Princeton HPC approves two downtown storefront projects at 110 and 150 Nassau Street

The Princeton Historic Preservation Commission approved two separate commercial storefront applications on Nassau Street at its Jan. 26 meeting: a bifolding window and matching door at 110 Nassau Street and a repainting of the storefront facade and brick knee wall at 150 Nassau Street.

At 110 Nassau, the applicant (represented by Joseph DeSalvo) proposed replacing fixed plate‑glass storefront windows with a three‑section bifolding (accordion) window system and installing a new door of the same size and color. Staff noted the property sits in the Central Historic District and the commission asked whether the proposed fold lines align with existing muntins; the applicant said the existing storefront is two sections and the proposal would create three for practical size reasons. Commissioners concluded the change primarily affects functionality and will not alter the storefront’s overall appearance when closed; no public comment was offered. A motion to approve the application as presented was made, seconded and approved.

At 150 Nassau, the applicant proposed painting the storefront facade and brick knee wall (below the cornice/trim) in a single Sherwin‑Williams color to harmonize with adjacent storefront updates. Commissioners discussed whether painted brick preserves historic character; staff advised a painted mid‑20th‑century knee wall is consistent with other modifications along the street and reminded the applicant to use appropriate exterior paint for brick. The motion to approve painting below the trim only (not painting door surrounds unless requested) passed by roll call.

Both approvals included conditions and clarifications raised by staff during the presentations; the commission noted that full compatibility review focuses on visible changes to public rights of way and the district’s character.