, and the importance of the pedestrian portal as part of the master plan. The discussion also covers building form, massing, and the significance of architectural details that relate to alpine architecture.
Public Comments (00:47:48)
Public commenters express concerns about the redevelopment project, focusing on pedestrian portal, transit, and compliance with master plan regulations.

During the public comment section, several speakers express their concerns about the redevelopment project at Concert Hall Plaza. Claire Veda, representing neighboring property owners, requests the board deny approval due to non-compliance with the Lionshead Redevelopment Master Plan and Vail Town code. She highlights issues with the pedestrian portal's design, transit stop alignment, and potential safety conflicts. Steven Hess raises concerns about building height, trash and recycling logistics, and the absence of a loading dock. Kevin Fitzpatrick emphasizes the excessive massing of the project on a small site and urges the board to reject the application.
Board Discussion and Comments (00:55:06)
Board members discuss the design aspects of the project, offering feedback on improvements and areas needing further consideration.

Board members discuss the design aspects of the redevelopment project, with Molly offering detailed feedback on the improvement of roof lines and the need for a secondary path outside the walkway portal. Concerns are raised about the transparency of balconies and the use of materials. The board suggests enhancing the pedestrian experience by considering detailing along the portal, possibly adding fixed benches for shelter from wind. They recommend re-evaluating the canopy design to make it more inviting and incorporating elements that align with the retail and mall atmosphere. The discussion also touches on the need for the walkway to provide a clear, directional feature, potentially extending the canopy to the bus stop for better coverage.
Building Design Discussion (01:09:04)
Discussion on building design elements, focusing on the importance of creating visually appealing and functional spaces that integrate with existing structures.

The meeting included a detailed discussion about the building's design, emphasizing the importance of transparency and the view through the building to the exterior. The design team proposed changes to the layout to improve navigation and aesthetics. Suggestions were made to enhance the building's appeal from both lower and upper levels, considering the approach and visual impact. Changes to the staircases and awnings were debated, with input on using different materials like glass for awnings, and the potential for more seating areas was considered.
Memorial Landscaping Plans (01:19:17)
Presentation of new landscaping plans for the memorial area, focusing on improving accessibility and the aesthetic appeal of the space.

The council reviewed updated plans for the memorial landscaping project. The new design aims to enhance the space around the memorial statue, making it more accessible and visually appealing. Improvements include a new layout with better seating options and more native plants, replacing the existing problematic flagstone with a new emblem design using pavers. The goal is to create a special, inviting area that connects with the surrounding environment while providing a place for reflection and gathering.
Motion to Adjourn (01:29:00)
The meeting was adjourned following the completion of agenda items.

Following the review and discussion of agenda items, a motion to adjourn the meeting was proposed, seconded, and unanimously approved by the council members present.

Vail Design Review Board (14 Episodes)

Updated about 12 hours ago

This volunteer board is responsible for reviewing development plans to ensure compliance with the Town of Vail design guidelines and development standards.