Historic Preservation Commission approves two downtown sign permits

The Hinsdale Historic Preservation Commission on Jan. 14 approved two sign permit applications for downtown businesses: Studio W at 102 South Washington Street and Hinsdale Dental Journey and Studio Giuseppe at 5 West Second Street.

Studio W owner Diana Wagenbach asked to install one projecting sign (a blade sign) and permanent window graphics on four windows. Wagenbach said the blade sign would be relocated higher than a previous installation on a light post and that the blade would not be illuminated. Commissioners described the proposed signage as “minimal” and “understated.” The motion to approve the case (A‑1‑2025) passed by roll call vote with recorded ayes from Commissioners Barclay, Weinberger, Gonzales, Harlow, Elder, Olsen and the commission chair.

Separately, representatives for Hinsdale Dental Journey and Studio Giuseppe presented a proposal to install two non‑illuminated wall signs at 5 West Second Street. Marlene Crick of Signs Now represented the applicants; Joseph Barbarata, the building owner, attended. Crick said the signs would be digitally printed to match a PMS yellow color and that the building has space for additional tenant panels in the future. The commission approved the sign permit (A‑3‑2025) in a unanimous roll‑call vote, with the same recorded ayes.

Both permits were described in the meeting as non‑illuminated and conforming to the square‑footage limits discussed during the presentation. The Crick presentation noted a current allowable total of 44.5 square feet for the building facade; she said additional tenant panels could be applied for later but were not part of this application.

Commission staff and members encouraged the applicants and landlord to ensure future tenant signage follows the same permitting process. The approvals were administrative land‑use decisions recorded in the meeting minutes.