2009 08 05 ALRCCity of La Quinta
V 5
ALRC Agendas are now
[{j available on the City's Web Page
@ www.la-guinta.org
ARCHITECTURE AND LANDSCAPING
REVIEW COMMITTEE
AGENDA
A Regular Meeting to be Held at the
La Quinta City Hall — Study Session Room
78-495 Calle Tampico
La Quinta, California
AUGUST 5, 2009
10:00 A.M.
Beginning Minute Motion 2009-007
I. 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 the Regular Meeting of July 1, 2009.
V. BUSINESS ITEMS:
A. Item .................. SITE DEVELOPMENT PERMIT 2008-907
Applicant........... Pyramid Project Management, LLC
Location............ PGA West; West Side of PGA Boulevard, South of
Avenue 54.
Request ............. Consideration of Architectural and Landscaping Plans for
the PGA West Golf Villas; a 54-Unit Residential
Development Consisting of Single -Family Attached
Duplex Units and Community Center.
Action ............... Minute Motion 2009-.
B. Item .................. SITE DEVELOPMENT PERMIT 2009-911
Applicant........... Pyramid Project Management, LLC
Location............ PGA West; West Side of PGA Boulevard, South of
Avenue 54.
Request ............. Consideration of Architectural and Landscaping Plans for
the Expansion of the PGA West Private Clubhouse.
Action ............... Minute Motion 2009-
VI. CORRESPONDENCE AND WRITTEN MATERIAL:
VII. COMMITTEE MEMBER ITEMS:
Vill. PLANNING STAFF ITEMS:
A. Planning Commission Update
IX. ADJOURNMENT:
This meeting of the Architecture and Landscaping Review Committee will be adjourned to
a Regular Meeting to be held on September 2, 2009, at 10:00 a.m.
DECLARATION OF POSTING
I, Carolyn Walker, Executive Secretary of the City of La Quinta, do hereby declare that
the foregoing Agenda for the La Quinta Architecture and Landscaping Review Committee
meeting of Wednesday, August 5, 2009 was posted on the outside entry to the Council
Chamber, 78-495 Calle Tampico and the bulletin board at the La Quinta Cove Post Office,
51-321 Avenida Bermudas, on Friday, July 31, 2009.
DATED: July 2009
CAROLY WALKER, Executive Secretary
City of La Quinta, California
MINUTES
ARCHITECTURE & LANDSCAPING REVIEW COMMITTEE MEETING
A regular meeting held at the La Quinta City Hall
78-495 Calle Tampico, La Quinta, CA
July 1, 2009 10:00 a.m.
DI
V.
CALL TO ORDER
A. This regular meeting of the Architecture
Committee was called to order at 10:00;
David Sawyer who led the Committee in "t
B. Committee Members Present: Jason Arno
Thorns
Landscaping Review
by Planning Manager
a salute.
C. Staff present: Planning Director Les Johnson,
David Sawver, Associate Planner Ja'y, Wuu, and
ker, and David
Planning Manager
Secretary Monika
Staff asked;if there „were ary changes to the Minutes of April 1, 2009. It
was moved and seconded by Committee Members Rooker/Arnold to
approve the minutes as; submitted. Unanimously approved (Committee
rmer Thorns wa MeThornss unable to vote on this since his appointment was
effective; July 1, 2009)
A. Site Development Permit 2009-912 a request submitted by
Nadador, LLC. for consideration of Architectural and Landscaping
Plans for an Approximately 300 Square Foot Guardhouse located at
54-500 West Residence Club Drive; East Side of PGA Boulevard,
South of Avenue 54.
Associate Planner Jay Wuu presented the information contained in
the staff report, a copy of which is on file in the Planning
Department.
Architecture and Landscaping Review Committee
Minutes ,
July 1, 2009
Committee Member Rooker said he found the project to be
delightful and he thought it was perfectly scaled and proportioned
to the rest of the facilities. He asked what differentiation would be
in place for vendors, guests, and residents.
Mr. Frank Cahill, P.E., with RCE Consultants, 7595 Irvine Center
Drive, Irvine, CA 92618, replied there were several layouts for the
site identifying separate driveways for residents and visitors. He
explained the Fire Department required twenty -foot drive aisles for
emergency vehicles which reduced the available: space on the site
for additional aisles. In order to blend in the aisle requirements with
the architectural components, it was .decided to introduce a simpler
site plan with one twenty -foot aisle in and another twenty -foot aisle
out that would be shared by visitors and residents.
Associate Planner Wuu said the original site plans submitted by the
applicant had identified two drive-in ,aisles, which did not meet the
engineering standards for turning movements for trucks, thus the
plans had to be revised, to a one drive-in aisle in order to be in
compliance.
Committee Member Rooker ;;said the plans showed the Carolina
Cherry Shrub,; being placed up againstAhe wall in a hedge form. He
asked why the palm tree boxes identified on the site plans were 24-
inches in size which he foundu,tor;be too big.
Christine Kiener, Director ` of Sales and Marketing with The
Residence;, Club at PGA West, 54-500 West Residence Club Drive,
La Quinta„ CA 92253, replied the large size tree boxes were
chosen in awattempt to try to blend in the new landscaping with
the existing mature landscaping on the site.
Committee Member Arnold commented on the nice architecture and
he said he found the project to be very compatible and beautiful.
Committee Member Thorns said he had driven by the site and
thought that it definitely needed to be improved as it was not
inviting at all in its current condition. He inquired about the water
urns identified on the site plans.
Diana Corleone, with South Coast Architects, Inc., 13 Corporate
Plaza, Suite # 210, Newport Beach, CA 92660, replied the water
urns identified released a minimal amount of water which was
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Architecture and Landscaping Review Committee
Minutes
July 1, 2009
recycled. Committee Member Thoms commented that, in the
current political environment with its emphasis on green projects,
the introduction of water features might not be favorable.
Committee Member Thoms said he would like to ensure that the
existing palm trees remain as they are and he suggested lighting the
trunks of at least some if not all of the palm trees. He did not see
the need for any additional palm trees.
Committee Member Thoms complimented the''architectural design
of the guardhouse and he said it would be.a very nice addition to
the development.
Committee Member Rooker askedof "Committee "Member Thoms' to
clarify that he would like to see the 12 proposed new palm trees
eliminated. Committee Member Thoms said he did not find it
necessary for new Date Palms to be jintroduced as `there were a
sufficient number of existing Washingtonia Robustas not only by
the proposed guardhouse, but throughout of the development as
well.
Ms. Kiener pointed to page T43 of the site plans showing that the
existing palms would remain as they 'were. Ms. Corleone added
that the existing palms were already lit.
Planning Manager I Sawyer clarified that there was a discrepancy
between the proposed plans and the applicant's explanation
regarding the existing trees. He noted the proposed plans showed
the six pro11 posed Date"Palms on either side of the guardhouse, but
the existing Washingtonia Robustas were not identified at all, the
clans showedi',shrubs instead.
Ms. Corleone said the existing palms would not be removed.
Planning Manager Sawyer said the proposed plans needed to be
modified to reflect the final outcome of the project with the existing
palm trees as well as with what was being proposed.
Committee Member Rooker said that, based on the proposed site
plan, it would seem like some of the existing palms would have to
be removed to make space for the new Date Palms.
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Architecture and Landscaping Review Committee
Minutes
July 1, 2009
Planning Director Johnson said the applicant had said that T-3
showed both, the existing Washingtonia Robustas, as well as the
12 new proposed Date Palms. He pointed out that the existing
Washingtonias were actually in conflict with the identified shrubs
on the plans. He said the Committee needed to understand what
the final product would be, as proposed, in order to be able to make
an accurate recommendation to the Planning Commission.
Planning Manager Sawyer clarified that the site plans would be as
proposed on page 5 with the addition of the existing
Washingtonias; thus, the plans would have to be revised before the
case was presented to the Planning Commission.
Committee Member Thoms said, his comment was:xhat the existing
Washingtonias should remain as they,,. were. He noted the palms
were rather tall and to introducenew Washingtonias, it would be
impossible to match the height and they would look if next to
the already existing palms. Committee Member Arnold pointed out
that the palms propo'sed,.,six on either side of the guardhouse, were
Date Palms and not Washingtonia Robustas. Committee Member
Thorns said the use of Date Palms would not be appropriate
because there were none in the development.
Planning Director" Johnson ;said there were some existing Date
Palms by the Clubhouse. Hei explained the idea with the use of the
proposed`Date Palms was not 'only to compliment the entrance and
�theitguardhouse, buf' also the existing Date Palms located right at
the main clubhouse entrance.
Committee !Member Thorns commented that the clubhouse was
nowhere in sight from the proposed guardhouse. Planning Director
Johnson pointed to the location of the clubhouse on photos
submitted as' exhibits to the staff report.
Committee Member Thorns emphasized that his recommendation
was not to add any palm trees to the site as there were plenty of
existing ones.
Committee Member Rooker said he disagreed with Committee
Member Thorns' comments. He found the existing Washingtonia
palms were irregular and he liked the idea of introducing something
different at the entrance to accentuate it. He explained he liked the
smaller size of the Date Palms and the formality of having two
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Architecture and Landscaping Review Committee
Minutes
July 1, 2009
groups of six on either side. He noted if the existing Washingtonia
palms were in the way, an ecological way of handling them would
be to relocate them somewhere else within the development. He
said he liked the project as proposed.
Committee Member Thorns recommended approval of Site
Development Permit 2009-912 without the introduction of
additional Date Palms or water features. The motion failed due to
the lack of a second.
Commissioner Thorns asked to clarify if all of the Washingtonia
palm trees on the guardhouse site would be removed. Committee
Member Arnold explained that, even though, it ;was not shown on
the plans, the Washingtonia palm trees were located off of the
guardhouse site up on a crest and out of the way o,f, the proposed
twelve Date Palms which were in. the drive-in area below; thus, the
Committee was requesting that the, applicant submit'accurate site
plans before the case was presented to the Planning Commission.
Discussion followed regardingthe difference in size and appearance
between Washingtonia Robusta and Date Palm trees.
Committee, Member Thoms stated if the Washingtonia Robustas in
quesJI Ofl were in,fact located behind the wall of the development
and out6of the way of the proposed guardhouse site, he would be in
favor of the project as submitted. However, if that was not the
,case;,"!,,
ase- he found the introduction of the proposed Date Palms
unne'cess'ary as it'texchancied one tree for another.
Planning Massager Sawyer said the motion included a request for
clarification',on the site plan. He said staff would work with the
applicant to determine the accurate location of the palm trees and
the Committee's comments would be forwarded to the Planning
Commission accordingly.
Committee Member Thoms asked what would be the appropriate
way to address the introduction of the water features. Planning
Manager Sawyer said the discussion was between the Committee
Members.
Committee Member Arnold explained the motion on the floor was
recommending approval of the project as submitted with the
P:\Reports - ALRC\2009\8-5-09\ALRC_Draft MIN_7-1-09.doc 5
Architecture and Landscaping Review Committee
Minutes
July 1, 2009
proposed water features as long as the applicant was in compliance
with the CVWD requirements.
Planning Director Johnson said the City's water ordinance included
CVWD's provisions and further set forth additional water feature
standards.
Committee Member Thorns commented that he still found the
introduction of water features to be a political ,issue, but if it was in
compliance with the City's water ordinance and CVWD's
requirements he would be supportive of it.
It was then moved and seconded by Committee Members
Rooker/Arnold to adopt Minute Motion' 2009 006, recommending
approval of Site Development Permit 2008-912 as submitted, with
recommendations to provide an updated site plan accurately
reflecting the final result of the project and to relocate any
Washingtonia palm trees, that may have to be removed, elsewhere
on the property. Unanimously approved.
VI. CORRESPONDENCE AND WRITTENMATERIAL: None
VII. COMMITTEE MEMBER, ITEMS:
A. Discussion, of Attendance
PlanI:ining Manager Sawyer explained the attendance requirements
for the Architectural and Landscaping Review Committee, including
the number r;of allowable absences per year, and the protocol for
requesting an excused absence in advance by the City Council.
Planning Director Johnson said if the Committee Member knew in
advance that their schedule was in conflict with a meeting date,
staff would encourage them to submit a written request for an
excused absence to the City Council. However, if the absence is
due to an illness or an emergency, the request could be submitted
after the fact. He explained all members of all Boards,
Commissions and Committees were allowed two absences per
fiscal year. Any additional absence after that would be grounds for
automatic removal from their appointed position.
P:\Reports - ALRC\2009\8-5-09\ALRC_Draft MIN_7-1-09.doc 6
Architecture and Landscaping Review Committee
Minutes
July 1, 2009
Planning Manager Sawyer said staff would give the Committee
quarterly attendance updates to help the Committee Members keep
track.
Committee Member Arnold asked if there was a schedule available
that would identify the dates for all meetings that he would have to
attend. Planning Director Johnson said the only meeting the
Committee Members were required to attend was the one
scheduled for the first Wednesday of every, month. He explained
that any additional special meeting that might come up would
require staff to contact each Committee Member individually to
ensure that everyone could attend, otherwise, the meeting would
not go forward.
Committee Member Arnold asked about the Joint Meeting with the
Planning Commission and the' City Council. Planning Director
Johnson explained those meetings were not counted into the
attendance tracking as they were optional. However, he said, staff
encouraged the Committee Members to attend the meetings, if they
could, because that was their opportunity to: communicate directly
with the Council.
General
City Col
meeting:!
VIII. PLANNING'ST�
A. Planning
Planning
Commis
followed regarding the Planning Commission and
meeting``; dates and the scheduling of the joint
rissionerUpdate
Tager Sawyer gave an
fiction on SDP 2008-905
Wash, and an update c
update on the Planning
and CUP 2008-112 for the
n FLP 2008-045 for CVS
Committee Member Thoms asked if the ALRC reviewed any
projects handled by the Public Works Department. Planning
Director Johnson said the Committee did not.
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Architecture and Landscaping Review Committee
Minutes
July 1, 2009
B. Discussion Regarding Summer Meeting
Planning Manager Sawyer asked the Committee if they would like
to decide on a date to go dark. Discussion followed and the
Committee agreed it would not go dark.
Planning Director Johnson said staff had some tentatively scheduled
items possibly for the next regularly scheduled meeting on August
5, 2009.
IX. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, it was
Members Rooker/Arnold to adjourn this
Landscaping Review Committee to a Regu
2009. This meeting was adjourned at 11.4
Respectfully submitted,
MON
SecrE
eeting of the
Meeting to be
.m. on,July 1,
ed by Committee
Architecture and
idld, on August 5,
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8
BI # A
�o
b
ARCHITECTURE AND LANDSCAPE REVIEW COMMITTEE
DATE: AUGUST 5, 2009
CASE NUMBER: SITE DEVELOPMENT PERMIT 2008-907
APPLICANT: PYRAMID PROJECT MANAGEMENT, LLC
OWNER: MSR DESERT RESORT, LP
ARCHITECT: Z DESIGN GROUP
LANDSCAPE
ARCHITECT: FORREST K. HAAG, ASLA, INC.
ENGINEER: MDS CONSULTING
REQUEST: CONSIDERATION OF ARCHITECTURAL AND LANDSCAPING
PLANS FOR THE PGA WEST GOLF VILLAS; A 54-UNIT
RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT CONSISTING OF SINGLE-FAMILY
ATTACHED DUPLEX UNITS AND COMMUNITY CENTER
LOCATION: PGA WEST; WEST SIDE OF PGA BOULEVARD, SOUTH OF
AVENUE 54
ZONING: LOW DENSITY RESIDENTIAL (RL)
SURROUNDING
ZONING AND
LAND USES: NORTH:
PALMER PRIVATE CLUBHOUSE
SOUTH:
RESIDENTIAL (TR 28259-1); GOLF COURSE
EAST:
PGA BOULEVARD
WEST:
GOLF COURSE/DRIVING RANGE
PURPOSE OF REVIEW
The purpose of a Site Development Permit is to provide specific design review of a
project's proposed architecture and landscaping. The Architecture and Landscape
Review Committee's (ALRC) role in reviewing this type of application is to provide
the Planning Commission with a recommendation regarding the design of the
proposed project and its compliance with the City's various development
regulations.
When reviewing applications, the ALRC is responsible for reviewing architectural
design, site design, and landscape design. Architectural items for review include,
building mass, scale, architectural style, and aesthetic details, including materials,
roof style, and colors. Site related items include exterior lighting fixtures, project
entries, streetscape, water features, pedestrian circulation, and similar amenities.
Landscape review includes plant types, plant location and size, landscape screening
of equipment and undesirable views, and the emphasis of prominent design
features. Such coordinated review is necessary to promote a unifying project
design, compatibility with other surrounding uses, and aesthetic consistency with
existing architecture and the level of quality prevalent in the community. Once
reviewed, the ALRC's recommendation will be included in the staff report
presented to the Planning Commission. To assist the ALRC in this review, the
following background and analysis is provided.
BACKGROUND
PGA West, which is generally located between Avenue 54 and Avenue 58 west of
Madison Street, is an approximately 1,700-acre resort community featuring golf,
tennis, and clubhouse amenities (Attachment 1). A Specific Plan for the
community was originally approved in 1984, with a conceptual total of up to 5,000
residential units, 650 hotel rooms with approximately 120,000 square feet of
resort commercial uses, and a 20-acre commercial center (SP 83-002)• Five
amendments to this plan have since been approved.
Currently, the PGA West community is almost completely developed, with the
exception of a few scattered residential lots and an approximately 42-acre site near
the southern terminus of PGA Boulevard. The subject site is an approximately 23-
acre area near the center of the community. At this time, the site is comprised of
nineteen tennis court facilities and a Health and Racquet Club. The applicant is
proposing to subdivide the area into the PGA West Golf Villas, which consists of
54 single-family attached duplex units and a new community recreation building
(TTM 36139) (Attachment 2).
PROJECT REQUEST
Project Overview:
The applicant is requesting consideration of the architectural and landscaping plans
for the 54 PGA West Golf Villas single-family duplex units and the community
center (Attachment 3). The Villas site is located on the west side of PGA
2
Boulevard. Located directly to the north of the project site is the Palmer Private
Clubhouse, an expansion of which is currently proposed under a separate site
development permit (SDP 09-91 1). A driving range is located to the west of the
project site. Existing PGA West single-family homes and golf course areas are
located to the south (Attachment 3, Sheet 2). The primary configuration of the
Villas consists of duplex units clustered around a new private street (Attachment 3,
Sheet 4). Access to the new street will be off of a new entrance drive along the
eastern edge of the Palmer Private Clubhouse parking lot.
Residential Units:
Included with this proposal are architectural plans of the PGA West Golf Villas
residential units, which have been designed to reflect a modified Tuscan design,
referred to by the project architect as a Tuscan Territorial Modernism architectural
style (Attachment 4). The architectural elements of the Villas units includes use of
flat concrete tile roofing, a variety of stained stucco and woods, stone accents, and
steel and metal finishes (Attachment 3, Sheets 8 — 9). Balconies, trellises, chimney
accents, and other design elements provide architectural articulation to the various
building facades.
Each of the typical 54 two-story units has the following characteristics
(Attachment 3, Sheets 5 — 7):
• 2,180 square feet
• 3 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms
• 2-car garage
• Covered and uncovered terraces and balconies
Each duplex consists of staggered mirror images of the typical Villas unit, with
identical floor plans and features, but with a slight variation in orientation. The
height of the Villas units, at the highest roof ridgeline, is approximately 22 feet in
height (Attachment 3, Sheets 8 — 9). The height of the chimney architectural
projection is approximately 23'-6" in height (Attachment 3, Sheets 8 — 9).
Community Center:
Included with this proposal are plans of the approximately 3,400 square foot
community center, which includes leasing and management offices, game and
exercise rooms, a kitchen, lounge area, and pool and spa facilities (Attachment 3,
Sheet 10). The community center area also includes five lit tennis courts, with one
of the courts designated as a stadium court with tiered stadium spectator sitting.
Vehicular access to the community center is off of the new private street within the
Villas community. Pedestrian pathways are also provided throughout the
community that connects the Villas units to the community center (Attachment 3,
3
Sheet 4). A total of eleven parking spaces are proposed, including two ADA-
accessible spaces.
The community center, like the Villas units, has been designed to reflect a modified
Tuscan architectural style. The building incorporates use of the same architectural
design elements as the Villas. The community center facility, at the highest
ridgeline, is approximately 22 feet in height (Attachment 3, Sheets 12 — 14).
Landscaping:
The landscape plan for the Villas identifies a plant palette consisting of low- to
moderate -water use trees, shrubs, and groundcover generally consistent with what
is permitted in the PGA West Specific Plan (Attachment 3, Sheet 15). Landscaping
throughout the Villas community is plentiful and is designed to complement the
architecture and layout of the duplexes and community building. Areas of turf
have been limited to small patches around pedestrian walkways and an expansive
common area in the middle of the community.
The applicant proposes the use of Mediterranean Fan Palms, Palo Verdes, Chilean
Mesquites, and Desert Acacias, among others (Attachment 3, Sheet 24). A variety
of small and large accent shrubs, including Red Bird of Paradise, Compact Myrtles,
and Agaves, are proposed in the areas surrounding the duplex units and around the
community building (Attachment 3, Sheet 26 — 28). Types of groundcover used
include Desert Carpet, Purple Trailing Lantanas, and Petunias. The applicant is also
proposing landscape lighting at various locations throughout the project site
(Attachment 3, Sheet 30 — 34). Up -lighting of the trees around the project site are
to be done with low wattage, semi -recessed metal halide up -lights.
The applicant also proposes a water feature placed within the planter located in the
center of the main entrance traffic circle (Attachment 3, Sheet 18). The feature
incorporates a cascading veneered fountain and a large fountain bowl (Attachment
3, Sheet 23).
ANALYSIS
Residential Units:
Staff finds that the overall architectural style and design of the proposed PGA West
Golf Villas to be acceptable. Staff has no significant issues with the proposed
duplex units, community building, common areas, and landscape palette. Although
the modified Tuscan architecture and layout is relatively dissimilar to the existing
surrounding residences, the style is compatible with the existing community
conditions in that they are all styles permitted in the PGA West Specific Plan. The
articulated massing reflects village -like clustered style architecture, and the floor
M
plan embraces and enhances the seasonal indoor -outdoor lifestyle, incorporating
courtyards, balconies, and terraces. From a sustainability standpoint, the Villas
proposal incorporates several design elements that address sustainable
development, such as deep-set windows and trellises to provide shelter from the
sun. However, these elements are minimal as there was never any intent to be a
true sustainable, Green development.
Community Center:
Staff finds that the overall architectural style and design of the proposed community
center to be acceptable, and has no significant issues with the proposed uses within
the building as well as the adjacent tennis court and pool areas as they are
appropriate and well -designed. The architecture and layout of the community center
is compatible with the proposed Villas units as well as the PGA West Specific Plan.
The swimming pool area and adjacent tennis courts are properly screened and are
easily accessible; from both the Villas and community center. The eleven parking
spaces provided do not meet the requirements stated in LQMC Section 9.150.060
Spaces Required by Use, which would require a minimum of fifteen spaces for
"commercial" tennis courts (three parking spaces per court). However, as these
courts are for member -use only, and many users arrive to the site by golf cart or
walking, staff feels that the eleven proposed spaces are sufficient. Additionally, a
pedestrian access is also available for tennis court users who choose to park their
vehicles in the adjacent clubhouse parking lot.
Landscaping:
In general, the proposed landscape palette presented is acceptable. The assorted
species of plants, most of which are taken from the approved plant list in the PGA
West Specific Plan, provide diversity and add character to the proposed Villas
community. Although a number of proposed plants are not listed in the Specific
Plan, they are also low water users and drought tolerant, and therefore are an
acceptable alternative. Thorough use of shrubs and groundcover effectively screen
the clubhouse service areas, parking areas, and other project aspects. Staff does
recommend that turf areas not be installed adjacent to paved pedestrian walkways
due to possible water waste. The turf in the center of the community may be
acceptable as it may be used as an active -use area.
The proposed water feature, which is primary to the design of the community
entrance, can be permitted if they meet the City's water efficiency requirements
and are approved as part of the project by the Planning Commission. Staff has
provided a Condition of Approval pertaining to this feature, requiring energy
efficient pumps and staff review to ensure that there will be minimal water loss due
to splashing, evaporation, etc. However, staff still has some concerns over the
location, size, and necessity of this water feature, as it does not promote
5
pedestrian interactivity. Therefore, staff recommends the ALRC discuss the use
and viability of the water feature as part of the Villas proposal.
RECOMMENDATION
Recommend to the Planning Commission approval of Site Development Permit
2008-907, subject to the following Conditions of Approval:
1. Exterior lighting shall be consistent with Section 9.100.150 (Outdoor
Lighting) of the La Quinta Municipal Code. All freestanding lighting shall
not exceed 20 feet in height, shall be fitted with a visor if deemed
necessary by staff, and be turned off or reduced to a level deemed
appropriate by the Planning Director within one hour following closing
hours. Lighting plans shall be submitted with the final landscaping plans
for a recommendation to the Planning Director for his approval.
2. All rooftop mechanical equipment shall be completely screened from view
behind the parapet. Utility transformers or other ground mounted
mechanical equipment shall be fully screened with a screening wall or
landscaping and painted to match the adjacent buildings.
3. The applicant shall submit the landscape plans for approval by the
Planning Department and green sheet sign off by the Public Works
Department. When plan checking has been completed by the Planning
Department, the applicant shall obtain the signatures of CVWD and the
Riverside County Agricultural Commissioner, prior to submittal for
signature by the Planning Director. Where City Engineer approval is not
required, the applicant shall submit for a green sheet approval by the
Public Works Department.
4. Final landscape plans for on -site planting shall be reviewed by the ALRC
and approved by the Planning Director. Said review and approval shall
occur prior to issuance of a building permit unless the Planning Director
determines extenuating circumstances exist which justify an alternative
processing schedule. Final plans shall include all landscaping associated
with these units.
NOTE: Plans are not approved for construction until signed by both the
Planning Director and/or the City Engineer.
5. All signs shall be approved under a separate sign permit/program
application.
3
6. The clubhouse water features shall be designed to minimize "splash", and
use high efficiency pumps and lighting to the satisfaction of the Planning
Director. They shall be included in the landscape plan water efficiency
calcula4ns per Municipal Code Chapter 8.13.
Prepared by:
U, Associate Planner
Attachments:
1. PGA West Vicinity Map
2. Tentative Tract Map 36139
3. PGA West Golf Villas Submittal Packet
4. Architectural Design Narrative
VA
ATTACHMENT 4
062
ZDESIGN
GROUP''
PGA WEST RESIDENTIAL VILLAS
ARCHITECTURAL CONCEPT
The Club at PGA WEST
"The Western Home of Golf in America"®
The Villas are located in a spectacular setting among citrus groves and towering palms at the base of
the Santa Rosa Mountains in the Coachella Valley, home to the Jack Nicklaus private golf course.
The resort is home to prestigious golf tournaments, famous shots in golf history by celebrity sports
figures and celebrities.
DESIGN CONCEPT
Style: Tuscan Territorial Modernism
Develop a stronger relationship and expression between architecture and nature. Natural materials
like stone, copper, heavy timber and natural organic materials will create textural and contrasting
dynamic elements and reflect the indigenous context of the shell -laden, ancient ocean desert
location.
Articulated massing reflects a village -like clustered style architecture clad in natural stone and two
colors of stucco to blend into the spectacular setting. The floor plan embraces and enhances the
seasonal indoor — outdoor lifestyle incorporating courtyards with water features.
Deep set windows provide shelter from the sun and allow filtered light to infuse the interiors or
frame views to nature.
COMMUNITY CENTER
Style: Desert Territorial Modernism (Re: Clubhouse)
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ARCHITECTURE AND LANDSCAPE REVIEW COMMITTEE
DATE: AUGUST 5, 2009
CASE NUMBER: SITE DEVELOPMENT PERMIT 2009-911
APPLICANT: PYRAMID PROJECT MANAGEMENT, LLC
OWNER: MSR DESERT RESORT, LP
ARCHITECT: Z DESIGN GROUP
LANDSCAPE
ARCHITECT: EDSA
ENGINEER: MDS CONSULTING
REQUEST: CONSIDERATION OF ARCHITECTURAL AND LANDSCAPING
PLANS FOR THE EXPANSION OF THE PGA WEST PRIVATE
CLUBHOUSE
LOCATION: PGA WEST; WEST SIDE OF PGA BOULEVARD, SOUTH OF
AVENUE 54
ZONING: LOW DENSITY RESIDENTIAL (RL)
SURROUNDING
ZONING AND
LAND USES: NORTH: RESIDENTIAL (TR 28259-1); GOLF COURSE
SOUTH: PROPOSED PGA WEST GOLF VILLAS (TTM
36139)
EAST: PGA BOULEVARD
WEST: GOLF COURSE/DRIVING RANGE
PURPOSE OF REVIEW
The purpose of a Site Development Permit is to provide specific design review of a
project's proposed architecture and landscaping. The Architecture and Landscape
Review Committee's (ALRC) role in reviewing this type of application is to provide
the Planning Commission with a recommendation regarding the design of the
proposed project and its compliance with the City's various development
regulations.
When reviewing applications, the ALRC is responsible for reviewing architectural
design, site design, and landscape design. Architectural items for review include,
building mass, scale, architectural style, and aesthetic details, including materials,
roof style, and colors. Site related items include exterior lighting fixtures, project
entries, streetscape, water features, pedestrian circulation, and similar amenities.
Landscape review includes plant types, plant location and size, landscape screening
of equipment and undesirable views, and the emphasis of prominent design
features. Such coordinated review is necessary to promote a unifying project
design, compatibility with other surrounding uses, and aesthetic consistency with
existing architecture and the level of quality prevalent in the community. Once
reviewed, the ALRC's recommendation will be included in the staff report
presented to the Planning Commission. To assist the ALRC in this review, the
following background and analysis is provided.
BACKGROUND
PGA West, which is generally located between Avenue 54 and Avenue 58 west of
Madison Street, is an approximately 1,700-acre resort community featuring golf,
tennis, and clubhouse amenities (Attachment 1). A Specific Plan for the
community was originally approved in 1984, with a conceptual total of up to 5,000
residential units, 650 hotel rooms with approximately 120,000 square feet of
resort commercial uses, and a 20-acre commercial center (SP 83-002). Five
amendments to this plan have since been approved.
Currently, there are three golf course clubhouses within the PGA West community.
The Norman Course Clubhouse is located within the Norman Course community on
the east side of Madison Street. The Stadium Clubhouse, which is located at the
southern terminus of PGA Boulevard, underwent an expansion in 2008. The
applicant is proposing to expand the Palmer Private Clubhouse, which is located on
the west side of PGA Boulevard (Attachment 2)•
PROJECT REQUEST
Overview:
Access to the PGA West Palmer Private Clubhouse is off of PGA Boulevard to the
east, with a main entry drive leading from the street to the clubhouse courtyard.
The proposed PGA West Golf Villas (SDP 08-907) is to be located south of the
clubhouse area, with a number of tennis courts between the clubhouse and nearest
PEI
residential property line. The redesigned parking lot will provide access to the
clubhouse as well as to the Villas.
For this application, the applicant is requesting consideration of the structure,
design, and associated landscaping plans for the expansion of the Private
Clubhouse. The existing two-story Private Clubhouse is approximately 62,000
square feet, and includes dining, locker room, and office facilities. The clubhouse is
completely surrounded by non-residential, recreational uses, with the closest
residential property line located approximately 350 feet away from the northernmost
extent of the expansion. The proposed 17,700 square foot expansion, which will
be the focus of this report, includes the construction of interior spa and fitness club
facilities, two new pool facilities, and exterior patio areas (Attachment 2, Sheet 4).
Clubhouse Expansion:
Included with this proposal are plans to expand the two-story, multi -use golf course
clubhouse (Attachment 2, Sheet 9). The architectural style of the clubhouse, as
referred to by the applicant, is Desert Territorial Modernism, and includes use of
prefinished metal, colored concrete, stained woods, and ornamental metals
(Attachment 2, Sheet 9 — 13).
The proposed clubhouse expansion features a main entry drive leading from PGA
Boulevard to a vehicular courtyard (Attachment 2, Sheet 5). A new entrance area
leads from the courtyard to the existing lobby of the clubhouse. Along the north
and southern boundaries of the vehicular courtyard are new exterior loggias. North
of the entrance lobby is the interior spa expansion (Attachment 2, Sheet 4). This
expanded area includes a spa reception, additional locker areas, a number of
massage rooms, and a waiting/recovery area. Outside of the spa expansion area is
one of the new pool areas, which include a spa pool, water feature, fire pit, and
sitting areas (Attachment 2, Sheet 15).
To the south of the entrance lobby is the interior fitness club expansion (Attachment
2, Sheet 15). This new area includes additional retail amenities, a fitness area, a
yoga room, a child care facility, and a variety of office and storage spaces. In the
area outside of the fitness center expansion is the second new pool area. Similar to
the other pool expansion, this southern pool area includes a pool, spa pool, and a
sizeable seating area. At the rear, or western end of the clubhouse, the expansion
includes a small interior addition to the main dining area and an expansive new
outdoor terrace and pavilion area (Attachment 2, Sheet 14).
As the clubhouse is situated on multiple grades and incorporates varying rooflines,
the height of the building, including both existing and expanded areas, but not
including the uninhabitable tower feature, averages approximately 35 feet in height
at its highest ridgelines, measured from the lower grade level (west elevation)
3
(Attachment 2, Sheet 11). The uninhabitable clock tower is approximately 45 feet
in height, measured from the lower grade level (west elevation). The new
clubhouse expansion totals approximately 17,700 square feet, bringing the total
area of the clubhouse to approximately 79,500 square feet at the end of
construction.
Parking Lot:
The existing clubhouse parking lot is being redesigned as part of the clubhouse
expansion. A total.of 276 parking spaces, including eight (8) ADA parking spaces,
are provided in the bollard -lighted lot (Attachment 2, Sheet 6). Accessible
sidewalks lead pedestrians from the parking lot to the main clubhouse entrance, two
pool areas, and spa and fitness facility entrances. Although valet parking is
available for special events, most patrons are expected to park their vehicle in the
parking lot and walk to the clubhouse.
Landscaping:
The landscape plan for the clubhouse identifies a plant palette consisting of low- to
moderate -water use trees and shrubs generally consistent with what is permitted in
the PGA West Specific Plan. Landscaping throughout the clubhouse facility is
plentiful, is designed to complement the architecture and layout of the building, and
also suitably integrates into the existing landscaped areas. Mostly utilized around
the clubhouse site are various palm trees and shrubs, with some areas of turf,
which has been limited to landscape planters near the front of the clubhouse and
an existing lawn area near the rear of the clubhouse.
The applicant proposes the use of existing Date Palms and both California and
Mexican Fan Palms (Attachment 2, Sheet 24). New trees on the palette include
Palo Verdes, Desert Willows, and Hybrid Mesquites. A variety of small and large
accent shrubs, including Red Bird of Paradise, Desert Marigolds, and Trailing
Lantanas, are proposed in the areas immediately surrounding the clubhouse and in
the parking lot areas (Attachment 2, Sheet 32 — 38)• The applicant is also
proposing landscape lighting at various locations throughout the project site
(Attachment 2, Sheet 42 — 50). Up -lighting of the trees around the project site are
to be done with a low wattage, semi -recessed metal halide up -lights.
Walls, fences, and gates throughout the clubhouse site have several different
design elements. Concrete masonry unit (CMU) retaining walls with stucco
finishes, ranging from 4- to 14-feet in height, are prevalent throughout the
clubhouse facilities. The applicant also proposes multiple water features
throughout the project (Attachment 2, Sheet 5). The features range from smaller -
scale features located at the main entrance to the building to larger -scale water
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features located at the automobile courtyard as well as at the rear of the clubhouse
facilities (Attachment 3).
ANALYSIS
Clubhouse:
Staff finds that the overall architectural style and design of the proposed PGA West
Palmer Private Clubhouse expansion to be acceptable. Staff has no significant
issues with the proposed interior expansion areas, the new exterior pool and patio
areas, the redesigned parking lot, and the landscape palette, as they are
appropriate and well -designed. The Desert Territorial Modernism architecture and
layout of the clubhouse expansion is for the most part compatible with the existing
clubhouse design. The existing building is successful at sun shading with deep set
roof overhangs for shade and uninterrupted panoramic views, and these design
characteristics will be incorporated into the proposed expansion. Sustainable, or
Green building construction elements do not appear to be incorporated into the
expansion of the clubhouse.
Parking Lot:
Staff finds the design of the Private Clubhouse parking lot to be acceptable. The
parking lot is designed with a clear separation of vehicular and pedestrian
circulation, and also provides sufficient solar shading. Additionally, the use of
strategically -placed parking lot lighting results in a safe and secure environment,
while having minimal negative visual impact on the surrounding areas.
Utilizing shared parking analysis and La Quinta Municipal Code parking ratios, staff
has determined that approximately 280 parking spaces are needed for the
clubhouse. This number was calculated based on golf course, dining, spa/fitness
center uses, as well as field observations. According to the applicant, operational
observations have dictated that a good majority of clubhouse patrons, particularly
golf and dining users, arrive at the site using personal golf carts. An existing
considerably -sized golf cart parking area is available for use on the ground level near
the golf cart storage/golf staging area. Therefore, staff believes that the proposed
276 parking spaces are enough provided in the redesigned parking lot to
accommodate the actual motor vehicle need. Staff recommends ALRC discuss this
parking availability requirement.
Landscaping:
In general, the proposed landscape palette presented is acceptable. The assorted
species of plants, most which are taken from the approved plant list in the PGA
West Specific Plan, provide diversity and add character to the proposed building
5
expansion. Although a number of proposed plants are not listed in the Specific
Plan, they are also low water users and drought tolerant, and therefore are an
acceptable alternative. Thorough use of shrubs and groundcover effectively screen
the clubhouse service areas, parking areas, and other project aspects.
Some of the proposed water features are primary to the design of the clubhouse
expansion. Such features can be permitted if they meet the City's water efficiency
requirements and are approved as part of the project by the Planning Commission.
Staff has provided a Condition of Approval pertaining to these features, requiring
energy efficient pumps and staff review to ensure that there will be minimal water
loss due to splashing, evaporation, etc. The small-scale water features located
near the clubhouse entrance are appropriate in that their placement and scale are
beneficial towards the pedestrian atmosphere. However, staff still has some
concerns over the location, size, and necessity of the larger water features, as their
size and location do not promote pedestrian interactivity. Therefore, staff
recommends the ALRC discuss the use and viability of the proposed water features
as part of the expansion.
RECOMMENDATION
Recommend to the Planning Commission approval of Site Development Permit
2009-911, subject to the following Conditions of Approval:
1. Exterior lighting shall be consistent with Section 9.100.150 (Outdoor
Lighting) of the La Quinta Municipal Code. All freestanding lighting shall
not exceed 20 feet in height, shall be fitted with a visor if deemed
necessary by staff, and be turned off or reduced to a level deemed
appropriate by the Planning Director within one hour following closing
hours. Lighting plans shall be submitted with the final landscaping plans
for a recommendation to the Planning Director for his approval.
2. All rooftop mechanical equipment shall be completely screened from view
behind the parapet. , Utility transformers or other ground mounted
mechanical equipment shall be fully screened with a screening wall or
landscaping and painted to match the adjacent buildings.
3. The applicant shall submit the landscape plans for approval by the
Planning Department and green sheet sign off by the Public Works
Department. When plan checking has been completed by the Planning
Department, the applicant shall obtain the signatures of CVWD and the
Riverside County Agricultural Commissioner, prior to submittal for
signature by the Planning Director. Where City Engineer approval is not
required, the applicant shall submit for a green sheet approval by the
Public Works Department.
31
4. Final landscape plans for on -site planting shall be reviewed by the ALRC
and approved by the Planning Director. Said review and approval shall
occur prior to issuance of a building permit unless the Planning Director
determines extenuating circumstances exist which justify an alternative
processing schedule. Final plans shall include all landscaping associated
with these units.
NOTE: Plans are not approved for construction until signed by both the
Planning Director and/or the City Engineer.
5. All signs shall be approved under a separate sign permit/program
application.
6. The clubhouse water features shall be designed to minimize "splash", and
use high efficiency pumps and lighting to the satisfaction of the Planning
Director. They shall be included in the landscape plan water efficiency
calculation per Municipal Code Chapter 8.13.
Y WUU, Associate Planner
Attachments:
1. PGA West Vicinity Map
2. PGA West Palmer Private Clubhouse Submittal Packet
3. Water Feature Detail Sheet
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