The Design Review Board (DRB) of Reston, Virginia, convened on March 19, 2024, to discuss a proposal from the DSF Group to rebrand signage for the Halsted Reston community. The meeting highlighted significant concerns from local residents regarding the proposed designs and their compatibility with existing neighborhood aesthetics.

The DSF Group presented plans to modernize several signs throughout the property, including a main entrance sign and directional signage. The proposed updates feature raised aluminum letters and a new color scheme, aiming to enhance visibility and durability while maintaining the original sign sizes. However, the new branding has raised alarms among nearby residents, particularly from the Halsted Glen and Timberview clusters, who expressed worries about potential confusion due to the similarity in names and the stark contrast of the proposed signage with existing neighborhood styles.

Frank Tobia, representing the Halsted Glen cluster, voiced concerns that the new signage would not align with the established design of surrounding signs, which predominantly feature concrete and traditional materials. He emphasized the importance of maintaining a cohesive look within the community to avoid confusion for deliveries and visitors.

Laura Barrett from the Timberview cluster echoed these sentiments, highlighting that the proposed materials and colors do not reflect the character of the area. She suggested that the DSF Group collaborate with local residents to ensure that any new signage complements the existing structures and aesthetics.

The DRB members acknowledged the residents' concerns, particularly regarding the monument signs that serve as key identifiers for the community. Several board members suggested that the DSF Group consider using materials and designs that are more in line with the neighborhood's historical context, rather than adopting a more commercial appearance.

In response to the feedback, the board decided to approve the internal signage updates while requiring further study on the monument signs. They emphasized the need for the DSF Group to return with revised designs that better align with the community's visual identity within six months.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to ongoing dialogue between the DSF Group and local residents to ensure that the rebranding efforts enhance rather than detract from the character of Reston.