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Corydon commission approves storefront conversion for former Moose Lodge, requires preservation measures
Summary
The Corydon Historic Preservation Commission approved exterior changes at 221 E. Chestnut (the former Moose Lodge) on Sept. 2, allowing two first-floor shop windows to become overhead doors and permitting vinyl replacement windows only if they preserve the original grid pattern; the commission required that porcelain tile remain and that new work be reversible where possible.
The Corydon Historic Preservation Commission on Sept. 2 approved exterior alterations to 221 East Chestnut, the former Moose Lodge, allowing two ground-floor shop windows to be converted into overhead doors while requiring steps to preserve the building’s historic character.
Jason Lawyer, representing Indiana Home, told the commission the project team wants to preserve upper-floor layouts and most architectural trim while updating storefronts. "We want to do those in a black," he said of the replacement windows, adding that the applicant is "agreeable to that 100%" on staff recommendations to maintain the original window grid pattern.
The commission’s staff reviewer (Laura) recommended keeping the building’s porcelain tile exterior in place even if it is repainted, noting the tiles are non-original and that treatment should allow future reversibility. Commissioners also emphasized that any change at the storefront’s lower panel should appear consistent with an original kit channel so the opening can be restored later if desired.
On first-floor changes, the applicant requested converting the two commercial-style shop windows to overhead doors but said the work would remain inside the existing footprint. The applicant also requested a modest visual bump-out of the bulkhead (about 1 to 1.5 feet) to accent the entrance; the commission noted that the cornice and bulkhead elements at the site are non-original, which made the proposed minor changes less concerning to members.
The commission confirmed the exterior light fixtures are electric and discussed rebuilding the internal mechanics so the housings can be preserved. Commissioners also addressed the temporary removal and reinstallation of the building placard during facade work and noted decorative "flanker" boxes belong to Main Street and could be relocated if not used by the applicant.
A motion to approve the application subject to the staff recommendations was moved by Angie and seconded by Janet; the motion passed by voice vote. The approval requires that replacement windows preserve the single-mullion grid pattern staff documented, that porcelain tile be retained (though repainting was discussed), and that the overhead doors be detailed so the lower panels read as original and the work is reversible.
The commission did not record a roll-call tally in the transcript. Next steps noted at the meeting: the applicant will submit the required certificate of appropriateness and building-permit paperwork to the city and coordinate details with staff before construction.
