Architect seeks to restore Boscawen bank facade; board approves removal of ATM kiosk and storefront changes

Kevin Walker, an architect with Long House Architects, presented AR25-270 on July 17 proposing exterior changes to the building at the corner of Washington and Boscawen that would remove a later ATM kiosk, reopen and repair the original storefront, add exterior seating and create a code-compliant access door.

Walker described the building as an original 1960s bank with later additions and an appended kiosk that "doesn't meet the original intent of the building." He presented a 1962 blueprint and noted sympathetic 1984 additions; he said removal of the kiosk would restore the corner to the structure's original intent, allow exterior seating and improve access. Walker said the design uses matching storefront sizes, black-steel storefront glazing, and a four-foot opening reduced with side light where needed to accommodate a door and panic hardware.

Board members praised the project’s restraint and compatibility with the original structure. One board member observed that the roof remains an important crowning feature and that prior reviews addressed that element; another said the kiosk 'was an afterthought' and supported its removal.

A motion to recommend approval was made and passed by voice vote; the board noted that color choices and additional back-of-building work will return for future review if needed.

The recommendation enables the applicant to proceed with the site-plan and permit process; the board and the applicant indicated they will return with color and material selections as the design develops.