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Neighbors and board press developer to rethink 32‑unit Old Town townhouse proposal at 333 N. Fairfax
Summary
Developer EYA presented a 32‑home townhome concept for a full block at 333 N. Fairfax that emphasizes alleys, a central court and four distinct style palettes; the Board of Architectural Review and many neighborhood speakers said the design needs more variety, brick detailing and retail frontage and the applicant requested a one‑month deferral to revise the plans.
EYA and its design team presented a comprehensive concept for 32 townhomes at 333 North Fairfax Street, arguing the scheme restores street activity with alley connections, a central courtyard and a mix of brick, metal and cementitious materials to reflect the site’s varied history.
The applicant’s team — led by Jack McLaren of EYA and design partners — described four “style keys” for different streets and plazas on the block, two pedestrian alleys, underground utilities and two units designated as affordable dwelling units. The team said the revised plan keeps the project under the 45‑foot zoning cap, preserves parking where possible and aims to provide high‑quality, low‑maintenance materials such as prefinished cementitious panels (Nichiha), metal siding and cast‑stone surrounds.
The presentation drew extensive public comment. Representatives of the Old Town Civic Association, Historic Alexandria Foundation and many nearby residents said the proposed modern/industrial aesthetic does not fit the immediate gable‑roofed neighborhood and that the proposal feels monolithic rather than a composition of individual townhouses. Speakers urged more traditional roof forms (gable elements), reduced retail loss at street level, richer brick detailing and unit‑level variety so the development reads as many small houses rather than a series of apartment‑scale blocks. Several local architects asked the applicant to limit the palette and increase individuality across each row of units.
Board members offered mixed reactions. Several praised the site plan’s pedestrian alleys and the addition of public‑facing open space; others said the façades as presented risk appearing too glassy and repetitive and recommended recalling the verticality and “grounding” elements of neighboring buildings. Multiple commissioners asked the team to rethink the Queen Street/First‑floor retail edge to increase activation and to bring brick around corners rather than terminate it abruptly at metal panels.
After deliberation the applicant asked for more time to refine the design; the board agreed to a one‑month deferral so the team can return with revisions on massing, material transitions and retail activation. The concept review did not include any votes on a certificate of appropriateness at this hearing.
The board’s comments will be transmitted to the planning commission and used when the applicant returns for formal review; the applicant indicated it will work with staff on more detailed material samples and revised storefront plans.
