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Historic preservation commission approves 739 Hurst Green demolition, greenlights Lockwood window signs; tables church sign
Summary
The Webster Groves Historic Preservation Commission approved a demolition at 739 Hurst Green Road and a window-sign permit at 234 West Lockwood, citing severe structural deterioration and designers' preference for black‑and‑white historic photos; the commission tabled a proposed internally illuminated church sign at 483 East Rockwood pending higher-resolution renderings and site plans.
During its meeting, the Webster Groves Historic Preservation Commission took three formal actions on development and signage applications.
Demolition approved: The commission voted to approve a demolition application for 739 Hurst Green Road after members described the house as "severely deteriorated" with pronounced structural issues. A member moved to approve the demolition and the motion carried. The mover stated, "I move that we approve the demolition of 739 Hurst Green Road." The chair seconded and the commission recorded the motion as approved.
Window sign approved: The commission reviewed a sign permit for 234 West Lockwood, where the applicant presented several concepts that incorporated archival black‑and‑white photos for window treatment. Commissioners said the monochrome images better conveyed the business's history and fit the streetscape; one commissioner asked for darker window glazing rather than frosted white. A motion to approve the third (black-and‑white/photo) option was made and carried.
Church sign tabled: The commission conducted an extensive review of a proposed internally illuminated, glass monument sign for 483 East Rockwood (a church). Commissioners raised concerns about the bright white illuminated face, the sign’s 6‑foot height, site visibility given campus parking and proximity to Webster University property, and potential effects relative to the National Register / certified local government obligations. Members requested higher‑resolution renderings, a plan view showing sightlines and placement, and suggested the applicant consider softer background tones or horizontal stripes to reduce bold color blocks. The chair moved to table the application to the next monthly meeting so the applicant could supply clearer renderings and a site plan.
No formal variance or code changes were decided at this meeting; tabled items will return when applicants provide the requested materials. The commission also asked staff to check compatibility with the historic guidelines and federal/state standards as applicable before final action.
