06-07-2000 DRC MinutesCITY OF ORANGE
DESIGN REVIEW COMMITTEE
MINUTES
for Wednesday, June 7, 2000
Committee Members Present: Leonard Filner (Vice Chair)
Susan Secoy (Chair)
Joe Woollett
Mark Paone
Staff in Attendance: Chuck Lau, Associate Planner
Howard Morris, Landscape Coordinator
Committee Member Absent: Linda Boone
Administrative Session - 4:30 P.M.
The board met for an administrative session beginning at 4:30 p.m. The meeting adjourned at
approximately 9:40 p.m.
Regular Session - 5:30 PM
REVIEW OF MINUTES:
A motion was made by Leonard Filner to approve the May 3, 2000 minutes as submitted.
SECOND:Mark Paone
AYES:Leonard Filner, Mark Paone, Joe Woollett
NOES:None
ABSENT:Linda Boone
ABSTAINED:Susan Secoy
MOTION CARRIED
A motion was made by Susan Secoy to approve the May 17, 2000 minutes with the following
corrections:
City of Orange -Design Review Committee
Meeting Minutes for ~~98~ May 17, 2000
Pages 2 thru 9
SECOND:Leonard Filner
AYES:Leonard Filner, Susan Secoy, Joe Woollett
NOES:None
ABSENT:Linda Boone
ABSTAINED:Mark Paone
MOTION CARRIED
City of Orange -Design Review Committee
Meeting Minutes for June 7, 2000
Page 2
DRC No. 3383 -DAN ARGUELLO
Final review for an approved residential addition within the Old Towne District
604 E. Almond Avenue (Non-contributing Structure)
DRC Action: Final Determination
The project was presented by the owner Mr. Dan Arguello. The proposed addition was
approved by the Planning Commission on June 7, 1999. This is a final review prior to
submitting construction documents to the Building Department for permits.
The DRC discussed the following issues:
Proposed use of 5" wide (exposed) siding material made by Hardi Plank with corner trim is
acceptable.
Proposed color palette is OK, but need to specify color scheme.
Proposed use of cultured stones in lieu of river rocks. Traditionally, river rocks are utilized
with larger pieces at the bottom and become smaller in size in an ascending order. If there
are products out there (cultured stones) that follows this design format, the DRC may
consider it. More research is still needed to find an acceptable product.
Proposed outrigger modifications to punch through rather than placed below the fascia is
acceptable.
The DRC supports the direction of the project. However, the final plans must incorporate all
the items that were discussed.
MOTION by Mark Paone to continue the project per the above discussion.
SECOND:Susan Secoy
AYES:Leonard Filner, Mark Paone, Susan Secoy, Joe Woollett
NOES:None
ABSENT:Linda Boone
ABSTAINED:None
MOTION CARRIED
City of Orange -Design Review Committee
Meeting Minutes for June 7, 2000
Page 3
2. DRC No. 3527 - 24 HOUR FITNESS
Signage for a new fitness center
2600 W. Orangewood Avenue
DRC Action: Final Determination
Approved as consent item)
MOTION by Susan Secoy to approve the project as submitted.
SECOND:Leonard Filner
AYES:Leonard Filner, Mark Paone, Susan Secoy, Joe Woollett
NOES:None
ABSENT:Linda Boone
ABSTAINED:None
MOTION CARRIED
City of Orange -Design Review Committee
Meeting Minutes for June 7, 2000
Page 4
3. DRC No. 3544 -ROBERT & JANICE MICKELSON
New residential unit and studio/gallery on a vacant parcel within the Old Towne District
220 W. Almond Avenue
DRC Action: Recommendation to Planning Commission
The project was present by the applicants Bob and Janice Mickelson, and their architect John
Linnert, and landscape architect Bill Cathcart. The proposed mixed-use development consists
of a residential unit constructed over an art studio/gallery. Vehicular access is provided via an
existing 20 ft. wide common driveway shared with the adjoining 7 unit apartment complex to the
west. The project has been scheduled for Planning Commission hearing on July 5, 2000.
The meeting was opened for public comments:
Joan Crawford stated that the architectural style is rather unique and not prevalent in Old
Towne Orange.
Susan Secoy stated that although the architectural style (Spanish Revival/Mediterranean) is not
as prominent, it does works very well in the context of the area.
Joe Woollett agreed and further stated that the style of the building is very appropriate. It is a
rather creative approach to this particular type of building, and he would have no argument at
all with the architectural style being presented.
Mark Paone expressed concerns with the lack of landscaping along the east property line.
Bill Cathcart replied that this area is mostly screened from view by an adjoining garage
structure. This is a narrow pedestrian walkway that also serves as required handicap access.
Perhaps some type of espalier vine can be used in this area to help soften it.
Mark Paone inquired as to what type of signage is being proposed? This is an important aspect
of the project, and it should be taken into consideration with this application. He would like to
see some type of condition of approval imposed with this project to limit the future signage on
the property.
Bob Mickelson stated that he would not object to such a condition, as long as there is an
opportunity later on to return to the DRC with a signage submittal.
MOTION by Susan Secoy to recommend approval of the project to the Planning Commission
with the following conditions:
1. signage shall be kept to a minimum. A monument sign is recommended as opposed to any
type of signs on the building.
2. Roof drainage (gutter & down spout) shall be concealed internally.
3. Submit final landscape plans to DRC for approval.
4. Provide street tree(s) as designated by the City's Street Tree Supervisor.
City of Orange -Design Review Committee
Meeting Minutes for June 7, 2000
Page 5
The recommendation for approval is based on the finding that the proposed work conforms with
the standards and design criteria referenced and recommended by the Design Review
Committee. The proposed work complies with the Secretary of the Interior's Standards and
Guidelines. The proposed work is compatible with, and therefore will not adversely affect the
use and design of existing buildings within Old Towne.
SECOND:Joe Woollett
AYES:Mark Paone, Susan Secoy, Joe Woollett
NOES:None
ABSENT:Linda Boone
ABSTAINED:Leonard Filner
MOTION CARRIED
City of Orange -Design Review Committee
Meeting Minutes for June 7, 2000
Page 6
4. DRC No. 3553 -ALMOND @ MAIN
New Commercial Building
211 South Main Street
DRC Action: Final Determination
Continued from 5/17/00 meeting)
The revised plans were presented by Mr. Robert Meyer and Mr. K. Zadeh. They have retained
a licensed architect, Mr. Wayne Collins to provide additional information and detailed plans that
were requested by the DRC from the previous meeting. Also included are the structural detail
plans of the freestanding sign to show its construction method.
Mark Paone stated that the relief elements does not have enough depth and the color palette
does not seem to have enough contrast, and thereby making the building appear rather flat.
Suggest the use of a darker color at the cornice to create more contrast to the background wall
color. Awnings should also be added, similar to the ones shown on the photographs of other
project locations.
Mr. Meyer stated that depth of relief elements were results of prior consultation with the Orange
Police Department Crime Prevention Bureau, who did not wanted large off-sets in the building.
This creates hiding places for potential criminal activities.
Mr. Collins further explained that the awning are not being use because they will become a
maintenance problem for the owners. The photographs of other project sites are for illustration
purpose only, and are not intended as exact copies.
Susan Secoy stated that this is a vast improvement over the previous submittal. There has
been a great deal of progress made, however, the submitted signage program still appears
rudimentary. The signage programs of other similar projects in the City are generally better
prepared with much more detail.
Leonard Filner reiterated that the Palm trees should be specified in 8 ft. minimum brown trunk
height rather than in gallons or box sizes as being shown on the landscape plans.
MOTION by Joe Woollett to approve the project with the following conditions:
1. The cornice shall be painted a darker color. The 3 tone color palette shall be similar to the
one shown on the photo board for "Mr. Place". The same 3 tone color palette shall also be
applied to the left and rear building elevations.
2. Palm trees shall be specified as 8 ft. minimum brown trunk height. (min. 25% of new trees)
3. Submit final landscape and irrigation plans to Community Services Department for approval.
final plans to include City required inspection notes)
4. Provide horizontal drip screeds.
5. Freestanding sign shall match the building in terms of color palette.
6. Tenant wall signs are NOT approved at this time. Individual tenant wall signs must be
submitted separately to the DRC for approval.
City of Orange -Design Review Committee
Meeting Minutes for June 7, 2000
Page 7
4. DRC No. 3553 -ALMOND @ MAIN (Continued)
SECOND:Leonard Filner
AYES:Leonard Filner, Susan Secoy, Joe Woollett
NOES:Mark Paone
ABSENT:Linda Boone
ABSTAINED:None
MOTION CARRIED
City of Orange -Design Review Committee
Meeting Minutes for June 7, 2000
Page 8
5. DRC No. 3555 -PACIFIC BELL
Expansion of an existing telephone equipment facility
2525 Orange Olive Road
DRC Action: Recommendation to Planning Commission
The project was presented by Mr. Tim Ng with Pacific Bell, and Mr. Wesley Wei with JTC
Architects, Inc. The proposal is to add 9,883 sq.ft. of building area to an existing 13,925 sq.ft.
telecommunication facility. The exterior finish material and color palette will match the existing
building. The project has been scheduled for July 5, 2000 Planning Commission hearing.
The DRC discussed the following issues:
Roof gutter detail -will this be replaced? This still needs to be worked-out.
Existing block wall to the north. Exterior lighting fixtures? Prefer split face block or add
stucco to add texture.
Landscape - 25% of all new trees must be at least 24 inch box or larger. Hahn's Ivy is more
durable. Add city inspection notes. Study the possibility of planting along block wall.
Wall may be moved out further to accommodate emergency power generator.
Re-submit final plans to DRC.
MOTION by Susan Secoy to recommend approval of the project to the Planning Commission
with the following conditions:
1. Exterior lighting shall be directed away from adjoining properties.
2. Recommend use of split-face block (or textured block), or enhanced landscape along wall at
Delta Street.
3. Submit roof drainage detail. (gutter, down spout & scupper)
4. 25% of all new trees shall be 24 inch box size or larger.
5. Recommend use of Hanh's Ivy.
6. Submit revised plans to show emergency room generator expansion.
7. Submit lighting plan to show location and type of exterior lighting fixtures.
8. Submit final site, building elevation and landscape plans to DRC for approval.
SECOND: Leonard Filner
AYES: Leonard Filner, Mark Paone, Susan Secoy, Joe Woollett
NOES: None
ABSENT: Linda Boone
ABSTAINED: None
MOTION CARRIED
City of Orange -Design Review Committee
Meeting Minutes for June 7, 2000
Page 9
6. DRC No. 3557 - MOHAMMAD ABDOLLAHEH
New custom single family residence
6131 E. Cliffway Drive
DRC Action: Final Determination
The project was presented by Neil Hagigat - GA Design Architects, and Kathryn Cerra -
Landscape Architect. The proposal is to construct an approximately 10,000 sq.ft. residence on
a vacant parcel of land located within "Prospect Hills". Although the site is over 3 acres in size,
the net buildable `pad' area is severely limited by the hillside sloping conditions. The building
pad would be projected out approximately 25 ft. from the existing top edge of slope, which
creates a retaining wall of 10 to 15 ft in height. The proposed landscaping would incorporate
the use of drought tolerant plants that are not overly ornate, in order to blend in with some of
the existing native planting materials on site.
The meeting was opened to public comments:
Richard Sciuto (6141 E. Cliffway Dr.), adjoining neighbor to the southeast, stated that he does
not have a problem with the proposed square footage of the building or its architectural design.
However, he does have a concern with the building pad extending out beyond the existing edge
of slope resulting in a 10 to 15 ft. high retaining wall. All of the existing custom homes in
Prospect Hills respect the existing ridge line, and are setback at least 20 to 25 ft. from the edge
of slope.
Mr. Hagigat replied that each lot is unique in relationship to the existing slopes. The adjoining
residence is much higher in elevation (min. 25 ft.), and therefore its view should not be
impacted by this wall in any way.
Mr. Bob Bennyhoff, representing the Orange Park Acres Association (O.P.A.), also expressed
concerns with the extension of the building pad area beyond the edge of the slope and the
construction of retaining wall. When this tract was originally developed, the City had agreed to
impose restrictions on each of the lots (C, C & R's), in order to maintain the integrity of the
existing ridge line. This is the first out of 8 or 9 custom homes already developed in this tract
that violates this. Allowing this project to protrude out beyond the natural slope would set a bad
precedent for other developments to follow. The O.P.A. has unanimously voted to oppose and
appeal this project to the City Council, if it is approved in its present form.
The DRC felt that given the site constraints, additional information is needed in order to better
understand the project within the scope of the overall tract development. The applicant needs
to provide section drawings to show how the structure is situated in relationship to the slope
prior to discussing the details of the project. Superimposed photos taken from the Orange Park
Acres to illustrate the impact are also needed. Fire Department review should also occur prior
to returning to the DRC.
MOTION by Mark Paone to continue the project based on the discussion above.
SECOND: Leonard Filner
AYES: Leonard Filner, Mark Paone, Susan Secoy, Joe Woollett
NOES: None
ABSENT: Linda Boone
ABSTAINED: None
MOTION CARRIED
City of Orange -Design Review Committee
Meeting Minutes for June 7, 2000
Page 10
7. DRC No. 3559 - LIS GIUSTO
New 1'/2 story accessory second unit within the Old Towne District
374 N. Cambridge Street (Contributing Structure)
DRC Action: Recommendation to Planning Commission
The project was presented by the owner Lis Giusto and her architect Doug Ely. The proposal is
to construct a 1 %2 story accessory second unit over a 2-car garage/workshop. The accessory
unit is only 450 sq.ft. in size to comply with code requirements. The exterior finish would be
horizontal wood siding to be consistent with Old Towne. The project will require approval of a
conditional use permit and variance (for building setbacks) by the Planning Commission and
City Council.
The DRC commented as follows:
The project is moving in the right direction. The design is sensitive and responsive to the
neighborhood, as evidence by its reduced bulk and mass.
The roof dormer on the north side appears large and out of scale. The DRC would support
the approval of a variance in order to achieve further reduction of the code required 450
sq.ft. minimum unit size.
Further study is needed to submit an alternative plan that incorporates a reduced size unit
with a smaller roof dormer along the north building elevation.
MOTION by Mark Paone to continue the project based on the discussion above.
SECOND:Susan Secoy
AYES:Leonard Filner,
NOES:None
ABSENT:Linda Boone
ABSTAINED:None
Mark Paone, Susan Secoy, Joe Woollett
MOTION CARRIED
City of Orange -Design Review Committee
Meeting Minutes for June 7, 2000
Page 11
8. DRC No. 3561 - STU & DIANA LIVINGSTONE
Addition to an existing residence within the Old Towne District
515 E. Maple Avenue (Contributing Structure)
DRC Action: Final Determination
The project was presented by the owner Mr. Stu Livingstone. The proposal is to construct a
524 sq.ft. single story room addition along the west side of the existing 2-story residence. The
exterior finish materials, color, trims and details will all match with the existing house.
The DRC commended the applicant for doing such a fabulous job with the proposed addition.
The DRC finds that the proposed work conforms with the standards and design criteria
referenced by the Design Review Committee. The proposed work complies with the Secretary
of the Interior's Standards and Guidelines. The proposed work will neither adversely affect the
significant architectural features of the building, nor adversely affect the character of historical,
architectural, or aesthetic interest or value of the building, its site, or the surrounding area.
MOTION by Susan Secoy to approve the project as submitted.
SECOND: Leonard Filner
AYES: Leonard Filner, Mark Paone, Susan Secoy, Joe Woollett
NOES: None
ABSENT: Linda Boone
ABSTAINED: None
MOTION CARRIED
06 -07 -00 drem