Needham DRB approves CVS storefront graphics, conditions review of MoneyGram sign

The Needham Design Review Board on Jan. 13 approved the set of window graphics CVS proposed for its storefront, voting to accept the packet labeled “proposed” while requiring the applicant to consult the Building Commissioner about the existing MoneyGram sign and return if a separate permit is required.

Board members said the approved graphics incorporate historic Needham photographs and that CVS and the Needham History Center and Museum had agreed to an image-credit line for the windows. Ben, the CVS representative, told the board the company was "flexible on the images that are proposed," and that CVS and the museum had discussed an "image courtesy of Needham History Center and Museum" credit that could be added to the graphics.

Board members reviewed three general layouts (labeled proposed, alternate A and alternate B) and debated which historic photos fitted the narrow lower portion of the storefront windows best. Felix Semmel, a Design Review Board member, said one image "feels like it's somewhat of a reflection a little bit," and asked the applicants to consider how the photograph read at the installed size. Other members raised resolution concerns and asked whether the chosen historic photos would remain crisp when scaled. The applicant said the photos were sourced at high resolution by the store manager for presentation.

The board also discussed placement of an existing MoneyGram sign in the storefront elevation. The board agreed it could approve the graphics now but required the applicant to seek guidance from the Building Commissioner on whether the MoneyGram sign would need a new special-permit application because the storefront elevation is being reconfigured. The board’s motion approving the graphics was explicitly conditioned on the applicant "return[ing] back if so determined by the Building Commissioner for the placement or movement of that MoneyGram sign if the Building Commissioner decides such an application is required."

Action: The motion to approve the graphics packet labeled “proposed” passed after a roll-call vote. Steve Dornbusch moved the motion and Millie seconded. Millie voted yes; Felix Semmel voted yes. The motion included the condition that the applicant confirm with the Building Commissioner whether a separate special permit is required for the MoneyGram sign and return if required.

The board directed the applicant to submit the approved graphics for the building-permit process and to coordinate with the Building Department on any sign-permit or special-permit requirements.