12.0 - 719 Congress Ave - State Theatre — original pdf

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HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION APPLICATION FOR A CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS SEPTEMBER 4, 2024 HR-2024-101715 STATE THEATRE 719 CONGRESS AVENUE 12 – 1 PROPOSAL Reconstruct and replace sign. PROJECT SPECIFICATIONS 1) Remove and store existing 1930s-era sign. 2) Reconstruct a replica sign, using the existing sign as a model. Though lighter and more energy-efficient than the original, the proposed replica sign is to be constructed of the same materials as the extant sign. Dimensions and neon lettering will match the extant sign as well. ARCHITECTURE DESIGN STANDARDS Two-story stucco theater building with metal awning and lit neon blade sign. The City of Austin’s Guidelines for Signs in Historic Districts or at City Landmarks are used to evaluate new, non-historic signage at locally-zoned landmarks and districts, as well as National Register Historic Districts. As the proposed project includes alteration to a historic-aged sign that is a character-defining feature of the State Theatre, the City of Austin’s Historic Design Standards, based on the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation, are used to evaluate this project. The following standards apply to the proposed project: Repair and alterations 1. General standards While the proposed project removes intact historic material from the building’s exterior, removal is required to prolong the lifespan of the building itself, which was not designed to support the weight of the non-original extant sign. The proposed new sign is constructed with the same dimensions, materials, and lighting as the extant 1930s-era sign, though it is significantly lighter in weight, more energy-efficient, and engineered to reduce maintenance requirements. Summary The project meets the applicable standards. The applicant has amended the proposal to reflect Committee feedback. COMMITTEE FEEDBACK STAFF RECOMMENDATION Repair or rehang existing sign if possible. Use neon lighting rather than LED lighting. Explore options for storage of existing sign. Approve the application. The applicant has amended the proposal to reflect Committee feedback. LOCATION MAP 12 – 2