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HomeMy WebLinkAboutRes 2018-04 - CRPC 17-01 APN 627-102-024 Miles Bates HouseRESOLUTION NO. 2018-04 MEETING DATE: REQUEST: Recommendation STAFF REPORT CITY OF PALM DESERT DEPARTMENT OF BUILDING AND SAFETY January 11, 2018 Request for approval of landmark designation for 73-697 Santa Rosa Way (A.P.N. 627-102-024) as a local historic landmark (Successor Agency to the Palm Desert Redevelopment Agency, Applicant). Waive further reading and adopt Resolution No. 2018-04 reaffirming the action of the Cultural Resources Preservation Committee, designating 73-697 Santa Rosa Way, Assessor's Parcel No: 627-102-024, with landmark designation, in accordance with section 29.40.010 of the Palm Desert Municipal Code. Committee Recommendation At a Special Meeting on December 12, 2017, the Cultural Resources Preservation Committee conducted a public hearing as required per PDMC 29.40.070, and unanimously recommended nominating 73-697 Santa Rosa Way with landmark designation. Strategic Plan The request for approval of the landmark designation for 73-697 Santa Rosa Way, (A.P.N. 627-102-024,) as a local historic landmark, is consistent with the goals of the Art and Culture element of the City's Envision Palm Desert Strategic Plan because this landmark designation will increase public recognition and appreciation of an architectural and artistic treasure. Walter White's visionary, innovative and uniquely designed home is an important example of Modern architecture. Cultural tourism events are growing in popularity and are scheduled throughout the Coachella Valley to celebrate this type of architecture. Tourists drawn to Palm Desert to view our growing list of cultural landmarks provide economic benefits to the City of Palm Desert Background Analysis The Miles C. Bates house, located at 73-697 Santa Rosa Way, was designed by Walter S. White. Walter White was an American modernist architect and industrial designer who worked in the Coachella Valley in the 1950s. Walter White is considered by many to be Palm Desert's architect, having designed over 65 structures here, many of which January 11, 2018 - Staff Report Miles C. Bates house Landmark Designation Page 2 of 3 are still in existence. White is considered notable for his influence in early Palm Desert, CA and his innovative roofing and window systems. White is increasingly well known for his daring, innovative roofs. The experimental and patented system he invented in 1954 was employed only once during White's career and that is at the Miles C. Bates House. White's system explores and exploits wood's inherent flexibility. The Miles C. Bates house is eligible for landmark designation by meeting the following criteria of PDMC Section 29.40.010 C, D, and F, of the Palm Desert Cultural Resources Ordinance. C. Embodies distinctive characteristics, or is one of the few remaining examples of a style, type, period or method of construction or possesses high artistic value. The Miles C. Bates house is eligible for designation for its distinctive roller coaster roof that exemplifies high artistic value. Although White patented the innovative wood roof system that alternated the use of wooden dowels with complementary biconcave elements to achieve the unique wave shape, the Bates house is believed to be the only home in existence that used this system. Additionally White appears to have considered the siting of the home in relation to the Santa Rosa Mountains in the distance, as the rolling roofline follows the profile of those southern mountains. D. Represents the work of a master builder, designer or architect. The exemplary design of the Bates house by White "embodies his lifelong ambition to push architecture in new directions, restlessly searching for solutions that integrated dramatic form making with a pragmatism born of respect for the material and their capabilities amidst the demanding conditions of the desert. The house also shows off White's ability to synthesize a harmonious relationship between common, humble products such as rough -faced concrete masonry units and upscale materials and technologies such as steel and glass sliding windows and terrazzo floors." F. Reflects distinctive examples of community planning or significant development patterns, including those associated with different eras of settlement and growth, agriculture, or transportation. January 11, 2018 - Staff Report Miles C. Bates house Landmark Designation Page 3 of 3 Fiscal Analysis There is no fiscal impact associated with this action. G, li4-c"t-<-z-__. Russell A. Grance, Director of Building and Safety LEGAL REVIEW DEPT. REVIEW FINANCIAL REVIEW CITY MANAGER N/A Robert W. Hargreaves City Attorney Russell A. Grance Director of Building and Safety t Moore Director of Finance Lauri Aylaian City Manager APPLICANT: Successor Agency to the Palm Desert Redevelopment Agency 73-510 Fred Waring Dr Palm Desert, Ca. 92260 ATTACHMENTS: Draft minutes CRPC meeting of 12/12/2017 Resolution No. 2018-04 Landmark Designation Application CITY OF PALM DESERT NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a public hearing will be held before the Palm Desert City Council to consider historic district designation for Miles C. Bates house, located 73-697 Santa Rosa Way, Palm Desert, CA, Case No. CRPC 17-01. Said hearing will be held at 4:00 p.m. on January 11, 2018, in the Council Chambers at the Palm Desert Civic Center, 73-510 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert, California, at which time and place all interested persons are invited to attend and be heard. Written consent concerning all items covered by this notice shall be accepted up to the date and time of the hearing. Information concerning the proposed designation is available for review in the Building and Safety Department at the above address between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. If you challenge the proposed action in Court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the hearing described in this notice, as in written compliance delivered to the City Council, or prior to, the public hearing. Date: December 20, 2017 rxS- RAGI1IELLE D'KLASSE1y►, CITY CLER CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA (760) 346-0611 C/O RACHELLE KLASSEN CITY OF PALM DESERT 73510 FRED WARING DR PALM DESERT CA 92260 CITY OF PALM DESERT CULTURAL RESOURCES PRESERVATION COMMITTEE DRAFT Preliminary Minutes — Special Meeting -Public Hearing December 12, 2017 Council Chambers Conference Room I. CALL TO ORDER Committee Chair Pam Williams called the meeting of the Cultural Resources Preservation Committee to order at 9:00 a.m. II. ROLL CALL Present: Absent: Paul Clark Susan Marie Weber, Council Member Don Graybill K. Gary Olesen Kim Housken Thomas Mortensen Pamela Williams Also Present: Russell Grance, Director of Building and Safety Suzanne Cicchini, Recording Secretary Gale Broeker, Palm Desert Resident Merilee Colton, Palm Desert Resident Wayne Longman, Palm Desert Resident III. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - None IV. CONSENT CALENDAR A. MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF 02/28/17 Committee Chair Pamela Williams asked for a motion to approve the Minutes. Motion was made by Committee Member Kim Housken to accept the Minutes as presented. Motion was seconded by Committee Member Thomas Mortensen. Motion carried by 5-0 vote with Williams, Mortensen, Graybill, Clark and Housken voting Aye; Noes: None, Absent: K. Gary Olesen, Abstain: None V. CONSENT ITEMS HELD OVER - None VI. NEW BUSINESS - None VII. CONTINUED BUSINESS — None CULTURAL RESOURCES PRESERVATION COMMITTEE DRAFT PRELIMINARY MINUTES VIII. OLD BUSINESS DECEMBER 12, 2017 A. UPDATES: PROGRESS ON POTENTIAL DESIGNATIONS - None IX. PUBLIC HEARING — 73697 SANTA ROSA WAY, PALM DESERT, CA CASE NO. CRPC 17-01. Committee Chair Pamela Williams opened the Public Hearing for 73697 Santa Rosa Way. She read a prepared statement about the property. The Miles C. Bates house, located at 73-697 Santa Rosa Way was designed by Walter S. White. Walter White was an American modernist architect and industrial designer who worked in the Coachella Valley in the 1950's. Walter White is considered by many to be Palm Desert's architect, having designed over 65 structures here, many of which are still in existence. White is considered notable for his influence in early Palm Desert, California and his innovative roofing and window systems. The Miles C. Bates house is eligible for landmark designation by meeting the following criteria of PDMC Section 29.40.010 C, D and F, of the Palm Desert Cultural Resources Ordinance. It embodies distinctive characteristics, or is one of the few remaining examples of a style, type, period or method of construction or possesses high artistic value. The Miles C. Bates house is eligible for designation for its distinctive roller coaster roof that exemplifies high artistic value. Although White patented the innovative wood roof system that alternated the use of wooden dowels with complementary biconcave elements to achieve the unique wave shape, the Bates house is believed to be the only home in existence that used this system. Additionally, White appears to have considered the siting of the home in relation to the Santa Rosa Mountains in the distance, as the rolling roof line follows the profile of those southern mountains. It represents the work of a master builder, designer or architect. The exemplary design of the Bates house by White "embodies his lifelong ambition to push architecture in new directions, restlessly searching for solutions that integrated dramatic form making with a pragmatism born of respect for material and their capabilities amidst the demanding conditions of the desert. The house also shows off White's ability to synthesize a harmonious relationship between common, humble products such as rough -faced concrete masonry units and upscale materials and technologies such as steel and glass sliding windows and terrazzo floors." It reflects distinctive examples of community planning or significant development patterns, including those associated with different eras of settlement and growth, agriculture, or transportation. Wayne Longman, resident of Palm Desert, offered his comments. It's very important to clarify that the application Mr. Longman refers to was not the same local historic landmark designation application under review today by this committee. The application Mr. Longman commented on was a separate application for a national historic designation prepared by the Palm Desert Historical Society. which is a different than the City of Palm Desert Cultural Resources Preservation Committee. Mr. Longman commented that in the Palm Desert Historical Society application, the description of the property didn't indicate that the historically significant portion of the property is actually much smaller. Mr. Longman referred to a map that was in the separate Palm Desert Historical Society G \BldgSfty\Suzanne Cicchini\Word Files\Cultural Resources Preservation Committee\Minutes 2017\2017 12 12 Preliminary Minutes -Special Meeting -Public Hearing -Miles Bates House docx Page 2 CULTURAL RESOURCES PRESERVATION COMMITTEE DRAFT PRELIMINARY MINUTES DECEMBER 12, 2017 application. for a national historical designation. In that application, the map indicates the building is 43.6 square feet by 23.8 square feet, however the historically significant portion of the original building is about 950 square feet. He assumes that the appraisal is wrong because the appraisers were not given access to the building, did not take traditional measurements, and could not see the portion that was the original building in order to assess the deterioration of the interior. It was also appraised as an income property. There is nothing wrong with the appraisal as it's done for the purpose it was done for, but he indicates that it is totally misleading for someone who may be interested in purchasing the property for historical significance. He estimated the value of the historically significant portion to be about $95,000.00. Mr. Longman's research of four sales since January, 2017 estimate an average value of approximately $150,000.00. The $320,000.00 value has been made public and he feels it should be corrected. The condition, age, and surroundings will mislead any investor who does not personally inspect the property. Mr. Longman insists that the right thing to do is have the property appraised as a landmark historical property and there should be a demolition of the property to restore the outlines of the original property. The cost would have to be reduced by at least the demolition costs and provide some allowances for restoration. In closing, he submits that the City should ask for a new appraisal based on the fact that this is being designated as a landmark, and the landmark property is smaller than the property previously appraised. Committee Member Paul Clark inquired if Mr. Longman was a local real estate agent or appraiser. Mr. Longman responded, "Yes." Mr. Clark asked Mr. Longman how he arrived at the 950 square foot size of the property. Mr. Longman responded that it was taken off the drawing contained in the Palm Desert Historical Society application. Committee Member Paul Clark understood that for this meeting the Committee would simply be acting on the historical value; the appraisal is a separate matter, as he understood it, unless he was told otherwise by Staff. Mr. Clark noted that while the information provided by Mr. Longman was useful, and certainly the size of the building perhaps is incorrect, an amendment to the (Palm Desert Historical Society national landmark) application would be appropriate. Mr. Longman's feeling on the issue of the appraisal might be better directed to the City Manager, or to the City Council as a whole. Mr. Longman understands that it is not within the Committee's purview to make any changes to the Palm Desert Historical application, but he wanted the community to be aware of it. Mr. Longman believes that the incorrect information may mislead purchasers of the property. It could lead to its destruction because the property value itself, the structures and the appraisal make it unattractive to those who want to restore it. It counters the Committee's activity here. Russell Grance, Director of Building and Safety had no comment. Committee Member Kim Housken confirmed that Mr. Longman arrived at the measurements he had from the plans attached to the Palm Desert Historical Society application. Ms. Housken's main concern was that the square footage Mr. Longman came up with was not on the application prepared and under review by this Committee. Mr. Longman confirmed this. Committee Member Paul Clark mentioned that he was looking for the size of the home in the application that was misrepresented. Russell Grance, Director of Building and Safety clarified that it was not noted in the application from this Committee. G \BldgSfty\Suzanne Cicchini\Word Files\Cultural Resources Preservation Committee Minutes 201712017 12 12 Preliminary Minutes -Special Meeting -Public Hearing -Miles Bates House docx Page 3 CULTURAL RESOURCES PRESERVATION COMMITTEE DRAFT PRELIMINARY MINUTES DECEMBER 12, 2017 Committee Member Kim Housken noted that this Committee's application noted additions, but not square footage. Mr. Longman mentioned that the appraisal shows 1,930 square feet, and the numbers don't match what is found in the public record. Mr. Longman reiterated that the reason was the appraiser was not given access and couldn't verify interior living space. The appraiser wasn't told to do the footprint as is done for a historic appraisal. Committee Member Paul Clark inquired if there is a garage. Sometimes that number is included in the size of the structure. Committee Member Kim Housken mentioned that she thought that it was 1,000 square feet larger, taking into account the enclosed patio on the west end and the two room bump out on the north side. The additions in 1963 and 1965 were 1,660 square feet. Ms. Housken wondered if that could be the difference. The number could be accurate and all a part of the original home that the Committee wants to see rehabilitated. Ms. Housken noted that they would like to see the other parts taken off; that would be accurate. Mr. Longman noted that footprints in historical don't normally include external construction; patio cover construction is not considered. Committee Member Housken acknowledged that the City's is just following the directive of the State of California, Department of Finance, which is to sell the property for the highest price possible. Russell Grance, Director of Building and Safety reminded that the appraisal was developed to see what the market value was and if there was the possibility of designating it as a historic landmark, and to learn what the property would be worth in that scenario. This was just to give the agency information in order to sell the property. Committee Member Kim Housken recalled that the Committee was not happy with the high value of the appraisal. Russell Grance, Director of Building and Safety would not think that the Committee would be happy with the high value. The appraisal is outside of the purview of what the Committee is doing today. The information could be and should be brought to the attention of Mark Greenwood, Director of Public Works, in charge of liquidating all the former Redevelopment Agency's assets and the appropriate venue for that. Committee Member Kim Housken noted that it might be worth it to look at the first appraisal that was done to determine if the appraiser had access, and whether it was the same appraiser used. Mr. Longman wanted to add another point of interest, outside of the Committee's purview. It is his understanding that the subdivision on the property separate from that portion, is going to be given to Joslyn Center. It was done before the City had decided to make a historic application for it. Mr. Longman thinks that perhaps that decision should be reviewed again too. He didn't know on what basis it was made, and what was meant, but he didn't think it was considered that the City was going to do anything with it, other than auction it. There may be a reason to retain it for the City or have it attached to the Joslyn Center as a public facility. Committee Member Paul Clark commented to Mr. Longman, "Setting aside your issues on the appraisal and the size of the building, do you have any objections to the historic designation?" Mr. Longman responded, "No." Mr. Longman thinks the appraisal has to be accurate. Committee Member Clark appreciated that. Committee Chair Pamela Williams inquired if anyone had any questions. Committee Chair Pamela Williams expressed her appreciation and thanked Mr. Longman. G \BldgSfty\Suzanne Cicchini\Word Files\Cultural Resources Preservation Committee\Minutes 2017\2017 12 12 Preliminary Minutes -Special Meeting -Public Heanng-Miles Bates House docx Page 4 CULTURAL RESOURCES PRESERVATION COMMITTEE DRAFT PRELIMINARY MINUTES DECEMBER 12, 2017 Merilee Colton, Palm Desert resident commented that she was here to support the Committee's efforts. Merilee Colton is a citizen of Palm Desert and as Secretary of the Board of the Historical Society of Palm Desert, she supports this communities efforts in every way possible for a local landmark designation for the Bates House. Committee Member Kim Housken announced that Gale Broeker used to be on the Committee. Gale Broeker is a resident of Palm Desert Greens Country Club in Palm Desert, and a Board Member of the Historical Society in Palm Desert. Ms. Broeker noted that she and Ms. Colton are both Board Members of the Palm Desert Historical Society. Ms. Broeker is here to observe and applaud the historic designation of the Bates house. Committee Member Don Graybill also pointed out that Ms. Broeker was a former member of this committee. Ms. Broeker mentioned that she had spent seven years on this committee. The property was not on the 1981 list of historic properties that the County of Riverside did. It was way before City of Palm Desert had a historic preservation committee. The home was on the Cultural Preservation Committee's 2006 list, so it's been on the list a while and now it's come to fruition. Chair Pamela Williams thanked all who spoke at the public hearing. Committee Chair Pamela Williams announced that we conducted the public hearing to receive testimony and authorize staff to prepare a resolution for local landmark designation for the property located at 73697 Santa Rosa Way for the City Council's consideration. Committee Member Don Graybill mentioned that he was certainly looking forward to the possibility of it being recognized nationally and he knows it's going to be quite an extensive endeavor for someone who is so inclined to have it recognized. Mr. Graybill noted that this landmark designation is something quite unique in our nation. Committee Member Tom Mortensen noted that he feels the same way as Committee Member Don Graybill does, and he hopes it will become a historic site. Committee Member Paul Clark appreciated the comments by Wayne Longman. Mr. Clark clarified that the size of the unit doesn't necessarily disqualify it as a local historic landmark. It's a good idea to double check the size, for the national register application, but for our purposes today, it's a single family home; that's the kev issue here. As far as the size and the historical nature, in his opinion, it's an appropriate application. Committee Member Kim Housken commented that this is a long time coming, for many, many years. We sought to have this property recognized and I am very delighted today that we are taking this step. It's almost in honor of former Committee Member Bob Pitchford. (Committee Member Bob Pitchford passed away recently.) Bob was the first one to introduce the Committee to who Walter White was about 15 years ago or so. Committee Member Bob Pitchford was the one who originally pointed out this house to us. He should be with us today. Committee Chair Pamela Williams commented, "He is." Committee Member Kim Housken continued that we always talked about Walter White being the unofficial Palm Desert Architect (even though he was a designer) she hopes that this will lead to more Walter White homes and perhaps a Walter White historic district. It does not have to be a contiguous district, but a district of Walter White homes. Committee Chair Pamela Williams is thrilled that we are at this point and agrees and believes that Committee Member Bob Pitchford is looking down on us and is G \BldgSfty\Suzanne Cicchini\Word Files\Cultural Resources Preservation Committee\Minutes 2017\2017 12 12 Preliminary Minutes -Special Meeting -Public Hearing -Miles Bates House docx Page 5 CULTURAL RESOURCES PRESERVATION COMMITTEE DRAFT PRELIMINARY MINUTES DECEMBER 12, 2017 very pleased that this is happening today. Although she is a newcomer to this committee, Committee Chair Pam Williams commented that it's great to see this happening, and she is happy. X. CONSIDER LOCAL HISTORIC LANDMARK DESIGNATION FOR THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT 73-697 SANTA ROSA WAY, AS A LOCAL HISTORIC LANDMARK DESIGNATION FOR CITY COUNCIL APPROVAL. Motion was made by Committee Member Paul Clark that staff be authorized to prepare the resolution approving historic landmark designation for 73697 Santa Rosa Way for City Council consideration. Committee Chair Pamela Williams seconded the Motion. Motion carried by 5-0 vote with Williams, Mortensen, Graybill, Clark and Housken voting Aye; Noes: None, Absent: K. Gary Olesen, Abstain: None. XI. REPORTS AND REMARKS The next meeting is scheduled for January 30, 2018. Committee Member Kim Housken mentioned that the City has been looking in to how many meetings are necessary for groups and she knows the Committee is cognizant of Staffs time. Ms. Housken inquired if we did scale back, and an application comes in, could a special meeting be scheduled as we did today. Russell Grance, Director of Building and Safety appreciated that and recommended that we have a meeting in January for election of officers. The need for a meeting will be considered on a month by month basis. Committee Chair Pamela Williams thanked Russell Grance, Director of Building and Safety and Recording Secretary, Suzanne Cicchini. XII. ADJOURNMENT Motion was made by Committee Member Thomas Mortensen to adjourn the Meeting. Committee Member Don Graybill seconded the Motion. Motion carried by 5-0 vote with Williams, Mortensen, Graybill, Clark and Housken voting Aye; Noes: None, Absent: K. Gary Olesen, Abstain: None. Committee Chair Pamela Williams adjourned the meeting at 9:27 a.m. Suzanne Cicchini, Recording Secretary G \BldgSfty\Suzanne Cicchini\Word Files\Cultural Resources Preservation Committee\Minutes 2017\2017 12 12 Preliminary Minutes -Special Meeting -Public Hearing -Miles Bates House docx Page 6 RESOLUTION NO. 2017-04 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM DESERT APPROVING HISTORIC DISTRICT DESIGNATION FOR MILES C. BATES HOUSE LOCATED AT 73-697 SANTA ROSA WAY, AS A LOCAL HISTORIC LANDMARK WHEREAS, on December 12, 2017, the Cultural Resource Preservation Committee conducted a public hearing to consider initiation of Historic Landmark Designation for Miles C. Bates house located at 73-697 Santa Rosa Way, Assessor's parcel No's. 627-102-024, as a historic landmark pursuant to Section 29.40 of the Palm Desert Municipal Code; and WHEREAS, the Cultural Resources Preservation Committee has considered all of the evidence submitted into the administrative record which includes, but not limited to: 1. Agenda reports were prepared by the Department of Building and Safety. 2. Staff presentation at a meeting and subsequent public hearing held on December 12, 2017, before the Cultural Resources Preservation Committee. 3. The City of Palm Desert, Cultural Resources Ordinance No. 1168, and all other applicable regulations and codes. 4. Public comments, both written and oral, received and/or submitted at or prior to the meeting, supporting and/or opposing the applicant's request. 5. Testimony and/or comments from the applicant and its representatives submitted to the City in both written and oral form at or prior to the meeting. 6. All related documents received and/or submitted at or prior to the meeting. WHEREAS, based on the foregoing evidence, the Cultural Resources Preservation Committee finds that: 1. A request for Historic District Designation for the Miles C. Bates house located at 73-697 Santa Rosa Way was made on November 28, 2017, to designate the Miles C. Bates house as a historic landmark. 2. Notice of December 12, 2017, Cultural Resources Preservation Committee meeting was posted in the Desert Sun and at City Hall. 3. Notice of December 12, 2017, Cultural Resources Preservation Committee was provided to the affected property owner as shown in the latest Riverside County assessment roll. 4. Notice of the Cultural Resources Preservation Committee meeting included the notice requirements set forth in California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). WHEREAS, based on the Cultural Resources Ordinance 1168, the Cultural Resources Preservation Committee concludes the following: 1. Palm Deserts' character and history are reflected in its cultural, historical, and architectural heritage, and 2. Palm Deserts' historical foundations should be preserved as living parts of the community life and development in order to foster an understanding of the City's past so that future generations may have a genuine opportunity to appreciate, enjoy, and understand Palm Deserts' heritage, and 3. The Cultural Resources Preservation Committee has reviewed this site and determined it to be historically significant and could contribute to the economic and cultural revival of the City. Resolution No. 2017-04 Page 2 of 3 WHEREAS, in view of all the evidence and based on the foregoing designation criterion, the Cultural Resources Preservation Committee concludes as follows: The Miles C. Bates house, located at 73-697 Santa Rosa Way was designed by Walter S. White. Walter White was an American modernist architect and industrial designer who worked in the Coachella Valley in the 1950s. Walter White is considered by many to be Palm Desert's architect, having designed over 65 structures here, many of which are still in existence. White is considered notable for his influence in early Palm Desert, CA and his innovative roofing and window systems. White is increasingly well known for his daring, innovative roofs. The experimental and patented system he invented in 1954 was employed only once during White's career and that is at the Miles C. Bates House. White's system explores and exploits wood's inherent flexibility. The Miles C. Bates house is eligible for landmark designation by meeting the following criteria of PDMC Section 29.40.010 C, D, and F, of the Palm Desert Cultural Resources Ordinance. C. Embodies distinctive characteristics, or is one of the few remaining examples of a style, type, period or method of construction or possesses high artistic value. The Miles C. Bates house is eligible for designation for its distinctive roller coaster roof that exemplifies high artistic value. Although White patented the innovative wood roof system that alternated the use of wooden dowels with complementary biconcave elements to achieve the unique wave shape, the Bates house is believed to be the only home in existence that used this system. Additionally White appears to have considered the siting of the home in relation to the Santa Rosa Mountains in the distance, as the rolling roofline follows the profile of those southern mountains. D. Represents the work of a master builder, designer or architect. The exemplary design of the Bates house by White "embodies his lifelong ambition to push architecture in new directions, restlessly searching for solutions that integrated dramatic form making with a pragmatism born of respect for the material and their capabilities amidst the demanding conditions of the desert. The house also shows off White's ability to synthesize a harmonious relationship between common, humble products such as rough -faced concrete masonry units and upscale materials and technologies such as steel and glass sliding windows and terrazzo floors." F. Reflects distinctive examples of community planning or significant development patterns, including those associated with different eras of settlement and growth, agriculture, or transportation Page 2 of 3 Resolution No. 2017-04 Page 3 of 3 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM DESERT DOES HEREBY DESIGNATE MILES C. BATES HOUSE, LOCATED AT 73-697 SANTA ROSA WAY, AS A LOCAL HISTORIC LANDMARK PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Palm Desert, California at its regular meeting held this 11t day of January 2018, by the following vote, to wit: AYES: NOES: ABSENT: ABSTAIN: ATTEST: SABBY JONATHAN, MAYOR RACHELLE D. KLASSEN, CITY CLERK CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA Page 3 of 3 City of Palm Desert Department of Building and Safety 73-510 Fred Waring Dr., Palm Desert, CA 92260 (760) 776-6420 Fax (760) 776-6392 Landmark Designation Application Thank you for your interest in the City of Palm Desert's cultural resources designation program. Cultural resources include buildings, structures, sites, signs, objects, and streets that are of historic or archaeological significance and help interpret the city's rich history. To help preserve this past for the future, we encourage property owners to participate in the City's stewardship efforts as led by the Cultural Resources Preservation Committee. This packet is designed to assist you in completing the cultural resources designation application. The Cultural Resources Preservation Committee and the Administrator are available to help you. If you have any questions, please contact the City of Palm Desert at (760) 776-6420. This application packet includes the following: Cultural Resources Nomination Application - Landmark r Instructions for Completing the Landmark Cultural Resources Nomination Application Cultural Resources Ordinance Excerpts (Title 29 of the Palm Desert Municipal Code), including criteria for Landmark designation Researching a Historic Property P How to Write an Architectural Description and Statement of Significance for Individual Properties P. How to Photograph Historic Buildings and Districts 1 City of Palm Desert Department of Building and Safety 73-510 Fred Waring Dr., Palm Desert, CA 92260 (760) 776-6420 Fax (760) 776-6392 Landmark Cultural Resources Nomination Application IDENTIFICATION 1. Common name: Miles C. Bates Residence 2. Historic Name: Miles C. Bates Residence 3. Street address: 73-697 Santa Rosa Wav City Palm Desert State CA Zip 92260 4. Assessor Parcel number: 627-102-024 5. Legal Owner: Redevelopment Agency, City of Palm Desert City Palm Desert State CA Zip 92260 6. Present Use: Sinale Family Residence 7. Original Use: Sinale Family Residence Date form prepared: Preparer: Sponsoring Organization (if any): City of Palm Desert Address: 73-510 Fred Waring Drive City Palm Desert State CA Zip: 92260 Phone: (760) 776-6420 DESCRIPTION 8. Legal property description: .32 ACRES M/L IN POR LOT 10 MB 020/051 PALMA VILLAGE GROVES Include approximate property size (in feet): Street Frontage 107' Depth 131' 9. Architectural Style: Modern 10. Construction Date: Estimated 1955 Factual Source of Information:0 Assessor's Records ❑ Building Permit ❑ Sanborn Map 0 Publications ❑ Oral Interviews 11. Architect's Name: Walter S. White Builder's Name: Unknown 12. Condition: ❑ Excellent 0 Good ❑ Fair ❑ Deteriorated ❑ No longer in existence (for site of) 13. Alterations: Two room additions on the north side of the property, and the patio on the west end was covered. The original wall of windows on the west end of the property was removed, likely when the patio was covered. A permit dated November 7. 1973 was issued for a 2.425-square-foot, four -unit apartment building behind the Bates House. within the property lines. 14. Use type: 0 Residential 0 Industrial 0 Commercial ❑Civic 0 Other 15. Is the structure on its original site? 0 Yes 0 No 0 Unknown If moved, approximate year 16. Related features and/or outbuildings: The rectangular apartment building to the south of the home was added in approximately 1973 and does not contribute to the historical significance of the property 3 17. Architectural Description "White is increasingly well known for his daring, innovative roofs. The experimental and patented system he invented in 1954 was employed only once during White's career and that is at the Miles C. Bates House. White's system explores and exploits wood's inherent flexibility. He alternated long, slender wooden circular -dowels, approximately 1.75" in diameter, with small, hourglass shapes of wood that fill in the gaps between the dowels. This interlocking wood system is protected by a thin layer of cinders and cement over roofing paper, thus providing very little insulation value. In her essay on the house, art historian Katherine Kaford Papineau describes the system more technically: "dowels of two and a half inches wide alternating with complementary biconcave elements." The difference in diameter may reflect the gap between designed and actual as -built conditions. This A-B-A-B-A pattern is supported by two curved laminated wood beams that are placed perpendicular to the wood patterns. In turn, these beams are supported by a steel frame of rectangular bays that does double duty in two ways. First, the frame's beams and L-shaped vertical bents provide points of connection for the roof and second the vertical bents act as braces for the metal frames of the full -height windows. On the west, the roof's wave -like shape actually curves up off the building altogether, terminating with a 90-degree downward fold measuring approximately one foot. While this downward orientation blocks a small percentage of the strong western sun, the fold is actually a clever move structurally in that it stiffens the length of the roofline. White consistently exploited the property of folds in many materials, especially seen in many of his concrete masonry unite walls. The inherent stiffening in such a shape permits a leaner structure with less need for more material and extra bracing. On the east, the roof does something quite different. As on the west, the roof extends beyond the building and there is the same type of fold, except the fold turns up, not down, Here where one might expect the roof to end, after this point, on the south most glulam beam, the A-B-A pattern of dowel and biconcave element continues to curve downward and away from the building, without the roof covering of cinders and cement. The two elements are now dramatically shortened in length. Additionally, the pattern of alternating pieces of dowel and a bi-concave element abruptly changes. Formerly each the same length, or evenly graduating in length, the biconcave pieces are shortened even more. This measure isolates the dowels so that they are visually articulated, almost bone -like. This new detail tapers down to a large concrete footing in the stepped concrete container, somewhat like an updated flying buttress. The glulam beam is secured with steel plates and pins."1 Much historic fabric is intact, including the roof, concrete masonry unit walls with pattern of projecting concrete block units, about 60 percent of the glass window walls, terrazzo floor (presumed, pending investigation), exposed aggregate entry with large pebbles, and master bathroom. The exterior pavers of exposed aggregate, topped with small pebbles, are presumed to be similar replacements of the originals, which were likely to have matched that present in the interior entry. The concrete bricks used for later infill walls are much smaller than the original concrete masonry units. Additionally, more recent grout work is poor. 1. Excerpt from the National Register of Historic Places Registration Form - Section 7. 4 SIGNIFICANCE 18. Statement of Significance: The Miles C. Bates house, designed by Walter S. White, is eligible for landmark designation in the city of Palm Desert under criteria 29.40.010 C, D and F, of the Palm Desert Cultural Resources Ordinance. C. Embodies distinctive characteristics, or is one of the few remaining examples of a style, type, period or method of construction or possesses high artistic value. The Miles C. Bates house is eligible for designation for its distinctive roller coaster roof that exemplifies high artistic value. Although White patented the innovative wood roof system that alternated the use of wooden dowels with complementary biconcave elements to achieve the unique wave shape, the Bates house is believed to be the only home in existence that used this system. Additionally White appears to have considered the siting of the home in relation to the Santa Rosa Mountains in the distance, as the rolling roof line follows the profile of those southern mountains. D. Represents the work of a master builder, designer or architect. The exemplary design of the Bates house by White "embodies his lifelong ambition to push architecture in new directions, restlessly searching for solutions that integrated dramatic form making with a pragmatism born of respect for material and their capabilities amidst the demanding conditions of the desert. The house also shows off White's ability to synthesize a harmonious relationship between common, humble products such as rough -faced concrete masonry units and upscale materials and technologies such as steel and glass sliding windows and terrazzo floors." 2. Excerpt from the National Register of Historic Places Registration Form - Section 8. F. Reflects distinctive examples of community planning or significant development patterns, including those associated with different eras of settlement and growth, agriculture, or transportation. Walter White is considered by many to be Palm Desert's architect, having designed over 65 structures here, many of which are still in existence. The location of the home for Bates is located north of Highway 111 in the area first known as Palm Village, which had previously been occupied by date and citrus ranches. In 1951 Palm Village and Palm Desert united to become Palm Desert. At the time of construction in 1955, the plans for the home specify removal of certain existing trees which are spaced evenly across the site. Early photos of the Bates house show citrus trees located just south of the home, so it appears the home was constructed along the northern edge of an existing citrus grove. Over time the former Palm Village area was developed into a residential area. 5 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION 19. References used National Registration Application NPS Form 10-900 submitted to SHP() 20. Photographs 6 21. Letter from property owner See attached Resolution OB-164 Office Use Only Date Application received: November 28, 2017 Application complete and accepted: 0 Yes ❑ No Case File Number: CRPC 17-01 ❑ate of Public Hearing before the CRPC: December 12, 2017 7 11 4R!NG DR je SANTA ROSA WAY CATALINA WAY u SAN PASCU CA CA SANTA ROSA WAY CATALINA WAY L SANTA ROSA WAY CATALINA WAY 73697 Santa Rosa Expended 73697 Santa Rosa Expended 300' Buffer 73697 Santa Rosa Properties Effected _.. FREI VICINITY MAP CITY OF PALM DESERT NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a public hearing will be held before the Palm Desert City Council to consider historic district designation for Miles C. Bates house, located 73-697 Santa Rosa Way, Palm Desert, CA, Case No. CRPC 17-01. Said hearing will be held at 4:00 p.m. on January 11, 2018, in the Council Chambers at the Palm Desert Civic Center, 73-510 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert, California, at which time and place all interested persons are invited to attend and be heard. Written consent concerning all items covered by this notice shall be accepted up to the date and time of the hearing. Information concerning the proposed designation is available for review in the Building and Safety Department at the above address between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. If you challenge the proposed action in Court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the hearing described in this notice, as in written compliance delivered to the City Council, or prior to, the public hearing. Date: December 20, 2017 RAC ELL 1 . KLASS `" ', CITY CLER CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA (760) 346-0611 UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SANTA BARBARA BERKEI.FY • DAVIS • IRVINE • I.OS ANGELES • RIVERSIDE • SAN DIF.Go *SAN I RANCISCO SANTA BARBARA •SANTA CRU7 HIS I ORY OF ART AND ARCI11'1 ECTURE SANTA I3ARBARA, CALIFORNIA 93106-7080 ('HONE (805) 893-8710 FAX (805) 893-7117 Santa Barbara, December 26, 2017 To Rachel D. Klassen City Clerk City of Palm Desert Palm Desert Civic Center 73-510 Fred Waring Drive Palm Desert CA 9226o Dear Ms. Klassen, Designation Miles C. Bates house, Palm Desert, CA, case No. CRPC 17-o1 I am writing in strong support of the historic designation of the Miles C. Bates house, 73-697 Santa Rosa Way, Palm Desert, designed by the architect Walter S. White. To briefly introduce myself, I am professor of history of architecture at the Dept. of the History of Art & Architecture, UC Santa Barbara; one of my areas of teaching and research is the history of architecture in California. From approximately 2009 onwards I conducted the Walter S. White research project that drew on the papers of Walter S. White, which are preserved at the Architecture & Design Collection, UC Santa Barbara, and culminated in fall of 2015 in the first ever exhibition of White's work in the Coachella Valley, CA, and Colorado Springs. The exhibition was shown at the Art, Design, & Architecture Museum at UCSB; I mailed on that occasion a copy of the catalog to the City of Palm Desert. The Miles C. Bates house is the most important surviving domestic design by Walter S. White not only in Palm Desert or the Coachella Valley, but of his entire life work. Although diminutive in Prof. Volker M. Welter, Dept. of the History of Art & Architecture, UC Santa Barbara, Mail Stop 7080 Santa Barbara, CA 931o6-7o80 physical size, the house recalls both White's fascination with (re)inventing building elements and an important period of the early history of the development around the Shadow Mountain Club and its vicinity from which eventually the City of Palm Desert emerged. The former resulted in the Bates houses' most unusual roof —the well-known wave -like wooden construction —that mimics the silhouette of the nearby mountain range. Even more important, the roof anticipates, indeed precedes the many unusual and imaginative roof forms that characterize so much of the mid-century modern architecture in especially nearby Palm Springs. Palm Desert was there earlier! For the latter, the early history of Palm Desert, the house is important as it recalls the experimental, if not say often "make -shift" or highly unusual appearance of early domestic buildings in the desert. The Bates house allows a glimpse at Palm Desert's earliest history; an experience that citizens appreciate as my many visits to your city have taught me. In addition, to designate a W.S. White building in Palm Desert means to acknowledge the tremendous importance White had in creating and shaping the physical fabric of your city, especially but not only in the area adjacent to the Shadow Mountain Club. The designation would strengthen the awareness that mid-century architectural modernism was a phenomenon as much of Palm Desert as of other nearby cities. Finally, the designation of the house would greatly support the attempts to preserve the building. Yours faithfully, CYttQ' C'ULQx Volker M. Welter PhD (Univ Edin) Professor welter@arthistory.ucsb.edu LQ j A Bee ,C3*,s 0J Klassen, Rachelle From: Grance, Russell Sent: Tuesday, January 09, 2018 7:39 AM To: Klassen, Rachelle Cc: Cicchini, Suzanne Subject: FW: Miles Bates House fyi Russell Grance Director of Building & Safety Ph: 760.346.0611 Direct: 760.776.6430 rgrancePcitvofpalmdesert.ore Original Message From: mimi.colton@roadrunner.com jmailto:mimi.colton@roadrunner.comj Sent: Tuesday, January 09, 2018 7:37 AM To: Grance, Russell; Cicchini, Suzanne Cc: pdanteaterPvahoo.com; piwfIIc earthlink.net; donberavc gmail.com Subject: FW: Miles Bates House Hello Russel and Suzanne, This email is from Poppy Woody, Walter S. White's daughter. Please place it in the record. Thank you, Merilee Colton Original Message From: Poppy Woody fmailto:0000vwoodvPemail.com) Sent: Tuesday, January 9, 2018 7:26 AM To: Merrilee Colton <mimi.coltonProadrunner.com> Subject: Miles Bates House Merrilee ✓ C) ✓ �7o 720 3�vr . rn0 morn '' O 1D �-r• � rr I am writing in response to the meeting being held later this week about the Miles Bates House designation in the Historic Registry (or what ever it is called). I would support that effort. How else can we look back and see history preserved? To see the visions, and the fruits of the inspirations this wonderful area produced without it? To be able to have tangible evidence of the forward thinking individuals that were so instrumental in the development of this area. We very seldom have the opportunity to preserve and protect these icons. Palm Desert has such a rich history. The opportunity to enhance the appreciation of all of the forward thinkers, that helped develop this wonderful area is one that should be respected, embraced and expanded. Being able to walk into a building, look, touch and feel is so much more impressive, than trying to read a book or listen to someone else's interpretation and expression. 1 Thank you so much for your consideration, and please forward my request to the proper person. I only saw a notice in the Desert Sun this past weekend, and did not think a letter written and posted, would get there in time. Thank you so much also, for your support and encouragement of the recognition of my Father's works. I am very appreciative. Look forward to seeing you next month. Regards, Poppy Woody Please note my new email address is p000vwoodvPemail.com. Please add this to your address book and send all future correspondence to this address. Thank you. 2