The Dublin Architectural Review Board (ARB) meeting on July 23, 2025, focused on the design proposal for a multi-tenant building located at the intersection of South High Street and Spring Hill Lane. The primary discussion centered around the addition of two awnings intended to enhance visibility for storefronts.

The proposed awnings, each measuring 12 feet wide and sloped, would be positioned above the storefronts. However, they would not meet the required clearance of eight feet above the sidewalk, as they would only provide seven feet of clearance. A waiver for this reduced height was recommended by staff, citing the building's low soffit height as a limiting factor. The staff expressed support for the waiver, emphasizing that compliance with the height requirement would compromise the awning's functionality and the building's overall appearance.

While the design of the awnings was deemed appropriate, concerns were raised regarding their color and pattern. The proposed awnings featured a matte classic cream and charcoal black pinstripe pattern, which deviated from the ARB guidelines that discourage ornate designs. Staff recommended that the awnings be revised to a solid black color to align with the building's aesthetic and maintain consistency with a recently approved black and white wall sign for the tenant.

The board discussed the potential visual impact of striped awnings on the building's overall appearance, noting that no other landmark buildings in the district feature such designs. Staff provided mock-ups to illustrate the differences between the proposed striped awnings and a more traditional solid black option. Ultimately, staff recommended approval of the awning clearance waiver and the minor project review, contingent upon the revision of the awning color and pattern to solid black.

The meeting concluded with an invitation for questions from board members, indicating an ongoing dialogue about the design's appropriateness and its implications for the district's architectural integrity.