Design Review Board approves Mansell Plaza exterior repainting; adds canopies, landscaping and dumpster repairs

The City of Alpharetta Design Review Board on Sept. 19 approved exterior changes at Mansell Plaza (Alpha Retail) after hearing from the property representative about an owner‑driven renovation.

The board voted 6-0 to approve the exterior work as presented and attached several conditions: the applicant must add three aluminum or steel canopies spanning the primary tenant entrances; remove and relocate the existing sconce lights above those entrances to under‑canopy or recessed lighting subject to staff approval; refresh and improve landscaping across the site (including the monument sign); and repaint and repair the dumpster enclosure to match the building’s proposed urban bronze color.

Applicant Wesley Nichols, representing Lowcountry Investments, said the property changed ownership about six months ago and the new owner primed and then painted most exterior surfaces to revive a largely vacant shopping center. Nichols said the project involved painting brick, stucco, stone and metal trim, replacing faded green awnings with painted storefront trim and refreshing plant beds and lighting. He emphasized the work was cosmetic only and that no structural changes were made at this stage.

Board concerns focused on pedestrian arrival and the flat appearance of the façade after paint; members suggested shallow aluminum canopies across the three entrances to create a stronger entry sequence and to allow signage placement. The board also called out a dumpster that had been found outside its enclosure; staff and the applicant agreed the enclosure will be repainted and repaired and that staff will confirm compliance.

Motion and vote: The motion (DRB250034) to approve the exterior changes with the conditions above was made by “Mister Rowan” and seconded by “Mister Owens.” A friendly amendment to specify the monument sign landscaping be upgraded was accepted and incorporated. The motion carried, 6-0.

The record shows staff will finalize canopy and lighting details and will work with the applicant on final landscape plans and dumpster repairs before permit sign-off.