Planning Commission approves facade restorations for Ojai Arcade storefronts

The Ojai Planning Commission on Oct. 1 approved design review permit 25-005 to renovate and restore the front elevations of 102 North Signal Street and 202 and 206 East Ojai Avenue, buildings that face the Ojai Arcade (Ojai historic landmark No. 5) and contribute to the California Register–listed Downtown Ojai Historic District.

Commissioners said the proposal aims to reintroduce original materials and architectural features while adapting the spaces for modern use. The work includes repainting stucco in “Navajo white,” replacing and repainting existing metal storefronts with wood frames, exposing and repairing existing transoms and clerestory windows, replacing a Dutch door at 206 East Ojai Avenue with a simpler wood door, and dividing a large single-tenant space into two units to increase commercial opportunities.

Staff told the commission that the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) reviewed the project and issued a major work permit on Aug. 18. An earlier applicant request to remove a fixed wooden vent and replace it with a storefront window was denied by the HPC during that review; the applicant withdrew that portion of the proposal and the project returned with revised plans. Commissioners asked staff to remove an outdated reference to eliminating a fixed wooden vent from the resolution; the commission directed staff to remove that language from the project-specific conditions and any ‘‘whereas’’ clauses before finalizing the resolution.

Commissioners also discussed paint and trim colors: proposed wood frames and window trim will be painted “Saddle Up Brown,” and doors will be painted a “rustic red” to match existing arcade features, while stucco areas will remain Navajo white. The applicant said existing ivy on the façade will remain.

Architect representatives described the existing storefronts as later, thin-steel replacements and said the proposal restores wood storefront systems more in keeping with the building’s historic character. The new storefront at 102 North Signal is proposed to be flush with the exterior wall and to open inward; staff and the applicant said the occupant load does not require doors to swing outward.

Before the final vote commissioners confirmed the resolution would be corrected to remove references to the vent removal and to fix the spelling/term for clerestory/transom windows. On a roll call the commission recorded Commissioner Graham — aye; Vice Chair Murphy — yes; Chair Trent — yes. Commissioner Chesley had recused earlier in the meeting from this item. With the corrections noted, the commission approved the design review permit.

The commission and staff said the intention is to restore historic fabric where feasible while limiting construction impacts to existing tenants.