Design Review Committee (In-Person) (Jun 18, 2026)

Design Review Committee Meeting Recap: June 18, 2026

The City of Asheville’s Design Review Committee (DRC) met on June 18, 2026, at City Hall to review proposed designs within designated areas of Asheville: downtown, the riverfront, and hotel overlay zoning districts. This meeting primarily focused on a significant project – a new self-storage facility planned for 281 Fairway Drive, formerly the site of a bonded metal building and parking lots. The meeting was open to the public and streamed live on the City of Asheville’s YouTube channel, though no direct public comments were received during the session.

The core of the meeting revolved around a detailed presentation for the proposed Smart Stop Self Storage facility, which will encompass a 75,000 square foot main building and three smaller structures. Committee members engaged in a thorough discussion covering several key aspects of the design. A significant portion of the conversation centered on aligning the project with Asheville's design guidelines, particularly considering its location within proximity to the River Arts District. While specific strict guidelines are limited in that area, the design incorporates brick and stone accents to evoke a sense of connection with the neighborhood's industrial heritage. Discussions also addressed flood elevation requirements, ensuring compliance with updated FEMA standards due to past flooding on the site. A key debate arose regarding landscaping, where committee members encouraged a greater variety of tree species, particularly native varieties from the city's recommended list, to enhance visual appeal and provide better buffering along Swananoa River Road and near the stormwater pond. The committee briefly explored the possibility of incorporating solar panels to mitigate heat absorption, though this remains an optional consideration.

Following a review of the project details, the committee took two key votes. First, they unanimously approved the minutes from their previous meeting on May 21st (Aye: Balkan, Eddie, Gabriel, McDonough, Helm). Subsequently, and most notably, the committee unanimously approved the design for the Smart Stop Self Storage facility at 281 Fairway Drive, subject to specific conditions (Aye: Balkan, Eddie, Gabriel, McDonough, Helm). Committee member Steve suggested incorporating brick and steel elements instead of wood and stone to better align with the neighborhood’s aesthetic, a point that resonated with other members.

The meeting concluded with several important action items for the applicant, Smart Stop. They are now required to revise their landscaping plan to incorporate a wider variety of tree and shrub species from the city's recommended list. They must also provide details on landscaping to buffer the fence line, where possible and explore options for incorporating solar panels on the rooftop. City staff will continue to collaborate with Smart Stop to address any remaining administrative revisions needed for final approval.

This decision represents a significant step forward in the development of a new self-storage facility within Asheville. The conditions placed on approval demonstrate the DRC's commitment to ensuring that new developments integrate seamlessly with existing neighborhoods and adhere to city design principles, while also prioritizing flood protection measures. The next DRC meeting is scheduled for July 23, 2026. For more detailed information or to view past meeting materials, residents are encouraged to visit the Design Review Committee webpage at ashevillenc.gov/drc.