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Commission approves minor modification for Gaobi restaurant façade; vote 4‑2 after debate
Summary
The commission approved a minor modification to Planned Development District No. 91 to allow a ceramic/metal screen façade for the Gaobi (formerly Goji) restaurant at Fountain Square, after discussion about PDD consistency and construction already under way. The motion passed 4‑2.
The Shelton Planning and Zoning Commission on April 16 approved a minor modification to Planned Development District (PDD) No. 91 to allow a façade change at a restaurant in Fountain Square.
FS Shelton LLC and tenant representatives presented a proposal to install a decorative screening system over the restaurant’s storefront glazing consistent with the tenant’s interior theme. Dave Gunia, landlord for Fountain Square, and the restaurant owner (identified in the record as Chen) said the screens would reduce car‑headlight glare, create a cohesive interior‑to‑exterior experience and include backlighting. The applicants provided sample images and a laboratory inspection report for proposed materials and said they had obtained fire marshal approval for required means of egress.
Several commissioners and the commission’s attorney raised concerns about consistency with the overall PDD façade and about construction activity that had already begun (wood framing / studs). Commissioners noted that because the center is a PDD, the commission has discretion to approve design deviations for individual tenants without creating an automatic entitlement for other tenants.
Commissioner Cristiano moved to approve the minor modification; Commissioner Motto seconded. After discussion the motion to approve passed by roll call vote, 4‑2.
Commissioners who voted in favor said the proposal is a significant tenant‑level investment and can create a striking, contemporary storefront; commissioners opposed said the white ceramic tiles and the design contrast sharply with the plaza’s existing stone and color palette and expressed concern that visible framing had been erected before commission review.
Applicants said the interior finish (a decorative panel/mural and interior wall features) would be difficult to relocate and that installing the screen on the exterior was the chosen method to achieve the design effect. The landlord and tenant said the exterior assembly would be sealed to prevent debris between the screen and the existing glass and that lighting would be used to highlight the screen at night.
Votes at a glance
- Motion to approve minor modification to PDD No. 91 (façade change, application 2504): passed by roll call, 4‑2.
Ending
The commission approved the modification and recorded the vote. Commissioners directed staff to ensure any required final inspections and fire marshal documentation are filed with the building department before final sign‑off.
