The blank slate at the corner of Leadville Avenue and Sun Valley Road in Ketchum is being redrawn, at least in architects' minds, as a historically inspired three-story mixed-use building.
Applicant Sam Williams and project architect Steve Cook and his associates presented plans to the Ketchum Planning & Zoning Commission Monday for a 33,500-square-foot structure on the empty lot at 331 North Leadville Ave.
The building would house a relocated Mountain West Bank and retail space on the ground floor, a courtyard in the middle and nine residential units on the top two floors.
Designers are hoping to install photovoltaic cells on the roof to capture solar power and are looking at LEED certification, or "green building" status, for the project.
The design includes a cupola that designers squished down to fit in with new building regulations. The project still comes in several feet above the 40-foot maximum.
Because the P&Z liked the cupola and the overall design, they may find a way to allow, through current regulations, for a bigger, more historically accurate cupola.
"I would not have a problem raising the cupola," said Commissioner Greg Strong.
Williams said he hopes to break ground on April 1, finishing the bulk of dirt moving before summer crowds descend on the city.
"We either move at that pace or we become very disruptive all summer long," he said.
Williams has to submit a formal application to the city. Then the project will be scheduled for an upcoming P&Z meeting.
"Because of the location, I think it would be extremely beneficial to the city (to fast-track this)," Strong said.
