The focal point of the meeting was the presentation of a proposal to replace an existing solarium and add a pergola on the eighth floor of Winsslow House. The property, a high-rise brick condominium completed in 1980, is categorized as a non-contributing resource due to its construction date being outside the district’s period of significance. Staff member Aaron K., a senior city planner, highlighted the issues with the current solarium, including failed seals, fogged glazing, and safety hazards due to its low height of 5’8″. The application proposed constructing a new solarium with the same footprint but featuring a rectangular shape and a flat roof, with aluminum framing and various window designs. The pergola is planned to be 14 feet wide by 17 feet long with a powder-coated aluminum structure. A divergence of opinion emerged regarding the choice of materials, with the applicant suggesting prefinished wood-look aluminum panels and the staff recommending metal panels painted to resemble wood to maintain authenticity.

Public commentary included concerns over the new solarium’s design, particularly its departure from the original 1980s aesthetics. One commenter suggested a slightly curved top as a nod to the existing design, while another expressed apprehension over the proposed flat roof and reduced glazing. Despite these concerns, the staff recommended the commission adopt their findings, emphasizing the importance of material selection to avoid imitation wood appearances.

The applicant, Zachary Lesson, representing Construct All Corporation, presented his case during the public hearing. He noted improvements in the process compared to past experiences and expressed gratitude for the collaboration with the staff. Lesson emphasized the inadequacy of the original atrium’s thermal performance and highlighted the new design’s enhancements, such as a large soffit for shading due to the room’s south and west-facing orientation.

During the commission’s deliberation, discussions centered on the implications of the building’s non-contributing status and the flexibility it provided for alterations. One commissioner pointed out the challenges associated with maintaining structures from the 1980s, which often suffer from water infiltration and seal deterioration. Another commissioner expressed support for the contemporary design, acknowledging its suburban appearance but considering it appropriate given the building’s context and orientation.

Following the discussion, a motion was proposed to approve the Heritage Preservation Application, adhering to the conditions outlined in the agenda. The motion was seconded and unanimously approved by all commissioners present, resulting in nine votes in favor.

In addition to the solarium redesign, the meeting covered several announcements from staff member Andrea Burke. She highlighted the recent Minneapolis Preservation Awards, where the historic preservation team was recognized for their work on African-American heritage initiatives. Burke emphasized the importance of these awards in acknowledging the team’s hard work and the need for continued efforts beyond documentation.

Furthermore, Burke addressed previous appeals related to a siding project on Franklin Avenue East and a demolition at 1750th Street West. The siding project appeal had been granted, allowing unpermitted vinyl siding, while the demolition appeal had been forwarded to the council without a recommendation. Burke also informed commissioners about the upcoming registration for the National Alliance of Preservation Commission’s forum conference in July, encouraging their participation as there would be no state conference this year.

A question was raised regarding the appointment of a new member to the commission, specifically the lingering name of Commissioner Harris on the roster. Burke clarified that Paris Smith had been recommended to the city council for appointment, which was pending approval.