HomeMy WebLinkAbout2002-05-28 r �
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CITY OF PALM DESERT
- ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMISSION
. • MINUTES
MAY 28, 2002
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I. CALL TO ORDER
The meeting was called to order at 12:30 p.m.
II. ROLL CALL
Commissioners Current Meeting Year to Date
Present Absent Present Absent
Ronald Gregory, Chairman X 8 1
Kristi Hanson X 7 2
Neil Lingle X 6 3
Richard O'Donnell X 9 �
Chris Van Vliet X 9 0
John Vuksic X 8 1
Ray Lopez X 7 0
Also Present:
Phil Drell, Director, Community Development
Steve Smith, Planning Manager
Martin Alvarez, Associate Planner
Tony Bagato, Planning Technician
Donna Quaiver, Senior Office Assistant
Spencer Knight, Landscape Manager
Diane Hollinger, Landscape Specialist
III. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: May 14, 2002 �
Commissioner Van Vliet moved, seconded by Commissioner Lopez to
approve the minutes of May 14, 2002. The motion carried 5-0-1-1with
Commissioner Lingle abstaining and Commissioner Hanson absent.
IV. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
A. None.
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A. Final Drawinas
1. CASE NO.: PP/CUP 01-17 �
APPLICANT�AND ADDRESS): FRED FIEDLER & ASSOCIATES,
ARCO PRODUCTS COMPANY, 2322 West Third Street, Los Angeles,
CA 90057
NATURE OF PROJECT/APPROVAL SOUGHT: Request to remove
golden arches from exterior of approved building plans.
LOCATION: 74-950 Gerald Ford Drive, northwest corner of Cook Street
and Gerald Ford Drive. ARCO
ZONE: PCD, FCOZ
This item was removed from the agenda as it was taken care of by
staff.
Action:
2. CASE NO.: SA 02-84 �
APPLICANT�AND ADDRESSI: ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN &
SIGNS, BARBARA COHEN, 2950 Palisades Drive, Corona, CA 92880
NATURE OF PROJECT/APPROVAL SOUGHT: Approval of one single
faced externally illuminated monument sign with water feature.
LOCATION: 77-777 Country Club Drive; Desert Oasis Apartment
Home�
ZONE: R-3
Action: Commissioner O'Donnell moved, seconded by Commissioner
Vuksic for approval by minute motion. Motion carried 6-0-0-1 with
Commissioner Hanson absent.
3. CASE NO.: SA 02-87
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APPLICANT �ND ADDRESS): SIGN*A*RAMA, GALE MAXSE, 41-
905 Boardwalk "U", Palm Desert, CA 92211
NATURE OF PROJECT/APPROVAL SOUGHT: Approval of business
signage.
LOCATION: 73-241 Highway 111, Palm Desert Kitchens
ZONE: C-1
Mr. Bagato stated that the applicant, Gale Maxse, is requested an
internally illuminated sign cabinet to be installed on the existing metal
awning.
Commissioner Van Vliet stated that this is a very difficult building to put
signage on. He didn't feel that the can sign works on the awning. He's
not sure what the solutions are. Ms. Maxse didn't know what was on
the building before.
Commissioner Vuksic suggested using individual channel letters along
the bottom edge of the awning.
Commissioner O'Donnell suggested putting the signage on the wall.
Ms. Maxse stated that the sign wouldn't be easily visible. She
suggested changing the white plexi-glass background to beige to blend
in the building.
Commissioner Gregory suggested making a long, narrow can sign with
a single row of lettering instead of two rows. Commissioner Van Vliet
stated that he doesn't think that a sign would look appropriate in the
proposed location. He suggested putting the sign below the awning on
the stucco wall. Commissioner Gregory stated that this would be less
desirable for the business owner. Ms. Maxse commented that a wall
sign would be too hard to see from Highway 111.
Mr. Drell suggested working with the Facade Improvement Program to
pay for up to half the cost of a facade remodel. He suggested
extending the rafters from the tile roof into a more conventional fascia
to put a better sign on. Channel letters would be acceptable. The
applicant was advised to talk to Ruth Ann Moore in Business Support to
discuss the program.
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Action: Commissioner Lopez moved, seconded by Commissioner
O'Donnell to continue the request to allow the applicant to pursue the
possibility of utilizing the Facade Enhancement Program to provide a
more suitable area for signage. Motion carried 6-0-0-1 with
Commissioner Hanson absent.
4. CASE NO.: VAR 02-01
APPLiCANT �AND ADDRESS): THOMAS G. BROGAN, 42-975 Texas
Avenue, Palm Desert, CA 92211
NATURE OF PROJECT/APPROVAL SOUGHT: Approval of remodel
and expansion plans for single family dwelling.
LOCATION: 42-975 Texas Avenue
� ZONE: R-1
Francisco Urbina stated that this is a home in Palm Desert Cauntry
Club built in 1961. The existing home has a side-entry one-car garage
and they are proposing an addition to increase the square footage from
approximately 1,300 square feet to 2,100 square feet which includes
enlarging the existing garage and making it a front-entry garage. In
order to accomplish this, they are requesting a variance to reduce the
20' front yard setback to 12' from property line. Staff doesn't have a
problem with the rest of the remodeling, except that variance as it is a
substantial request. Staff is recommending approval of the addition
without the front entry garage and with the condition that there is
window trimming along the windows facing the street.
The current setback to the side-entry garage from the street is 22'8".
Commissioner Van Vliet asked if the applicant was encroaching on the
right side yard setback. Mr. Urbina stated that the side yard setback is
the same. The applicant will have to go to Planning Commission for the
5' side yard setback request. The lot coverage has expanded to 44%
because of the footprint.
Commissioner Van Vliet commented that he doesn't feel that fits into
the neighborhood, it's too massive and the pitched roof is too tall. He
has a problem with the equipment that's mounted on the roof, which is
fully exposed.
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The Palm Desert Country Club HOA has approved the plans.
Commissioner Vuksic commented that it looked like the applicant was
doing a substantial remodel and was adding a new roof on the back of
it, yet he was planning to remount the equipment back up on the roof.
Commissioner Lopez stated that he lives in the same neighborhood, but
his swamp cooler is on the side of the house. It was suggested that the
equipment be mounted on the ground. Mr. Brogan stated that there
wouldn't be enough room to walk around the unit with a 5' side yard
setback. Commissioner Lopez stated that the windows look like they're
just set in flush with stucco and there's no relief or trim. He was
interested in the color of the stucco and trim.
Commissioner Vuksic stated that the back of the car in the driveway
would extend over the sidewalk. Mr. Smith stated that a carport tends
to be used more as people tend to pull their vehicles into them, rather
than use the garage for storage or other purposes. Mr. Bagato
commented that the applicant had expressed concern about the wind
and sand so he would like an enclosed garage.
Commissioner Gregory stated that this is definitely an upgrade of an
existing home and is good for the neighborhood and with some gentle
encouragement from the Commission, he'll move in the right direction. `:,
Commissioner Lingle commented that he drove through this
neighborhood and the community is in transition with a lot of different
things going on there. He doesn't feel that this remodel would be
particularly offensive but wondered if we want to perpetuate a�concern
that we have and that would be cars on sidewalks and those kinds of
issues. The remodel wouldn't hurt the appearance of the community
aesthetically but he does share a concern with Commissioner Van Vliet
with the roof. There's a lot of renovation and remodeling going on in
this neighborhood, but it all seems to have a fairly consistent theme.
Commissioner O'Donnell stated that even as a community in transition,
some of the design is good. He doesn't want to make the mistake of
moving in the direction where the Commission feels that they're making
improvements, and yet they relax their standards for good design. He
is encouraged by the idea that the applicant would like to improve his
home but he would like to see more attention to the architecture as it
doesn't seem to work well. The roof height seems too high, the roof
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overhang on the north elevation comes very close to the property line.
The north elevation seems too massive to be that close to the property
line. The applicant is trying to do a lot on a 6,000 square foot lot. Good
design is critical to making this work. The garage element needs to be
re-studied architecturally. Consider putting a hip roof area somewhere.
Commissioner Gregory stated that the Commission will probably be
getting a lot more remodels like this and would like to have some self-
imposed guidelines so that whatever they do establishes a proper
precedent for what comes later. An example of some guidelines would
be how far can they push out the envelope, architectural style, should
the applicant be encouraged to put in a carport if they can't meet the
setback requirement, etc...
Mr. Drell stated that one of the nice things about this neighborhood is
the side-entry garages since the garage is de-emphasized. He would
like to see setback requirements designed to encourage the
preservation of the side-entry garage to allow people to go closer which
keeps the cars off the sidewalk and put some architecture on the street
frontage. He would like to see greater variances in the front if it
preserves the side-entry garage.
Commissioner O'Donnell stated that he would not like to see the garage
come out as presented, but would rather see a carport. Good design
would solve some of the problems that the Commission has been
discussing. Hip roofs will help soften the height of the building and
bring the overhang back to 2'.
Commissioner Vuksic commented that with careful design he could get
the swamp cooler off the roof. He sees a lot of space and the applicant
could articulate something where he has an inlet in the side yard where
the swamp cooler could be mounted. He suggested installing it on the
ground into a chase that goes up into the attic space. Very little square
footage would have to be sacrificed to accomplish this.
Action: Commissioner Lingle moved, seconded by Commissioner
Vuksic to continue the request to allow the applicant to (1) reduce
height of roof; consider using hip roof, (2) relocate roof-mounted
equipment to the ground, (3) recess windows, (4) bring overhang back
to 2', (5) more attention to architecture, and (6) consider carport instead
of enclosed garage for setback purposes. Motion carried 6-0-0-1 with
Commissioner Hanson absent.
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5. CASE NO.: CUP 02-03
APPLICANT (AND ADDRESS): VERIZON WIRELESS, MINAKSHI V.
HEMLANI, 4300 Latham Avenue, Suite 103, Riverside, CA 92501
NATURE OF PROJECT/APPROVAL SOUGHT: Approval of cellular
site with installation of a 57-foot monopalm.
LOCATION: 74-000 Country Club (Cornerstone)
ZONE: OP
Mr. Smith stated that two weeks ago the Commission approved the
wireless antenna subject to the applicant adding taller palms trees on
the goif course to the northeast and lowering the height of the structure
on the property line. Revisions to the structure have been made. The
structure has been lowered and the wall has been raised. The existing
wall on the east and north property line were 6' in height and is now
stepping up in height in the area of the structure. An appeal has been
filed by Councilman Crites relative to the last action made by the ARC.
This matter will end up before the City Council eventually but that
should not impact the Commission's decision on the current request.
Hugh Jorgenson, Architect, stated that he did lower the building to the
top of the wall, which is 8'. The building is 2' below grade so t#�at the
building is not visible from the golf course.
Mr. Drell stated that there is no indication from the golf course that any
additional trees could be planted there.
Action: Commissioner Van Vliet moved, seconded by Commissioner
O'Donnell for approval. Motion carried 6-0-0-1 with Commissioner
Hanson absent.
6. CASE NO.: SA 02-59
APPLICANT (AND ADDRESS): DESERT TRUCK TOPS, 74-849 Joni
Drive, Palm Desert, CA 92260
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NATURE OF PROJECT/APPROVAL SOUGHT: Reconsideration of
freestanding sign.
LOCATION: 74-849 Joni Drive
ZONE: SI
Mr. Smith stated that the applicant was not available at the last meeting
and the request was denied. Wayne Shmack, applicant, asked if this
item could be placed back on the agenda so that he could discuss the
matter with the Commission.
Mr. Schmack stated that the freestanding sign has been up for eight
years. He did change the sign but left the existing posts there. He had
a professional sign made and it looked terrible. He built a new sign
himself out of cedar wood with 3/4" plywood, three coats of base paint,
and five coats of marine enamel. He didn't realize that he needed a
permit to change the sign. The existing sign is approximately 6' in
height and is 4' x 5'.
Commissioner Vuksic stated that he drove by the commercial area and
looked at the sign and he thought that it looked fine and blended right
in. He usually notices if something looks offensive or stands out and
this sign looked fine.
Commissioner O'Donnell stated that if this were a new sign before the
Commission he would say that the letters are too large and there is too
much copy on the sign. There are also two signs on the building.
Mr. Shmack volunteered to take the menu items at the bottom of the
sign off.
Action: Commissioner O'Donnell moved, seconded by Commissioner
Lingle for approval subject to (1) lowering freestanding sign to 6" above
grade, (2) remove two wall signs, and (3) remove menu items at bottom
of freestanding sign. Motion carried 6-0-0-1 with Commissioner
Hanson absent.
7. CASE NO.: PP 00-27
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APPLICANT (AND ADDRESS� LAMB ARCHITECTS, 426 N. 44r"
Street, #25, Pine, AZ 85215
NATURE OF PROJECT/APPROVAL SOUGHT: Modifications to
approved plans (exterior window trim and glass).
LOCATION: 74-900 Gerald Ford Drive, Hampton Inn & Suites
ZONE: PC-2
Mr. Smith stated that the applicant is requesting a change in the
exterior window treatment to make it consistent with the approved
exterior on the building and using reflective glass.
Commissioner Van Vliet commented that he doesn't have a problem
with the exterior window frame revision but he does have a problem
with the reflective glass. Commissioner Gregory agreed and wanted to
know why the reflective glass is necessary. Commissioner Vuksic
stated that if they need more thermal resistance they could use an
argon gas filled window.
Commissioner O'Donnell stated that if they use the proposed frame
color they would be taking away from some of the detail and would look
monochromatic.
Action: Commissioner O'Donnell moved, seconded by Commissioner
Van Vliet to continue the request to allow the applicant to be present.
Motion carried 6-0-0-1 with Commission Hanson absent.
8. CASE NO.: SA 02-89
APPLICANT (AND ADDRESS� PARAGON SIGNS, 77-650 Enfield
Lane, Palm Desert, CA 92211
NATURE OF PROJECT/APPROVAL SOUGHT: Approval of business
signage. Kerrigan Medical Building
LOCATION: 42-575 Washington Street
ZONE: P C
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Mr. Bagato stated that the building is currently under construction on
Washington Street. The applicant is proposing illuminated channel
letters through the face. He presented photographs of the building to
the Commission. There is a recessed area on the front elevation so the
raceway will be flush with the building but the other two signs will not be
recessed and will project 9" from the surface of the building.
Don Swindel, applicant, stated that there is no dropped ceiling or
access so there's no room to do anything internally. Commissioner Van
Vliet commented that the signs are positioned at the level of the second
story and there should be room to install the signs internally.
Mr. Drell suggested reviewing the working drawings on buildings with a
sign plan so that they provide spaces for electrical and structural areas
for signs.
Commissioner Van Vliet suggested toning down the red color of the
letters.
Action: Commissioner Van Vliet moved, seconded by Commissioner
O'Donnell for approval subject to (1) using internal raceway; no
exposed raceway, and (2) tone down red on lettering. Motion carried 6-
0-0-1 with Commissioner Hanson absent.
9. CASE NO.: PP 01-06
APPLICANT (AND ADDRESS): FEDDERLY & ASSOCIATES, 45-350
San Luis Rey Avenue, Palm Desert, CA 92260
NATURE OF PROJECT/APPROVAL SOUGHT: Final approval of
architecture and landscape for 12-unit luxury apartments, EI Paseo
Villas.
LOCATION: 73-825 Larrea Street
ZONE: R-3
Action: Commissioner O'Donnell moved, seconded by Commissioner
Vuksic for approval by minute motion. Motion carried 5-0-1-1 with
Commissioner Gregory abstaining and Commissioner Hanson absent.
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B. Preliminary Plans
1. CASE NO.: PP 02-06 �
APPLICANT (AND ADDRESS): NBNA UNIQUE PROPERTIES, LLC,
5302 189T" Avenue, NE, Sammamish, WA 98074-6201
NATURE OF PROJECT/APPROVAL SOUGHT: Preliminary approval
of 33,310 square feet office building on a 3.9 acre site.
LOCATION: Northwest corner of Portola Avenue & Frank Sinatra Drive.
ZONE: PR-5
Applicant not present.
Action: Moved by Commissioner O'Donnell, seconded by Chairman
Gregory to continue this item. Motion carried 4-0-2-1
2. CASE NO.: PP 02-07
APPLICANT (AND ADDRESS): ENTRAVISION COMMUNICATION
c/o MEDIAWAY ARCHITECTURE, 2533 South Highway 101, Suite
260, Cardiff, CA 92007
NATURE OF PROJECT/APPROVAL SOUGHT: Exterior remodel to
industrial condominium.
LOCATION: 41-601 Corporate Way
ZONE: SI
Mr. Smith stated that this is an exterior remodel on an existing industrial
building. The Commission is being asked to look at the exterior
architecture only. The interior floor expansion will go to Planning
Commission for approval of the precise plan design. Exterior elevations
were shown to the Commission. This is a freestanding building
developed in conjunction with a building on the south portion of the
property. This is the third lot south of Hovley Lane across from the post
office. Immediately adjacent to the north is a parking lot that was
developed by the Dialysis Center. .
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Commissioner Van Vliet commented that the remodel enhances a
pretty straight forward building. He asked if there are any windows on
the west elevation. Gil Davis, applicant, stated that there are no
windows on that elevation. Commissioner Van Vliet commented that on
the floor plan it looks like there are windows on all four sides. Mr. Davis
stated that there will be windows above the carport structure.
Commissioner Vuksic commented that the west elevation needs some
help because it is visible. He asked if the windows that are punched
into the north wall are realistic. Mr. Gill stated that they will be recessed
about 6" in depth. The existing roof-mounted equipment is fairly
screened.
Mr. Gil stated that the window frames and door frames will be�satin
aluminum with 1" solar glass throughout.
Actian: Commissioner Vuksic moved, seconded by Commissioner Van
Vliet for pretiminary approval subject to recessing windows 12" on west
and north elevations due to scale of building. Motion carried 6-0-0-1
with Commissioner Hanson absent.
3. CASE NO.: TT 25373
APPLICANT (AND ADDRESS): J.D. DESERT DEVELOPMENT, INC.,
75-160 St. Charles Place, Palm Desert, CA 92211
NATURE OF PROJECT/APPROVAL SOUGHT: Modification of
architectural plans to include three-car garages.
LOCATION: 73-170 Hovley Lane West (north of Temple Sinai)
ZONE: PR-5
Mr. Drell stated that the houses were approved with a two-car garage
and then they wanted one plan to have a three-car garage and we
approved it and then they came in with a second plan with a three-car
garage and we approved it and then they wanted all the plans to have
three-car garages. Mr. Drell told the applicant that we need some kind
of architectural variation to break up the uniformity. There are fourteen
houses and the applicant would like seven of them to have three-car
garages.
Commissioner O'Donnell commented that there is a little bit of detail
that's missing and suggested adding a cornice detail over the small
garage and wrap around the house.
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Action: Commissioner Van Vliet moved, seconded by Commissioner
Vuksic for approval subject to adding foam cornice detail to small
garage for three out of five models. Motion carried 6-0-0-1 with
Commissioner Hanson absent.
4. CASE NO.: TT 29692
APPLICANT (AND ADDRESS): CYPRESS ESTATES, LLC, P.O. Box
1686, Palm Desert, CA 92260
NATURE OF PROJECT/APPROVAL SOUGHT: Preliminary approval
of architecture and landscaping for eight homes.
LOCATION: 46-200 Portola Avenue
ZONE: R-1
Mr. Smith stated that this came before the Commission two weeks ago
and the applicant was given a series of suggested modifications. We
received the plans last week and the applicant basically added notes to
implement the suggested modifications. It was recommended that the
applicant bring his architect with him to tell us how they were going to
implement the changes.
Tom Firek, applicant, stated that the plans are currently being revised.
He's happy to accommodate the Commission with the suggestions that
were proposed.
Commissioner Vuksic stated that he wants to see the revisions since
none of the suggestions have been implemented. They're significant
enough so that the Commission should review them. Mr. Firek stated
that he could have the revised plans ready by the next ARC meeting.
Commissioner Van Vliet asked the applicant when the front wall
elevation will be finished along Portola. Mr. Firek stated that they're
hung up in various stages. He didn't know exactly when the wall will be
finished. The front landscaping is in so they can finish the sidewalk.
Commissioner Van Vliet commented that the wall caps have been
sitting out there for some time now.
Action: Commissioner O'Donnell moved, seconded by Commissioner
Van Vliet to continue the request with comments by Commissioner
Vuksic listed on plans, which were given to the applicant. Motion
carried 6-0-0-1 with Commissioner Hanson absent.
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5. CASE NO.: PP/CUP 01-30
APPLICANT (AND ADDRESS� RILEY/CARVER, LLC, c/o The Carver
Company, 74-947 Highway 111, Indian Welis, CA 92210
NATURE OF PROJECT/APPROVAL SOUGHT: Preliminary approval
of architecture and signage for Wal*Mart and Sam's Club buildings.
LOCATION: 34-000 Monterey Avenue (Southeast corner of Monterey
Avenue and Dinah Shore)
ZONE: PC-3 �
Mr. Drell stated that Steve Eberra, Architect for Wal*Mart and Sam's
Club, met with Commissioner O'Donnell and Commissioner Vuksic for a
working session. Mr. Eberra stated that they went over the elevations
for the Sam's and Wal*Mart projects. Out of that meeting they came up
with some ideas and revisions to be made to the building. Copies of
the revisions were distributed to the Commission. The Sam's Club
building is going to be extended out 6' along the front. The parapet has
been raised. The tower element has been moved 6' away from the
main building wall. Some of the elements on the front facade have
been wrapped around to the other elevations. The east elevation facing
Lucas Way has an arched element. Trellises and columns have been
added to the loading dock area. Two tower elements and a band
element have been added to the south elevation.
Commissioner Vuksic stated that the original east elevation looks better
than the revised elevation because the central element on the revised
plan has been pushed to the left and left a really large blank wall with a
service door in it. It was suggested to use the original plans on this
elevation. �
Commissioner Gregory asked if the trellis structure could tie into the
pop-out so it looks more like it belongs there. Mr. Eberra stated that
they're not on the same plane. Commissioner Gregory stated that on
the west elevation, could the trellis be dropped more towards the right
so that it abuts what appears to be some amount of pop-out. Mr.
Eberra commented that he doesn't have a problem extending it over.
The trellis beams are 12"-14" deep. The rafters are 4 x 8.
Commissioner O'Donnell would like to see another layer running
perpendicular to the 4 x 8 rafters laying on top of all the trellis
structures. They're running the same way that the sun will be hitting
them and if another layer was added, you would get more shade.
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Mr. Eberra stated that they are going to concentrate their efforts on the
bigger version of the Wal*Mart store (208) and will not submit the 137
that they had talked about previously. One of the main concerns of
Commissioner Vuksic and Commissioner O'Donnell is the garden
center which is large. They had intended to have freestanding columns
with wrought iron pickets in between. They added some high elements
to break up the wall and two grills, which are functional. They raised
the parapet higher on the east elevation.
Commissioner Vuksic stated that he was concerned about the elements
surrounding the garden center. The elements are thin and spindly
looking and suggested making them thicker and deeper and he
expected to see some solid sections to break up the fence.
Commissioner Van Vliet suggested enhancing the look by adding some
kind of Santa Barbara mission-style architecture to the garden center.
Commissioner O'Donnell stated that the entrances are too symmetrical.
Add trellises to offset symmetry. He suggested adding rafter tails on
lower elements.
The Sam's Club signage has been revised. The 14' blue diamond
square is now an 11' blue diamond. Commissioner O'Donnell
suggested recessing the sign into the wall. Mr. Eberra has to see
whether or not this can be done. Commissioner Vuksic stated that the
plans show the main sign at 14' and the additional signs are 11'. Mr.
Eberra stated that they used to be bigger. He then stated that some of
the signs are 10'.
The Wal*Mart signs have been reduced in size. One sign is 38' in
length and 5' in height. Commissioner O'Donnell stated that the
Commission requires a lot more detail for the signage including the
elevations where the signs are going to be. Mr. Eberra commented that
he's going to revise the signage. Commissioner O'Donnell stated that
he would like to see some creative way of handling the Wal*Mart
signage as opposed to having a 2' projection from the building. He
would like to see the sign inset.
Commissioner Vuksic thanked Mr. Eberra for incorporating the changes
so quickly. He did a great job following through in a short period of
time.
Commissioner Van Vliet commented that he is still concerned about the
"movie-set mentality" where the front of the building looks good but the
back doesn't. There is good architecture on the front of Wal*Mart but
this has not been continued around the back. Some details have been
added on the most recent revision but nothing substantial. This
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elevation may be visible. Mr. Drell stated that there is a significant
grade difference between the road and the Wal*Mart building. Lucas
Way is approximately 20 feet lower than the building and perhaps
landscaping along the building would reduce the impact and only the
top of the building would be visible.
Commissioner O'Donnell inquired about access to the Sam's Club gas
station. Modifications are going to be implemented to allow more room
for cars to line up for gas. This will be addressed at the next meeting.
Commissioner O'Donnell wants to focus on the problem areas and not
just the areas that work and wants to call these areas out so that
nobody forgets about them. He also has a problem with the "sea of
parking". He suggested at the previous meeting to have some covered
parking throughout the parking lot. He would like to see something
architectural throughout the parking lot that will provide the function of
shading parked cars and also consider using photo-votaic panels on
these structures to help with some of the lighting. This project demands
something different regarding the parking area.
Action: Commissioner Vuksic moved, seconded by Commissioner Van
Vliet to continue the request and acknowledged that with a few
exceptions, the applicant had addressed the Commission's concerns
with the following exceptions: (1) tie trellis structure to added projection
at Sam's Club, (2) add perpendicular layer on all trellises, (3) make
columns surrounding garden center wider at Wal*Mart, (4) add some
solid sections to fence area around garden center at Wal*Mart, (5)
entrances too symmetrical at Wal*Mart, (6) add rafter tails on lower
elements at Wal*Mart, (7) consider recessing signage into walls, (8)
consider breaking up parking lot with some covered parking, and (9)
integrate signage with architecture.
C. Miscellaneous
1. CASE NO.: PP 01-03
APPLICANT (AND ADDRESS� SABBY JONATHON, COOK STREET
ASSOCIATES, LLC, 42-620 Caroline Court, Suite 102, Palm Desert,
CA 92211
NATURE OF PROJECT/APPROVAL SOUGHT: Approval of revised
roof color.
LOCATION: 42-829 Cook Street
ZONE: PC-2
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Action: Commissioner O'Donnell moved, seconded by Commissioner
Vuksic for approval by minute motion. Motion carried 4-2-0-1 with
Commissioner Van Vliet and Commissioner O'Donnell opposed and
Commissioner Hanson absent.
2. CASE NO.: CUP 02-10
APPLICANT (AND ADDRESS): DERVIEUX, INC., 73-505 Juniper
Street, Palm Desert, CA 92211
NATURE OF PROJECT/APPROVAL SOUGHT: Review of
compatibility of architectural styles of Visitor's Center and proposed
Cuistot Restaurant.
LOCATION: 12-acre site at the southwest corner of EI Paseo and
Highway 111.
ZONE: PC �
Mr. Smith stated that the question before the Commission is whether
two different styles of architecture can co-exist in the same project, if
not then which one should be changed to more closely compliment the
other or should they both be changed.
Mr. Drell stated that the purpose of this meeting is to provide input to
the Redevelopment Agency, who are the master developers, as to the
compatibility of these two buildings.
Commissioner O'Donnell stated that he knows that there's a standing
committee on this parcel. He asked for the design standards that
they're developing. Mr. Drell commented that the design standards
were never articulated in concrete but the initial direction with staff and
the architects had was that the overall theme of the center would be
contemporary and to develop a unique statement. All of the
discussions up to this point have tended towards the contemporary side
of the design spectrum but there was never anything in writing. The
steering committee has two council members and staff and a lot of the
ideas that the committee has had has not carried the majority of the
council. The visitor's center building was endorsed by the steering
committee, the ARC and the Council. There has also been a
longstanding negotiation with the Cuistot restaurant as a unique Palm
Desert product and a desire to have that sort of user on the site rather
than a corporate, multi-national chain. Commissioner O'Donnell stated
that this Commission is being asked to make a review of the
appropriateness of architecture and at the same time there are
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concurrent things going on with the City. He would feel far more
comfortable if the Redevelopment Agency would provide the
Commission with design standards. The ARC has already made a
decision on the visitor's center and now they are being asked to make a
decision on if they feel if another building is compatible. Mr. Drell stated
that this is what they want to know. Commissioner O'Donnell stated
that he won't make that decision. Commissioner Vuksic asked why
they need to be compatible. Mr. Drell commented that compatible
means, "Does it do physic violence if you see them on the same site?"
Compatible doesn't necessarily mean the same style. Aesthetically is it
disturbing as design professionals to see these styles on the same
property? The ARC members are the City's design consultants. When
the restaurant was submitted to the staff it was not accepted because
the property owner hadn't signed the application. Therefore, it went to
the committee and they were asked to give the project their"blessing".
The committee said that before they could endorse the project, they
wanted advice from the ARC to tell them if they think that the buildings
are compatible. They aren't looking for an approval. They want input.
Commissioner Gregory stated that he doesn't have a problem with it. It
would be nice if certain themes were carried through, even if the styles
were different so that they weren't radically different. If it's something
as simple as paint colors or some type of roofing materials or other
elements that are somewhat compatible so that they're not glaringly
different even if the styles are different. He likes different styles in the
same place.
Commissioner Vuksic thought it would be dangerous to incorporate
similar elements into both buildings. He can't imagine taking the colors
of the visitor's center and putting them on radically different
architecture. Mr. Drell stated that the building closest to the visitor's
center is stone clad. There is no stone on the visitor's center building.
Another suggestion that was made was to switch the more rustic
building of the restaurant to the EI Paseo side and put the somewhat
simpler architecture facing to the visitor's center. David Leiberman,
Architect, stated that the more contemporary side of the building is the
service area, restrooms and kitchen and the stone clad part of the
building is the dining area and they wanted to carry the stone inside the
dining room. He wanted to realistic and make it real and honest with
stone on both the inside and outside. Mr. Drell suggested putting stone
on the visitor's center. Mr. Lieberman commented that they did
propose a slate tile roof, which would be more in keeping with the color
and texture of the roof of the visitor's center. With the building colors,
they're in a similar range as the visitor's center. The greenish color on
the shutters is a color close to what they're proposing to use on part of
the visitor's center.
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Commissioner Vuksic stated that he doesn't want to adjust design by
committee. Mr. Lieberman stated that they have designed hundreds of
restaurants and this was designed especially for Mr. Dervieux.
Commissioner Lopez stated that he doesn't have a problem with the
buildings being different. He thinks that the landscaping could tie it all
together. When the landscaping becomes mature it will soften it and
you won't see both of these buildings as clearly as shown on the
rendering.
Commissioner O'Donnell commented that he thinks that the City should
have somebody design the campus. Ideally, this is going to be a
campus-style design. Mr. Drell stated that there are going to be three
buildings plus a possible hotel. Commissioner O'Donnell stated that
they are being asked to do something that they said they wouldn't do
again and that is to do a project piece-meal. He doesn't even know
what the whole project is going to be about. Now he's hearing about a
hotel and this is the first time that he's heard about that. He doesn't
have a problem with having architecture thaYs dis-similar, but he does
have a problem with trying to link them together by putting a little bit of
material from one on the other. The concern that he has is that the City
is really asking them if they endorse this as a way of doing things on
this project throughout. Mr. Drell stated that that is not the question.
Commissioner O'Donnell stated that if this project ends up being
something that the final result looks like a piece-meal project, then
instead of the City saying that they're responsible for this they are going
to say that the ARC is responsible. The correct way for the City to
proceed with this is to step back and give this far more consideration
than just have the ARC saying that it's okay. He feels that this is the
wrong way to go. Mr. Drell stated that they're not being asked about
the advisability of the process and you can choose to answer it or not
answer it. What he's hearing is that it's okay and it doesn't bother them
to have these two styles together. Commissioner O'Donnell stated that
he would approve the restaurant building on any building site anywhere
in the City, except this site. The context of the question is not the right
one. What bothers him is what else is going on here. .
Commissioner Lingle agreed with Commissioner O'Donnell regarding
what else is going to go on there. He doesn't see the two buildings
working together. He couldn't approve the two buildings being side by
side. He would want to know what else is going to be there.
Commissioner Vuksic stated that he would approve the visitor's center
and approve Cuistot. He doesn't feel that it's important for them to tie
in together.
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3. CASE NO.: PP/CUP 02-03
APPLICANT (AND ADDRESS): DESTINATION DEVELOPMENT
CORPORATION, 74-001 Reserve Drive, Indian Welis, CA 92210
NATURE OF PROJECT/APPROVAL SOUGHT: Consideration of
presentation of architecture and landscape concepts for The Crest,
including gatehouse, clubhouse and residences. Also includes
landscape pallet and density calculations.
LOCATION: 703 acres west of Highway 74
ZONE: HPR
Mr. Smith stated that The Crest project is being proposed on the west
side of Highway 74 and are proposing to develop home sites on the
lower portion along with a clubhouse and a gatehouse and the upper
area will have an 18-hole golf course and practice facility. Rendered
elevations of the clubhouse have been distributed to the Commission.
Ted Lennon, applicant, is the President of The Crest development and
Senior Vice President of Destination Development Corporation which is
their resort development operation. As a followup to The Reserve
project, they were looking for the right thing to do and never thought he
would find a terrific piece of land to do something this special again and
didn't want to compete with The Reserve. He's been aware of this
project since 1974. He watched different people go forward to try to
develop it with 100-150 homes on the hillside. He came up with the
idea to put the golf course on the hillside with no clubhouse, parking,
homes or lights at night on the hillside.
Mr. Lennon stated that the entry will be off of Highway 74 with a card
gate with a security gate and bridge across the channel. They will use
a desert landscape garden similar to The Reserve with a very low key,
elegant desert entrance. The guardhouse starts setting the
architectural theme for the project. The channel is unattractive so they
intend to add a combination of berms and walls to hide the channel.
The project consists of two parts. One is the golf club which consists of
a desert-theme golf course with almost totally indigenous landscaping.
At The Reserve they used 90% indigenous and only allowed 10%
southwest desert landscaping. They are going to create some
landscaped oasis around some of the upper tee boxes to hide them.
The golf course architect is a traditionalist, minimalist and hates to
spend money and move dirt and works with the natural terrain. This is
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a very rugged site and requires somebody who really wants to get out
there and hoof it. His team of people have already put 100 hours into
this golf course already.
The golf course equipment will be hid in bunkers in the side of the hills
so they won't have to be taken up and down the road everyday. There
will be a shade pavilion for the members. Everything is designed to be
hidden. There will be a small starter's booth and 2-3 bathrooms for the
golfers and employees. Food and beverage will be catered from the
Clubhouse. His goal is to have the best golf course in the valley.
The Clubhouse will be approximately 15,000 square feet set into a
saddle of land. The housing development will consist of small pool-side
detached patio homes which will be very earthy and organic. He
described the homes as being an Arizona adobe building and�before all
the mud dries somebody squishes it and lets it take a free-form shape.
There are no sharp lines in the building.
The guardhouse looks rather contemporary with a flat, stone tile roof.
They will keep the natural arroyos and old trees that are on the site.
They're using high nitrate water out of their own well site. This is not a
lake golf course. His intent is not to be a Friday and Saturday night
dinner place and may only open on Wednesday nights when all the
other clubs are closed. He would like to have a sports club with T.V.'s
where people could come for Monday Night Football and have special
steaks.
There will be an upper area for valet parking and member parking area
which steps up and create small rock walls to block these areas so that
the mountains are in view.
The residences are a work in progress. They have reduced the number
of units from 58 to 44 units. There will be small patio/pool homes that
fit into the desert and aren't meant to be the big homes from The
Vintage and The Reserve where people come and stay for a long
period of time. The units will be approximately 1,500 square feet so
that they don't compete with the other clubs. His philosophy is to have
people come to The Crest to buy a golf inembership without buying a
piece of real estate like the three big clubs do. This is "affordable
luxury". This will be an ultra-high service area club.
Mr. Drell stated that he doesn't think there will be a design quality
problem with this project. There isn't a landscape plan or real
elevations of real buildings. This is a first look at the project.
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Commissioner O'Donnell stated that what he's seen so far he really
likes a lot. He likes the direction they're going with the free-form
buildings, use of the native materials and the idea that they're reducing
the number of housing units. Overall, it looks like a really nice project.
Commissioner Lopez stated that it's important to screen maintenance
facility not only from the project but from the road. Mr. Drell
commented that there must be a way for all the service workers to get
into the project and park.
Action: Commissioner O'Donnell moved, seconded by Commissioner
Lingle to endorse the proposed concept. Motion carried 4-0-0-2 with
Commissioner Van Vliet and Commissioner Hanson absent.
VI. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 4:00 p.m.
STEVE SMITH �
PLANNING MANAGER
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