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oBagel storefront changes approved; owner to seek zoning sign permit
Summary
The commission approved exterior changes for oBagel at 34 Witherspoon Street: awning removal, repainting in white, new 16‑inch letters in the existing sign band and gooseneck lighting. Staff and commissioners noted the proposal generally retains historic character; zoning signage permits remain required.
The Princeton Historic Preservation Commission approved storefront modifications for oBagel at 34 Witherspoon Street at its Feb. 24 meeting.
Owner Steven El Hassan described the proposal as a modest restoration of the façade: remove the existing awning, repaint the wood paneling white, install 16‑inch high lettering mounted directly on the building’s existing sign band, and add gooseneck lighting. He said the approach is intended to be simple and respectful of the building’s historic character and would not use neon signage.
Staff’s report documented the property’s history as a circa‑1880 Italianate building that now contributes to the Central Historic District and described the proposed work as retaining the building’s historic use and character. Staff recommended that commissioners consider compatibility of material, lettering scale and color with neighboring structures.
Commissioners discussed sign dimensions and placement and confirmed that the applicant will need zoning permits for signage following the HPC approval. A motion to approve the application "as presented" passed unanimously by roll call. The owner thanked the commission and said he will coordinate with staff on required zoning permits and material samples.
The commission encouraged the applicant to submit samples and coordinate with staff for final permitting and any minor required modifications.
