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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2010-01-12 y . ��� � �� �� CITY OF PALM DESERT � � ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMISSION • ' MINUTES January 12, 2010 I. CALL TO ORDER The meeting was called to order at 12:30 p.m. I1. City Clerk, Rachelle Klassen swore in the new Commissioner, Ken Stendell prior to the start of the meeting. III. ROLL CALL Commissioners Current Meeting Year to Date Present Absent Present Absent Ronald Gregory, Chairman X 1 Chris Van Vliet X 1 John Vuksic X 1 Karel Lambell X 1 Pam Touschner X 1 Allan Levin X 1 Ken Stendell X 1 Also Present Lauri Aylaian, Director Tony Bagato, Principal Planner Kevin Swartz, Assistant Planner Missy Grisa, Assistant Planner Hart Ponder, Code Compliance Manager Christine Canales, Assistant Engineer Janine Judy, Senior Office Assistant IV. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS V. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: November 10, 2009 & December 8, 2009 Action: It was moved by Commissioner Van Vliet, seconded by Commissioner Levin, to approve the November 10, 2009 and December 8, 2009 meeting minutes. Motion carried 6-0-0-1, with Commissioner Stendell abstaining. ARCHITECTURAL R�rrw►�1EW COMMISSION vwr►' � MINUTES January 12, 2010 VI. CASES: A. Final Drawings: 1. CASE NO: SA 09-512 APPLICANT (AND ADDRESS): WELLS FARGO, 73051 Highway 111, Palm Desert, CA 92260 NATURE OF PROJECT/APPROVAL SOUGHT: Final approval of two wall signs and one monument sign; Welis Fargo. LOCATION: 73051 Highway 111 ZONE: C-1 S.P. Mr. Swartz presented the project and summarized the staff report. The project request is to provide new, re-branding signage to a building that was previously known as Wachovia Bank. This place of business did not close and re-open as another business, rather another bank simply took over the existing business with no close of business. The old Wachovia signs will be replaced by Wells Fargo signs. There will be two wall signs with one facing Monterey Avenue and the second facing Highway 111. Each wall sign is slightly under 26 square feet, which is well within their allowable sign allotment. Each set of letters with the word "Wells Fargo" is at the same height of 1'-6". The letters will be illuminated and the letters will be attached to a face retainer. The face retainer is 60" in total height. When the old signs were installed for Wachovia there was a lighting issue. The large face retainer will screen the wiring and parapet. In addition, to the new wall signage, Wells Fargo will be refacing the existing monument sign. The monument will not change in regards to location, height, or square footage. The cabinet will be constructed of aluminum extrusion and will be illuminated with HO florescent lamps with all electrical to be UL listed and labeled. The sign will be routed aluminum face painted to match Wells Fargo red with push thru yellow letters. Staff is pleased with the design of the re-branding signage. The applicant has tied together all portions of their signage in a cohesive package. Building and signage colors, size of text and logos, illumination, height and location are all proposed in a manner that fits well with the building. G:\Planning\Janine Judy\Word FilesW Minutes�2010WR100112min.doc Page 2 of 10 ` ARCHITECTURAL RC�cW COMMISSION � MINUTES January 12, 2010 Ms. Kammi Bett, sign representative stated the reason they made the raceway so large was to balance it. In order to bring the Wells Fargo lettering down away from the top of the roof they have lowered the letters with the raceway. They could reduce the raceway up even with Wells Fargo or slightly below, but they thought they would balance it to make it look more uniform with the building. The architecture of the building could be carried through the raceway by the seams in the concrete on the building and the raceway would be painted to match the building. It is tall so they would be able to bring the letters to a balancing point on the corner of the building without have exposing the conduit. Commissioner Van Vliet asked why they couldn't feed it thorough the attic space if there was a roof parapet there at the corner. Ms. Bett stated that it was about 26" and the attic is not accessible. That was the reason Wachovia decided not to do the illumination; the building was not designed with the signs in mind. Commissioner Van Vliet asked if the Wachovia sign was illuminated and Mr. Bagato stated that it was not. He said that when the first sign was done the architect stated that you wouldn't be able to puncture through there structurally and the only way to do an illuminated sign would be with a raceway. However, when it came through ARC the illuminated sign was not approved. Commissioner Gregory asked if the monument sign was illuminated and Ms. Bett stated that the push-through letters were illuminated but not the red background color. Commissioner Gregory wondered if it would be possible to have up-lighting down below to wash the wall; it seemed like a much simpler solution and wouldn't need the raceway. Commissioner Van Vliet felt that it wouldn't need to be illuminated since the lower sign will be illuminated. Commissioner Lambell stated that the ARC determined that the raceway wasn't an advantage to the building the first time the request was submitted. Ms. Bett stated that Wells Fargo wanted to do the illumination and knew that Wachovia had an issue with their request. Commissioner Lambell said that the monument sign was lovely and thought that was enough illumination on the building at this time. Mr. Swartz asked the Commissioners if the raceway wasn't approved would they want the sign higher or was it okay where it is currently located. Commissioner Vuksic thought the sign would look better down a little bit and without the raceway. Ms. Bett asked even if the raceway was smaller or was it just the raceway G:\PlanningWanine Judy\Word FilesW Minutes�2010V1R100112min.doc Page 3 of 10 ARCHITECTURAL F�EW COMMISSION "� � MINUTES January 12, 2010 itself. Commissioner Gregory stated that it is such a highly visible corner, not like a sign buried in the midst of a strip mall where you can't see it. Commissioner Vuksic made a motion to approve the sign without the raceway in the position as shown on the elevations and that if the applicant would like to light it externally the Commission could look at their solution. Commissioner Lambell made the second. Commissioner Gregory asked for any further discussion. Ms. Bett stated that she has discussed this with the contractor and explained to them that the raceway was an issue. They were hoping to carry those lines of the concrete in the building to match, but they understand the illumination issue. She will discuss up- lighting with the contractor. The Commission discussed the directional signs and felt they had nice detail. Commissioner Lambell asked if all the blue branding would be gone from the building. Ms. Bett stated that all the blue will be gone except the ATM and Wells Fargo will take care of that separately. ACTION: It was moved by Commissioner Vuksic and seconded by Commissioner Levin, to grant approval of signage without the raceway subject to: 1) sign being placed in the position as shown on elevation; and 2) wall signage can be up-lighted externally; plans to be reviewed by staff. Motion carried 7-0. 2. CASE NO: MISC 09-519 APPLICANT (AND ADDRESS): PONDEROSA HOMES II INC. Attn: Pamela Hardy, 6671 Owens Drive, Pleasanton, CA 94588 NATURE OF PROJECT/APPROVAL SOUGHT: Final approval of three new architectural and landscape plans to be built on 103 lots within tract 31490 and tract 31490-1. LOCATION: ZONE: PR-5 Ms. Grisa presented the project and summarized the staff report. Ponderosa Homes II has decided to build new homes again on 103 lots that remain from the previously entitled project. The developer G:\Planning\Janine Judy\Word Files�A Minutes�2010WR100112min.doc Page 4 of 10 � ARCHITECTURAL RE'�W COMMISSION r,,,�„r MINUTES January 12, 2010 is not changing or adding any amenities to the common areas or streets, only building homes on pre-existing lots. Ponderosa Homes II has proposed three new architectural plans to be built on these lots. Plan 1 consists of 2,361 square feet, Plan 2 consists of 2,606 square feet, and Plan 3 consists of 2,798 square feet. Each of the plans has three separate facades in three architectural styles to create different exterior appearances. Also, nine separate color schemes have been designed to additionally create interest within the three plans. Each of the nine color schemes illustrates a stucco finish with muted desert paint colors, and concrete roof tiles. Manufactured stone is incorporated into three separate color schemes and illustrated on three separate elevations. All layouts have optional patio trellis features. The previous conditions set up for Ponderosa Homes II for lots 10,000 square feet and greater, which apply to the majority of the 103 lots Ponderosa plans to build on, designate 16' total side yard setbacks, no side less than 6', 20' front yard setback to the garage; 15' to the front side of the dwelling or side entry garage; and 20' setback in the rear yard. The maximum height is 18', one story with 35% lot coverage. Plan 1 illustrates an overall height from top of grade to top of roof tiles of 16'-8"; Plan 2 illustrates an overall height of 17'-10"; and Plan 3 illustrates 17'-6". Plans 1 through 3 range in site coverage from approximately 24% to 28%. All plans as illustrated meet the setbacks as previously approved in the original entitlements. The architectural facades illustrate variations of Spanish, Desert Colonial, and Desert Ranch styles that will blend well with the existing homes and provide some variation in architectural form from the initial homes built within the development. The home sizes for these new plans range from 2,361 to 2,798 square feet, which is smaller than the previous planned development. Previous homes built on the larger lots by Ponderosa ranged from 2,700 to 3,060 square feet. Although they are on the smaller side, they provide a variety of sizes that is in comparison with the previously approved plans. Setbacks, lot coverage and height are all in compliance with the previous development conditions, and the zoning ordinance as previously approved. The landscape specialist has evaluated the plant palette and found it to be the same or similar to the existing instalfed landscape plans with some slight modifications. Three typical plans and two atypical plans have been illustrated and submitted for review. The Building G:\Planning\Janine Judy\Word FilesW Minutes�2010�AR100112min.dx Page 5 of 10 ARCHITECTURAL R`t�wriEW COMMISSION �✓` r MINUTES January 12, 2010 & Safety Department had typical administrative comments that will be delivered to the applicant for information only. Staff recommends that the Architectural Review Commission approve and permit the construction of architecture and landscape plans for 103 new homes within Tracts 31490 and 31490-1. Ms. Pamela Hardy, representative stated they were thrilled to be back in Palm Desert. They sold 58 of their lots to D.R. Horton in December of last year and they very much want to build that is why they went ahead and designed a new architecture for the remaining 103 lots; essentially the western half of that project. There are three floor plans, three elevations that are closely matched and quite complimentary to D.R. Horton, and a good palette for exterior colors. They were very mindful of the issues that are important to Palm Desert as far as recessed windows, window trims, the fascia, and they feel that they have responded well to that. They met with the existing Masters residents and the plans were presented to them and a positive response was received. She feels that the houses in general are very pleasing and the market will respond well. Mr. Alan Menzies, architect stated that they were looking for a higher level of design with these floor plans because they are going with an entirely different niche. According to the plans these are more for retirement type homes and set up to have bigger rooms and not as many. This gives a nice variation from what is happening with D.R. Horton. He discussed the ventilation, pre- wiring for ceiling fans, the color schemes, and the deeper recesses. Commissioner Vuksic asked if the detailing on the side windows were the same as the Renaissance. Mr. Menzies stated that it is the same idea. They are not recessing the side windows but are using a different trim configuration; consistent with the original Masters program. Commissioner Vuksic asked if the trim details, seals, and headers are protruding out from the wall and Mr. Menzies indicated there will be varied designs. Commissioner Vuksic asked if the fireplaces were ventless or vented through the sides. Mr. Menzies answered that currently they are vented through the sides. Commissioner Vuksic asked how the stone veneer comes down to the ground and asked if they were going to stop it 6" to 8" inches above the soil. Mr. Menzies answered yes and explained that they G:\Planning\Janine Judy\Word FilesW Minutes�2010WR100112min.doc Page 6 of 10 � ARCHITECTURAL RE'w�W COMMISSION �,,✓ MINUTES January 12, 2010 have minimum standards for the stone. Commissioner Vuksic recommended that the stone come down to the minimum. Commissioner Levin asked if the driveways were stamped concrete and Ms. Hardy stated that the driveways would be scored. Commissioner Lambell referred to elevation Plan 2B for the mudroom and asked if they could change the name to something more appropriate to the desert. She liked the elevations, color board, and the roof materials. She asked if the windows could be more recessed along the sides. Mr. Stendell referred to the HVAC units and stated that there will be a ton of vents and wanted to make sure that they are blended in with some of the variegated colors on the roofs rather than being painted brown or gray. He asked them to take a look at the attachment of the shutters and asked if they could put some additional backing on them. ACTION: It was moved by Commissioner Levin and seconded by Commissioner Lambell, to grant approval subject to: 1) manufactured stone coming down to the minimum; 2) on Plan 2B rename the mudroom; 3) additional recess on side windows, if possible; 4) blend HVAC vents to match color of roof; 5) illustrate where fireplaces are vented through sidewalls; 6) additional backing on shutter attachments. Motion carried 7-0. 3. CASE NO: MISC 09-313 APPLICANT (AND ADDRESS): PALM DESERT REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY, 73-510 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert, CA 92260 NATURE OF PROJECT/APPROVAL SOUGHT: Preliminary approval of signage; Revitalization Plan for EI Paseo Drive. LOCATION: EI Paseo ZONE: GC, SP, OP Mr. Bryce White, Redevelopment Agency pointed out to the Commission the changes that have been made since the last presentation and asked the Commission if they had any questions regarding the submittal. He referred to the EI Paseo fountain G:\Planning\Janine Judy\Word Files�A Minutes�2010\AR100112min.doc Page 7 of 10 ARCHITECTURAL R�EW COMMISSION �� � MINUTES January 12, 2010 enhancements and said that they were originally presented with a vertical fountain and the plans now include fountains that are eschewed. He asked the Commission which fountain type they preferred. The Commission reviewed the plans and indicated that they preferred the vertical fountains. Commissioner Touschner stated that the light looks better on the straight ones. Mr. White stated that it has been suggested putting pavers throughout the entire intersection, not just the crosswalks. He presented the plans with the precision pavers as originally submitted and plans with pavers throughout the eight central district intersections; beginning at Ocotillo through to Prickly Pear. He stated that the main intersections at Portola and Highway 74 will have the enhanced crosswalks but not the intersections because of the traffic flow. Commissioner Vuksic stated that one of the crosswalks looks really engineered and didn't have any relationship to the median and was the same width all the way across. Mr. White stated that one of the suggestions made at the last meeting was to have a more free- flowing look. He pointed out that the San Luis intersection is an unusual and difficult intersection and it is being proposed to remove the cross gutters and do what is proposed for the other intersections. The Commission discussed the crosswalks and how they will intersect with the medians at all intersections. Commissioner Vuksic stated that they could widen the sidewalk and let it actually intersect with the median to absorb it. Commissioner Levin stated that from a construction standpoint that is much easier than trying to fill in paving in the tiny corners. Mr. White mentioned that they could allow the concrete band to intersect the radius so that it basically dies and the concrete would blend with the existing curb. Commissioner Vuksic wasn't sure about that and felt that it would look fake. Commissioner Touschner wanted to make sure there were no ADA issues. Commissioner Touschner referred to the section of EI Paseo and Monterey and asked if there was any merit with having the same approach and attitude to that intersection as to the other intersections. Mr. White stated that it is a separate type of intersection, much wider than at Portola and much more traffic. Commissioner Touschner stated that she was amazed at the amount of people crossing that intersection at all hours. She said that the EI Paseo District does not stop at that intersection. There are stores and restaurants that face EI Paseo and suggested that G:\Planning�,lanine Judy\Word FilesW Minutes�2010WR100112min.doc Page 8 of 10 ' ARCHITECTURAL RE�W COMMISSION w�,,,�+' MINUTES January 12, 2010 they continue the revitalization to the western end of EI Paseo. The Commission agreed with her assessment. Commissioner Levin asked if they would have to revise the plans to extend the revitalization to the western end. Mr. White stated that they try to design within a certain budget. Ms. Grisa said that after seeing some of the way-finding signs and their size, staff was concerned with the size of the primary and secondary signage on this project. She discussed the sign sizes and the Commission reviewed them. Mr. White indicated that the signage portion of the project has been approved by the City Council so they are moving forward with it. Commissioner Stendell asked if the City Council approved the 26' high signs and Mr. White said yes. Ms. Aylaian asked if this has been put out for bid and Mr. White said no and that they are doing the construction drawings now. Ms. Aylaian stated that the size of the signs was something that was very appropriate for the Architectural Review Commission to address, despite the fact that they have already gone to the City Council. She stated that the City Council doesn't look at the same level of detail as the ARC, and if the Commission has some opinions about the size and appropriateness of the signs, she thought the Commission should express their comments. Commissioner Gregory stated that it may not have been a discussion topic with the Council and that it was just a part of the entire package. Mr. White stated that the Council was presented with a study session and at that time, one of the Council members wanted the smaller signs. Commissioner Lambell expressed her concern with the signage especially with the new way-finding signs and said that they don't look grounded with the spindly posts. Mr. White stated that the within the EI Paseo District the signage would be retrofitted. The Commission reviewed the signs and their sizes and suggested that Mr. White provide a fult-size mock up of the primary signage, secondary signage, and directional signage. Ms. Grisa asked if the lighting will be fluorescent lamps or LED as the plans were conflicting. Mr. White stated that it should all be LED. Ms. Grisa also discussed the stop sign and stated that a portion of the pole will be exposed after the retrofit. Mr. White stated that they are not taking up the supports of the signs themselves they are just covering them. Ms. Grisa asked if the signs could be pushed up to cover the top because of the exposed portion. Mr. White explained that they will take what exists right now and retrofit them rather than replacing them because it is rather costly. The Commission reviewed and discussed the retrofit. G:\Planning\Janine Judy\Word Files�A Minutes�2010ViR100112min.doc Page 9 of 10 . ARCHITECTURAL R�EW COMMISSION � � MINUTES January 12, 2010 Ms. Grisa stated that the information kiosk, shade structures, and several other items will have to come back through the Commission for final approval once the conceptual drawings are complete. Mr. White stated that the construction documents were under way so they will change those at the request of the Commission. He was not clear what the mock-up would look like and will get direction from staff. ACTION: It was moved by Commissioner Gregory and seconded by Commissioner Touschner, to continue Case MISC 09-313 subject to: 1) submitting a full- size mock up of the primary signage, secondary signage, and directional signage; 2) enhance entire intersections with pavers; 3) provide detailing of how the crosswalks will intersect with the medians at all intersections; 4) fountain backdrop design elements should be straight and not angular; 5) maintain the continuity of the revitalization to the western end of EI Paseo; and 6) design the Hwy 74/EI Paseo intersection the same as the Portola intersection. Motion carried 7-0. B. Preliminary Plans: None C. Miscellaneous Items: None VII. ADJOURNMENT It was moved by Commissioner Lambell, seconded by Commissioner Gregory to adjourn the meeting. Motion carried 7-0. The meeting was adjourned at 2:05 p.m. TONY BA ATO PRINCIPAL PLANNER G:\Planning\Janine Judy\Word FileslA Minutes�2010�AR100112min.doc Page 10 of 10