- Historic Resources Board
Historic Resources Board - September 11, 2025
Palo Alto’s Historic Resources Board voted 5-0 that rehabilitation of the 1909 Downing Block meets federal preservation standards.
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Board finds Downing Block rehabilitation meets preservation standards
201 Hamilton Avenue, Palo Alto, CA
The Historic Resources Board voted 5-0 to find that a proposed rehabilitation of the 1909 Downing Block at 201 Hamilton Avenue is consistent with the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation. The building is designated as a Category 2 historic resource.
The plans call for removing six awnings from the Emerson Street facade and three single-bay awnings from the Hamilton Avenue facade. The proposal also includes new fabric on two retained double-bay awnings, new corner signage, yellow-painted entry alcoves, pendant lighting and a full-height replacement door within an existing Emerson Street opening.
Discussion focused on whether the yellow-and-white awnings should have 16-inch or 9-inch stripes. Board members preferred the 16-inch option and raised concerns about maintaining the awnings. Staff also recommended using the awning-fabric color for the building’s painted exterior accent color.
Board elects chair and vice chair unanimously
In separate voice votes, the board unanimously elected a chair and vice chair. The meeting records do not reliably identify the elected members by name.
Primary sources
Watch the meeting on YouTube · Read the official meeting packet