Planning commission requires hotel to replace vinyl windows with aluminum retrofit to preserve Carmel character

The Carmel‑by‑the‑Sea Planning Commission on Sept. 9 added a condition to the Svensgaard (Svensgaard/Svensgard) hotel design review requiring the replacement of existing vinyl sash windows with black‑bronze aluminum retrofit sliding windows, while allowing the original aluminum frames to remain in place where they exist.

Why it matters: The commission cited the city’s commercial design guidelines preference for wood windows (and aluminum‑clad as an acceptable substitute) and said consistency of window materials across the project is a key design goal for preserving Carmel’s village character.

Background: Commissioner Auburn opened the item during the consent review and noted the planning department’s commercial design guidelines are less prescriptive than residential rules but still emphasize materials consistent with a building’s architecture. Staff and commissioners said the hotel’s model room had aluminum‑clad windows, while some units had retrofit vinyl insert windows installed earlier.

Architect Colin Peoples told the commission the project team proposed retaining existing vinyl frames in some locations and replacing only the operable portions to improve acoustics and operation while staying within budget for multiple building upgrades, including sprinklers, plumbing and accessibility. Peoples said the team favored retaining existing movable‑sash inserts where feasible to reduce cost.

Commission discussion centered on material consistency and cost. Commissioner Alborn and others urged removing vinyl and using an aluminum retrofit product that could be installed within the existing aluminum frames in many locations. Commissioner Auburn recommended an approach that would preserve the original aluminum frames where present and require a black‑bronze aluminum retrofit sliding window overall; he said that solution would improve aesthetics and often cost less than full frame replacement.

Commission action: Chair LePage made a motion to add a condition requiring removal of existing vinyl sash units, permitting retention of original aluminum frames where present, and requiring black‑bronze aluminum retrofit sliding windows as the standard for the project; the motion included an allowance for double‑hung or alternate windows in unusually narrow openings. The motion passed on roll call with Commissioners Alborn, Allen, Locke and Chair LePage voting yes.

What this does and does not do: The commission did not require full demolition of original frames or insist on wood windows; the condition allows the project to use retrofit aluminum windows that preserve the building’s existing frame where appropriate. The action is intended to produce a consistent exterior window appearance across the hotel project without forcing the applicant into the higher cost of cutting out existing frames and re‑stuccoing the opening.

Implementation: Staff will incorporate the condition into the resolution and the building permit process will verify installed materials and final details during inspection.