Level II: Emporium Building + Jackson Avenue Ramps
11-B-24-DT
Approve As Requested
Recommendation
Staff recommends approval of Certificate 11-B-24-DT as submitted.Applicant Request
Level II: Exterior rehabilitation, sign- Exterior rehabilitation to area below the Jackson Avenue ramp to create a new exterior "prefunction space" including a box office and new entry to the basement of 100 S. Gay Street. Scope of work includes a new full-light entry door with a transom, new transom windows installed in existing enclosed openings, and a new textured masonry infill wall on the leftmost bay. New screening via a new textured masonry knee wall with a decorative wood screen wall structure above; some of the panels are operable and some are fixed. New exterior lighting and new signage to be installed on the fixed screen section above the entry.
Property Notes / Work to be Completed
- While the associated building is 100 S. Gay Street (the Emporium Building), the majority of work will be concentrated in the right-of-way below the Jackson Avenue ramp. Overall, the project meets the design guidelines as it creates activates an underutilized space to enhance pedestrian interest with new windows and an entrance, and a creative screening solution. The proposed screening is complimentary but differentiated from the existing concrete and masonry ramp, and the masonry building. The sign placement is appropriate within the design guidelines, as a wall sign on a sign board; revisions to the lettering could be approved administratively.
Applicable Guidelines
Downtown Design Guidelines
See Guidelines- B. Private Realm
- 3. Building Materials
- 3a. Use complimentary materials and elements, especially next to historic buildings.
- 4. Architectural Character
- 4a. Encourage first floor uses that draw walk-in traffic; businesses that do not require pedestrian traffic should be located on other floors.
- 4b. Enhance pedestrian interest in commercial and office buildings by creating a largely transparent and consistent rhythm of entrances and windows.
- 5. Ground Floor Doors and Windows
- 5a. Use consistent rhythm of openings, windows, doorways, and entries.
- 5c. Design entrances according to the proportions of the building's height and width.
Meeting Date
November 20, 2024
Emporium Building + Jackson Avenue Ramps
100 S. Gay St.
DK-G (Downtown Knoxville, Grid)
Applicant / Owner
