| 3/2/2026 | 0 |
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
| RECOMMENDED FOR ADOPTION
Minutes note: Tim Askin explains that the commission had reviewed the broader scope previously; all other secondary entrance canopies/alterations were approved in January, leaving only this Wells Street historic entrance canopy for review.
Mr. Askin noted the University Club is the only Wisconsin commission by architect John Russell Pope (later designer of the Jefferson Memorial and National Archives).
Staff stated they were maintaining “no opinion” and leaving the decision to the commission.
Staff mentioned (not in the official record) that Mr. Jeris approved of the revised design; emails existed but were not included in the record.
The proposed canopy is architecturally exposed structural steel supporting transparent laminated glass.
Form is an elliptical, barrel-vaulted arch extending over the sidewalk to provide weather protection at the main entrance.
Applicants/representatives present and identified: Michael DiMichele; Kevin Kennedy (Northwestern Mutual); Jeremy Happel (Kahler Slater).
Mr. Askin mention that compared with the January version, the design was adjusted slightly reduced/shrunk, a bit flatter, and a “smidge” narrower.
Applicants said prior perspectives may have looked skewed; they provided sections/details from developing construction documents to confirm the canopy is flat (with a defined slope).
Applicants addressed concerns that it looked “Disneyland-like” by fully engineering the design and submitting engineered drawings to show it is build able as designed.
Code/permitting considerations (marquee vs. special privilege)
Public Works pushed for the canopy to meet the code definition of a “marquee” (including constraints around size/width/slope), in part due to buried utilities.
The marquee classification was described as a way to avoid the more cumbersome “special privilege” permitting process typically required for structures over the sidewalk.
Clarified that a marquee definition does not require signage.
Dimensions discussed: approximately 18 feet wide, 25 feet deep, and 15 feet above sidewalk grade.
Materials, finish, and features matte black steel with very little ornamentation.
“Architecturally exposed structural steel” was described as a high performance finish level (not expected to peel like basic paint).
Integrated elements include hidden down lighting (recessed/can lights) and heaters to warm people waiting underneath.
Motion was made and seconded to approve; vote carried unanimously.
Overall project target completion date stated as June 2027.
| Pass | 5:0 |
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| 1/12/2026 | 0 |
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
| HELD IN COMMITTEE
Minutes note: Tim Askin reported that the applicant requests the item be held to the call of the chair, and the committee agreed without objection | Pass | 6:0 |
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| 12/8/2025 | 0 |
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
| HELD IN COMMITTEE
Minutes note: Mr. Tim Askin said Northwestern Mutual is continuing its restoration of this building. There are three canopies included in this application and adding eight feet to the northern addition. Only one of the four items has potential to have an impact, which is the Wells St. entrance canopy. The proposed change to the parking annex is a notable improvement. Staff recommends approval on all changes, except the Wells St. canopy where they aren't taking a position.
Ald. Bauman was concerned that the style didn't fit the style of the building.
Michael DeMichelle - owner's representative - this property is being renovated into a boutique hotel and this entrance will be the main entrance. Coverage is needed to protect guests from the elements. A canopy is needed at this site and it's a tough situation due to the limited amount of space to build the canopy. They were trying to balance contemporary and the style of the building. It needs to shelter both guests and the valets and also heaters. They tried to relate to the shape of the arched windows.
Mr. Jarosz said the shape is pretty dramatic. Mr. Robinson thinks the curvilinear nature of the entry doesn't match the other entries. Ms. Pieper Eisenbrown isn't opposed to the concept of a canopy, but this one will be blocking the facade. Mr. Robinson doesn't mind it, but he understands the sentiments of his fellow commission members. Mr. Jarosz would like to see additions that are removable from the building itself, without damage and he also asked about adding columns. The architect noted that columns have been ruled out at this point in time. Ms. Peltz thinks it is absolutely stunning and reminds her of Paris.
The windows on the French balconies cannot be opened.
The Commission would like the applicant to consider other alternatives and look at what else is in the neighborhood.
Mr. Matt Jarosz moved, seconded by Sally Peltz to approve the other three items and hold the Wells St. canopy.
The applicant will work with Mr. Matt Jarosz.
| Pass | 7:0 |
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