Commission approves awning and window signs for Denucci's at 8 E. 1st St.

The Hinsdale Historic Preservation Commission on Nov. 5 approved a sign-permit application (case ADash52Dash2025) for a Denucci's restaurant at 8 East 1st Street, authorizing one awning sign and permanent window vinyls that display branded words such as "aperitivo, pizza, classics, spaghetti, vino" and the phrase "hot and saucy." The applicant said the proposed signage matches other Denucci's locations and that the awning will be rewrapped and retain the existing awning structure.

Brianne, representing Valleyhoo Hospitality and the incoming Denucci's location, told the commission the business is under construction, has liquor-license approval and hopes to open in early December, though the timeline is not certain. She described plans for a small awning sign, permanent window vinyls with branding text, replacement of the existing fixtures with traditionally styled (black) gooseneck lights and maintaining existing doors and awning structure.

Staff clarified that window signage is counted as a single sign and that the proposed elements fall within the overall signage allowance. Commissioners asked about store hours, winter doors and vestibule plans; Brianne said store hours were not included in the signage packet and that interior work will add a vestibule but a winter door was not yet proposed. The applicant shared photographs and a rendering of the Highland Park location vinyls to illustrate scale and appearance.

A motion to approve the permit was moved and seconded; a roll-call vote recorded affirmative votes from Commissioner Barclay, Commissioner Gonzales, Commissioner Harlow, Commissioner Olsen and Chairman Bonin. The commission noted the item will move to the Planning Commission and wished the applicant luck.