Design Review Board approves halo-lit Viewpoint sign at 65 Crawford Street

The Needham Design Review Board on July 14 approved a new halo-illuminated sign for Viewpoint at 65 Crawford Street, granting the applicant permission to replace an existing Horner storefront sign with backer-mounted channel letters measuring about 4 feet high by 11 feet wide (44 square feet). Board members said the proposed sign is within the size allowance for signs visible from Route 128 and poses no need for a special permit.

Board members said the change is largely a branding update rather than a new sign. "It's pretty straightforward. They've changed names. They've changed their logo, and we're just replacing the existing sign that's there," said Scott Spalding, representing Viewpoint's sign and awning contractor. Spalding told the board the letters will be halo-lit and the backer will be painted to match the building's stucco color.

The board discussed finish and glare. Board member Felix Zemmel asked the applicant to ensure the backer is a matte or satin finish so the halo illumination does not produce unwanted glare for motorists on Route 128. "One thing I would ask is because this is going on to 95… that white background be more matte, matte or flat background," Zemmel said. The applicant replied the backer will match the existing stucco finish on the building and is intended to be matte.

Members found the application complies with the previously stated size and illumination limitations for signs visible from Route 128. There were no additional conditions attached by the board. A roll-call vote recorded Millie Bridal, Steven Dornbusch and Felix Zemmel voting yes; the application was approved as proposed.

The board reminded the applicant that the building department requires an electronic submission of the stamped approval to accompany the building permit application.