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Design panelist calls proposed Haussner’s apartments ‘depressing’
Adam Bednar//Daily Record Business Writer//February 18, 2016
Design panelist calls proposed Haussner’s apartments ‘depressing’
The design of an apartment building slated to replace the famed Haussner’s restaurant site received little love from Baltimore’s architecture review panel.
The mixed-use project, which is expected to cost more than $10 million, was criticized by members of the Urban Design & Architecture Review Panel because panelist felt is lacked warmth or connectivity with the surrounding Highlandtown neighborhood.
Panelists were previously critical of the project, which will include 65 apartments and retail space, when it was presented in October.
Panelists still aren’t fans of the proposed modern design, and dark exterior colors.
“It almost feels depressing. The palette of colors feels depressing,” Panelist Richard Burns said.
Haussner’s was open for more than 70 years, at 3232 Eastern Ave., and was famous for German food and strawberry pie.
The restaurant was also known for its art collection, which sold for $2 million at auction after the business closed.
In fact, the restaurant was so associated with Baltimore at one time it was depicted in an episode of AMC 1960s period drama “Mad Men,” that featured protagonist Don Draper eating a meal there while in Baltimore on business.
The project represents the first development project for Garver Development Group. The firm purchased the property, which has largely sat vacant since 1999, at auction last summer.
Principal Peter Garver previously worked with Himmelrich Associates Inc. on the Montgomery Park development and served as vice president at Corporate Office Properties Trust before striking out on his own.
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