139 West Branch Street is a locally designated historic resource in Arroyo Grande Village. RRM Design Group prepared an initial conceptual site plan which included the site amenities and features that relate to the adjacent streets and properties as well as an elevation and image board that represents the character of the project. The new design copied the original façade including carriage doors and asymmetrical window, door, and signage placement. Using new materials, the design replicated the Spanish tiled eyebrows over the windows and doors as well as original trim, cornice details and entry columns. Most challenging was how to retain the integrity of the historic structure up front while creating more usable and attractive commercial space.  A new glass link now connects the small historic building with the new two-story addition at the back. During construction it was discovered that the original moisture barrier had failed between the stucco and wood framing. Following the Secretary of the Interior’s Guidelines for Restoration of Historic Buildings, the City allowed reconstruction of the old walls so long as they retained the appearance of the original walls.

 

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Project of the Month

– AIA California, Central Coast Chapter