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Planning board approves Yamas Greek eatery sign, accepts white background after debate over trim color
Summary
The Planning Board approved architectural design review for Yamas Greek eatery signage at 25–27 South Main, after a debate over whether a white sign background fits recently painted blue-and-white trim. The board accepted the applicant's preference and incorporated the trim repainting into the approval.
The Concord Planning Board on March 16 approved an architectural design review application for new signage at Yamas Greek eatery, resolving a dispute about sign background color after the applicant said recent exterior painting changed the building's trim.
At the meeting, the applicant’s supporters — including John Dorian — and the proprietor Costa explained that they repainted the building trim to blue and white and prefer a white sign background that matches the restaurant’s existing color scheme. "I didn't realize that I have to paint the trim," Costa said, describing how the paint was applied before the applicant realized the local review expectations.
Architectural Design Review (ADR) members had recommended a cream or beige background when they last reviewed earlier elevations; ADR had based that suggestion on the drawings they saw then, which showed black trim. Amanda, speaking for ADR staff, told the board the committee had suggested a cream background to reduce stark contrast with the brick, but that the current white-and-blue trim creates a cohesive look.
Board members discussed whether to send the matter back to ADR for review, or approve the sign tonight. The applicant said he preferred the board act now and that sending it back would be an extra step. Chair Whitman asked whether the applicant wanted the board to act, and the applicant confirmed the white background was the intended branding for Yamas.
After questions from the board and a short public hearing in which no abutters objected, a motion to grant ADR approval "as originally submitted with the understanding that the approval also incorporates the blue and white painting changes to the building" carried unanimously.
The approval incorporates ADR comments and records the building trim change as part of the approved elevations. The board noted staff’s role in advising applicants about when exterior paint triggers review and advised property owners to consult planning staff before making visible façade changes.
The board moved on to the next agenda items after the vote.
Next steps: the applicant may proceed with the sign permit process consistent with the approved elevations and the painting change recorded in the file.
