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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2008-10-14 r ��•�� CITY OF PALM DESERT ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMISSION MINUTES October 14, 2008 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 16 3 Kristi Hanson X 13 6 Chris Van Vliet X 19 John Vuksic X 17 2 Karel Lambell X 17 2 Nancy DeLuna X 17 2 Pam Touschner X 8 2 Also Present Tony Bagato, Principal Planner Renee Schrader, Associate Planner Kevin Swartz, Assistant Planner Missy Grisa, Assistant Planner Hart Ponder, Manager, Code Compliance Diane Hollinger, Landscape Specialist Janine Judy, Senior Office Assistant III. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: September 23, 2008 Action: It was moved by Commissioner Van Vliet, seconded by Commissioner Vuksic, to approve the September 23, 2008 meeting minutes. Motion carried 4-0-2-1, with Commissioners Lambell and Gregory abstaining and Commissioner Touschner absent. IV. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS V. CASES: ARCHITECTURAL REMEW COMMISSION MINUTES October 14, 2008 A. Final Drawings: 1. CASE NO: MISC 08-368 APPLICANT (AND ADDRESS): WD PARTNERS, Attn: Jeff Jacobs, 7007 Discovery Blvd., Dublin, OH 43017 NATURE OF PROJECT/APPROVAL SOUGHT: Final approval of a fagade enhancement and sign program; Golfsmith LOCATION: 72-700 Dinah Shore Dr. ZONE: P.C. (3) FCOZ Ms. Schrader presented the staff report and summarized the project. A materials sample board was presented to the Commission for their review. She stated that there are four different options for the signage. One includes the tag line "Xtreme" and one simply says "Golf and Tennis"; both of the Golfsmith words would be up to 36 inches in size, rather than the 48 inches originally proposed. It is non-illuminated and black. The Commission did ask that it be centered but they are hoping that the Commission might say yes to it being near the Arizona Tile words because from the freeway it would be more visible; but that would be up to the Commission's discretion. Mr. Blaine Stengel, Construction Project Manager, stated they were back with a little more detail for the signage on the back of the building facing the 1-10. His executive committee would like the Commission to consider "Golfsmith Xtreme" without the "Golf and Tennis" tag line. They feel that the iconic word "Xtreme" is what they want to pursue here in this market and that they are good with the "Golfsmith" being centered in the back of the building. Commissioner Lambell asked if the polycarbonate material would be exposed to the elements and stated that it would take a beating from the wind and the sand. Mr. Stengel stated that it would be exposed to the elements and mentioned that he hasn't seen the technical cut sheets on the material, but he has advised the design team about the elements and they are very well aware of the wind and the elements here in the desert. Commissioner Lambell stated that it was nice material, but was concerned about it over the long haul. GAPlanningWanine Judy\Word Files\N Minutes\2008\AR081014nin.doc Page 2 of 18 ARCHITECTURAL REW COMMISSION MINUTES October 14, 2008 Commissioner DeLuna asked about the red band of color in the front. Mr. Stengel stated that what they have tried to do was match the color of the existing striping on the building. They want to pull in the existing and bring in some newness to their space. He discussed the panels that would be used to cover the storefront and the graphic detailing of the red swirl. He stated that this would be a custom red color that is used to promote their brand and slightly different from the existing red color on the building. Commissioner Vuksic stated that the Commission liked the positioning of the "Golfsmith Xtreme" on the drawings because it is a little further from the top and recommended lowering it on the building. He then referred to the soffit element and stated that in the rendering it was back further and stated that it is important that it be pushed back further so there is a proper relationship of those forms. Secondly the steel band that is mid height in the hard drawings is only on the front and doesn't go on the sides. He stated that it was important that it wrap around, return and die into something. Mr. Stengel stated that he agreed that there should be an offset between the existing horizontal piece. Commissioner Vuksic stated that that kind of attention to detail would make this pop the way they want it to. They discussed and reviewed the plans regarding the soffit detail. Mr. Bagato asked if the Commission wanted to review the construction drawings when they return to make sure the changes are carried through. Commissioner Vuksic stated that the changes seemed pretty simple and asked that staff check for the changes. ACTION: It was moved by Commissioner Vuksic and seconded by Commissioner Hanson to approve the signage on the rear of the building shown at the height of Option 4, but with the word "Xtreme" instead of "Golf and Tennis" as centered on Option 3, and approval of fagade enhancement with the condition that the fagade comes out some distance from the existing soffit so there is an offset as shown in the rendering and that the steel band in the mid level of the structure is returned on both sides back to a logical stopping point. Motion carried 4-0-2-1, Commissioners Gregory and Lambell abstaining and Commissioner Touschner absent. GAPlanning\Janine Judy\Word Files\A Minutes\2008\AR081014.min.doc Page 3 of 18 ARCHITECTURAL REFEW COMMISSION MINUTES October 14, 2008 2. CASE NO: SA 08-152 APPLICANT (AND ADDRESS): SWAIN SIGN INC/GARY REZAC, 1384 E. 5 Street, Ontario, CA 91764 NATURE OF PROJECT/APPROVAL SOUGHT: Final approval of monument sign: 76 Gas Station. LOCATION: 73-801 Highway 111 ZONE: C-1 SP Mr. Swartz presented the project. Mr. Bagato stated that the Commission had previously approved a monument sign that was a little smaller. When originally submitted it only had three gas prices and the sign representative didn't know that there were different prices; by state law they have to advertise all six prices on a monument sign. The Commission reviewed the revised plans. Commissioner DeLuna asked if there was a landscape area around the edge of the sign. Mr. Swartz stated that there is an existing landscape planter and stated that the sign would be within that green area. Commissioner Vuksic asked how tall the sign was. Mr. Swartz stated that it was four foot six inches. The sign representative stated that the only change that was made was the face of the sign to include all prices. Ms. Diane Hollinger, Landscape Specialist, stated that there is now a line of sight issue with the placement of the sign in that area. Commissioner Hanson asked if this should be continued until this issue was resolved. Commissioner Vuksic stated that they could approve it from an aesthetic standpoint until the location is determined. The Commission discussed the existing ball sign and changing the color to red. Mr. Swartz stated that it was determined in a previous meeting that if any changes were made to the ball it would have to come down. Mr. Bagato stated that it could be approved as an exception to the city ordinance. Commissioner Hanson made a motion to approve either sign. The Commission wanted clarification and discussed the motion. Commissioner Gregory clarified the motion to approve either the revised monument design, with staff determining the location or GAPlanningWanine Judy\Word Files\A Minutes\2008WR081014.min.doc Page 4 of 18 ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMISSION MINUTES October 14, 2008 replace the existing ball sign and changing the color to red; subject to staff review. The Commission did not agree with that motion. Commission Vuksic made a motion to approve the monument sign as presented and staff to determine the location. ACTION: It was moved by Commissioner Vuksic and seconded by Commissioner Van Wet to grant approval of the monument sign as presented; staff to determine the location. Motion carried 6-0-0-1, with Commissioner Touschner absent. 3. CASE NO: MISC 08-391 APPLICANT (AND ADDRESS): GERALD C. RUPP, 249 Shepard Lane, Bishop, CA 93514 NATURE OF PROJECT/APPROVAL SOUGHT: Approval of a wood fence replacement on a side yard. LOCATION: 43-625 Buena Circle ZONE: R-1 ACTION: This item was not officially discussed and will be placed on the next agenda in order to properly notify the neighborhood. 4. CASE NO: MISC 08-385 APPLICANT (AND ADDRESS): SHIRLEY G. SPORK, Box 637, Palm Desert, CA 92261 NATURE OF PROJECT/APPROVAL SOUGHT: Final approval of addition of two feet of cinder block to existing three foot wall, eleven feet back. LOCATION: 73-010 Somera Road ZONE: R-1 13,000 ACTION: It was moved by Commissioner Hanson and seconded by Commissioner DeLuna to grant approval by minute motion. Motion carried 6-0-0-1, with Commissioner Touschner absent. GAPlanning\Janine Judy\Word Files\A Minutes\2008\AF081014.min.doc Page 5 of 18 ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMISSION MINUTES October 14, 2008 5. CASE NO: MISC 08-382 APPLICANT (AND ADDRESS): WILLIAM E. RAINEY, JR. 44-480 Town Center Way #278, Palm Desert, CA 92260 NATURE OF PROJECT/APPROVAL SOUGHT: Approval of RV parking on private property. LOCATION: 73-074 Ironwood Street ZONE: R-1 Mr. Swartz presented the staff report and summarized the project. He referred to the site plan and stated that it was a fairly good sized lot with two main driveways; one for the garage and one for the RV. He presented photos of the site and pointed out the driveways and where the RV would be parked. He stated that the existing decorative wall was seven feet six inches and the RV is a little over eleven feet. He also stated that there were existing oleanders. The Commission reviewed the site plan and photos and discussed where the RV would enter and the screening of the RV from the neighbors. They discussed the ordinance regarding RVs being substantially screened from the public right of way. Mr. Swartz also mentioned there were oleanders on the applicant's property as well as the decorative wall. The Commission discussed the issue with oleanders and having to remove them if they get a disease. Mr. Swartz stated that this would be the only spot where the RV would be screened. Commissioner Hanson suggested placing a tree in front of the wall; something with a high canopy that would leave the area in front of the wall open. Commissioner Gregory stated that the tree would give substantial screening opportunities and with a little assistance from the Commission this could work. ACTION: It was moved by Commissioner Hanson and seconded by Commissioner Lambell to grant approval subject to: 1) installation of a large tree in front of the decorative wall as approved by the Landscape Specialist; planted in such a way as to not hide the decorative wall; 2) no shade structure over the RV; and 3) if oleanders are removed due to disease, they must be replaced with suitable screening to protect the view of the neighbors. Motion carried 6-0-0-1, with Commissioner Touschner absent GAPlanning\Janine Judy\Word Files\A Minutes\2008WR081014.min.doc Page 6 of 18 ARCHITECTURAL REW COMMISSION MINUTES October 14, 2008 6. CASE NO: MISC 08-244 APPLICANT (AND ADDRESS): RED CARPET CARWASH, 44- 440 Town Center Way, Palm Desert, CA 92260 NATURE OF PROJECT/APPROVAL SOUGHT: Final approval of a new monument sign, repainting a portion of exterior building, and the addition of awnings to rear of property; Red Carpet Carwash. LOCATION: 44-440 Town Center Way ZONE: PC 3 SP This item was not presented. ACTION: No action was taken on this item. B. Preliminary Plans: 1. CASE NO: PP/TPM 08-191 APPLICANT (AND ADDRESS): URBAN HOUSING COMMUNITIES, LLC, Attn: Mark Irving, 2000 E. Fourth Street, Suite 205, Santa Ana, CA 92705 NATURE OF PROJECT/APPROVAL SOUGHT: Final approval of 144 affordable apartment units; The Crossings. LOCATION: 73-500 35th Avenue ZONE: PCD Ms. Schrader presented the project and stated the applicant has added a considerable amount of detail to the prairie design style they are going for and because it is 144 units, which is the density that is required for affordable housing, there are eight-plexes and sixteen- plexes. They have responded to the Commission's concerns regarding modulating the roof lines with the grade so that it is not one big stretch of building. There were comments made at the last meeting regarding the roofing materials and today Ms. Schrader expressed that in her opinion it has substantially been upgraded and reworked. They have preliminary approval of the landscape with the city Landscape Specialist and mentioned that they had a meeting with the landscape company. It was stated that there is not enough lawn or green area and mentioned that there was a retention basin GAPlanning\Janine Judy\Word Files\A Minutes\2008WR081014.min.doc Page 7 of 18 ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMISSION MINUTES October 14, 2008 that the Staff would like to see sod covered and access be made to it in the play area to add additional lawn and green. Mr. Alan Scales, Architect for KTTY, stated that they took another look at the architecture and hearing the comments from the first round they came back from the study session with what was presented today. He stated that this was a little bit more flushed out and was a complete version of what we had in our study session. Their main charge and what they were really focused on was articulating the building fagade as well as the ridge line. They had a lot more of a monochromatic and even roof line. So they went back to the drawing board and looked at the roof plan. They took the comments into consideration regarding the A/C condensers and placement. They were in the landscape so they brought them into the common area roof well, which is shown on the roof plan. What that did was help them greatly articulate the mass of the building and break it down into components; with a larger volume in the middle stepping down towards the ends. That allowed them to rotate the building a little in terms of how they worked the roof plan, which comes off quite a bit better. Beyond that, in just terms of massing, they looked at just adding material. So they added fiber cement siding. They used that along with exterior plaster to articulate different facades, different colors and finished materials. They also looked at the decks and opened those up rather than having them closed in with stucco walls. Currently they are showing a composite wrapped material on the columns of the decks as well as Trex or equal composite material for the rails themselves knowing full well that the sun will take its toll on any wood products. They also have louvered awnings on some of the feature windows, mostly in the bedrooms. Since the decks screen the living spaces, they didn't have that same sort of screening to the bedrooms so they used an awning material; louvered Bahamas or Bermuda shutter. They are going towards the Bahamas style shutter, which is a little more resortesque, but it lends itself well to provide for shade to the units. The Commission discussed their concerns regarding the use of Trex for the railing. They stated that because of the elements here in the desert it becomes soft and has a lot of expansion and contraction and just hasn't worked here in the desert. Mr. Scales stated that they have discussed this issue with the product manufacture, most specifically on the siding and the manufacture stated that they have plenty of experience with the use of this material. Commissioner Vuksic stated that he liked the roofline and how it goes up and down. He had some concerns with the fascia line and stated that at the last meeting the Commission was looking at the common building and the kind of detailing and articulation that it had and it GAPlanningWanine Judy\Word Files\A Minutes\2008WR081014.min.doc Page 8 of 18 'ft ARCHITECTURAL REW COMMISSION MINUTES October 14, 2008 looks like they incorporated more of that into the fascia line, which is good. The fascia is the same height everywhere on all the buildings and that is something that he didn't see in the common building; all the nice ups and downs. The wainscoting that they are showing now is a different color and is basically a two-by-six piece of foam and stated that it would be great if that was a stone base. It would work with the style that they have and it would create the kind of substantial layer that they want at the bottom. Commissioner Vuksic discussed the comment made at a previous meeting regarding the flatness and the buildings being about the same distance back from the street. He stated that the buildings have a lot of undulation in them and if they were pulled back from the street they would be giving up too much landscape space. He felt that they had to hold on to as much green space as they can. Commissioner Vuksic thought that the private driveway that parallels 35th is really straight and felt that they could kick that street up a bit to the north so that it has a bit more of an elbow at the center where the common building is. He also had some concerns with clutter on the balconies since you can see through them. Commissioner Vuksic liked the site sections and stated that they were great in helping to see what was going on regarding the grades and what they had to deal with. He stated that the berms look to be about a two-to-one slope and wondered if this was something that they reviewed with the City and if it would be a problem. Mr. Scales stated that there were three-to-one as well as two-to-one and nothing has come up to date regarding the berms. Commissioner Vuksic mentioned the condensing units on the roof and the air handlers being in the attics and asked if they were below the parapets. Mr. Scales indicated that they have about a 42-inch parapet and stated that they would choose units that would fit below the parapet wall. Commissioner Vuksic stated that left side elevation for Building B needed a little more attention, but the other elevations have come together pretty nicely. Commissioner Van Wet asked if the roofing material sample on the material board was the same thickness of the roofing material. Mr. Scales stated that it was indicative to one layer. He presented a sample board of a section of the roof and pointed out what it would look like. Commissioner Van Vliet stated that originally they had proposed concrete tile and now they have gone to a flat cheap looking roof. Commissioner Lambell pointed out that previously there GAPlanningWanine Judy\Word Files\A Minutes\2008WR081014.min.doc Page 9 of 18 ARCHITECTURAL REW COMMISSION NWO, MINUTES October 14, 2008 was talk of solar up on the roof. Mr. Scales stated that it wouldn't be on the actual roofing itself; it would be within the roof wells. Mr. Mark Irving, Urban Housing Communities, LLC, stated that the original roof had a full pitch southern exposure for a vast majority of the building, but when they redesigned the roof with the roof wells they asked a solar consultant about the solar panels who stated that they have the capacity to either do panels within the roof wells and the carports or there would be enough on the roof itself. The Commission discussed the trash bins and talked about their locations. Mr. Scales stated that they have to provide an accessible route to the bins and that they have to look at their proximately to the units for ease of use. The Commission once again brought up the issue of the solar panels on the roof and the quality standard. Commissioner Lambell stated that there was talk previously about the solar panels being incorporated into the roof tile and now they have gone to a flat composition that isn't very good looking. They felt that they have lost the solar opportunity except in the roof well and the other was really cutting edge and a terrific idea. The Commission discussed the idea of the retention basin being used as a play area. Mr. Irving stated that he would be glad to put turf in there, have a separate parcel and dedicate it to the city, because it becomes an issue of liability with the kids playing in a retention basin. Ms. Schrader stated that they would want to discuss this further with the city officials and see how they feel about that because we know there is not enough green there now. Commissioner Gregory mentioned the two-to-one slopes and asked Ms. Diane Hollinger, Landscape Specialist if she had any comments on the plans. She indicated that she was reviewing the plans and has been in conversation with the applicant. Mr. Bagato stated that in his experience anything higher than two-to-one would not be acceptable. He stated that if there were any three-to-one they would have to take another look at them. Mr. Scales addressed the comments made regarding the railings and stated that they were open to changing the material. Their intent wasn't to overdo material so they intentionally didn't use any sort of stone. He agreed that it would look nice, but they have to keep costs under wraps in this kind of development. In terms of the ups and downs in the eave line, he stated that there are some opportunities to do that. He knows that the redesign of the roof to get the ridge to move up became more of an expense to the developer. He explained that they are articulating the roof much more dynamically at GAPlanning\Janine Judy\Word Files\A Mlnutes\2008\AR081014.min.doc Page 10 of 18 ARCHITECTURAL RE�'li EW COMMISSION MINUTES October 14, 2008 the recreation facility that is the main feature as you enter the community and stated that there were a number of layers that will be within this community. Commissioner Vuksic stated that when he looks at a building that is as long as this one, he felt that it needs a break in the eaves. Mr. Scales stated that it has some dimension to it and stated that if you look at the plans themselves it is broken into segments. Commissioner Hanson reviewed an axonometric elevation that was presented by the applicant. She informed Mr. Scales not to apply textures to the face of the building and then not wrap them around the corner. Mr. Scales indicated that the intent was that outside corners should be the same color and the same material and the inside corners are where you make color or material change. The Commission discussed the asphalt shingles. Mr. Scales stated that they have a certain shape and dimension to them and aren't just simple rectangular or flat sheets of asphalt roofing. There is some dimensional quality to them. There are certainly other products on the market that are composition that take it to another level in terms of dimension. The thickness and some of the shape gets a little more dynamic and has more shadow play and feels more like a shake roof. He stated there could be some alternatives and in his opinion, there is a way to do a comp roof that looks nice. He expressed that throwing it out is not the best way to go. Commissioner Vuksic stated that any style is okay as long as it is done well and felt that what was discussed today was ways of making this a quality project that really pulls the style details together. Mr. Scales stated that they want to provide a quality project and expressed that they were not just throwing stucco boxes up there. He felt they were going in the right direction and clarification will help. Commissioner Vuksic made a motion to continue with comments. Commissioner Gregory asked if there were any other questions or comments. Mr. Irving wanted to further clarify the issues regarding the railing on the balconies and stated that wood is certainly not an option and addressed the question of sagging. He stated that if they go the route of eliminating those materials then they are back to square one. He asked for some direction on the materials. Commissioner Vuksic stated that he liked the siding material presented because it adds a nice texture to the building and was disappointed that the Commission wasn't happy with it. Commissioner Van Vliet wanted to clarify his earlier comments regarding the siding because he wasn't familiar with that particular product, but if they could get it to work out here and it's a high quality product and if it's not going to bend or GAPlanning\Janine Judy\Word Files\A Minutes\2008\AR081014.min.doc Page 11 of 18 ARCHITECTURAL REMEW COMMISSION MINUTES October 14, 2008 have warping problems due to the heat, then its fine. Commissioner Hanson suggested that they use a metal detailing that would look nice. Mr. Scales stated that they were open to that idea. Commissioner Hanson was aware that Commissioner Vuksic made a motion to continue with comments and asked him if it could be approved with comments because she felt there weren't that many comments to justify a continuance. The Commission discussed the recommendation. Commissioner Vuksic stated that he was happy if Staff wants to take a look at the changes and show them to the Commission if there is a need. Commissioner Gregory stated that they could approve it subject to some conditions that need to be brought back and the Commission could just look at those items. Mr. Bagato indicated that the changes would be in the construction drawings and suggested that they email him with changes for his review prior to submitting the construction drawings. ACTION: It was moved by Commissioner Vuksic and seconded by Commissioner Hanson to grant approval subject to: 1) the applicant shall experiment with the application of a stone based veneer below the wainscoting; 2) design private driveway B so that the street is less straight with more curvature to lessen the effect of the straight view across the top of the parcel; 3) consider closing the railing so that clutter is less visible from the balcony; 4) give more attention to the left side elevation for Building B; 5) present alternatives that utilize solar as roofing material and create a greater visible texture; 6) create more green space by the addition of sod in the retention basin; 7) review the berms to decrease slope to no greater than two-to-one ratio; 8) create breaks in the fascia to eliminate the massing of the building; 9) wrap decorative veneer around buildings; 10) consider metal as railing material in lieu of Trex material; 11) submit changes to staff prior to construction drawings; 12) landscape subject to review by Landscape Specialist; and 13) provide alternate roofing material samples which have more thickness and depth for review and approval; more like concrete tile originally proposed. Motion carried 5-0-1-1 , with Commissioner DeLuna abstaining and Commissioner Touschner absent. GAPlanning\JanineJudy\WordFiles\H Minutes\2008WR081014.min.doc Page 12 of 18 ARCHITECTURAL REW COMMISSION MINUTES October 14, 2008 2. CASE NO: PP 09-263/MISC 08-189 APPLICANT (AND ADDRESS): WDM ARCHITECTS/Scott Ramser, 105 N. Washington, Wichita, KS 67202 NATURE OF PROJECT/APPROVAL SOUGHT: Final approval of design for new animal exhibit yards and holding facilities, public paths and shade structures; The Living Desert LOCATION: 47-900 Portola Avenue ZONE: P.D. Ms. Schrader presented the staff report and summarized the project. Approval of the architectural and landscape design features would allow the request for Precise Plan and Conditional Use Permit to proceed to the Planning Commission allowing the Living Desert to expand its exhibits and as per the Municipal Code conditionally approve the use of a Park/Botanical garden in a "Public Institution" zone. The expansion would include a new African lion exhibit and proposes to renovate exhibits in phases. Staff recommends that the Architectural Review Commission approve architectural and landscape design for The Living Desert's expansion, animal exhibits and the conceptual placement of the future visitor/conference center. She presented a material sample board and an aerial photo for the Commission's review. She expressed Staff's concern with the amount of parking and safety concerns that the Fire Department had regarding the pubic aspect of responding to an emergency. Mr. Scott Ramser, WDM Architects, stated that this is an expansion of the existing zoo and everything that they are doing is attempting to tie in with some of their existing exhibits as far as similar rock work, similar structure with plaster work, wood poles, screening and fencing found elsewhere throughout the zoo. They are taking the material pallet that is already in use that represents the vernacular of structures that would be found in Africa and expanding that throughout their new exhibits. The main thing they are doing with these designs is to minimize the guest's view of animal containment. They are trying to create magical views where people are not looking at animals through bars or in an obvious fenced enclosure. They are doing everything they can with landscape and artificial rock work to minimize the public's view of an animal trapped. The Commission discussed the lion yard and the windows that divide them from the meerkat exhibit. Mr. Scales stated that they layer so the guests get a more naturalist view of seeing multiple species within GAPlanning\Janine Judy\Word FilesW Minutes\2008WR081014.min.doc Page 13 of 18 ARCHITECTURAL REi W COMMISSION MINUTES October 14, 2008 one view as opposed to just seeing a lion or just seeing a meerkat. A representative from The Living Desert explained how they give the predator a glimpse of prey for an enriching experience for the predator and the way the exhibit is situated, the meerkats don't necessarily have a view of the lions. She explained that they want to keep the animal's well-being in mind and giving them that stimulus is part of the animal enrichment program at The Living Desert. Each species has a program around it to keep them basically happy giving them interest and an activity to do. The representative went on to explain the number of lions that they will have at The Living Desert and explained the endangered species program. She stated that they have about fourteen managed programs that they work with. The representative explained that this plan does meet the American Zoo Association guidelines for height as do all their carnivore exhibits. ACTION: It was moved by Commissioner Hanson and seconded by Commissioner DeLuna to grant preliminary approval. Motion carried 6-0-0-1, with Commissioner Touschner absent. C. Miscellaneous Items: 1. CASE NO: APPLICANT (AND ADDRESS): INTERACTIVE DESIGN; 199 S. Civic Dr. Suite No. 10, Palm Springs, Ca 92262 NATURE OF PROJECT/APPROVAL SOUGHT: Review of conceptual plans for: Country Village LOCATION: 42-455 Washington Street, Palm Desert Ca, 92260 ZONE: P.C. (2) Ms. Kathy Walker, RDA, Senior Management Analyst presented the project. She stated that the City Council requested the Redevelopment Agency to develop a potential conceptual plan for low to moderate income housing at the old Country Villa site off Washington and Avenue of the States and incorporate an additional acreage that the RDA owns off Dudley Street. She stated that they have contracted with Interactive Design and stated that this has gone to a preliminary ad-hoc committee meeting. GAPlanningWanine Judy\Word FilesW Minutes\2008WR081014.min.doc Page 14 of 18 ARCHITECTURAL REW COMMISSION MINUTES October 14, 2008 Ms. Maria Song, Architect/Partner, Interactive Design, discussed the traffic circulation, parking, a proposed fire station, and the removal of Casey's Restaurant. She explained the orientation of the building so there would be exposure to the courtyards from the street and stated that it was important for them to do a proper transition from the residential areas to the commercial area. The site is currently proposed for one and two story buildings and said that the two stories and the community building would be pushed back from the street so that it wouldn't be imposing to the street, also allowing them to have tucked under carports/garages for part of the project. She pointed out a retention area for the residential project and stated that they want to improve that area because it floods and they would like to create an emergency channel out to Washington. Mr. Martin Crossman, Architect/Senior Designer, Interactive Design, explained the highlights of the architectural intent and stated that it underlies the dominant design of elements of massing, roof shapes and materiality. The project is primarily comprised of one story and some two story units, the pedestrian experience of the site is progression of scale starting with the lower trellises, stepping up to one story and one and a half story lanterns over the one story units. The transition scale provides a progression of spatial experience and a variety of visual interest which begins at the roadway; which culminates at the unit entries. The roof lantern punctuates the massing of the one story units and creates a pleasing variation in scale and allows for natural lighting ventilation into what would be the darker portion of the one story units. The second design feature presented was the low slope roofs with the broad sheltering eaves. This roof type is a hallmark of a traditional bungalow style. They felt that this provides a greater sense of shelter and security. The width and the detailing such as the TNG sheathing and beams and braces create visual interest for the inhabitants. They felt that the eaves are important if not more important than the roofing itself. They liked the broad overhang because it helps to protect the wall materials from the sun and also helps for a cooler building by creating larger shaded areas on the walls. The third thing he wanted to talk about was the materiality and stated that the buildings were finished in stucco, shiplap and reverse board and bat and siding, there is trim around the windows in a bungalow style with exaggerated ears. Ms. Song stated that for the siding they were using fiber cement board and explained that they have researched this material as far as how it does in the desert. The Commission reviewed and discussed the floor plans and elevations. Mr. Crossman stated that the units themselves are L's GAPlanning\Janine Judy\Word Files\N Minutes\2008\AR081014.min.doc Page 15 of 18 ARCHITECTURAL RE EW COMMISSION 4W101 MINUTES October 14, 2008 The Commission reviewed and discussed the floor plans and elevations. Mr. Crossman stated that the units themselves are L's and they are trying to accentuate the portion that projects to create a series of roof lines. The window and door trim is traditional bungalow detailing with the introduction of a substantial trellis creating a shady porch area providing a welcoming transition from the semi-public courts and yards to the private dwellings. The variation in the composition of the wall finish helps to break down and articulate the massing. Overall, their design intent was to create a dignified sheltering architecturally rich and even poetically living environment for the inhabitants, one of strong sense of place and one of which anyone would gladly like to live regardless of their social circumstances. The Commission reviewed and discussed the courtyards as mentioned by the representatives and expressed their opinion that these were not courtyards, but pathways. Commissioner Vuksic stated that what he saw were just walkways and spaces between buildings, but nothing that would make him want to stop there. Ms. Song stated that what they were trying to create was a courtyard with landscape and Commissioner Hanson stated that if that was their intent then they needed to represent that better. Ms. Song stated that they wanted the project to be LEED Certified and have several ideas they were entertaining, one of them being ground water source heat pumps. The disadvantages of the ground water heat pumps are that they have to use substantial surface area in order to cool the water before it comes out. Secondly, they wanted to use the solar panels on the carports around the building. The disadvantage they have on that is the placement of the trees. She asked for some guidance on the sustainable in energy conservation for the City of Palm Desert. Mr. Bagato stated that the standard says that you have to be 10% above your local requirement and our department already puts you above that standard; so you have to be above ours to meet LEED standard. The Commission and the representative discussed LEED certification for the project. ACTION: No Action Taken; comments only. GAPlanningWanine Judy\Word Files\A M1nutes\2008WR081014.min.doc Page 16 of 18 ARCHITECTURAL REl tEW COMMISSION '00, MINUTES October 14, 2008 2. CASE NO: MISC 08-399 APPLICANT (AND ADDRESS): ARNOLD FISHKIND and NORMA GREER, 43-645 Warner Trail, Palm Desert, CA 92260. NATURE OF PROJECT/APPROVAL SOUGHT: Request for approval of paint color modification to an existing single family home. LOCATION: 43-645 Warner Trail ZONE: R-1 Mr. Bagato presented the project and stated that this home was painted without obtaining a permit. The color is Bright Star yellow and the trim is Tiger Strip; a brown orange. He presented paint samples and photos for the Commission's review and indicated that the property is well landscaped and said that because the house was not easy to see they took additional close up photos of the house. Ms. Norma Greer, applicant, stated that she has a lot of foliage and cactus around her home and Mr. Swartz stated that because of the landscaping it was hard to see her house. Commissioner Gregory referred to a number of homes in the city that were built with certain colors to conform to the area. However, this is a home that doesn't have to conform to any others unless there is a City edit or a neighborhood policy that requires conformity. Mr. Bagato explained that the ordinance states that if there is a substantial color change it has to be reviewed and approved. He stated that the ordinance came into effect because of buildings painted in bright colors. He expressed that this color falls into one of the reasons why the City passed the ordinance because it is not a color that would have been approved if the applicant came in beforehand for approval. The Commission discussed the color and the landscaping. Commissioner Vuksic referred to the photos and stated that when using a strong color like the yellow the intent should not be to paint the whole house but to pick one spot to make a statement. Commissioner Gregory asked if the yellow could be toned down by semi-whitewashing to take away the sting or give it an antique look with a tan color. Commissioner Hanson stated that someone could faux the color if the applicant hired the right person to do it and stated that it would be just as expensive to faux it as it would be to repaint it. She stated that architecture has a lot to do with approving bold colors. If you block it in a certain way, colors can G:\Planning\Janine Judy\Word ResW Minutes\2008 AR081014.min.doc Page 17 of 18 ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMISSION r.r✓ MINUTES October 14, 2008 work, but when you have a traditional home and you put bright, bold colors on it, it just doesn't come off very well. Commissioner Hanson made a motion to deny the yellow and suggested that the applicant come back with alternative colors for the main body of the house that will go with the orange color; Tiger Stripe. The applicant asked if the Commission was happy with the Tiger Stripe trim. Commissioner Hanson said that if it goes with the new color and they both relate it would be okay. ACTION: It was moved by Commissioner Hanson and seconded by Commissioner DeLuna to deny the color yellow and requested that applicant submit color options that will compliment the trim color of Tiger Stripe. Motion carried 6-0-0-1, with Commissioner Touschner absent. VI. ADJOURNMENT It was moved by Commissioner Lambell, seconded by Commissioner DeLuna to adjourn the meeting. Motion carried 6-0-0-1, with Commissioner Touschner absent. The meeting was adjourned at 2:15 p.m. TONY BAGATO PRINCIPAL PLANNER GAPlanning\Janine Judy\Word FilesW Minutes\2008WR081014.min.doc Page 18 of 18