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2007 04 04 ALRCa, OF T1 ARCHITECTURE AND LANDSCAPING REVIEW COMMITTEE AGENDA A Special Meeting to be Held at the La Quinta City Hall Council Chambers 78-495 Calle Tampico, La Quinta, California APRIL 4, 2007 10:00 A.M. Beginning Minute Motion 2007-005 CALL TO ORDER A. Pledge of Allegiance B. Roll Call II. PUBLIC COMMENT This is the time set aside for public comment on any matter not scheduled for public hearing. Please complete a "Request to Speak" form and limit your comments to three minutes. III. CONFIRMATION OF AGENDA IV. CONSENT CALENDAR: Approval of the Minutes of March 21, 2007. V. BUSINESS ITEMS: A. Item ........................ SITE DEVELOPMENT PERMIT 2006-872 Applicant ................ Trans West Housing Location .................. South of Avenue 54 and west of Monroe Street Request .................. Consideration of architecture and landscaping plans for proposed landscaped Lot "B" and Firenze Gate in Tentative Tract Map 34642 (Griffin Ranch) Action .................... Minute Motion 2007- ARCHITECTURE AND LANDSCAPING REVIEW COMMITTEE B. Item ........................ SITE DEVELOPMENT PERMIT 2007-879 Applicant ................ The Foundation Group Location .................. Last available pad site within Plot Plan 91-465; Pad Site "A" on the northwest corner of Calle Tampico and Washington Street, north of City Hall Request .................. Consideration of architecture and landscaping plans for Pad Site "A" within the existing La Quinta Village Shopping Center Action .................... Minute Motion 2007- C. Item ........................ SITE DEVELOPMENT PERMIT 2007-883 Applicant ................ East of Madison LLC Location .................. Southwest corner of Monroe Street and Avenue 52 Request .................. Consideration of buildings, parking lot, tennis court, and landscaping plans for the Madison Club Clubhouse Action .................... Minute Motion 2007- D. Item ........................ SITE DEVELOPMENT PERMIT 2007-882 Applicant ................ Lee & Sakahara Architects AIA Location .................. Southeast corner of Highway 111 and Depot Drive Request .................. Consideration of architectural and landscaping plans for a 7,724 square foot restaurant, in the Komar Desert Center Action .................... Minute Motion 2007- E. Item ........................ SITE DEVELOPMENT PERMIT 2007-881 Applicant ................ R. T. Hughes Co., LLC Location .................. Southwest corner of Madison Street and Avenue 60 Request .................. Consideration of architectural and preliminary landscaping plans for a 57 home project identified as "Malaga Estates" Action .................... Minute Motion 2007- VI. CORRESPONDENCE AND WRITTEN MATERIAL VII. COMMITTEE MEMBER ITEMS: G:\WPDOCS\ALRC\Agenda.doc ARCHITECTURE AND LANDSCAPING REVIEW COMMITTEE NII1 Jk)1161T1.qOLei1:1M This meeting of the Architecture and Landscape Review Committee will be adjourned to a Regular Meeting to be held on May 2, 2007 at 10:00 a.m. DECLARATION OF POSTING I, Betty J. Sawyer, Executive Secretary of the City of La Quinta, do hereby declare that the foregoing Agenda for the La Quinta Architectural and Landscaping Review Committee Regular Meeting of Wednesday, April 4, 2007, was posted on the outside entry to the Council Chamber, 78-495 Calle Tampico, and the bulletin board at the La Quinta Post Office bulletin board. 78-630 Highway 111, on Friday, March 30, 2007. DATED: March 30, 2007 BET AWYER, Executive Secretary City of La Quinta, California G:\WPDOCS\ALRC\Agenda.doc MINUTES ARCHITECTURE & LANDSCAPING REVIEW COMMITTEE MEETING A Regularly Scheduled meeting held at the La Quinta City Hall 78-495 Calle Tampico, La Quinta, CA March 21, 2007 10:00 a.m. CALL TO ORDER A. This meeting of the Architectural and Landscaping Review Committee was called to order at 10:10 a.m. by Planning Manager Les Johnson. B. Committee Members present: Bill Bobbitt and Tracy Smith. It was moved and seconded by Committee Members Smith/Bobbitt to excuse Committee Member Christopher. Unanimously approved. C. Staff present: Planning Manager Les Johnson, Principal Planner Wallace Nesbit, and Executive Secretary Betty Sawyer. II. PUBLIC COMMENT: None. II. CONFIRMATION OF THE AGENDA: Confirmed IV. CONSENT CALENDAR: A. It was rnoved and seconded by Committee Members Bobbitt/Smith to approve the Minutes of March 7, 2007 as submitted. Unanimously approved. V. BUSINESS ITEMS: A. Village Use Permit 2005-030; a request of Borrego Resort Holdings, Inc. for consideration of pre -construction landscaping plans and streetscape program for a 20-unit, two and one half story residential condominium building in the Village at La Quinta located on the south side of Calle Tampico, bounded by Avenida Villa and Avenida Navarro. 1. Principal Planner Wallace Nesbit presented the information contained in the staff report, a copy of which is on file in the Community Development Department. Staff introduced Richard Leyva and Richard Wilde, of Leyva & Wilde Landscape Architects, who gave a presentation on the project. Architecture and Landscaping Review Committee March 21, 2007 2. Committee Member Smith asked if the tree wells were at the curb. Staff explained the grate is at the curb and the tree is in centered in the grate, similar to what currently exists along Calle Estado. Committee Member Smith asked the wall in front of the building was at a height that could be utilized for sitting. Staff stated it was discussed, but concern was raised about skateboarders. Discussion followed regarding materials that could be used to deter the skateboarders and yet allow a pedestrian to sit. 3. Committee Member Bobbitt asked which option staff preferred. Staff stated Option 2 or 3. 4. Committee Member Smith asked if the parallel parking would remain. Mr. Leyva stated it would remain. 5. Committee Member Bobbitt questioned the use of the Tipuana tree in regard to the long term use. He would have no objection to using different varieties on different streets. Mr. Leyva stated they were tying into what was used at the Library to retain continuity. Committee Member Bobbitt suggested the City look at adopting a tree plan. 6. Committee Member Smith asked if they would be using root barriers. Mr. Leyva stated yes, as well as engineered soils. 7. Committee Member Bobbitt asked who maintains the trees. Staff stated the applicant would be responsible as they are off the street. Discussion followed regarding the different Plan Options. 8. Committee Member Bobbitt asked the height of the slope around the building. Staff stated 3:1 or 5:1. Committee Member Bobbitt asked what type of irrigation would be used for the ground cover. Mr. Leyva stated it would be a variety with drip irrigation. 9. Committee Member Smith stated they definitely do not want any type of mulch material due to the maintenance problems. He asked that there be a finished look. In regard to the plant material, he was not certain about some of the species. cottm—. h......... A —1 q. tiIa— \Temp-- i,ao.,,ot coo.mt voa�z_�i_m �, 2 Architecture and Landscaping Review Committee March 21, 2007 10. Committee Member Bobbitt stated he would concur with staff and not suggest the Jasmine. Mr. Wilde stated all the plants are on the CVWD approved list. 11. Committee Member Smith stated there are a lot of high water use plants listed. If they are planted in the Spring they will not survive the summer. Timing on the plantings is very important to their survival rate. Discussion followed as to where some of the species were to be used. 12. Committee Member Smith asked what type of paving material would be used around the pool. Mr. Leyva displayed the material samples. Committee Member Smith stated his experience with sandstone based materials is that it does not last. It needs to be a granite base. Mr. Leyva stated the Canterra stone is a manufactured product which allows it to deteriorate more slowly. Discussion followed regarding the different type of materials. Committee Member Smith asked if the pots were connected to an irrigation system that is a separate system. Mr. Leyva stated they were. There are different zones that are irrigated separately. Committee Member Smith asked where the drains would drain. Mr. Leyva stated they would drain to the garage and eventually into the street via a pump system. 13. Staff asked that on the hardscape around the stone walls and the tree wells, a decorative hardscape material be added. 14. There being no further questions, it was moved and seconded by Committee Members Smith/Bobbitt to adopt Minute Motion 2007-004 recommending approval of Village Use Permit 2005- 030, as recommended with Option 3, with the addition of the stone wall having a decorative hardscape added around the tree well areas along the street; and stem walls shall accommodate seating with a cast stone cap at key locations. Unanimously approved. VI. CORRESPONDENCE AND WRITTEN MATERIAL: None VII. COMMITTEE MEMBER ITEMS: None r „w —i C.Iti—%Tomn-- Intranet Fl..Ml KQRPL91_n7 A— 3 Architecture and Landscaping Review Committee March 21, 2007 VIII. ADJOURNMENT: There being no further business, it was moved and seconded by Committee Members Bobbitt/Smith to adjourn this Special Meeting of the Architectural and Landscaping Review Committee to a Regular Meeting to be held on April 4, 2007. This meeting was adjourned at 11:07 a.m. on March 21, 2007. Respectfully submitted, BETTY J. SAWYER Executive Secretary —H co.,i,'Oh—.......�I„ 1 CctH—XT.--.— i.,.o...ot Ppl—kni roa\z_v._m n,.,. 4 BI #A o� o c� 4 � s XPOamm S C�'y OF ARCHITECTURE AND LANDSCAPE REVIEW COMMITTEE DATE: APRIL 4, 2007 CASE NO: SITE DEVELOPMENT PERMIT 2006-872 APPLICANT: TRANS WEST HOUSING ARCHITECT: PEKAREK-CRANDALL INC. REQUEST: REVIEW OF ARCHITECTURE AND LANDSCAPING FOR PROPOSED LANDSCAPED LOT B AND FIRENZE GATE IN TENTATIVE TRACT 34642 (GRIFFIN RANCH). LOCATION: SOUTH OF AVENUE 54 & WEST OF MONROE STREET BACKGROUND: The Griffin Ranch project was originally approved by the City Council on January 4, 2004, as part of multiple approvals. All perimeter walls, perimeter landscaping, residential unit landscaping, model home architecture, and three of four entry gates have previously been reviewed by the ALRC as a part of other Site Development Permit applications. The project as approved will be developed with 303 single-family lots over approximately 200 acres, with adjacent equestrian facilities and access to the City multi -purpose trail system. On October 18, 2006, the ALRC reviewed the landscaping and architecture for the Griffin Ranch clubhouse. Since that time, two outstanding items have been added to the Site Development Permit for review: landscaped open space "Lot B" and the Firenze Gate design for Tentative Tract 34642. PROJECT PROPOSAL: Firenze Gate Three of the four perimeter gates accessing Griffin Ranch have been previously reviewed by the ALRC. Firenze Gate is a fourth gate that will be unmanned, providing access to Monroe Street, designed similar in style as the two unmanned gates accessing Avenue 54 (Attachment 1). Entry gates will consist of heavy wood with wrought iron. The Monroe Street gate will include a pedestrian access gate but not an equestrian gate. Street surfacing will consist of decorative brick pavers. Wall designs P:\Reports - ALRC\2007\4-4-07\SDP 06-872 alrc rpt Griffin Ranch TT34642.doc and light fixtures will be identical to those used on other gates. A stucco wall with earth -tone beige paint and equally -spaced pilasters with an identical inlaid tile design as other gates will be used. Landscaping around the gate will utilize decorative turf surrounded by desertscape plantings in decomposed gravel. The color boards and full- size color illustrations will be provided at the April 4, 2007 ALRC meeting. Lot "B" Lot "B" refers to the landscaped open space at the center of Tentative Tract 34642 (Attachment 2). The parcel has a dual use for storm water retention and passive recreational use, incorporating a series of small ponds with waterfalls at the center of a basin. No details have been provided regarding the specific size of the proposed water feature. Landscaping will consist of turf around the water's edge with desertscape landscaping around the perimeter. The plant palate will be identical to that used elsewhere on the project. A walking path will encircle the water feature. Lot "B" will extend towards Firenze Gate to provide visibility from the entry. ANALYSIS: Firenze Gate will be nearly identical in design .to the existing unmanned gates along Avenue 54. Both Lot "B" and Firenze Gate will utilize decorative turf and the same plant palate and landscaping design theme as the remainder of the project. The attached master plant palate (Attachment 3) is from the Amended Specific Plan and has been revised to exclude plants deemed hazardous to horses. Both are designed consistent with the existing portions of the project. During the March 271", 2007 Planning Commission hearing for the Amended Specific Plan and Tentative Tract Map 34642, Commissioner Barrows suggested reducing the amount of turf and that the applicant consider a reduction to the size of the water feature. The applicant noted during that meeting that one of the purposes for the basin was to hold Bureau of Reclamation agricultural irrigation water, used for flood irrigation of the adjacent Saddle Club. Staff recommends that the ALRC consider reducing the water feature's size and the amount of turf. RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends adoption of a minute motion accepting the plans for Site Development Permit 2006-872 with the following conditions: 1 . The applicants shall reduce the size of the water feature and the use of turf on Lot B and reduce the use of turf along the south side of Firenze Gate in the final landscaping plans. 2. Sight triangle distances for Firenze Gate shall be considered in the design of the final landscaping plans. P:\Reports - ALRC\2007\4-4-07\SDP 06-872 alrc rpt Griffin Ranch TT34642.doc 3. Final landscaping plans shall be reviewed by the Architecture and Landscaping Review Committee and approved by the Community Development Director. Transmitted by: ---------------- _- ANR,rkEW J. MOGENSEN A ociate Planner Attachments: 1. Proposed Firenze Gate Landscaping Plan and Elevations* 2. Proposed Lot "B" Landscaping Plan (2 pages) 3. Existing landscaping palate (from Specific Plan 2004-074) *Large format plans and color board to be provided at the ALRC hearing P:\Reports - ALRC\2007\4-4-07\SDP 06-872 alrc rpt Griffin Ranch TT34642.doc rZ j s OFQ�`J ARCHITECTURE AND LANDSCAPE REVIEW COMMITTEE DATE: APRIL 4, 2007 CASE NUMBER: SITE DEVELOPMENT PERMIT 2007-879 APPLICANT: THE FOUNDATION GROUP, LLC ARCHITECT: GRIST ASSOCIATES REQUEST: CONSIDERATION OF ARCHITECTURAL AND LANDSCAPING PLANS FOR PAD SITE 'A' WITHIN THE EXISTING LA QUINTA VILLAGE SHOPPING CENTER (PLOT PLAN 1991-456) LOCATION: LAST AVAILABLE PAD SITE WITHIN PP 91-465; PAD SITE 'A' ON THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF CALLE TAMPICO AND WASHINGTON STREET, NORTH OF CITY HALL BACKGROUND: The La Quinta Village Shopping Center (Plot Plan 91-465) was originally approved as a 116,000 square foot shopping center on an 11.8 acre site. Additionally, a General Plan Amendment and Change of Zone allowing commercial usage of the site were approved by the City Council in April of 1991 . In November of 1992, an amendment decreasing the project to 85,650 square feet on 9.25 acres was approved. In April of 1994, a second amendment decreasing the project to 79,000 square feet was approved (Attachment 1). Of the 79,000 square feet of approved commercial space, 20,000± square feet of space was devoted to four pad sites within the center. Under the approved amendment, Pad 'A' shows a future building of 4,500 square feet with an additional 1,500 square feet devoted to an outdoor eating area along the east elevation. The southeast corner of the shopping center is currently used as the shopping centers retention basin. This corner of the shopping center, located at the northwest corner of Calle Tampico and Washington Street, was originally intended to act as an open entry to welcome people into the "village" area. The outdoor eating area originally proposed for Pad 'A' was anticipated to be a functional open area attracting visitors and residents to the shopping center as well as the village area. The shopping center is a Spanish architectural design motif which utilizes exterior cement plaster, arched walkways, ceramic tile accents, wood trellises, and Mission -style clay roof tile. Building heights at the center typically range from 20 to 30 feet in height, excluding the main tower element that is 42 feet high. Perimeter freestanding pad buildings were built in 1995 (Pad 'C'), 1996 (Pad 'B') and 2003 (Pad 'D') respectively. PROJECT REQUEST: The applicant has submitted a Site Development Permit for a 6,200 square foot freestanding pad building within the La Quinta Village Shopping Center (Attachment 2). The design and architecture of the building are consistent with the existing shopping center. The building will be a Spanish architecture motif with white stucco, ceramic tile accents, Mission -style clay roof tile, and an arched colonnade (Attachment 3). The building design is intended for three tenant spaces, the largest being 3,700 square feet (Attachment 4). The window treatments, location, and design are intended to match the proposed tenant spaces. Windows for corner tenants "wrap" around the buildings north, east, and west corners to provide visual relief from a bare building facade. An arched colonnade and covered walkway are provided around the building. The arches and colonnade will be consistent with the existing arches and colonnades at the shopping center. Along with the proposed depths of the surrounding colonnade, a roof overhang of eighteen (18) inches is provided. The intent of the overhang is to enhance the overall design of the building and to provide additional shade. The overhang depth is consistent with the rest of the shopping center. The north elevation of the building will include over fifteen (15) feet of hardscape, ten (10) feet of which will be covered by the colonnade. The colonnade to the east will have a width of ten (10) feet, while the colonnade to the west will have a width ranging between eight (8) and nine (9) feet. The south elevation of the building will include seven and a half (7%) feet of hardscape for a walkway. A colonnade is provided along the south elevation; however, the depth of the colonnade is designed solely for visual relief from the building. Most of the southern walkway will be left uncovered, with partial cover provided by the roof overhang. The design of the south colonnade is consistent with the existing shopping center's rear building colonnades. Wood beams will be used as the ceiling under the covered walkways. The wood beams will be stained to match the existing ceiling beams at the shopping center. The pad will use existing parking and no changes to the built environment are proposed other than re -stripping for ADA parking stalls. There is sufficient parking to adequately serve the proposed development. The proposed building will also increase pedestrian access to the site by increasing the number of walkways and colonnades at the shopping center. Landscaping for the proposed building will be consistent with the existing landscaping for the shopping center (Attachment 5). The proposed landscape plan shows six small planting areas along the six pillars on the north elevation. The planting areas will consist of Bougainvilleas to provide visual enhancement and color to the building, Myoporum will be used as ground cover within the planters. The applicant proposes to plant an African Sumac at the northwest corner of the building, within an existing bare landscape planter. The proposed plant is consistent with the existing landscaping at the center. The west elevation of the building faces directly onto the existing parking lot. The space between the building and the parking lot is proposed to be hardscape with a seven (7) foot wide colonnade. The east elevation of the building faces onto the existing landscaped retention basin and the existing water feature for the center. The proposed landscaping is designed to incorporate the water feature into the building by providing additional hardscape and removing existing overgrown shrubs and replanting a new row of Salvia Greggii. The row of Salvia Greggii will begin at the southern portion of the water feature and will flow along the eastern edge before wrapping around the proposed buildings southern edge. The landscape area along the southeast edge of the property contains a relatively narrow swale from the existing retention basin. The applicant has proposed to plant grass within the swale which is consistent with the existing landscape of the retention basin and swale. The applicant will leave the swale as is, so as not to disrupt its function with the overall design of the retention basin. Along with the swale, the applicant has proposed to plant two Acacia Stenophylla in the area west of the swale. The Acacia Stenophylla will be complimented by grouping several Raphiolepis "Ballerina" near the Acacias, and providing Yellow Lantana for ground cover. ANALYSIS: Staff finds the overall architectural style and design of the proposed Pad site to be consistent with the existing shopping center. As a result of researching and reviewing the proposed development staff would like to note the following: • Calle Tampico and Washington Street are designated as Image Corridors per the City of La Quinta General Plan; therefore, building heights along both streets are limited to a maximum of 22 feet in height. The applicant has proposed a building that is in compliance with this provision. • The southeast corner of the shopping center was originally intended to be open and to provide a visual entrance into the site and "village" area. The original pad site utilized an outdoor eating area to enhance the character of the shopping center and to draw people into the "village" area. The massing and total square footage of the proposed building is potentially inconsistent with the original intent of the Pad site. • The applicant has proposed a number of off -site improvements along the water feature near the northeast portion of the project. Generally, off -site improvements are not allowed without property owner consent. Though proposed, the applicant has not provided written proof of consent from the property owner. • The on -site retention basin for the shopping center will need to be preserved in its entirety, including the swale which encroaches into the project. • The west elevation of the building faces onto an existing parking lot, which is anticipated to be the main parking area for the proposed pad. As such, the applicant should incorporate more landscaping into the west elevation. • The proposed landscaping for the pad building is consistent with the existing plant palette of the shopping center. However, the use of Salvia Greggii may not be appropriate for this corner. The applicant's intent is to design a row of hedges that flow from the water feature to the south of the building. The Salvia Greggii is a mid -sized shrub which, when grown, may not complete the desired effect of a hedge. • Lighting for the building is shown to be consistent with the existing lighting at the shopping center. Lighting above the south elevation access doors shall shield light bulbs from view. RECOMMENDATION: That the Architecture and Landscape Review Committee recommend to the Planning Commission approval of Site Development Permit 2007-879, subject to the following Conditions of Approval: 1. Final landscape plans for on -site planting shall be reviewed by the ALRC and approved by the Community Development Director prior to issuance of first building permit. Final plans shall include all landscaping associated with this project, including perimeter landscaping. 2. In order to preserve the function of the on -site retention basin, the existing swale shall not be degraded by the proposed landscaping for the building. Landscaping along the south elevation of the building needs to be revised to incorporate screening material and plant massing to shield the back of the building. 3. Landscaping along the water feature and the buildings east elevation shall be revised to incorporate more plant massing and screening material. 4. In order to enhance color and visual appeal of the west elevation, three small planting areas, similar to those provided along the north elevation pillars, shall be provided. For consistency, the planting areas shall be planted with Bogainvillea and Myoporum. 5. All proposed off -site improvements will require the adjacent property owner's approval and consent, which shall be provided prior to submitting for Planning Commission consideration. 6. The access doors on the south side elevation and the access doors for the electrical room shall be painted to match the color of the building. 7. Since the original intent of Pad 'A' was to remain as an open, welcoming, outdoor eating area, the proposed building shall be re -designed to include an outdoor eating area. The applicant shall reduce the proposed Shop No. 1 square footage by a minimum of 450 square feet and shall incorporate that 450 square feet into an outdoor eating area along the northeast or southeast corner of the building. The outdoor area shall be a minimum of 550 square feet and shall be covered by the proposed colonnade. The final architectural drawings must show all proposed columns. 8. If a grade differential of two (2) or more feet exists between the proposed building and the northern parking lot, the applicant shall provide a landscape barrier to limit, but not restrict, access from the northern parking lot. 9. Roof -mounted mechanical equipment shall be screened and shall not exceed the height of the roof. 10. The applicant shall comply with all applicable conditions of approval of Plot Plan 1991-456. Prepared by: A Eric Ceja, As Jstant Planner Attachments: 1. Original Site Plan 2. Site Location 3. Building Elevations 4. Building Floor Plan 5. Preliminary Landscape Plan BI #C ARCHITECTURE AND LANDSCAPE REVIEW COMMITTEE DATE: APRIL 4, 2007 CASE NO: SITE DEVELOPMENT PERMIT 2007-883 APPLICANT: EAST OF MADISON, LLC ARCHITECT: BAR ARCHITECTS LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT: VITA REQUEST: CONSIDERATION OF BUILDINGS, PARKING LOT, TENNIS COURT, AND LANDSCAPING PLANS FOR THE MADISON CLUB CLUBHOUSE LOCATION: SOUTHWEST CORNER OF MONROE STREET & AVENUE 52 BACKGROUND The Madison Club, bounded by Avenue 52 and Avenue 53 on the north, Avenue 54 on the south, Madison Street on the west, and Monroe Street on the east, received Specific Plan approval on February 1, 2005 (SP 99-035 Amendment 1), and Tentative Tract Map approval on August 2, 2005 (TTM 33076) (Attachment 1). The project area encompasses approximately 472 acres, and consists of custom single-family detached units, detached villas, and a golf course. The applicant is now proposing to subdivide approximately 24 acres at the intersection of Meriwether Way and Shackleton Street into the clubhouse site, tennis courts, a parking lot, and a remainder parcel to be used as the future site of the Madison Club Villas (TTM 34969)(Attachment 2) (Attachment 3). For this meeting, the applicant is requesting consideration of the structure and design of the clubhouse, tennis courts, and parking lot, as well as associated landscaping plans. PROJECT REQUEST Clubhouse Site: Included with this proposal are plans of the golf course clubhouse site, which has been designed to reflect a Spanish -Mediterranean architectural style. The clubhouse site features a decoratively -paved vehicular entry courtyard surrounded by three primary clubhouse buildings, which include the Main Building, the Men's Building and Pro Shop, and the Women's Building (Attachment 4, Page LR01). The architectural style of all clubhouse buildings is Spanish -Mediterranean and includes use of rust -colored clay tile roofing, off-white hand -troweled stucco walls, numerous columns and archways, and a combination of arched and casement windows with elaborate grille -work. Balconies, balustrades, covered patios and arcades, chimney accents, and other design elements provide architectural articulation to the various building facades. Each building in the clubhouse site has different interior functions and characteristics. The two-story Main Building, at approximately 10,075 square feet, houses the main restaurant and lounge. The first floor features the kitchen, the main dining room and lounge, and private dining areas. An elevator and stairwell leads to the second floor, which includes another private dining area, a cinema screening room, and the administration offices for the clubhouse (Attachment 4, Page AR01-AR02). The Main Building, at the highest roof ridgeline, is approximately 35 feet in height (Attachment 4, Page AR1 1). The four-story Men's Building and two-story Pro Shop combined are approximately 16,655 square feet. The lower floor of the Men's Building, which for the most part is below grade, includes the golf cart parking area, and numerous maintenance rooms, offices, and storage areas (Attachment 4, Page AR03). The first floor includes a bar and lounge, the men's locker room, and a wet area that contains shower facilities, lavatories, and hot/cold plunges (Attachment 4, Page AR04). An exterior stairway and interior elevator provides access to the second and third floors. These floors house a total of five condominium units, four on the second floor and one on the third floor. Each unit has a dining/living area, a bedroom and bathroom, and a view balcony (Attachment 4, Page AR05-AR06). A covered passageway connects the first floor of the Men's Building to the Pro Shop, which contains a retail area, storage room, and an office. The below -grade lower floor of the Pro Shop is also connected to the lower floor of the Men's Building by a circulation corridor. The height of the Men's Building at the highest roofline is approximately 44 feet, and 48.5 feet at the top of the chimney. The height of the Pro Shop is approximately 17'-9" from the top of grade facing the motor courtyard, and 30'-9" from the top grade facing the recessed loading dock (Attachment 4, Page AR14-AR15). The two-story Women's Building, including the pool and spa area, is approximately 12,400 square feet. The lower floor of the Women's Building consists mainly of a fitness center and movement center. A staircase and elevator leads up to the first floor, which includes a locker room, restroom facilities, numerous treatment rooms and gardens, a salon, and a lounge (Attachment 4, Page AR07-AR08). Outside of the Women's Building is the clubhouse swimming pool/spa/event lawn area. Located adjacent to the spa are two pool pavilions. One pavilion, the pool bar, consists of a bar and storage areas. The other pavilion is two -stories, with pool equipment storage located on the lower floor and toilet facilities located on the upper first floor (Attachment 4, Page AR09). Similar to the Pro Shop, the Women's Building is situated on multiple grades. The height of the building as seen from the highest grade, where the motor entrance courtyard is located, ranges from approximately 17 feet to 21 feet. The height of the building as seen from the lower grade, nearest to the pool area, is approximately 36 feet. The height of the two pool pavilions, as seen from the pool/spa/event lawn area, are approximately 12'-9" each (Attachment 4, Page AR17- AR18). Parking Lot & Tennis Courts: The clubhouse parking lot is located adjacent to the clubhouse site (Attachment 4, Page LR04). A total of 143 parking spaces, including five ADA parking spaces, are provided. Access to the clubhouse is through a paved walking path. However, most patrons are expected to valet park their vehicle in the entrance courtyard. On the far end of the parking lot are two tennis courts. The courts are unlit, and are screened by the typical green tennis fencing. Landscaping: Landscaping throughout the clubhouse site is plentiful and is designed to complement the architecture of the various clubhouse buildings (Attachment 4, Page LR02-LR07). Mostly utilized around the clubhouse site are various dense hedges and shrubs, with minimal use of turf, which has been limited to a lawn area outside the Women's Building and the clubhouse site event lawn area. The use of numerous Date Palms, Mexican, Mediterranean, and California Fan Palms sufficiently reflect the Spanish - Mediterranean architecture, while providing proper screening and accents. Other tree plantings include Figs and Citrus Trees, from 36" boxes up to 108" boxes. In general, the diverse plant material palette for the clubhouse site is characterized by low water and minimal -maintenance plants. Walls, fences, and gates throughout the clubhouse site have several different design elements (Attachment 4, Page LR08). The various walls include a standard stucco wall, service court wall, and freestanding walls. Wall heights in the submittal have been identified as being a maximum of six feet. At this time, a detailed wall location map has not been submitted, as well as wall elevations. The service entry gate, located near the Pro Shop service area, is designed with a timber gate frame, decorative bolts, and a laser cut metal screen. The entry gate is complemented with dense shrubs and hedges, and canopy/accent trees. The gate and landscaping effectively screens the trash enclosure and service areas. ANALYSIS Staff finds that the overall architectural style and design of the proposed clubhouse site to be acceptable. Staff has no issues with the proposed clubhouse buildings, parking lot/tennis court area, and landscaping palette, as they are appropriate and well - designed. The clubhouse buildings, including the Pro Shop, Pool Pavilions, and the Pool/Spa/Event Lawn area, are designed such that they serve as a symbolic landmark within the Madison Club. The arrangement and orientation of the clubhouse buildings capitalize on the golf course and mountain views, while being adequately set back and screened from nearby residential units. The Spanish -Mediterranean architecture and layout of the clubhouse buildings are compatible with the development guidelines given in the approved Specific Plan for The Madison Club. Although the height (44 feet) and number of stories (4) of the Men's Building may seem disproportional to the surrounding land uses, it complies with the standards given in the Specific Plan (Attachment 5). The parking lot and tennis court area is also acceptable. The parking lot is designed with a clear separation of vehicular and pedestrian circulation, and also provides sufficient screening from the neighboring golf course and residential units. The proposal provides for 143 parking spaces, which well exceeds the 116 parking spaces required in the Specific Plan. Additionally, with the exclusion of lighting, the tennis courts are limited to daytime use, thereby minimizing any negative visual impact on the surrounding area. In general, the landscape palette presented is acceptable. The proposed species of plants, which are taken from the approved plant list in the Specific Plan, provide diversity, while having the characteristics of being low water users. Canopy and accent trees are fully utilized in complementing the architecture and layout of the clubhouse site. Thorough use of shrubs and groundcover effectively screens trash enclosures, parking areas, and other project aspects. It should be noted that the use of Ficus nitida may result in maintenance issues as the shrub is fairly sensitive to extreme cold weather. Staff recommends that ALRC and the applicant discuss an alternative plant type. RECOMMENDATION: That the Architecture and Landscape Review Committee recommend to the Planning Commission approval of Site Development Permit 2006-877, subject to the following Conditions of Approval: 1 . Final landscape plans for on -site planting shall be reviewed by the ALRC and approved by the Community Development Director prior to issuance of first building permit. Final plans shall include all landscaping associated with this project. Prepared by: nt Planner Attachments: 1 . Vicinity Map 2. Project Location Map 3. Tentative Tract Map 34969 4. ALRC Submission Set (booklet) 5. Madison Club Specific Plan Clubhouse Development Standards ATTACHMENT 1 50TH AVE w O O w 52ND AVE { � SITE. 54TH AV IRPORT BLV Eq- Section Five ATTACHMENT #5 Development Regulations 5.4.2 Golf / Clubhouse Development Standards TABLE 6 Golf / Clubhouse Development Standards Min. — Max. Building Site Max. Building Height (Excluding Basement) 1 Max. Number of Stories Min. Building Setbacks From all perimeter R.O.W.'s From Abutting Residential Parcels From Private Street or Parking Area From Internal PL within same project Min. Building Separation Parking Guest Suites TYPE N/A 40' 3 30' 30' 8' 0' 6' 116 automobile spaces plus 30 golf cart spaces per parking standards in Table 7. May be added to the Clubhouse subject to additional review and approval of the City. If added, the total shall not exceed 10 units, shall not cause to exceed total units allowed by the Specific Plan, and shall be subject to the City ordinances governing transient occupancy tax. ALLOWANCE • Roof Projections such as chimneys, roof 15' projection allowed vents, finials, spires, and similar architectural features not containing usable space. • Roof overhangs, chimneys, awnings, and 3' projection allowed Z canopies. • Cantilevered seating windows or ledges, 3' projection allowed z which are located a minimum of 1' above the floor and do not increase a building's usable floor area. • Balconies, exterior stairways, and 4' projection allowed Z elevated uncovered decks, which do not increase a building's usable floor space. FOOTNOTES 1. Any portion of a basement above a finish grade shall be excluded from the calculation of building height. Ten percent (10%) of the roof area may exceed the maximum 40' height requirement to a maximum of 52'. Maximum height of any tower constructed as part of the clubhouse design shall not exceed 72' in height. 2. Provided such projections do not extend over the property line. "The Madison Club" Specific Plan 99-035 Amendment #1 5 3 February 2005 It BI #C I ARCHITECTURE AND LANDSCAPE REVIEW COMMITTEE DATE: APRIL 4, 2007 CASE NO: SITE DEVELOPMENT PERMIT 2007-883 APPLICANT: EAST OF MADISON, LLC ARCHITECT: BAR ARCHITECTS LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT: VITA REQUEST: CONSIDERATION OF BUILDINGS, PARKING LOT, TENNIS COURT, AND LANDSCAPING PLANS FOR THE MADISON CLUB CLUBHOUSE LOCATION: SOUTHWEST CORNER OF MONROE STREET & AVENUE 52 BACKGROUND The Madison Club, bounded by Avenue 52 and Avenue 53 on the north, Avenue 54 on the south, Madison Street on the west, and Monroe Street on the east, received Specific Plan approval on February 1, 2005 (SP 99-035 Amendment 1), and Tentative Tract Map approval on August 2, 2005 (TTM 33076) (Attachment 1). The project area encompasses approximately 472 acres, and consists of custom single-family detached units, detached villas, and a golf course. The applicant is now proposing to subdivide approximately 24 acres at the intersection of Meriwether Way and Shackleton Street into the clubhouse site, tennis courts, a parking lot, and a remainder parcel to be used as the future site of the Madison Club Villas (TTM 34969)(Attachment 2) (Attachment 3). For this meeting, the applicant is requesting consideration of the structure and design of the clubhouse, tennis courts, and parking lot, as well as associated landscaping plans. PROJECT REQUEST Clubhouse Site: Included with this proposal are plans of the golf course clubhouse site, which has been designed to reflect a Spanish -Mediterranean architectural style. The clubhouse site features a decoratively -paved vehicular entry courtyard surrounded by three primary clubhouse buildings, which include the Main Building, the Men's Building and Pro Shop, and the Women's Building (Attachment 4, Page LR01). The architectural style of all clubhouse buildings is Spanish -Mediterranean and includes use of rust -colored clay tile roofing, off-white hand -troweled stucco walls, numerous columns and archways, and a combination of arched and casement windows with elaborate grille -work. Balconies, balustrades, covered patios and arcades, chimney accents, and other design elements provide architectural articulation to the various building facades. Each building in the clubhouse site has different interior functions and characteristics. The two-story Main Building, at approximately 10,075 square feet, houses the main restaurant and lounge. The first floor features the kitchen, the main dining room and lounge, and private dining areas. An elevator and stairwell leads to the second floor, which includes another private dining area, a cinema screening room, and the administration offices for the clubhouse (Attachment 4, Page AR01-AR02). The Main Building, at the highest roof ridgeline, is approximately 35 feet in height (Attachment 4, Page AR11). The four-story Men's Building and two-story Pro Shop combined are approximately 16,655 square feet. The lower floor of the Men's Building, which for the most part is below grade, includes the golf cart parking area, and numerous maintenance rooms, offices, and storage areas (Attachment 4, Page AR03). The first floor includes a bar and lounge, the men's locker room, and a wet area that contains shower facilities, lavatories, and hot/cold plunges (Attachment 4, Page AR04). An exterior stairway and interior elevator provides access to the second and third floors. These floors house a total of five condominium units, four on the second floor and one on the third floor. Each unit has a dining/living area, a bedroom and bathroom, and a view balcony (Attachment 4, Page AR05-AR06). A covered passageway connects the first floor of the Men's Building to the Pro Shop, which contains a retail area, storage room, and an office. The below -grade lower floor of the Pro Shop is also connected to the lower floor of the Men's Building by a circulation corridor. The height of the Men's Building at the highest roofline is approximately 44 feet, and 48.5 feet at the top of the chimney. The height of the Pro Shop is approximately 17'-9" from the top of grade facing the motor courtyard, and 30'-9" from the top grade facing the recessed loading dock (Attachment 4, Page AR14-AR15). The two-story Women's Building, including the pool and spa area, is approximately 12,400 square feet. The lower floor of the Women's Building consists mainly of a fitness center and movement center. A staircase and elevator leads up to the first floor, which includes a locker room, restroom facilities, numerous treatment rooms and gardens, a salon, and a lounge (Attachment 4, Page AR07-AR08). Outside of the Women's Building is the clubhouse swimming pool/spa/event lawn area. Located adjacent to the spa are two pool pavilions. One pavilion, the pool bar, consists of a bar and storage areas. The other pavilion is two -stories, with pool equipment storage located on the lower floor and toilet facilities located on the upper first floor (Attachment 4, Page AR09). Similar to the Pro Shop, the Women's Building is situated on multiple grades. The height of the building as seen from the highest grade, where the motor entrance courtyard is located, ranges from approximately 17 feet to 21 feet. The height of the building as seen from the lower grade, nearest to the pool area, is approximately 36 feet. The height of the two pool pavilions, as seen from the pool/spa/event lawn area, are approximately 12'-9" each (Attachment 4, Page AR17- AR18). Parking Lot & Tennis Courts: The clubhouse parking lot is located adjacent to the clubhouse site (Attachment 4, Page LR04). A total of 143 parking spaces, including five ADA parking spaces, are provided. Access to the clubhouse is through a paved walking path. However, most patrons are expected to valet park their vehicle in the entrance courtyard. On the far end of the parking lot are two tennis courts. The courts are unlit, and are screened by the typical green tennis fencing. Landscaping: Landscaping throughout the clubhouse site is plentiful and is designed to complement the architecture of the various clubhouse buildings (Attachment 4, Page LR02-LR07). Mostly utilized around the clubhouse site are various dense hedges and shrubs, with minimal use of turf, which has been limited to a lawn area outside the Women's Building and the clubhouse site event lawn area. The use of numerous Date Palms, Mexican, Mediterranean, and California Fan Palms sufficiently reflect the Spanish - Mediterranean architecture, while providing proper screening and accents. Other tree plantings include Figs and Citrus Trees, from 36" boxes up to 108" boxes. In general, the diverse plant material palette for the clubhouse site is characterized by low water and minimal -maintenance plants. Walls, fences, and gates throughout the clubhouse site have several different design elements (Attachment 4, Page LRO8). The various walls include a standard stucco wall, service court wall, and freestanding walls. Wall heights in the submittal have been identified as being a maximum of six feet. At this time, a detailed wall location map has not been submitted, as well as wall elevations. The service entry gate, located near the Pro Shop service area, is designed with a timber gate frame, decorative bolts, and a laser cut metal screen. The entry gate is complemented with dense shrubs and hedges, and canopy/accent trees. The gate and landscaping effectively screens the trash enclosure and service areas. ON01 YSIS Staff finds that the overall architectural style and design of the proposed clubhouse site to be acceptable. Staff has no issues with the proposed clubhouse buildings, parking lot/tennis court area, and landscaping palette, as they are appropriate and well - designed. The clubhouse buildings, including the Pro Shop, Pool Pavilions, and the Pool/Spa/Event Lawn area, are designed such that they serve as a symbolic landmark within the Madison Club. The arrangement and orientation of the clubhouse buildings capitalize on the golf course and mountain views, while being adequately set back and screened from nearby residential units. The Spanish -Mediterranean architecture and layout of the clubhouse buildings are compatible with the development guidelines given in the approved Specific Plan for The Madison Club. Although the height (44 feet) and number of stories (4) of the Men's Building may seem disproportional to the surrounding land uses, it complies with the standards given in the Specific Plan (Attachment 5). The parking lot and tennis court area is also acceptable. The parking lot is designed with a clear separation of vehicular and pedestrian circulation, and also provides sufficient screening from the neighboring golf course and residential units. The proposal provides for 143 parking spaces, which well exceeds the 116 parking spaces required in the Specific Plan. Additionally, with the exclusion of lighting, the tennis courts are limited to daytime use, thereby minimizing any negative visual impact on the surrounding area. In general, the landscape palette presented is acceptable. The proposed species of plants, which are taken from the approved plant list in the Specific Plan, provide diversity, while having the characteristics of being low water users. Canopy and accent trees are fully utilized in complementing the architecture and layout of the clubhouse site. Thorough use of shrubs and groundcover effectively screens trash enclosures, parking areas, and other project aspects. It should be noted that the use of Ficus nitida may result in maintenance issues as the shrub is fairly sensitive to extreme cold weather. Staff recommends that ALRC and the applicant discuss an alternative plant type. RECOMMENDATION: That the Architecture and Landscape Review Committee recommend to the Planning Commission approval of Site Development Permit 2006-877, subject to the following Conditions of Approval: 1 . Final landscape plans for on -site planting shall be reviewed by the ALRC and approved by the Community Development Director prior to issuance of first building permit. Final plans shall include all landscaping associated with this project. Prepared by: nt Planner Attachments: 1. Vicinity Map 2. Project Location Map 3. Tentative Tract Map 34969 4. ALRC Submission Set (booklet) 5. Madison Club Specific Plan Clubhouse Development Standards Twit 4 XP 0" ARCHITECTURE AND LANDSCAPE REVIEW COMMITTEE DATE: APRIL 4, 2007 CASE NO: SITE DEVELOPMENT PERMIT 2007-882 MIMI'S CAFE APPLICANT: FANCHER DEVELOPMENT SERVICES, INC. ARCHITECT: LEE & SAKAHARA ARCHITECTS AIA REQUEST: REVIEW OF ARCHITECTURAL AND LANDSCAPING PLANS FOR A 7,724 SQUARE FOOT RESTAURANT, IN THE KOMAR DESERT CENTER LOCATION: SOUTH EAST CORNER OF HIGHWAY 111 AND DEPOT DRIVE BACKGROUND Fancher Development Services is proposing a Mimi's Cafe within the Komar Desert Center on the south east corner of Highway 111 and Depot Drive (Attachment 1). The ALRC reviewed and approved the landscaping and architecture for seven retail buildings proposed north of the Costco Wholesale within the shopping center for the Komar Desert Center on December 6, 2006. This will be the third Site Development Permit that the ALRC has reviewed for the Komar Desert Center. PROPOSAL: The Mimi's Cafe project will be a part of the Komar Desert Center shopping center. The restaurant will be 6,480 square feet and have 904 square feet of covered service yard/storage/ electric space for a total of 7,384 square feet (Attachment 2). The proposed architecture is compatible with the Desert Contemporary architecture of the rest of the Komar project. Mimi's Cafe new look is one of the first in California. Site Design The main entrance and outdoor shaded dining patio will face Highway 111. The dining patio will be screened from Highway 111 with a 36-inch planter wall and glass window. A waiting patio located east of the entrance will include four benches that will be screened with an 18-inch planter wall. Shade for the waiting patio will be provided by a 36-inch box tree placed in the center circular planter. The covered service yard/storage/electric area and delivery area will be located on the south side of the building. Delivery area access will be provided via the abutting driveway immediately to the south. Architecture The tower element facing Highway 111 will be the restaurant's main entrance and will have a stone veneer detail, the trademark black and white striped awning, four custom gas lanterns with a copper finish and a balcony over the main door. The proposed building will vary in between eighteen to 23Y2 feet in height at the main entry tower. The applicant is proposing architecture, colors and materials compatible with the Komar Desert Center. A majority of the exterior of the building will have a concrete plaster with a smooth hand trowelled finish; a stone veneer detail will be located on the main entry tower, around the large windows on the east and west building elevations, and on the wainscot. Although the design is different from the traditional Mimi's Cafe architectural design, some of the signature Mimi's Cafe elements will remain, such as the black and white striped awning over the main entrance, dark blue -colored awnings and shutters throughout the building elevations. There will be a screen wall on the west building elevation to screen the service yard/storage/electric area and delivery area. Landscaping The landscape plans include a mixture of trees, shrubs, vines and ground cover. Annual plants will be placed along the walkway on the east side of the restaurant. The service area to the south will be heavily landscaped with trees, shrubs, a dry creek bed and natural boulders. The entrance will have two terra cotta pots placed on each side of the main entrance. Trees will be dispersed throughout the site and include Sonoran Palo Verde, Pink Crape Myrtle, Thornless Chilean Mesquite, and Southern Live Oak; all will be 24-inch or 36-inch box trees. The landscaping will also include 15-gallon Coral Vines on the west building elevation to break up the wall. There are nine ground -mounted landscape flood lights proposed at 150-500 watts on the site; three are proposed to be located at the rear of the building and six are proposed on the north side of the building site. ANALYSIS: The applicant has made an effort to be consistent with the overall architectural style and design of the Komar Desert Center shopping center and still maintain its signature trademark elements. The applicant felt it was important to remain slightly different to the shopping center in order to be easily recognized from Highway 111. Staff does have a few concerns that should be addressed. Site Design The site plan shows the electrical transformer located on the west side elevation. Staff recommends that the transformer be located in the service yard/storage/electric area and delivery area where it will be screened as shown in the landscape plan. Architecture A gooseneck light is shown above the awning on the south side of the building on the east elevation exhibit. Staff recommends that gooseneck lights only be allowed above the service area doors and that they be in a color that is compatible with the building. The cornice on the main entry tower is slightly different from the cornice style proposed for the rest of the building. Staff feels the ALRC should review the north building elevation and make a recommendation to either modify it to match the rest of the building or allow it to remain as proposed. Furthermore, there is concern on the small circumference of the metal posts that are shown in the north building elevation for the outdoor dining patio. Staff feels that these should have a larger circumference. Landscaping Staff is recommending that landscaping be added to the area north of the electrical room located on the west building elevation. Due to its proximity to Depot Drive, this area would receive a lot of visibility and it appears bare compared to the lush landscaping proposed for the rest of the site. All trees proposed should be at a 36-inch box size and all shrubs should be a minimum 5-gallon size. The 1-gallon size proposed for the groundcover is acceptable. Staff recommends that Pink Crape Myrtle be replaced with Evergreen Pear (Pyrus kawakamii) or similar plant material as directed by the ALRC. The two ground -mounted flood lights located north of the dining patio should be removed and wattage for the remaining seven should be limited to a soft wash lighting of the building. RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends adoption of a minute motion recommending to the Planning Commission approval of the plans for Site Development Permit 2006-882, with the following recommendations: 1. The electrical transformer shall be located in the service yard/storage/electric area as shown on the landscape plan. 2. Gooseneck lights shall only be located above the service doors as shown on the elevations and be in a color that is compatible to the building. 3. The cornice on the main entry tower shall remain as proposed or match the cornice style of the proposed building. 4. The metal posts in the outdoor dining area should be increased to six inches. Currently, they are being proposed as four -inch metal posts. 5. Additional landscaping should be added to the area north of the electrical room on the west building elevation. All trees shall be a minimum 36-inch box trees. Shrubs shall be 5-gallon in size. 7. Ground -mounted flood lights shall be a soft wash lighting with final wattage to be reviewed with construction plans. 8. The ground -mounted flood lights located north of the outdoor dining patio shall be removed. 9. Signage for the restaurant will be reviewed as part of the Sign Program for the Komar Desert Center shopping center. Said program will address quantity, square footage, mounting, and electrical details for Mimi's Cafe. 10. Screen wall shall be extended to provide better screening to the service yard/storage/ electric area and delivery area. 11. Pink Crape Myrtle shall be replaced with Evergreen Pear (Pyrus kawakamii) or similar plant material as directed by the ALRC. Transmitted by: Yvonn F nco, Assistant Planner i Attachments: Location Map Site Plan, Elevations, Landscaping Plans ATTACHMENT 1 SH''' 1 SITE mTrdwiva w SH-111 BI #E F A U S PCeM OF TNF'�� ARCHITECTURE AND LANDSCAPE REVIEW COMMITTEE DATE: APRIL 4, 2007 CASE NUMBER: SITE DEVELOPMENT PERMIT 2007-881 APPLICANT: R.T. HUGHES CO., LLC /T:TAP.Iiix��Yd�1�11:7�:1•e1:ty:l��x��9 REQUEST: CONSIDERATION OF THE ARCHITECTURAL AND PRELIMINARY LANDSCAPE PLANS FOR A 57 HOME PROJECT IDENTIFIED AS "MALAGA ESTATES" LOCATION: SOUTHWEST CORNER OF MADISON STREET AND AVENUE 60 BACKGROUND: On July 5, 2005, the City Council approved Tentative Tract Map 33597, which subdivided 22.97 acres into 57 single-family residential lots as well as lots for retention, landscaping and private streets. The residential lots were designed to be a minimum of 10,000 square feet. At that time, the applicant did not submit a Site Development Permit for the architecture of the homes and landscaping. The tract map is now proceeding through the Engineering Department, and the applicant has requested that the homes' architecture and project landscaping be considered for approval. PROJECT REQUEST: Homes The applicant proposes three floor plans, each with three elevations, for a total of 9 designs. Plans 1 and 3 are proposed to be two story units. Plan 2 is a single story model. Floor plans will range in size from 2,971 to 3,659 square feet. The architectural style of the homes is to be Mediterranean. The applicant proposes a neutral color palette for the stucco walls, heavy wood windows and doors, wrought iron entry gates and accents, tile roofs and stone or brick finishes. The architecture includes arched windows and doors, tile accents and recessed and shuttered windows, to give the homes mass. The varying elevations for each plan range from simple, clean finishes to highly decorated facades. Landscaping The preliminary landscape plans submitted include both an over-all landscape plan for the entire site, as well as details for the main entry with water feature, interior pocket park, and typical front yard landscaping. The central landscaped area also includes a central mail collection area with parking. Trees proposed include Acacia, Citrus, Palo Verde, Sumac, California Pepper and Date Palms. Shrubs include Bottlebrush, Cassia, Sage and Rosemary. The corner of Avenue 60 and Madison Street, which leads to the project entry, is proposed to be turf, and to include a water feature which will extend to the west side of the entry. A bridge is proposed at the entry over the water feature. Landscaping along Madison Street has a desert theme, with Desert Gold ground cover, and a wide band of trees providing screening for the lots adjacent to Madison. The perimeter of the site along Madison Street includes a slope which increases from north to south, to allow the bridging of the dike to the south of the project. In this area, a 6 foot wall is proposed, consistent with the wall around the entire property, to include a stone cap and stucco finish. The wall shall be located at the top of the slope, close to the Madison Street right of way. To the west of this wall, on the downslope toward the home lots, a screen of trees and shrubs is proposed, materials are consistent with the plant palette for the rest of the site. A heavy wooden gate flanked by stone pilasters is proposed for the entry. The walls surrounding the project are proposed to have a smooth stucco finish. ANALYSIS: The proposed design of both the homes and the landscaping are consistent with the high quality design being utilized in projects in this portion of the City. The variety of details provided in each plan assures that the "cookie cutter" look will be avoided in this case. Based on the number of elevations proposed, there should be no more than 6 of each home within the 57 unit project (this may vary depending on customer requests for a particular elevation). Some of the plans have wrought iron grill work over the window openings, others include arches and stone walls. The buildings are well articulated, and will provide multiple wall planes for each structure. The recesses and covered patios provide for good shade for the interiors of each unit. Heavy lintels and sills accent window openings, and stone door frames are provided at the primary entry. The architectural details assure that each structure will have good massing on the lot. As the lots are somewhat larger (10,000 square feet) than a standard subdivision, the homes should not overwhelm their neighbors. Wooden balconies and/or balcony railings are shown on plans 1 and 3, and will have the potential to deteriorate in the desert heat. However, with proper maintenance they will provide an interesting feature for these units. The applicant may want to consider an alternate simulated material that can handle the abuse from the sun exposure and heat. The applicant proposes clay tile roofs. No specifications are provided for the type or brand of roof tiles. A recommendation is included below which requires that the roof tile be clay S-tile, and that the roofs be hand -mudded, to provide an added architectural detail for the homes. Landscaping throughout the project is consistent, from entry through front yards, and when complete should present a unified visual landscape for occupants and visitors. However, the landscaping of the individual front yards does not reflect the high quality, semi -custom nature of the project. It is recommended that the front yard landscaping be modified to include less turf, and more detail, including for example berms and rock groupings, to provide a more unique design to the individual yards. Project entry landscaping includes a large area of turf and a large water feature. The project will be required to demonstrate its compliance with the City's water requirements for landscaping, however, the large amount of turf must be minimized, and the landscaping plan altered to provide no more than 50% of the area in turf, and the balance in drought tolerant materials, to reduce water usage. In an effort to further conserve water usage, staff also recommends the size of the water feature be reduced to approximately half of what it is proposed to be. Such a reduction will result in considerable water conservation, and will still allow the entry statement over a stream, as depicted in the plans. In addition, the corner treatment lacks an impressive focal point, since the water feature is located in the rear of the area, and will not be significantly visible from southbound traffic on Madison Street. A redesign of the corner, to assure a significant focal point and impressive entry, is recommended. Such recommendations are included below. Landscaping along the edge of Madison Street will require close consideration at final landscaping plans. The designs for Madison Street at this location are still under way, and the final landscaping, as well as the slopes, may change with finalization of these plans. No retaining walls are proposed within the project at this time. Erodability of the slopes may be an issue depending on final designs for the roadway. Should the retaining walls be required to accommodate the design of Madison Street, such designs would be submitted with the final landscaping plans. RECOMMENDATION: That the Architecture and Landscape Review Committee recommend to the Planning Commission approval of Site Development Permit 2007-881, subject to the following Conditions of Approval: 1. Tile roofing shall be 2-part clay S-tile, with a hand -mudded finish. 2. Stucco finishes for the homes and perimeter walls shall be either smooth or hand troweled finish. 3. The perimeter wall shall include pilasters at a separation not exceeding 50 feet throughout the site. 4. Final landscape plans for on -site planting shall be reviewed by the ALRC and approved by the Community Development Director prior to issuance of first building permit. Final plans shall include all landscaping associated with this project, including perimeter landscaping. 5. The corner treatment shall be amended to provide a dramatic focal point. The water feature location shall be moved to an area closer to the intersection of Madison and Avenue 60, to make it more visible and integral to the design. 6. Landscaping at the corner of Avenue 60 and Madison Street, to the project entry, shall be limited to no more than 50% in turf, and the balance in drought tolerant plant materials. 7. The proposed water feature be 50% of the area currently proposed. 8. Final landscaping for the individual front yards shall be redesigned to include minimal turf areas, berms, rock and boulder groupings, and similar features to improve the design and provide a semi -custom look for the individual lots. Attachments: (In 11x17" format) 1 . Site Plan 2. Site Location 3. Building Elevations 4. Preliminary Landscape Plans