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Commission approves rooftop screening and pergola addition at historic Hudson Avenue building
Summary
Commission approved screening and a metal pergola on a rooftop deck added to a building at 1210 N. Hudson Avenue, finding the addition reversible and visually compatible with adjacent new construction.
The Downtown Design Commission voted July 17, 2025, to approve the rooftop screening and metal pergola installed at 1210 North Hudson Avenue, concluding that the addition does not significantly detract from the historic character of the attached buildings and is reversible.
Laura Griggs of the Planning Department told commissioners the structure had been part of a larger renovation previously reviewed by the commission and is listed on the National Register. The rooftop elements were constructed adjacent to a new multi-story building to the north, and staff concluded the screening and pergola maintain a compatible height and do not dominate the street facade. Staff recommended approval on the basis that the work is reversible.
Elizabeth Maxwell, identified as one of the owners of The Goose (the tenant/business operating on the site), said the pergola is fully metal, with slotted steel roof slats and decorative lighting; she clarified there is no fabric covering. Commissioners reviewed photos and on-site views and discussed whether the addition visually protruded above the street facade. Several commissioners said the new pergola and perforated screening are not materially taller than the adjacent new building and fit into the block context.
One commissioner said the commission’s role includes protecting historic buildings while also encouraging lively, walkable urban uses; several commissioners expressed support for approving the work while admonishing the owner to consult staff earlier in the future. The commission moved and voted to approve the application on the basis that it complies with downtown design district zoning ordinance regulations and guidelines as referenced in the staff report; the motion passed.
Because staff found the work reversible and compatible in height with adjacent construction, the approval did not require demolition or additional mitigation. The owner and staff were reminded that future changes to materials or permanent enclosures would require further review under the downtown design district guidelines.
