Graphics commission approves White Castle signage variances for Allen Creek site

The Columbus Graphics Commission on Feb. (date not specified) approved a graphics plan and related variances for a new White Castle at the West Side of Allen Creek, approximately 400 feet south of Livingston Avenue.

Planning staff told the commission the proposed increases in signage and menu-board graphics were consistent with Columbus citywide planning policies and the Livingston Avenue Area Commission recommendation; the commission voted to approve the application. Staff also noted traffic management and area commission reviews had been completed and that staff generally supported the graphics plan as designed.

The applicant, Stanley W. Young III, and Tom Morbisser of WD Partners described the project as a wholly new building with a single public entrance on the north elevation, a modified parapet/tower element and two separate pickup/delivery and dine-in entries. Young said the original building had three public entrances, but the operator’s changed business model — more drive-through and pickup, reduced indoor seating — produced a façade with one public entrance and led to requests for variances on other elevations.

Under the approved plan, the applicant sought increases to several graphic areas: a west elevation graphic increase (reported in the application from 16 to 55 square feet), a north elevation increase from 60 to 79 square feet, a south elevation increase from 16 to 42.3 square feet, an aggregated menu-board graphic increase from 30 to 37 square feet, and permission for three roof signs above menu boards to increase from 6 feet to 7 feet. Planning staff described the increases as minor and appropriate for the site and surrounding commercial corridor.

Commissioners asked about the parapet/tower treatment, whether the vertical wall plane should be considered wall signage or roof signage, and how the new design compared to previous on-site entrances. The applicant and designer said the White Castle design uses a “fake parapet” aesthetic and that staff and the applicant had discussed how the elements should be classified under the graphics code.

A motion to approve the final application was made and seconded; Commissioners Rambo, Moore and Papalares and Chair Guzman were recorded voting yes and the application was approved.

The commission’s approval allows the new White Castle design and the modest increases in graphic area and menu-board signage described in the record. Staff will implement the approval conditions and any final permitting requirements as part of the building sign permit process.