Maplewood Community Design Review Board approves façade updates for Maplewood Auto Mall

On Jan. 20, 2026, the Maplewood Community Design Review Board voted to approve design-review plans for exterior updates at the Maplewood Auto Mall as presented by city staff, with a nonbinding board request that the applicant consider installing an 18-inch-high base under the storefront glass.

City staff told the board the project at 2529 White Bear Avenue North would raise the front showroom from about 18 feet to 24 feet, add a second-floor balcony and two small offices, and replace the front siding with metallic insulated metal panels while repainting the rear service elevation. "Staff is recommending approval of the design review resolution," the staff presenter told the board, while noting signage is not part of this review and that the applicant must submit an updated lighting plan and a striping plan with the building permit.

The applicant's representative, Phil McCrumb, said the team plans to use "thermal pane top double layer glazing in aluminum storefront framing," and that the owner prefers a full-glass storefront but will work with engineers and the design team on details. McCrumb said the project does not expand the building footprint or add square footage beyond raising the front roof about six feet; the existing rear repair/service area will remain about 22 feet high.

Board member Anand Shankar raised concerns about vandalism and durability at the busy corner and proposed a friendly amendment asking the applicant to "consider installing an 18 inch high base also so that the curtain wall glass does not come down to grade." The board accepted the suggestion as a consideration rather than a requirement; the main motion to approve, with staff conditions, passed.

Staff said the city sent notice to 13 nearby properties and received no public comments before the meeting; no public hearing was scheduled. Conditions of approval recorded by staff include ensuring submitted building plans meet state and local building codes, resubmitting a lighting/photometric plan to address areas that exceeded foot-candle limits, and filing a striping plan covering any restriping needs on the site.

The board moved and approved the design-review resolution during the meeting; Chair Tom Osman made the motion and Jason Meimer seconded. The project will proceed to the building-permit stage, where staff and the applicant must provide the required technical plans and any separate sign permits.