Ottawa historic commission approves façade renovations for two downtown buildings

The Ottawa Historic Preservation Commission on April 24 approved Certificates of Appropriateness for façade renovations at 209 West Main Street and 606 Court Street, voting unanimously after reviewing proposed color schemes and design details.

The action came after the commission first approved the minutes from its April 9 meeting. Bob Eschbach moved to approve the minutes; Lorraine McCallister seconded and the motion passed on a voice vote of all ayes.

At a hearing on 209 West Main Street, which the minutes identify as owned by Ryan Gayan of Gioia Group LLC (PIN#21-11-407-009), staff member Tami L. Koppen recommended final color adjustments, saying the lower storefront should use “Night Watch” with “Moorstone” and “Dashing” as accent colors. The applicant, Ryan Gayan, proposed adding a storefront cornice with corbels; the commission concluded that the cornice would not be appropriate for the building’s historic character. Commission members generally supported the conceptual plan and approved the Certificate of Appropriateness; the motion was made by Chuck Stanley and seconded by Rich Mennecke.

The commission also reviewed a Certificate of Appropriateness application for 606 Court Street (owner: Ryan Gayan; PIN#21-11-202-010). Staff explained that the plan includes a framed sign area, trim beneath the storefront windows and gooseneck lighting, and that the applicant proposed painting the entire building. Commission members expressed strong opposition to a white paint scheme noted in the submission, describing white as “not historically appropriate,” and asked to review final color samples before work begins. The commission approved the Certificate of Appropriateness for 606 Court Street on a motion by Chuck Stanley, seconded by Bob Eschbach.

The commission requested that final color selections for both projects be submitted for review before permits are issued. The meeting was then adjourned.