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Designers propose converting Franklin’s Old Ice House into boutique hotel; commissioners praise massing, ask to simplify brickwork
Summary
Architects told the DRC they want to adapt 251 2nd Avenue South (the Old Ice House) into a boutique hotel with a two‑story rear addition. Commissioners applauded massing but requested toned‑down brick detailing, clearer window specs, and lighting and rooftop screening studies before a COA hearing.
Architects for the proposed adaptive reuse of the Old Ice House at 251 2nd Avenue South presented revised plans to the Design Review Committee at the May 2026 DRC meeting, seeking design feedback ahead of a formal HZC submittal. The team said they removed balcony elements and reduced visible massing while adding a two‑story rear addition to bring light into interior units and accommodate hotel operations.
The DRC largely welcomed the changes but pressed the design team for refinements. Committee member Kathy (speaker 11) said, “The brickwork is beautiful, but it almost looks like the new portion appears to be the historical portion,” and urged the applicant to simplify detailing so the addition reads subordinate to the historic building. Staff asked for more information about proposed window materials and profiles, and requested perspectives showing rooftop chimneys and mechanical screening.
Designers said they would retain a stone skirt to reference the historic house while using simpler, less elaborate brick detailing on the new work. Commissioners also asked for three‑dimensional, street‑level views of the rooftop and balcony areas so they could assess visibility and the potential for light spill at night. Mary (speaker 9) and others warned that lighting and rooftop occupation can change the district’s character if not carefully framed; one commissioner asked for lighting plans that downlight rather than produce visible glare.
The team said rooftop chimneys are ornamental and intended mainly to reference historical forms; staff noted those elements must be shown in context and screened where they would be visible. Commissioners suggested reducing some of the more elaborate cornice and herringbone detailing and testing simpler versions in upcoming drawings.
Next steps: The applicant will provide refined elevations, window‑profile sections, material samples, and street‑level renderings showing the proposed balconies and rooftop elements. The DRC did not take a vote; the committee’s feedback is advisory and intended to guide the applicant’s COA package to the Historic Zoning Commission.
