Commission approves revised Wells Street canopy for University Club/ Northwestern Mutual

The Historic Preservation Commission voted to approve a revised canopy over the Wells Street entrance of the University Club, part of a Northwestern Mutual property (application 02/1241). Staff presented the updated design as slightly narrower and flatter than the version shown in January and said it meets the local definition of a marquee, which avoids a more cumbersome special‑privilege process.

A commission staff member summarized the proposal as “constructed of architecturally exposed structural steel members supporting transparent laminated glass” with an elliptical, barrel‑vaulted arch that extends over the sidewalk to shelter guests. Staff noted the roof slope is under 1 in 4 and that public works preferred treating the element as a marquee because it reduces permitting complications tied to buried utilities.

Project representatives answered commissioners’ questions about buildability and materials. One representative said the design team “slim[med] this thing down a little bit and streamline[ed] it, make sure it’s flat,” and another added that construction drawings and sections were submitted to demonstrate the canopy’s slope and structural engineering. The team described the steel as matte black, with minimal ornamentation, hidden downward lighting and heaters to warm people waiting beneath the canopy.

A commissioner moved to approve; another seconded. Members then voiced their support and the motion passed. Applicants said the building is under construction and they are awaiting a building permit; they set a target of June 2027 for full completion but said that schedule will be challenging.

The commission’s approval is limited to the design as presented and conditioned on meeting applicable building and public‑works requirements. The project record lists the application number 02/1241 and staff will monitor permit progress and compliance.