Work session: Westminster planning commission presses for lower-profile architecture, flat-roof options on proposed multiunit development

Commissioners and staff used a work session on zoning map amendment ZMA24-01 to give the applicant detailed direction on building height and facade design for a proposed multiunit development.

Planning staff presented updated renderings and said the principal remaining concern is perceived building height and the appearance of long, flat wall faces. Staff suggested architectural approaches that preserve the proposed density but reduce visual height, such as flat roofs, stepped massing and 2-over-2 condominium arrangements. "A flat roof would be better," one commissioner advised during the discussion.

The applicant said it has held the property under contract for several years, obtained necessary water rights and is prepared to work with staff on alternative elevations. The applicant requested clear feedback and said it would present a limited set of conceptual elevations rather than fully engineered construction drawings so the commission and staff could agree on a preferred architectural direction before the mayor and common council consider the zoning change.

Commissioners and staff also raised concerns about rear and side facades that will be visible from surrounding streets and neighborhood viewpoints. Staff asked the applicant to return with multiple design options (examples of comparable built projects were suggested) so staff can screen those and present the commission with a handful of viable alternatives at the next meeting.

The work session produced direction but no formal vote; the applicant agreed to provide revised concept elevations for the commission's consideration at the next meeting.

Sources: Planning staff presentation, applicant comments, commissioner questions and discussion.