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ARB approves storefront conversion at 8161 Big Bend for bakery/retail use
Summary
The board approved a storefront renovation at 8161 Big Bend that will convert a former furniture‑store bay into a bakery/retail use with a small seating area; applicants said exterior brick will be restored and staff will seek matching brick for repaired areas.
The Architectural Review Board approved renovation plans for 8161 Big Bend, which will convert a former furniture store storefront into a bakery‑oriented retail operation with a small seating area.
Architect Bill Elliot and owner representative John Bardish described plans to remove a non‑original angled storefront and restore the brick above the opening. Bill Elliot said the team will attempt to match historic brick and remove old adhesive and finishes so the restored area will be visually consistent with adjacent storefronts.
Owner John Bardish and project team said the tenant will be a bakery‑style operation selling baked goods with a retail component and a small seating area; the operation will be larger in the morning and may offer expanded menu items later in the day. Board members expressed general support for the adaptive reuse of the space and for restoring the facade, and a motion to approve the project passed unanimously.
Why it matters: The approval clears the way for a new small‑scale retail food business in a commercial strip. Board members emphasized facade restoration and finding compatible brick as part of the approved work.
What's next: The applicant will proceed toward permit issuance and facade restoration, including locating matching brick and cleaning the existing masonry prior to installing the new storefront opening.
