Planning commission approves ZapZone facade changes with color and signage conditions

The Farmington Planning Commission on Aug. 10, 2026 voted to approve facade modifications proposed for ZapZone’s Grand River Avenue location, subject to conditions on color sampling, the width of the blue accent, and consistency of signage with the version shown at the meeting and the OHM review. The item appears in the packet as 31506 Grand River Avenue but was introduced at the meeting as 31508; the commission’s motion and materials referenced both numbers.

Petitioner (speaker 2), representing ZapZone, described the project as part of a rebranding and modernization effort — adding a roughly 20-foot-by-8-foot glass vestibule, selective blue trim, and interior upgrades including a large jumbotron. “When people are driving by and they see a nicer entrance, a nicer facade to a building, it's more inviting to come in,” the petitioner said, explaining the intent behind the design changes. The petitioner also said ZapZone started in 1998, moved to the current building in 2008 and sought to shift from a family-focused laser-tag image to a more adult-oriented entertainment venue.

Commissioner (speaker 5) moved approval with three specific conditions: that the petitioner submit a PMS and true-to-life color sample to Mr. Bodell (with proxy approval allowed if the sample matches the Ypsilanti location the commission reviewed), that the blue-painted trim be confirmed at 20 feet (to the column lines north and south), and that the actual signage—specifically the proposed ‘BIG’ logo and the ZapZone mark—be consistent with the logo shown at the meeting and not only what is on the submitted plans. The motion referenced the OHM architectural review letter dated 08/03/2026 as part of the conditions. The commission approved the motion by voice vote.

City consultant OHM (speaker 8) reminded the commission that ordinance section 35-53 (non-residential design requirements) limits the use of high-intensity colors except as approved by the planning commission, and suggested the blue be incorporated as trim if the commission preferred a compromise. OHM also noted staff had discussed signage conformity and landscaping with the applicant.

Next steps: the petitioner agreed to provide a paint swatch/PMS sample at a follow-up meeting and to coordinate with staff (Mr. Bodell) on final signage details before construction proceeded. The commission’s approval included the stated conditions; the petitioner noted timing concerns and the need to order glass and pour concrete before cold weather could delay work.