ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN REVIEW COMMITTEE MINUTES
June 25, 2015 5:45 p.m.
Members present: Marshall Montana, Dave Goslin, John Scheib, Sue Larsen, David Schwabe, Terri Parrot (arrived at 6:15)
Staff present: Michele R. Lipe, Director of Planning
The meeting was called to order at 5:45 p.m.
Appl. 15-32P, Town of South Windsor Orchard Hill Elementary School – request for a special exception to Table 3.1.1.A and site plan of development for a new 75,600 sf elementary school, on property located on the easterly side of Foster Street, westerly side of Arnold Way to be known as 380 Foster Street, A-30 zone
ADRC members discussed the proposed plans with Mr. Scott Wooden, project architect with DRA Architects. Ms. Marshall Montana voiced concern with the fragmentation of the sections and the building itself. Mr. Wooden described the window frames, bronze in color, acting as a unifying element throughout the building. The Committee members continued to look for harmony among the elements of the building and indicated the need for more definition in the blocking choices.
Ms. Sue Larsen voiced concern that the building did not have the feel of an elementary school. Mr. Wooden went over the material selection and details on the building. He explained the split face block building material was chose not by choice but because of the budget. The site size and soil conditions are driving the budget and many of the choices.
Mr. Wooden encouraged the Committee to look at the building with the intent of giving the best education program inside. He explained how the spaces were determined and why the gymnasium was designed to be smaller.
The cohesiveness of the building can be seen by reviewing the overall plan. Changes in the elevations illustrate similar components. There will be repetitive bands giving a subtle banding effect running over the surface of the building. The dark wood panels will be used as special elements along the red blocking material. The gymnasium will be the focal point coming from Arnold Way.
Ms. Montana suggested the contrast banding should be a slightly darker color. Mr. John Scheib wanted to see more color put into the building block to soften the block. It was the consensus of the Committee that the green roof color should be changed to grey in color.
Mr. Wooden indicated that because the low bid process is used, there is no guarantee of actual color or product type to be used, so it is difficult at this time to commit to a specific block or accent color. The contractor is required to provide samples of all submittals for all the products and materials for approval. Once they have the true colors that are proposed to be used, that consideration would be given to the Committee’s concerns and adjustments could be made at that time.
The committee adjourned at 6:30 PM.
Respectfully submitted:
Michele R. Lipe, AICP
Director of Planning
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