One of the most discussions focused on the redesign of 41st Street, where the removal of on-street parking spaces was proposed to make way for shade trees, branded gray concrete, and Miami Beach red concrete. The plan aimed to enhance the pedestrian experience by creating outdoor living rooms and improving furniture features. However, the choice of concrete color was met with criticism, with some likening it to “Pepto Bismol.” Concerns about the lighting were also raised, with suggestions to use downlighting on alternate trees. The board deliberated on the placement and color of the Gateway structures, advocating for their refinement and better integration into the surroundings. The potential impact of a water main replacement project on 41st Street was acknowledged, with the board recognizing the importance of intentional design and minimal disruption during the lengthy construction phase anticipated to last between 24 to 36 months.

The board’s attention was also captured by the debate over the inclusion of a green wall in the architectural design of a proposed building. While some board members were skeptical about the wall’s maintenance and long-term viability, the architects defended the inclusion, citing its easily maintained irrigation system and ability to add greenery in a tight space. The conversation expanded to include the structural framework of the green wall, the choice of plant material, and comparisons to other buildings with green walls in the area. Despite the architects’ reassurances and emphasis on the wall’s unique features, the board remained divided over the practicality and sustainability of such a design element.

Another notable topic was the integration of mechanical elements on rooftops. The board stressed the need for these elements to be aesthetically integrated and unobtrusive, with a consensus that existing conditions regarding the screening of fixtures and devices needed to be more effectively executed. The board explored various design solutions, expressing a desire to grant the design team creative license while maintaining aesthetic cohesion and avoiding visual impacts such as tall walls or fences.

The board also reviewed a two-story residence proposal on Sunset Island number four, which would feature the home’s first habitable floor at 17 feet above the natural grade. Staff recommended enhanced landscaping to ensure privacy for the residence, considering the proximity of a pre-1942 single-story home. The board highlighted the challenges of coordinating landscaping and storm drainage, with the architect ensuring that the design would adhere to code requirements for water management.

In addition to these projects, the board touched upon the design of a new four-story duplex residential building, discussions about right-of-way improvements on 44th Street, and the proposed redesign of a property at the northeast corner of 19th and Alton. For the latter, the board stressed the need for clear approval of design changes and consistency with the original design intent.

The board’s conversation on the 1901 Alton Road project involved the positioning of landscaping and screening around the garage. Material choices and color schemes for the screening were also considered, with the applicant revising plans to address the board’s previous concerns.

Lastly, the board considered an application for exterior modifications to an existing commercial building on Michigan Avenue. The proposed changes included cladding the facades with a new limestone veneer and rearranging concrete planters for the garage. The design aimed to modernize the building’s appearance and enhance the pedestrian experience with integrated greenery.