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File #: 251241    Version: 0
Type: Resolution Status: In Committee
File created: 11/13/2025 In control: HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
On agenda: Final action:
Effective date:    
Title: Resolution relating to a Certificate of Appropriateness for an entrance canopy on Wells Street, various secondary entrance canopies, and alterations to the north wing at the University Club, 924 E. Wells Street, an individually designated historic property, for Northwestern Mutual.
Sponsors: THE CHAIR
Attachments: 1. Application.pdf, 2. Staff Report, 3. Exhibits.pdf, 4. Letter to Property Owner, 5. Letter to Property Owners Within 200 Feet, 6. List of Property Owners Within 200 Feet, 7. Certified Mailing to the Property Owner, 8. Signed Certified Mail Receipts, 9. Certificate of Appropriateness
Date Ver.Action ByActionResultTallyAction DetailsMeeting DetailsVideo
1/12/20260 HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION  

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		   Not available Meeting details Video Video
12/8/20250 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. 		Pass7:0 Action details Meeting details Video Video
11/13/20250 COMMON COUNCIL ASSIGNED TO   Action details Meeting details Not available

Number

251241

Version

ORIGINAL

Reference

 

Sponsor

THE CHAIR

Title

Resolution relating to a Certificate of Appropriateness for an entrance canopy on Wells Street, various secondary entrance canopies, and alterations to the north wing at the University Club, 924 E. Wells Street, an individually designated historic property, for Northwestern Mutual.

Drafter

CC-CC

Tim Askin

11/13/2025