MRV Architects seek facade standard relief for new Burger King on Route 132

The Village of Gurnee Planning and Zoning Board convened on May 7, 2025, to discuss several agenda items, including a significant request for a design standard modification for a new Burger King restaurant at 5300 Route 132.

The meeting began with a presentation by Tom Savoca of MRV Architects, representing the franchisee, Mike Gould of MJG Enterprises. Savoca outlined the request for relief from the 50% front facade glazing requirement on the south side of the proposed building. The new design, which aims to replace the existing Burger King built in 1986, features a front facade glazing of approximately 26.8%. This modification is necessary to accommodate the layout of the new prototype, which includes a kitchen and drive-thru lanes that cannot meet the glazing standard due to their orientation.

Board members engaged in a discussion regarding the proposed design. Questions were raised about the percentage of glazing and the constraints imposed by Burger King's specific design standards. Savoca confirmed that the new prototype has limited flexibility in design, which restricts the use of alternatives like spandrel glass that do not count as glazing.

The board noted similarities with previous cases, such as the Raising Cane's restaurant, where similar glazing issues were addressed through Planned Unit Developments (PUDs). Members acknowledged the challenges faced by single-user buildings in meeting traditional storefront glazing requirements while also needing to screen back-of-house operations.

The board concluded the discussion, indicating they had the capacity to make a decision on the request. The outcome of this request will be pivotal in determining the future aesthetic and operational functionality of the new Burger King location in Gurnee. Further deliberations and a final vote are anticipated in upcoming meetings.