Well, this is back on the agenda and seems like we finally made some progress. Looks like we're one step closer. I guess the difference is the preservation of the Sullivan interior, whereas before, it seemed as if it was just the shell and facade. Although to some it might just seem like some thoughtful re-wording.
"the Historic Old Sullivan Façade will be restored and
the neighboring new structure will slightly step back and incorporate glass to provide clarity of the old and
new. In addition, at the street level, the new modern structure will have large glass storefronts providing
transparency that will help to 'celebrate' the historic structure."
Quote:
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May 05, 2010
Agenda Item No: 13
HDRC CASE NO: 2009-169
IDENTIFIER: Sullivan Building
ADDRESS: 155 E Commerce
LEGAL DESCRIPTION: NCB 106 BLK LOT 33 & 34
ZONING: D HE RIO-3
CITY COUNCIL DIST.: 1
PUBLIC PROPERTY:
DISTRICT: RIO-3
LANDMARK: Sullivan Building
APPLICANT: Douglas Architects
OWNER: Pano Riverwalk Ltd.
TYPE OF WORK: Demolition, Restoration & New Construction
REQUEST:
The applicant is requesting Conceptual Approval to:
1) Construct a boutique hotel project located at the northwest corner of St Mary’s and Commerce consisting
of approximately 125 rooms, meeting space, Spa, Café, Bar and Restaurant. 159 E. Commerce, The 'Old
Sullivan' building with its limestone walls, wood timbers and cistern will be preserved and highlighted in the
new development giving the project a unique 'San Antonio'
identity. The river level will contain the café and bar which will include some outdoor seating along the River
Walk. Between the St. Mary’s bridge and the property, along the River Walk, a new river access stair is
proposed.
At the street level along St Mary’s will be the hotel lobby with a small retail coffee shop located at the corner
of St Mary’s and Commerce. Along Commerce Street, the Historic Old Sullivan Façade will be restored and
the neighboring new structure will slightly step back and incorporate glass to provide clarity of the old and
new. In addition, at the street level, the new modern structure will have large glass storefronts providing
transparency that will help to 'celebrate' the historic structure. The 'podium' of the hotel made up of the
second, third and fourth levels will include a small ballroom, meeting spaces, restaurant and administrative
services. Above the podium, levels 5 - 23 will be guestrooms, with level 24 the Spa level. Above the Spa will
be a pool deck.
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends conceptual approval with conditions As design plans move forward consideration should
be given to: how the building meets the sky, i.e. screening HVAC; the pedestrian level materials, especially at
the corner of Commerce and N. St Mary's; the design of the new river access stairway; and how the
materials wrap the corners. Of particular importance is how the historic landmark building is treated both inside
and out. Even though it is interior to the new portion of the building, it is the exterior of the landmark building
and must be address. The plans for rehabilitation of the landmark building itself should also be submitted and
approved prior to final approval.
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