Asland and Hord Coplan Macht
It was another heated meeting of the Board of Architectural Review (BAR) on Wednesday night: Members of the Board of Architectural Review and the public again criticized the plans from developers and architects for the proposed redevelopment of the Heritage site at the fourth concept review of the project.
The site was purchased by Asland Capital Partners in November 2019. Developers are attempting to create a housing development that will provided much-needed affordable housing in the City while remaining compatible with the small area plan and the South Patrick Street Affordability Strategy.
An architect with Hord Coplan Macht presented yet another round of subtle changes to the design of the buildings, including changes in brick colors and a reduction in metal facades. The changes were again rejected by members of the Board of Architectural Review and the 17 members of the public who spoke at the meeting.
The most common complaint raised was that despite four concept review meetings with the BAR, developers and architects have not adequately responded to the concerns raised by the board and residents of the neighborhood.
Speakers agreed that the building height, mass and scale were overwhelming and not appropriate for the project’s location in an old and historic area of Old Town.
Members of the public wanted to see more character, differentiation, historical elements and more open spaces. Board members discussed at length the need for architectural detail, variation and separation of buildings. Board member John Sprinkle described the design as “incompatible, uninspired and unprecedented” as he questioned how it was compatible with other structures in Old Town or any other historic port city.
Asland and Hord Coplan Macht
The issue of diversity, equity and inclusion when it comes to building design were brought up by board member Purvi Irwin. Another board member, Lynn Neihardt, was concerned that the quality of the proposed building was less because of its purpose to provide affordable housing. The project includes 750 units, 185 of which would be affordable housing.
Developers expressed frustration over the variety in feedback received from each of the seven board members over the course of the four concept review meetings. No decision was reached at the meeting.
The project is expected to go before the Planning Commission in February before it is presented to City Council. A recording of Wednesday evening's BAR meeting will be posted here.
