HomeMy WebLinkAboutBalboa Village Design Guidelines (PA2002-161)CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH Hearing Date: October 17, 2002
® PLANNING DEPARTMENT Agenda Item: 1
i} 3300 NEWPORT BOULEVARD Staff Person: Daniel Trimble
NEWPORT BEACH, CA 92658 (949) 644 -3230
(949) 644 -3200; FAX (949) 644 -3229 Council Review: Automatic if approved
REPORT TO THE PLANNING COMMISSION
PROJECT: Code AmendmentNo .2002- 0054YA2002 -161)
Balboa Village Design Guidelines
SUMMARY: Amendment to the Central Balboa Specific Plan District #8, removing the
existing design guidelines from Section 20.45.025 and adding revised
Section 20.45.025, establishing the Balboa Village Design Guidelines and
establishing developmentplan procedures.
ACTION: Adopt the attached resolution recommending that the City Council approve
the requested amendment and the Balboa Village Design Guidelines.
LOCATION: Balboa Village commercial area.
ZONING
DISTRICT: Central Balboa Specific Plan District 48
BACKGROUND
The Balboa Village Design Guidelines project is a follow up to the Balboa Peninsula Sign
Overlay and the physical improvements to the public infrastructure currently being carried out
through the Balboa Village Pedestrian and Streetscape Improvement Plan. The genesis for the
proposed Guidelines goes back to several planning studies that have been developed over the
years, such as Project 2000 and the Balboa Peninsula Planning Study.
In April 2000, after it was apparent that the public improvements were designed and funded, the
City retained Mr. Ron Baers to draft a set of design guidelines for private properties in Balboa
Village. This action was discussed at and supported by the PROP (Promote Revitalization of
Our Peninsula) Committee on March 24, 2000. The City Council initiated the code amendment
for the Guidelines on August 13, 2002. The Planning Commission reviewed the Guidelines on
September 19, 2002 and requested more public input. Since that time the Guidelines have been
discussed at a PROP meeting on October 4, 2002 and at a Balboa Village BID meeting on
October 8, 2002.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Since the last report to the Planning Commission, staff has received comments from several
sources. After notification was sent twice to all property owners within a 300 -foot radius, posted
twice in six locations in the District, and published in the Daily Pilot, staff received four phone
inquiries from owners wanting to know more about the proposed Guidelines. None of the callers
were opposed to the Guidelines and several had made positive comments about the
improvements they have seen in the area over the last year. Staff also received comments during
the PROP meeting. The most significant was a suggestion to add language to the Guidelines to
discourage uniformity of buildings or facades along a street frontage. There was also a
discussion of the boundaries of the Guidelines and whether or not they should apply to the area
of the specific plan between Adams and Coronado. Staff felt that the Guidelines should apply to
the entire Specific Plan area and that any boundary changes should be incorporated into the
General Plan update. Staff also received positive comments on the Guidelines from business
owners at the Balboa Village BID board of directors meeting. Staff has also incorporated the
comments from the Planning Commissioners and corrected the typographical errors in the
documents.
RECOMMENDATION
After receiving further public input, staff recommends that the Planning Commission adopt the
attached Resolution recommending City Council approval of the Guidelines. The following
language is suggested as an addition to Section C 1 on page 15, 4ffi bullet under new construction,
to address public concerns about design uniformity.
Visual harmony and compatibility between buildings is encouraged; however, buildings
should maintain individual character and not replicate each other. Further, repetition of
facade or building design along an entire street frontage is strongly discouraged.
Submitted by:
SHARON Z. WOOD
Assistant City Manager
Preparedby:
DANIEL TRIMBLE
Program Administrator
LJCri�v V uti�.
EXHIBITS / /
1. Corrected Resolution No. 2002 -_, with draft Ordinance changes to the Central Balboa
Specific Plan District.
2. Final Draft, proposed Balboa Village Design Guidelines 9/25/02 (Changes noted)
3. Planning Commission Minutes— September 19, 2002.
4. Planning Commission Staff Report — September 19, 2002, See notebook.
F.I USERSIPLMSharedlPA's1PAs - 20021PA2002- 1611CA2002_005perpt -2. doe
CA2002-005 (PA2002-16 1)
October 17, 2002
Page 2 of 2
Z
RESOLUTION NO.
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE
CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH RECOMMENDING APPROVAL
OF CODE AMENDMENT NO. 2002 -005, MODIFYING THE
CENTRAL BALBOA SPECIFIC PLAN DITRICT, AND
APPROVING THE BALBOA DESIGN GUIDELINES.
THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH HEREBY FINDS,
RESOLVES AND ORDERS AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. Code Amendment No. 2002 -005 was initiated by the City Council on August 13,
2002 in the City Hall Council Chambers, 3300 Newport Boulevard, Newport Beach, California.
Section 2. The Balboa Village Design Guidelines and the Development Plan procedures will
guide the future development in the Central Balboa Specific Plan District ( #8). The District is primarily
commercial with some residential and mixed -use developments.
Section 3. The Planning Commission finds as follows:
a) General Plan Land Use Element Policy F states that the development and maintenance of
suitable and adequate development standards including landscaping, sign control, site and
building design, parking and undergrounding of utilities to insure that the beauty and
charm of existing residential neighborhoods is maintained, that commercial and office
projects are aesthetically pleasing and compatible with surrounding land uses and
consistent with the public health, safety and welfare. The Design Guidelines and the
implementing ordinance establish suitable design standards and land use objectives which
are based upon sound urban planning principles with the intent to improve overall site
and building design without unjustly limiting private property rights or the flexibility of
owners to design projects appropriate for their individual properties. The proposed
Design Guidelines and implementing ordinance are therefore consistent with this
development policy.
b) General Plan Land Use Element Policy L states that, "The City shall encourage its
community commercial districts to reflect and complement the high quality of its
residential areas. The City shall promote the prosperity of its several community
commercial districts through the adoption and application of its planning, zoning,
building and public works codes, regulations, policies and activities. " The underlying
purpose of the Balboa Village Design Guidelines is to improve the district to better
reflect the prosperity and quality image of the City and to make the Balboa Village area
a more vibrant part of the community. The Design Guidelines and implementing
ordinance accomplish this goal and appropriately enhance the development standards
without unjustly limiting private property rights or the flexibility of owners to design
projects appropriate for their individual properties. The proposed Design Guidelines and
implementing ordinance are therefore consistent with this development policy.
C) The amendment affects general development standards and will not increase the
development intensity nor change building height limits, which could potentially affect
Planning Commission Resolution No. _
Page 2 of 2
the environment. The project does not authorize any specific development, but rather
establishes new design guidelines and a process to implement them. Future
development projects guided by the proposed Design Guidelines will be required to be
evaluated for potential environmental effects in accordance with CEQA and necessary
mitigation measures applied as necessary. Therefore, the proposed project has been
determined to be Categorically Exempt pursuant to Section 15305 (Class 5, Minor
Alterations in Land Use Limitation) of the California Environmental Quality Act
Implementing Guidelines.
Section 4. Based on the aforementioned findings, the Planning Commission hereby
recommends approval of Code Amendment No. 2002 -005, including Exhibit "A" Ordinance 2002 -_,
and adoption of the Balboa Village Design Guidelines.
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS 17th DAY OF OCTOBER 2002.
Im
ffim
Steven Kiser, Chairman
Shant Agajanian, Secretary
AYES:
NOES:
ORDINANCE NO. 2002-
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
NEWPORT BEACH ADOPTING AMENDMENT NO. 2002 -005 WHICH
AMENDS SECTION 20.45.025 AFFECTING THE CENTRAL BALBOA
SPECIFIC PLAN DISTRICT (SP #8).
WHEREAS, as part of the development and implementation of the Newport Beach General
Plan, the Land Use Element has been prepared; and
WHEREAS, as part of the implementation of the Land Use Element, the City prepared and
adopted a Specific Area Plan and implementing ordinances known as the Central Balboa Specific
Plan District which establishes planning objectives and development standards for the orderly
development of the district; and
WHEREAS, since the development of the Central Balboa Specific Plan District, the district
has experienced changes both good and bad that have affected the overall quality and image of the
district; and
WHEREAS, the Balboa Village Business Improvement District has supported the
Design Guidelines as a follow up to the Balboa Sign Overlay and the Balboa Village Pedestrian
and Streetscape Improvement Plan; and
WHEREAS, on August 13, 2002, the City Council initiated the Code Amendment for the
Design Guidelines; and
WHEREAS, on September 19, 2002, the Planning Commission conducted a public hearing
at which the Balboa Village Design Guidelines and Amendment No. 2002 -005 were considered. A
notice of time, place and purpose of the public hearing was duly given, and evidence, both
written and oral, was duly presented to and considered by the Planning Commission at the public
hearing. At the conclusion of said hearing, the Planning Commission recommended several
corrections to the Guidelines document and request further public input. The item was continued
until October 17, 2002; and
WHEREAS, on October 4, 2002, the Promote Revitalization of Our Peninsula committee
reviewed and approved the proposed Guidelines incorporating public comments, and
WHEREAS, on October 17, 2002, the Planning Commission conducted a public hearing at
which the Balboa Village Design Guidelines and Amendment No. 2002 -005 were considered. A
notice of time, place and purpose of the public hearing was duly given, and evidence, both
written and oral, was duly presented to and considered by the Planning Commission at the public
hearing. At the conclusion of said hearing, the Planning Commission adopted written findings and
recommended that the City Council adopt the Balboa Village Design Guidelines and Amendment
No. 2002 -005; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Section 20.94, the City Council held a noticed public hearing
on September 24, 2002 to consider Balboa Village Design Guidelines and Amendment No.
2002 -005; and
WHEREAS, the City Council believes that the Balboa Village Design Guidelines should
be adopted and used as a planning guide for future development of the district. Additionally,
Amendment No. 2002 -005 properly implements the proposed land use and development policies
contained in the Central Balboa Specific Plan District and are necessary for said implementation,
and makes the following additional findings:
1. General Plan Land Use Element Policy F states that the development and maintenance of
suitable and adequate development standards including landscaping, sign control, site and
building design, parking and undergrounding of utilities to insure that the beauty and charm of
existing residential neighborhoods is maintained, that commercial and office projects are
aesthetically pleasing and compatible with surrounding land uses and consistent with the public
health, safety and welfare. The Design Guidelines and the implementing ordinance establish
suitable design standards and land use objectives which are based upon sound urban planning
principles with the intent to improve overall site and building design without unjustly limiting
private property rights or the flexibility of owners to design projects appropriate for their
individual properties. The proposed Design Guidelines and implementing ordinance are
therefore consistent with this development policy.
2. General Plan Land Use Element Policy L states that, "The City shall encourage its
community commercial districts to reflect and complement the high quality of its residential
areas. The City shall promote the prosperity of its several community commercial districts
through the adoption and application of its planning, zoning, building and public works
codes, regulations, policies and activities. " The underlying purpose of the Balboa Village
Design Guidelines is to improve the district to better reflect the prosperity and quality image
of the City and to make the Balboa Village area a more vibrant part of the community. The
Design Guidelines and implementing ordinance accomplish this goal and appropriately
enhance the development standards without unjustly limiting private property rights or the
flexibility of owners to design projects appropriate for their individual properties. The
proposed Design Guidelines and implementing ordinance are therefore consistent with this
development policy.
3. The amendment affects general development standards and will not increase the development
intensity nor change building height limits, which could potentially affect the environment.
The project does not authorize any specific development, but rather establishes new design
guidelines and a process to implement them. Future development projects guided by the
proposed Design Guidelines will be required to be evaluated for potential environmental
effects in accordance with CEQA and necessary mitigation measures applied as necessary.
Therefore, the proposed project has been determined to be Categorically Exempt pursuant to
Section 15305 (Class 5, Minor Alterations in Land Use Limitation) of the California
Environmental Quality Act Implementing Guidelines.
6
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH DOES HEREBY ORDAIN AS
FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1: Section 20.45.025 of the City of Newport Beach Municipal Code shall be
revised as provided in Exhibit "A ".
SECTION 2: The Mayor shall sign and the City Clerk shall attest to the passage of this
Ordinance. This Ordinance shall be published once in the official newspaper of the City, and the
same shall become effective thirty (30) days after the date of its adoption.
This Ordinance was introduced at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of
Newport Beach held on October 22, 2002, and adopted on the 12th day of November 2002, by
the following vote, to wit:
AYES, COUNCIL MEMBERS
NOES, COUNCIL MEMBERS
ABSENT COUNCIL MEMBERS
MAYOR
ATTEST:
CITY CLERK
Exhibit "A"
CHAPTER 20.45
SPECIFIC PLAN DISTRICT #8
CENTRAL BALBOA
Y.
a, Mai Street's st. 4ent etiem pedestrian and t.ee_ lined canopy Rhould he
WRWRM
.�raoa
WRWRM
Revised:
Section 20.45.025 Development Plan Review Required.
A. General. The City Council finds, determines and declares that the preservation
and enhancement of the Balboa Village area through the consistent application of
sound urban design principles and the promotion of thoughtful and tasteful design
while allowing creative flexibility as described in the Design Guidelines is
desirable. Therefore, any development, reconstruction and remoldeling shall be
reviewed for consistency with adopted design principles contained within the
Balboa Village Design Guidelines in order to implement the goals and objectives
of the Design Guidelines and Specific Plan District and to preserve and promote
• 1 1.
�1
Revised:
Section 20.45.025 Development Plan Review Required.
A. General. The City Council finds, determines and declares that the preservation
and enhancement of the Balboa Village area through the consistent application of
sound urban design principles and the promotion of thoughtful and tasteful design
while allowing creative flexibility as described in the Design Guidelines is
desirable. Therefore, any development, reconstruction and remoldeling shall be
reviewed for consistency with adopted design principles contained within the
Balboa Village Design Guidelines in order to implement the goals and objectives
of the Design Guidelines and Specific Plan District and to preserve and promote
the health, safety, and general welfare of the community by achieving the
following purposes.
1. To assure that development of properties in the Specific Plan area will not
preclude attainment of the General Plan and Specific Plan objectives and
policies.
2. To protect and preserve the value of properties and to encourage high
quality development thereof in Balboa Village where adverse effects could
result from inadequate and poorly planned buildings and landscaping and
from the failure to preserve, where feasible, open spaces, and the like, and
will result in the impairment of the benefits of occupancy and use of
existing properties in such area.
3. To ensure that the public benefits derived from expenditures of public
funds for improvement and beautification of streets and public facilities
within the Specific Plan area shall be protected by the exercise of
reasonable controls over the layout and site location and design
characteristics of private buildings, structures and open spaces.
4. To maintain a pedestrian environment and compatibility with prominent
landmarks and existing development.
5. To promote the maintenance of superior site location characteristics
adjoining Balboa Boulevard, a thoroughfare of city wide importance; to
ensure that the community benefits from the commercial use; the natural
assets such as the harbor and ocean; and to preserve and protect the
property values in said areas.
B. Application. Development Plan review and approval shall be obtained from the
Planning Director prior to the issuance of a building permit for any exterior work
for any new building to be constructed, or any existing building to be
reconstructed or remodeled, or initiation of landscaping or lighting installation.
An application for a Development Plan shall be filed in a manner consistent with
the requirements contained in Chapter 20.90, Application Filing and Fees.
C. Review. The Planning Director, or his/her authorized representative, shall review
any plans, applications or other information . for consistency with the adopted
Balboa Village Design Guidelines and other applicable ordinances and policies.
The Planning Director shall approve a Development Plan only if the project is
found to be consistent with the Design Guidelines and applicable ordinances and
policies. The Planning Director shall have the discretion to refer any
Development Plan to the Planning Commission for consideration and decision.
(Ord. 2002 § 1 (part), 2002: Ord. 97 -09 Exh. A (part), 1997)
17,
Ilk N
F L
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Table of Contents
INTRODUCTION ............................. ..............................1
I EMERGING CHARACTER ..................................................... 2
A. PUBLIC ROLE ........................ ............................... 2
B. PRIVATE ROLE ....................... ............................... 2
II VILLAGE FRAMEWORK & CHARACTER ............. ............................... 3
A. FRAMEWORK .......................... ..............................3
B. C HARACTER ........................ ............................... 3 -4
C. BUILDING DESIGN TYPES ................ ............................... 5 -6
0. ACTIVITIES .......................... ............................... 7
E. NEGATIVE CHARACTER ................... ............................... 8
III DESIGN PRINCIPLES FOR BALBOA VILLAGE ............ ...........................9 -10
IV DESIGN GUIDELINES FOR IMPROVEMENTS TO SITES AND BUILDINGS ........................11
A. INTRODUCTION ...................... ............................... 11
B. SITE DESIGN GUIDELINES .................... ..........................11 -13
C. BUILDING DESIGN GUIDELINES .............. ............................... 13
1. GENERAL DESIGN CONCEPTS ............ ............................... 14
2. BUILDING HEIGHT ........ ............................... I .......... 15
3. ROOFS ......................... ............................... 16
4. WALLS ......................... ............................... 17
5. FACADES, STOREFRONTS, CANOPIES & AWNINGS ............................. 17 -20
6. DOORS AND WINDOWS ................... ..........................20 -21
7. LIGHTING ........................... .............................22
8. ORNAMENTATION ....................... ..........................22 -23
9. FINISH AND COLOR ..................... .............................23
10. ADDITIONS TO EXISTING BUILDINGS ........ ............................... 24
11.SIGNAGE ........................:.. .............................24
APPENDIX I : FACADE RENOVATION CONCEPTS ....... ............................... 25 -29
BALBOA VILLAGE DESIGN GUIDELINES
I�'
i Introduction
The Balboa Design Guidelines address physical improvements
to private property which will enhance village character. The
Guidelines supplement the Specific Plan District Number 8,
Central Balboa, by replacing the Design and Development
Guidelines, Section 20.45.025.
The primary approach to establishing the new Guidelines lies
in the recognition that Balboa s form and character has
evolved over the past 90 years, has many positive attributes,
and that improvements to existing buildings and new con-
struction can enhance village appearance by respecting
Balboa's eclectic mix of styles and character.
The Guidelines are applicable to all building improvements
within Balboa Village. They will be considered in the permit
review and approval process to encourage high quality design
and creativity.
The following types of improvements are exempt from these
Design Guidelines:
I Individual Single Family Residential and Residential
du lexes
• Maintenance Activities which do not after exterior
appearances
• Underground Construction which does not alter above
grade appearances.
INTRODUCTION
• Interior Improvements which do not alter exterior
appearances
The Guidelines are organized into four major sections:
• The description of the program for major infrastructure
improvements;
• The definition of village character in respect to physical
form and activities;
• The definition of design principles applicable to Balboa
which offer a common framework to enhance
village character, and
• The definition of the design guidelines according to
Site Design and Building Design, with separate sections
addressing improvements to existing buildings and con-
struction of new buildings.
The Guidelines should be employed as a basis for the cre-
ative design process, involving the applicant and.City staff in
a dialogue to achieve appropriate design solutions. The
guidelines are not quantitative standards and therefore are
subject to interpretation.
BALBOA VILLAGE DES IGNGUIDELINES I 1
lS
EMERGING CHARACTER
L Emerging
Character
The City of Newport Beach is implementing a public improve-
ment program for Balboa Village. A combination of public
and private renovations are required to transform Balboa
Village from its present state into an attractive and welcom-
ing place full of vital and successful businesses.
A. Public Role
The City of Newport Beach is implementing a public improve-
ment program for Balboa Village. The Village Plan, as illus-
trated in Figure 1, provides an overall vision of the renova-
tion. It shows the major improvements to streets, sidewalks,
parking lots, park and walkways, and the addition of street
trees and other landscaping. All of these improvements
intend to reinforce village scale and character.
A vital characteristic of the village is pedestrian spaces.
These include sidewalks and walkways which are attractive,
wide enough for people to feel comfortable, shaded by trees,
and that give access to attractive, Ne!k designed stores,
' restaurants and businesses. The combination of new street
trees, store -front plantings and colorful paving patterns will
ail contribute to making these vital pedestrian spaces.
The connection of parking to the village is another vital char-
acteristic to be improved. The existing pier 'parking lot is
redesigned to provide more short-term parking adjacent to
the village on Ocean Front. In addition, walkways along Palm,
Washington and Main will be continued into the parking lot,
with landscaping, such that pleasant and direct pedestrian
routes conned parking to the village. Essentially, the viilaee
grid of streets is continued into the parking lot.
To provide more short-term parking within the village, Bay
Avenue is modified to provide additional on- =_;reef. parking.
113ALBOA VILLAGE DESIGN GLIIDEL1ifES
Other sites between Balboa Boulevard and Bay will also pro-
vide increased parking. Even with a reduction of parking
spaces on Balboa Boulevard in order to widen sidewalks,
there will be an overall gain in parking and in particular
short-term spaces adjacent to and within the village.
The renovation of Peninsula Park will create an attractive vil-
lage green with an outdoor performance space surrounding
the existing bandstand. The village green is a ,major entrance
to the village at Main Street, and is an important meeting and
gathering place. The addition of seating and landscaping will
further encourage these activities. The combination of
Balboa Theater and the Peninsula Park performance space
will greatly expand Balboa's role as a culture and arts cen-
ter on the Peninsula.
Balboa Pier Plaza is part of the renovation program and will
provide a pleasant plaza with comfortable seating, shade
trees and colorful planters to mark the foot of historic Balboa
Pier.
B. Private Role
Improvements to buildings and storefronts are an equally
important part of the overall renovation program.
The Design Guide!ines are provided to ensure :hat private
senor actions are carried out in a coordinated manner which
is directed toward retaining village scale and characer and
upgrading facade appearance. Whether the renovation is to
incorporate landscaping into a facade, conduct maintenance
such as exterior painting, or to carry out a fuil face -lift, these
efforts should be implemented in accordance :vith the
Guidelines. The end result should provide improvements
which are compatible in scale, size and appearance .with vil-
lage character, are attractive and functional, are respecful of
Balboa's past, and employ creative design solutions.
I(D
IL Village Framework
and Character
A. Framework
Balboa Village, between bay and beach on the Balboa
Peninsula, is a small town commercial district in Newport
Beach. In recognition of this setting, Balboa's architectural
heritage evolved to reflect seaside themes. Most prominent
are the Balboa Pavilion and Balboa Inn, both on the National
Register of Historic Places, which anchor the bay and beach
ends of Main Street. The Pavilion has Victorian detailing in
its ornate cupola and wood details, and has over time
become an icon for Balboa. The Inn is Spanish Colonial
Revival, with tile roof, towers, arched arcades and masonry
8`1IRONT pAOMCn,. _
VILLAGE FRAMEWORK & CHARACTER
details. In between, individual buildings reflect an eclectic mix
of architectural styles (Art Deco, Balboa Beach Cottage, Main
Street commercial), some more successfully than others.
The existing ground plan (Figure 2) of Balboa Village com-
bines many of the elements found in traditional villages: nar-
row streets, small blocks, small lots with narrow frontages,
building walls lining the sidewalk which define street space,
open shop fronts, mix of commercial and residential uses, a
village green (Peninsula Park) and a tree -lined Main Street.
Add to this elements unique to Balboa: bayfront promenade
(Edgewater) lined with boats, docks and funzone, oceanfront
boardwalk (Oceanfront Walk), and Balboa Pier, another of the
villages historic landmarks. Views of beach, bay and distant
mountains from Oceanfront and Edgewater are constant
reminders of the natural beauty of this unique setting.
MIXED USE BLOCK
n BUILDING WALLS DEFINE
STREET SPACE
VILLAGE GREEN
® PROMENADE /BOARDWALK
RKS
OCEANFRONT BOARDWALK FIGURE 2 / BALBOA VILLAGE GROUND PLAN
BALBOA VILLAGE DESIGN GUIDELINES I 3
l�
VILLAGE FRAMEWORK & CHARACTER
B. Character
Balboa's character is not based on a particular architectural
style or outstanding buildings. Some may say, like artist Rex
Brandt who memorialized Main Street in his famous water-
color, that it is bigger than any physical place, and more a
feeling shared in all its parts that is as difficult to define as
love. It is the combination of physical setting, mix of beach,
bay and village activities, residences, and eclectic collection
of buildings.
Balboa Village Character can be defined by such
features as:
• Immediate access to beach and bay;
• An overall small scale compact village form composed of
irregular blocks within a grid of local streets and alleys;
Traditional Storefront
Architectural Detail
• One, two and three story building scale;
• A handful of landmark buildings which offer exceptional
examples of Mediterranean, Spanish and Victorian styles;
• Views to ocean, bay and distant mountains;
• Pedestrian scale;
• Mix of residential, retail, entertainment, and beach and
bay activities;
• Architectural details such as varied roof shapes and tow-
ers, tile wainscots on storefronts, display windows with
awnings and canopies, and recessed entries.
Bends Front
1 -3 story building scale
L ntdnwk
4 1 BALBOA VILLAGE DESIGN GUIDELINES 1�
Pedestrian Scale
Bad Frout
Landmark
Mixed Use
VILLAGE FRAMEWORK & CHARACTER
Window Display (SuAAestions)
Window Displays of merchandise are one of the most impor-
tant impressions a business makes on the passing pedes-
trian. Displays should be purposeful statements of mer-
chandise quality designed to visually attract potential cus-
tomers.
• Merchandise selected for window display should be limit-
ed to items that clearly depict the range of offerings.
• Displays should incorporate color, background, props and
lighting that create an appropriate image.
• Window displays should change on a regular basis to
maintain a sense of surprise and interest. If displays re-
main unchanged, they become faded and taken for grant
ed, and seasonal display themes are ignored.
• Display windows should not be obscured by temporary
signs attached to the glass.
a t
b
�s
P
C. Building Design Types
Building appearance contributes to the character of Balboa
Village. Many of the structures are vernacular in style, cre-
ated by local builders using materials and forms common to
the period and place. The value of vernacular buildings is
generally inherent in groupings, rather than individual build-
ings, that present visually pleasing and coherent street
scenes that define village spaces.
Balboa is fortunate to have several buildings which are exem-
plary of a particular style, and illustrate appropriate scale and
architectural richness. These buildings include Balboa
Pavilion, Balboa Inn, Balboa Saloon, Washington Street
Cottage, Old Hardware Store (Main and Balboa), Newport
Landing Restaurant, and Balboa Theater.
BALBOA VILLAGE DESIGN GUIDELINES[ 5
k
I
VILLAGE FRANIEWORK & CHARACTER
The building design types found in Balboa include:
Balboa Beaclz Cottage. This style was common in the
1920's and later. It is characterized by wood siding, both
shiplap and board and batten, and gable roofs with over-
hanging eaves. There are few examples left within the vil-
lage. The most prominent is the two -story residence and
retail shoo at Balboa and Washington. The retail building has
a street -front addition which detracts from the simple cottage
design and prominent gable roof.
Balboa Bencll Cottage
Tivo -Part Cormnercial Blocks. These buildings were
prevalent from the 13_0'5 to 1950's and became the con-
test for Main Street architecture. The ground floor provides
retail space 'with a simple arrangement of store front windows
and entry, sometimes recessed, and a separate entry to sec-
ond floor space 'which was used fcr office or residence. The
'ac -par, division into distinct uses was often referred to as
shop - houses with origins back to Roman antiquity. A high
parapet or simple Projecting shed roof hides the flat roof,
and -here is little ornamentation except for the original bricx-
;vcrx. decorative pin caps at the line of the second floor and
roof. and 'windav detaiis. A sizeable .vail area above shoo
windows orovides space for adverising and makes the facade
apcear larcer. Coco examples a._ cn Main Street, although
avers of facade modernization ilava rock, tile, and siding)
have covered the original avail material.
Part Can merciai 3locxis
Jn Deco inesa %ilcings vere wcic:iIv CpnSi'UCe7 in
h= ! : C'S a.A a' "eL _!l -v 'eai7.r_! > CCi Stucco Vail Stir_
aC'_S, lnea( and C'J; 7111Ceaf CBCC(dnGn and stream-:ire
mC =ern aPPea(anCe. Sing windcvis are :volcal and sice`,vaikk
.an ;Cles '_1'epr ;ly<_ r= :Sudll'! _;r- Mirear. cvie , im,
other vertical elements project above the flat roof line. A
good example is Bubble's at the corner of Balboa and Palm.
Art Deco
S12anislz ColbitialReyiyaL This style was widely used
throughout Southern California for commercial and -esidential
structures. Prominent characteristics including protu%cing'win-
dow boxes and piaster bands at the window sill line and as
part of the column base, arched storefront window aeenincs•
rowers 'with the - 10OPed cupola, 'wrought iron railir.cs, heavy
Plaster walls with simple surfaces, tile roofs anc deeciv
recessed wmdovs. Examples include the Balboa Inn and
Balboa Theater.
_pwaslr Colonial Rez ival
Watertront Victorian. This s `lle was assoca:ed viith
Southern California -esort settings and became -rcnatcre
landmarks for the ,esors. Its graceful lines are ciaracer-
zed by. double -ditch roofs, intersecting gables ar.d domed
cueoias. Cu:ccc :ecxs were decorated with ornate .vccd
raiiinos and :loco 'graces. Haif -crce windo:vs were of =_c a
common ,eacure as ,vocd e=_ve derails. :aibca
?avilion is the ormar/ examcie in Saiboa Village.
.%arcrr•mt B i :Oren
=
D
D. Activities
Village framework and character is more than a collection of
buildings. Equally important are the activities that bring life
to the village. While the mix of activities has evolved since
the heyday of gambling, dancing and rum- running in the
1920's, fun at the beach and bay for families is still a cen-
tral theme. It is important to recognize Balboa Village as a
commercial- recreation center within the residential neighbor-
hoods of Balboa Peninsula. That means the village is sur-
rounded by residences at each end and in much of the sec-
ond floor space throughout the village.
The activity structure relates to bay and beach activities,
entertainment and services for residents and visitors. (See
Figure 3, Activity Structure) Because of bay access, mar-
itime- related activities line Edgewater along the bayfront.
Sports fishing, boat rentals, tour boats and excursion boats
offer residents and visitors a host of maritime recreation
activities. A midway character complements the bayfront mix
with a fun zone offering such traditional activities as Skee-
Ball, bumper cars, Ferris wheel, and carousel to more con-
temporary computer - electronic games. Restaurants and food
and beverage stands are interspersed all along the bayfront.
Oceanfront provides pedestrian access to the beach and is
the focus for beach activities. This includes Peninsula Park
VILLAGE FRAMEWORK & CHARACTER
for informal play, picnicking, bandstand concerts and special
events, residences, hotel, restaurants, parking and historic
Balboa Pier for strolling, fishing and dining.
In between are the shopping streets of the village, including
Balboa Boulevard, Main Street, and Palm Street The mix of
activities serves both residents and visitors and includes
restaurants, retail shops and services. Two story commercial
buildings provide residential uses on the second floor. This
mix of activities today is changed from what it was just a
decade before, when more locally oriented services and
shops were available. Residents and businesses look forward
to an evolutionary change that will offer a more appealing
mix. The new list of activities should provide a balance
between resident - serving shops and services and visitor -ori-
ented activities. The historic Balboa Theater is scheduled to
re -open soon as a performing arts center for stage and
screen. It will act as a catalyst to village revitalization where-
by bistros and restaurants will be attracted to serve theater-
goers, as well as art galleries and boutiques. The scale,
quality and diversity of shops and restaurants on Balboa
Island provides a nearby model for a retail mix appropriate
to Balboa's shopping streets. There is a balance of shops,
restaurants and galleries that provides an interesting window -
shopping experience, provides goods and services for local
residents, and above all provides a social gathering place
which is inviting , comfortable and attractive.
BAY
1�1U BEACH
SHOPPING
STREETS
rrrrrr
3 ACTIVITY STRUCTURE
BALBOA VILLAGE DESIGN GUIDELINES I 7
22
VILLAGE FRAMEWORK S CHARACTER
E. Negative Character
Detractions to village Character have occurred over time. It
is important to identify them so that future changes can cor-
rect and avoid detracting elements. Negative Impacts are
usually caused by incongruous and loud statements to adver-
tise a business through sharp contrast with its surroundings.
Examples include the following:
Murals which overtake the entire building;
• Awnings which in color, shape and size attempt to over-
whelm or compete with their neighbors;
Bright colors applied to the entire building wall;
• Roof shapes and colors which sharply contrast with their
neighbors or the subject building; and
Signs which are out of scale with the building.
Minor detractions are caused by inappropriate details,
unattractive display windows and lack of building maint-
enance.
Without appearance codes at the local level, there is no
direction to enhance the physical character of Balboa Village.
Cearly, it is necessary to reach an agreement on the basics
of village form and character (height, scale, color, proportion,
materials) and to allow 'hem to be manipulated to create
individuality which achieves a collective benefit.
Unattractive
3 1 BALBOA VILLAGE DESIGN �_UIDELINES
Roof Slope /Calm With Slmrp Contrast, Bright Nzll Color
Signs Out of Scale lMth Building
Mumfs Pmt Take Over Building
Competing Atoi lugs
21)
III Design Principles
for Balboa Village
Design principles are more often expressed through good
examples rather than through the blunt instrument of inflexi-
ble rules and regulations. Attempts to achieve good design
through regulation can become constraints rather than incen-
tives. At the same time, however, certain basic design prin-
ciples are necessary to establish a common framework for
compatibility of new construction and refurbishment of exist-
ing buildings. The following design principles offer a common
framework to achieve compatibility:
Village Green. The primary open space in Balboa Village
is Peninsula Park, a meeting place and stage for culture and
recreation. Buildings which frame the green should contribute
' to .11. ambience with animated building frontages which
engage pedestrians.
Village Green
Hitman Scale. Most buildings are one to three stories,
and no wider than a large house. The presence of many
residences within the village plays a significant role in achiev-
ing human scale.
Hie was Scale
Oualitrt Architecture. Although buildings represent a
very .vide range of styles, they should strive to be wellcraft-
ed m their style and detail.
DESIGN PRINCIPLES FOR BALBOA VILLAGE
Quality ArcLihxhim
No Incompatible Architecture. Buildings of different
styles can harmonize due to similarities in scale, roof shapes,
rhythm of openings, color, and materials. Incongruous ele-
ments such as bright, loud colors, jarring roof shapes and
blank walls can be eliminated through thoughtful renovation.
Inviting Streetfronts. Streets lined with attractive dis-
play windows which open the facade to view create pedestri-
an scale and interest.
Inviting Streetfi'onts
Landscape. The presence of plantings integrated with
retail facades is an important step toward streetscape beau-
tification. The recurrence of landscape on a number of
facades will promote village character. Landscape elements
include window boxes, sidewalk planters, decorative lattices
and vines, and second floor window boxes and balcony planting.
Lmdscape
BALBOA VILLAGE DESIGN GUIDELINES 9 14
DESIGN PRINCIPLES FOR BALBOA VILLAGE
Landmarks and Context Buildings Preservation of
landmark buildings is vital to village character. Equally impor-
tant is to treat adjacent buildings as context which are com-
patible with landmarks because they do not compete but
present a more quiet expression of village character, with
small scale, subdued colors and simple shapes and details.
Landnuvks and Context Suildinss
1 Viezo . Recognition of this setting is vital to expressing the
essence of Balboa Village. Preserving public views toward
beach and bay, providing outdoor dining overlooking bay,
and providing upper level balconies overlooking beach and
bay are ways to recognize the setting.
Bench and Bay
Special Features.
In this category are
cupolas, towers, bandstands
and fountains. These fea-
tures should be established
as important visual elements
of village streetscape where
consistent with the design
principles.
Special Features
?0 BALBOA VILLAGE DESIGN GUIDELINES
Sense o- Enclosure. Street space should be well defined
by buildings and trees lining the streets. Gaps in the
streetscape, such as parking lots, should be defined at the
edge of the sidewalk with trellises, fences or landscaping.
The small blocks, narrow streets and narrow lot pattern fur-
thers the sense of enclosure.
Sense of Enclosure
Mixed Use. The traditional pattern of ground floor retail
with second floor residences or offices should be encouraged
I
o continue. This pattern occurs throughout village blocks
with frontages on Baibca Boulevard, Main Street, and Palm
Street.
Mixed Use
25
DESIGN GUIDELINES FOR IMPROVEMENTS TO SITES AND BUILDINGS
IV Design
Guidelines for
Improvements to
Sites and Buildings
A. Introduction
These guidelines are not a substitute for good design. Each
applicant should recognize the qualities and attributes that
make up the unique architectural character of Balboa and
retain and promote these qualities in existing and new struc-
tures.
The guidelines address site design and building design and
are organized to address two major categories of action
which can be taken to improve property: improvements to
existing buildings and new construction.
Improvements to Existing Buildings
There are various degrees of improvements that can be
implemented to upgrade and enhance existing conditions. All
should have a common design goal of creating individual
building improvements that will contribute positively to
Balboa's overall form and character.
Construction of New Buildings
Design guidelines for new construction encourage compatibil-
ity with adjacent buildings, and design consistency with
village character. Balboa has a strong "sense of place" which
needs to become more visually coherent. Buildings should
relate first to human proportions and respect the scale of the
buldings around them. This will lead to harmony among the
parts.
B. Site Design Guidelines
1. Lot Size
Lot size varies throughout the village. The original platting
was 27 feet wide by 95 feet deep. Lot consolidation has
altered this pattern to one where a combination of narrow
and wide lots exist side by side, and building facades also
refect this variation.
Recommendations for Lot Size:
• Maintain the mix of narrow and wide lots, with fairly uni-
form depths.
• Further consolidation should require a building's facade
articulation to express narrow lot frontages, from 27 feet
to 54 feet, in order to reflect the historic pattern of
small lot frontages
2. Setbacks
Street setbacks in the village are 0 feet for commercial uses.
The general pattern is streetfront building walls set at the
back of the sidewalk, which creates a continuous building wait
defining the street space. Variations to this pattern include
minor (less than five feet) recessed doorways and store-
fronts, and some 45 degree angled entries at corner lots.
Xf
BALBOA VILLAGE DESIGN GUIDELINES 111
DESIGN GUIDELINES FOR IMPROVEMENTS TO SITES AND BUILDINGS
Recommendations for Setbacks:
• Maintain the historic pattern of a continuous building
wall.
• Avoid siting building facades at an odd angle to the
street and sidewalk, with the exception of street corners,
which may incorporate angled building walls.
• Gaps in the building wall should be infilled with a con-
tinuous building wall or other appropriate element such
as walls, trellises and planting.
3. On -Site Park
Historically, parking was not provided on town parcels
because of their small size, few private cars and because
Balboa was served by the Red Car rail service. Through lot
consolidation, some of the larger commercial uses dedicated
a side or rear lot to parking. The general pattern today,
however, is that parking is generally not provided on the lot,
which has allowed the historic main street character of a vil-
lage to evolve where continuous storefronts are rarely inter-
rupted by parking lots.
Recommendations for On -Site Parking:
• Maintain the historic pattern of limited on -site parking
visible from the street.
• Where on -site parking is provided, it should be at the
rear of a lot so the street wall is not interrupted.
• Where parking lots are adjacent to the street, efforts
should be made to screen them from public view by
using a combination of landscape planters, walls and
trellises to visually continue a "green wall' fronting the
parking.
• Where there are curb cuts for parking lot access, they
should be relocated to existing alley curb cuts or other
places where sidewalks and parkway planting will not be
interrupted.
4. Site Landscaping
Site landscaping includes plants, hardscape elements and
planters that are part of the street wall.
Village vernacular usually includes a variety of means where-
by building frontages incorporate planting. These include
window boxes attached to the facade at the ground level and
upper floors, wall vines, decorative lattices and ceramic
planters.
In order to enhance frontage appearance, create a garden
atmosphere to complement parkway planting, and to other-
wise improve the conditions of older buildings, the following
recommendations should be pursued:
• Fully landscape building setback spaces with attached or
free - standing planters.
• Incorporate sidewalk vine pockets with wall lattices along
blank walls planted with colorful vines that become part
of the building wall, and should be compatible with the
adjacent architectural character.
Parking Lot Screening
12 I BALBOA VILLAGE DESIGN GUIDELINES
Z?
DESIGN GUIDELINES FOR IMPROVEMENTS TO SITES AND BUILDINGS
• Incorporate planters into second floor balcony railings or
furnish these spaces with planters.
• Wherever possible, incorporate window boxes at ground
and upper floor windows. Plantings should not obscure
decorative facade features, such as ceramic tile wain-
scots.
• All plantings are to be properly maintained in a healthy
and attractive condition, including the use of automatic
irrigation systems.
For buildings with multiple store fronts or repetitive
upper level windows, plant materials should be consis-
tent and complementary for the entire building frontage.
Utilize site and building landscaping to obscure unat-
tractive conditions such as blank walls.
55. Allewzvairs
Alleys provide access to many of the properties in Balboa
Village, both for garage and service access. These forgot-
ten spaces are an often overlooked resource that could, with
a little imagination and care, be made into visually pleasing
spaces.
Properties abutting alleyways that are to be refurbished or
"lave new construction should include in the scope of work
architectural enhancements, landscaping and other aesthetic
improvements.
Alley Enhancement
Gindscaye fncmpmated into Fawdes
C Building Design Guidelines
The following guidelines are organized to address general
design concepts and particular building elements, including;
Building height,
Roofs,
Walks,
Facades,
Storefronts,
Canopies and awnings,
• Doors and windows,
• Lighting
Ornamentation
• Finish and color.
BALBOA'iILLAGE DESIGN GUIDELINES ?3 2$
DESIGN GUIDELINES FOR IMPROVEebtENTS TO SITES AND BUILDINGS
1. General Design Concepts
The following design concepts are applicable to Balboa
Village buildings and should guide renovation and new con-
struction.
Proportion is the size relationship of building elements to
each other, such as width to height, window size to facade,
or awning size and shape to building front. Two story build-
ings emphasize vertical proportion, while one story are more
horizontal.
Proportion
Scale is the apparent size of a building with respect to
nearby buildings and to the human body. Facades which are
divided by windows and doors break up the apparent scale
as opposed to a blank building front. Awnings and canopies
over the sidewalk create "pedestrian" scale by their shelter
and sense of enclosure. Compatible scale between adjacent
buildings is achieved by similar facade divisions and height.
Scale
iWassin is the arrangement of building volumes. Most
Balboa buildings have simple rectangular shapes.
Ntnssing .
lT BALBOA VILLAGE DESIGN GUIDELINES
RlrJtlnn refers to the repetition of facade elements, such
as columns, windows, doors and awnings. A regular spacing
of elements produces a regular rhythm. Rhythm can also be
achieved in building groupings, such as several two 'story
structures adjacent to each other with similar size windows
and spacing. Most two story buildings in Balboa demonstrate
regular rhythm in the spacing of windows.
Rythy"I
Composition is the organization of building facade ele-
ments. Storefronts composed with a wainscot, picture win-
dow and transom nindows above illustrate a three-part
facade composition.
Cmnpositi011
Comyatibilitty is the relationship between buildings and
their parts, and can be achieved through "family resern-
blances" and the use of similar materials, colors and details.
A mansard roof placed in the middle of a group of high para-
pet facades is jarring to the appearance. A grouping of two
and three story facades with similar floor and window lines
would achieve compatibility.
Compatibility
I'll
DESIGN GUIDELINES FOR IMPROVEMENTS TO SITES AND BUILDINGS
Recommendations for General Design Concepts.
For Existing Building:
• New or replaced elements, such as doors and windows,
should be consistent with the proportions of the original
design so that the final composition is unified.
• Human or pedestrian scale should be maintained in
Balboa. Ornamentation, canopies, awnings, doors and
window openings and other elements can give a build-
ing human scale. Buildings with elements of great size
are monumental in scale. Large, undifferentiated build
ing surfaces are scaleless. Both approaches should be
avoided in Balboa.
• Maintain compatibility within groups of buildings by
using similar details, colors and materials.
For New Buildings:
00mm"Mma
• Simple rectangular massing should be maintained.
• Storefronts should be balanced with symmetrical propor-
tions and emphasize openness.
• Repetition of building elements, such as window and
door openings, should be consistent with the size and
spacing of openings in adjacent existing buildings of
character.
• Visual harmony and compatibility between buildings is
encouraged; however, buildings should maintain individ-
ual character and not replicate each other.
• The scale and proportions of new construction should be
compatible with rather than compete with nearby land
mark buildings. Similar facade composition (walls to win-
dows) in nearby landmarks is an especially important
relationship to be emulated in new construction.
2. Building Height
The height limit for Balboa Village is 26 -35 feet. The high
point of a sloping roof can exceed this range by five feet.
This height range thus provides flexibility to permit up to
three story buildings, which is consistent with the one to
three story height range found throughout the village.
Exceptions to the height range can also be considered
through provisions of the Central Balboa Specific Plan #&
and use permits provided that certain findings can be made.
These include consideration of open space, views, superior
architecture, and compatible scale relationships to existing
structures.
Recommendations for Building Height:
• For existing and new construction, the existing 26 -35
foot height range is appropriate.
• Height differences between landmark buildings and near-
by structures should maintain the visual dominance of
the landmark, in most cases.
• The overall proportions of existing buildings should be
retained, with the exception of second floor additions
which achieve appropriate proportions and compatibility
with adjacent buildings.
Range of Building Heights
BALBOA VILLAGE DESIGN GUIDELINES 115 1W
DESIGN GUIDELINES FOR IMPROVEMENTS TO SITES AND BUILDINGS
3. RoRfs
Roof forms generally impart a strong visual character to a
building and often define its style. Residential buildings,
which are located throughout the village, commonly have front
gable and hip roofs. Commercial buildings are generally flat
with a high parapet front, or a short projecting shed roof
along the facade. Both the Pavilion and Balboa Inn have
unique roof shapes expressive of their styles. Common roof-
ing materials include mission file in earth tones, shingles and
built -up roofing.
Recommendations for Roofs.
For Existing Buildings:
Retain the existing shape, materials and other roof fea-
tures of landmark buildings, and other buildings with
special features, and maintain them in good repair.
• Where existing roofs are incompatible with their sur
roundings, they should be replaced to become compat-
ible in shape, materials and color. Examples include
mansard roofs on Balboa Boulevard.
• Adding new features to existing roofs, such as dormers
or visible mechanical equipment, should usually be
avoided.
• In residential areas of the village, gable and hip roofs
should be retained and other roof shapes discouraged.
For New Buildings:
• Roof shape, material and color should be compatible
with nearby landmark structures and other buildings of
character.
• Avoid non - traditional roof forms such as mansard or
other atypical shapes
• Flat roofs should be obscured by high parapets on the
street elevation.
• In residential areas of the village, use only hip and gable
roof shapes to maintain residential compatibility in scale,
material and color.
• Consider roof towers at prominent intersections on Palm
and Main Streets.
Ta s
0
Residential
Beach PaviHion
Spanish Colonial
16 1 BALBOA VILLAGE DESIGN GUIDELINES 3�
DESIGN GUIDELINES FOR IMPROVEMENTS TO SITES AND BUILDINGS
4. Walls
Wood, stucco and masonry are the common materials found
in walls of village buildings. Wood is primarily used in resi-
dential structures and includes shingles, vertical Tongue and
Groove a nd horizontal shiplap siding. Stucco an masonry
are predominant choices for commercial structures. As a
result of newer renovations and additions, combinations have
occurred such as brick and wood siding, or various wainscots
applied over the original wall. The latter include ceramic tile
and stone. Often, these outer layers were attempts at mod-
ernization and sometimes result in an incongruous appear-
ance.
Recommendations for Walls.
For Existing Buildings:
Identify and retain wall materials which are part of the
original structure. Repairs and replacement should
match as close as possible to the unit size, joint size,
bonding pattern and color. For Main Street, the pre-
dominant wall materials are brick, masonry, and stucco
which should be maintained and employed in all
improvements to retain the character and scale.
Incongruous layers of materials which cover up the orig-
inal condition should be removed and replaced with
more compatible materials or those representative
of the original. Wherever possible, brick wall surfaces
which have been painted or covered should be returned
to their original color and character. If removal of paint
may cause damage to the underlying masonry, then the
coating should be retained in good condition and color.
Wainscot materials for storefront walls may include brick,
ceramic tile and similar materials which contribute to the
overall character of the facade. Tile wainscots should
be considered as a unifying theme for commercial build-
ings on Main Street and Balboa Boulevard, and replace
existing the which is incongruous.
Stucco repairs should be accomplished by removing
damaged material and patching with new material that
matches the old in texture and strength.
For New Buildings:
• New construction should use exterior wall materials that
are compatible with nearby existing structures. Comp-
atible materials include masonry, stucco, wood
shingles, and wood siding (vertical board and batten or
horizontal shiplap), and decorative ceramic tile
for wainscots. Incompatible materials include aluminum
or vinyl siding, fake stone or brick veneer, plywood sid-
ing and any materials with reflective or shiny surfaces.
• The characteristics of the wall finish should be compat-
ible with nearby landmark buildings and older buildings
to be retained. Wood siding should have a similar on
entation and board spacing. New masonry should have
bonding patterns and mortar joints that emulate existing
conditions.
5. Facades, StonZLants. Canopies and Auming6
The term "facade" refers to the front elevation of the build-
ing. This public face is typically more embellished than other
elevations. Traditional storefront commercial facades have a
great deal of variation, however basic elements include the
storefront and the upper facade. The upper facade often
employs a high parapet or false front to create additional
height to give the building importance. Where commercial
buildings are two story, the upper floor is residential or office
with regularly spaced window openings, sometimes embel-
lished with framing details and planter boxes.
The storefront is composed of display windows, sometimes
topped by transom windows. Multi -paned windows further
divide the scale of the facade as opposed to large single
panes of plate glass. The panels below the display windows
are termed bulkheads or kick plates, and have often been
covered up with an added layer of material, such as stone
veneer or ceramic tile.
A fixed canopy is a common element of storefronts to pro-
vide shade and shelter over entrances and windows.
Canopies generally run the length of the facade, with an
average clear height of eight to ten feet to the underside of
the soffit. The canopies are wood or metal framed and
sheathed with a solid roofing material. Sometimes lighting is
built in, either strip lights along the eave or down- lights
recessed into the soffit.
Awnings are an alternative to canopies in providing shade
and shelter. However, their application to the facade is quite
different. A variety of shapes are common, including tradi-
tional, domed, shed and retractable. They are light weight
and can incorporate signage in the face or valance portion
of the awning. It is common for awnings to extend for only
a portion of the facade, or to have several different awning
shapes and colors on a single building, often presenting a
confusing and uncoordinated array of shapes, sizes and colors.
BALBOA VILLAGE DES IGN G UIDEL INES 1 1
�2
DESIGN GUIDELINES FOR IMPROVEMENTS TO SITES AND BUILDINGS
Recommendations for Facades, Storefronts, Canopies
and Awnings.
For Existing Building:
• Identify, retain and preserve the original functional and
decorative features of the facade and storefront. If pos-
sible, peel back added layers and return to the original
character.
• Do not introduce "imitation' elements, such as coach
lanterns, mansard overhangs or small -paned display win-
dows unless they can be documented as appropriate to
the facade.
• New storefronts in existing buildings should be compat-
ble with the size, scale, materials, color and proportion
of the existing building.
• All storefronts should reflect traditional parts, including
bulk head, rectangular display windows, vertical piers,
transom windows, horizontal wall space for primary sig-
nage and parapet or second floor with regularly spaced
windows. Arched or rounded display windows may be
appropriate for particular architectural styles, such as Art
Deco.
• The storefront should be located in the plane of the front
facade with no major projections or angled walls.
Entrances may be recessed and planter boxes are
encouraged as integral parts of the storefront.
transom
windows
display
windows
window bo:
bulkhead
windows. roxim 60% percent of the storefront
area should be transparent. When less window area is
desired, blinds and interior curtains should be used.
Entrance doors with transoms and sidelights are appro-
priate and enhance facade transparency.
Generally, wood is an appropriate material for window
frames since it can be painted of to provide a
color accent. If aluminum exists, It should have a dark fin sh.
Aluminum or vinyl are not recommended for traditional
storefronts because they limit the range of colors for
accents.
• Non - original storefronts which have their own unique
character should be kept in good repair and be respec-
ful of the character of adjacent buildings.
• Wherever possible, original canopy designs should be
incorporated in building improvements, such as the
Balboa Inn.
• A continuous canopy line along the facade length may
be desirable. It should retain the shape and proportions
of the existing and be compatible with adjacent buildings.
Finished soffits with recessed lighting or incandescent
lighting along the eave are recommended. Thin, flat -
pitched canopies with gravel roofs should be avoided.
• Canopies may project over sidewalks as long as they are
set Jjl;L�a two to three feet from the curb face
and do not interfere with street trees and sidewalk fur-
niture such as street lights,
Storefront Design Elements
awning
ntry door
18 BALBOA VILLAGE DESIGN GUIDELINES 33
DESIGN GUIDELINES FOR IMPROVEMENTS TO SITES AND BUILDINGS
For New Buildings:
Storefronts of new commercial buildings should be com-
patible with nearby existing buildings. Traditional store-
front features should be emulated (bulkhead, end piers,
transom windows) and display windows should be at
least 24 inches above grade. Bulkhead materials may
be consistent with the facade wall material or employ a
contrasting decorative material such as ceramic tile.
Recommended tile designs include bright colors of blues,
greens and black and softer light blue and yellow, and
natural unglazed, dense quarry tile or glazed in matte
or gloss colors. Solid colors and interlocking patterns
should be considered.
Use of canopies or awnings is encouraged to provide
shade and shelter for pedestrians. Wherever possible,
they should employ one consistent style and extend
the full length of the building or display windows and
entrances. The canopy or awning height should be
aligned with adjacent buildings, where possible.
Storefronts should provide approximately 60 percent of
their surface area in transparent display windows.
Aluminum frames for display windows and doors are
generally discouraged, but may be allowed if they have
a dark finish and are more consistent with the new
structure than framed windows and doors with a con-
trasting trim color.
The following guidelines address awnings, and are
applicable to existing and new buildings:
The size of awnings should be proportional to the scale
of a building and the surrounding streetscape. A sig-
nificant portion of the facade and parapet should be
visible at either end of the awning to provide a visual
frame.
For buildings with multiple storefronts, it is preferable to
have one continuous awning the full length of the build-
ing, or the same shape and color awning installed over
repetitive storefront windows.
`Nhere existing canopies are to be retained, they should
not be combined with awnings or fabric valances, which
creates a confusing appearance.
Traditional shaped awnings are preferred. These are
simple sheds with a 4:12 pitch or greater, may have
closed ends, and have a straight valance. Domed shape
awnings are not recommended unless they are compat-
ible with the building style or shape of display windows. ,
Solid color or broad stripe patterns on awnings are pre-
ferred.
• For facade continuity on a building, awnings should be
a consistent height and depth.
The following awning features are to be avoided:
• Backlighting
• Vertical sign -front style
• Use of metal
• Shiny materials such as high gloss vinyl or bright colors
• Flowered or other patterns
Traditional atoning s /ropes
Deep recesses reflect scale of adjacent cottage
Ground @oar in litre with adjacent I story b7alding, 2nd floor recessed
BALBOA VILLAGE DESIGN GUIDELINES' 19 14
DESIGN GUIDELINES FOR IMPROVEMENTS TO SITES AND BUILDINGS
6. Doors and Windows
The front door is one of the most important elements of a
building facade. Doors are characterized by their operation
and materials, such as hinged , swinging, and metal or wood.
Doors are typically solid or glass in various paneled arrange-
ments. Balboa storefronts favor glazed doors which con-
tribute to facade transparency. Multi -light doors are associ-
ated with early Main Street building styles. In new or remod-
eled storefronts, narrow aluminum frames are common, while
older commercial buildings and residences generally retain
wood frames and casings. While there is a variety of window
shapes and sizes in Balboa Village, the main types are plate
glass and double -hung. Residential window types include
casement, awning and sliding windows. The rhythm of window
openings plays a significant role in a building's appearance.
Singles, pairs and triplets are common. In most cases, win-
dows are taller than they are wide. Clear glass is the most
common material, although there are a few examples of col-
ored glass.
Inviting Front Door
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BALBOA VILLAGE DESIGNGIIIDELITIES 3�
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BALBOA VILLAGE DESIGNGIIIDELITIES 3�
DESIGN GUIDELINES FOR IMPROVEMENTS TO SITES AND BUILDINGS
Recommendations for Doors and Windows. Large, continuous expanses of glass without careful
detailing should be avoided. Glass areas can be subdi-
For Existing and New Buildings: vided by mullions, panes, or decorative millwork to
create human scale.
• The functional and decorative aspects of doors and win-
dows should be identified and retained where they make Tinted glass can be used to reduce solar heat gain pro -
a positive contribution to the building. Features to con- vided it allows views into the retail shop. Reflective
sider include frames, sash, muntins, glazing, sills, heads, glass should be avoided.
jambs, moldings and door hardware.
• New or replacement doors and windows may be accu-
rately restored using historical, pictorial, or other
research. New designs should be compatible with a
building's character.
• Original door and window openings should not be
reduced or enlarged to install stock -size units. When
dropped ceilings are installed, they should be set back
from exterior openings to avoid cutting across the
openings.
• Doors and windows should be recessed away from the
outer wall surfaces.
Doors to retail shops should emphasize openess
by incorporating approximately 75% of the area to glass.
• Existing recessed doorways should be retained.
Additional openings should not be cut into the street
facade, unless they are compatible with the overall buil-
ding character.
• Jalousie windows should not be used on front facades.
Avoid windows with reflective coatings, aluminum frames,
and diagonal pane divisions.
• New construction should blend with the proportion and
rhythm of windows and doors in surrounding buildings
which positively contribute to village character.
• The pattern, size and type of window and door open-
ings should be appropriate to the character of the build-
ing. Avoid jalousie windows, reflective coatings, and alu
minum frames.
Doors and windows in facade openings should be
recessed away from the outer wall surface to suggest
the thickness of traditional masonry walls.
BALBOA VILLAGE DESIGN GUIDELINES 127
"3b
DESIGN GUIDELINES FOR IMPROVEMENTS TO SITES AND BUILDINGS
7. Liglrtinnn
The exterior lighting on buildngs is an important element in
establishing overall village character. Traditional lighting
included incandescent fixtures mounted on the underside of
canopies, on the front facade or wall lights of ornamental
metal and glass. Architectural features of a building are also
the subject for lighting. Tower elements and unique roof pro-
files are often outlined by lighting. Examples in Balboa
include the Balboa Pavilion, where lights outline the double -
pitch roof form and the distinctive cupola.
Recommendations for Lighting.
For Existing Buildings:
New or replacement light fixtures should be based on
surviving prototypes, or on fixtures typical of the period
or style. Incandescent fixtures were typical; however,
energy efficient metal halide (color corrected) and halo-
gen quartz fixtures may be used. Fluorescent fixtures
are not recommended for the exterior unless shielded,
• The lights on the underside of canopies should be
replaced or added, using small incandescent bulbs
spaced between 12 and 24 inches to illuminate the
storefront and sidewalk
For New Buildings:
• Exterior lighting levels should not compete with that on
existing nearby buildings.
• Incandescent bulbs are preferred, or shielded fluorescent
fixtures.
Unique architectural features should be highlighted with
exterior lighting.
8. Ornamentation
Ornamentation on most Balboa Village buildings is quite sim-
ple. It includes cornice line details, material texture, decora-
tive railings, unique window shapes, and cast column capitols.
22 I BALBOA VILLAGE DESIGN GUIDELINES
Vdiage Orrranxntnlion
Balcony
Wood Sheen
Calnnue Capita!
Cast stone
*6'1
f
1
ilia
11 �1�
111=
Calnnue Capita!
Cast stone
*6'1
DESIGN GUIDELINES FOR IMPROVEMENTS TO SITES AND BUILDINGS
Recommendations for Ornamentation.
For Existing Buildings:
• Wherever possible, the original details of the building
should be uncovered or replaced with a compatible
substitute. Ornaments should not be added that are not
authentic or detract from the building's character.
For New Buildings:
• Ornament should be employed to enrich architectural
character. Appropriate areas for ornamentation include:
the parapet /roof interface, structural supports, and cor-
ner, door and window trims.
• The shape, color and texture of details should echo, but
not duplicate, those on nearby structures of character.
9. Finish and Color
The majority of buildings in Balboa Village have painted exte-
rior finishes on wood, masonry or stucco. Most buildings
have a relatively subdued color scheme. Original colors for
Village buildings were grey, white, blue trim, unpainted red
brick, beige, ochres and muted reds. Recently painted build-
ings have used earth tones for the body and contrasting
blues or rust for accents or a complementary beige. Visible
roofs are terra cotta mission tile or grey composition shingle.
The color of a storefront and /or building establishes a mood
and feeling about the district. It reinforces individuality of the
building and its relationship to the block and village. In
Balboa Village, there is no thematic color scheme just as
there is no thematic architecture. Main Street probably
comes the closest to a thematic character based on two story
brick buildings painted with light colors, predominantly white.
Recommendations for Finish and Color.
For Existing and New Buildings:
• Colors of landmark buildings need not be original, unless
restoration is intended. Colors should be appropriate
to the historic style of the architecture. Wherever pos-
sible, feasible and appropriate paint on brick buildings
should be removed.
• Colors should be muted earth tones and bright hues
should be avoided. Paint color should be used to high
light architectural form and details. Color selection
should show evidence of coordination with the colors
used on the block and adjacent buildings. They should
be compatible and complementary, but not identical.
• Five colors should be considered - for base, walls, trim,
roof and architectural details. Dark colors are best for
the base of a building. The body of the building should
be lighter than the base and limited to one main color.
Where there are canopies or awnings, the wall color
above and below should be the same. Building trim
should be a contrasting color, yet coordinated with the
base and body colors. The roof color, where it is
visible, should be coordinated with the base, wall and I
trim colors. The colors of architectural details should
also be coordinated with the facade scheme.
Typical Color Schemes:
• Base -
Dark earth tones
• Body -
Light earth tones, off- whites (ivory,
Navajo) or light pastels
• Roof -
Earth tones
• Trim -
All colors, including intense saturated hues
in small areas
• Details -
All colors, appropriate to the overall color
scheme
Colors Not Recommended:
• Highly reflective
• Large dark surfaces
• Large areas of dark glass
BALBOA VILLAGE DESIGN GUIDELINES 123 36
DESIGN GUIDELINES FOR IMPROVEMENTS TO SITES AND BUILDINGS
• High gloss paint is not appropriate, except for trim and
accents.
• Where a commercial building has more than one store
front, the building should have integrity of color. Color
should not be used to subdivide the building to reflect
the storefronts, unless there are architectural divisions
that create the appearance of separate buildings.
Similarly, the side elevations should be painted consis-
tently with the main facade.
• Stone or tile surfaces shall not be painted. Choice of
color on the adjacent wall surface should be compatible
with the stone or tile.
I • Paint on wood should be maintained to protect it from
ultraviolet light and moisture. Compatible paints should
be chosen and the manufacturer's instructions followed.
The colors for newly constructed buildings should be
chosen to avoid competing with colors of nearby landmark
buildings or older buildings of character that will remain.
The color scheme should be designed to highlight simi-
lar elements in old and new buildings. For example, if
existing buildings have contrasting trim colors, a similar
pattern should be followed in new construction.
10. Additions to Existing Buildings
Building additions are a small part of Balboa's eclectic
expressions, and are a future possibility in certain situations.
In most cases, additions would occur to add second floor
space to an existing one story structure.
Recommendations for Additions to Existing Buildings:
• Consideration of new construction should be given equal
weight to adding a second floor, unless the existing and
addition can be melded into one unified character.
• The design of contemporary-style additions which are
compatible with landmark and older buildings is possible.
Sensitive additions consider scale, proportions, materials,
detailing and color.
• Additions on parcels adjacent to landmark structures
shall be designed to be compatible with the historic
architectural style.
The City of Newport Beach regulates signs through its zon-
ing code. Specifically, Chapter 20.67 and the recently adopt-
ed Balboa Sign Overlay ordinance govern sighage. Included
is an amortization program whereby non - conforming signs
are encouraged to be removed and replaced by appropriate
conforming signs. A five year incentive program provides
design and financial assistance to owners.
24 1 BALBOA VILLAGE DESIGN GUIDELINES SA
FACADE RENOVATION CONCEPTS
Appendix I
Facade
Renovation
Concepts
The following section consists of facade renovation concepts
for four sections of Balboa Boulevard, which demonstrate the
application of the Design Guidelines. They are intended as
illustrations only and describe one possible set of design
solutions to existing facade conditions. The common theme
in the illustrations is to recognize the positive attributes of
each building and incorporate them into the design solution.
It should be emphasized that these illustrations explore only
one possible approach to applying the Design Guidelines. A
range of alternatives should be considered which are appro-
priate to property owner or tenant requirements.
In summary, the facade renovation concepts are illustrations
only which are intended to:
• Demonstrate acceptable design treatments for groups
of buildings along Balboa Boulevard;
• Stimulate the imagination of various community interests
about creative design solutions for existing facades;
• Enable property owners, tenants and the community to
visualize how village appearance can be enhanced by
applying the Design Guidelines.
The facade renovation concepts are presented on the follow-
ing pages along with a photomontage of the existing facade
conditions.
BALBOA VILLAGE DESIGN GUIDELINES 125
41)
FACADE RENOVATION CONCEPTS
Existing Conditions
r rr
T
J.
tt
Trellis and
Open dining to I
sidewalk Bulkhead with
sines to
frame entry
Decorative
tile on arch
decorative ceramic tile
Multi - light
display windows
Facade renovation mucepts
I.Balboa Boulevard and WashinZon. Soutleeast
Corner
The primary objective is to make minor modifications to exist-
ing facades ;hat will emphasize the positive features of each,
including the Balboa Beach Cottage Style building, mission
tile roof, and brick facades.
Provide a common sill height for display windows
26 3,1
L6O.A VILLAGE DESICNGUIDELINES
1
Second floor
balcony with
decorative railing
and planters
Existing brick
bulkhead
Multi -liaht
display windows
Utilize decorative materials such as the and brick for the
bulkheads
Provide multi llte display windows and doors
Replace awnings with wall signs in a sign band, and
extend mission tile roof over sidewalk as a canopy, and
• Incorporate landscaping into facades, such as vines on
balcony railing, second floor roof plantings, and window
boxes and lattice with vines.
4t
WP
FACADE RENOVATION CONCEPTS
Uniform display windows
EYisting Conditions
Add balconies
xorerront owrcneaa
using decorative Decorative entry
ceramic tile
Facade reuoantion concepts 3
3. Balboa Boulevard a;td Washington
Soutlizvest Comer
Improvements are suggested that address the uncoordinated
collection of awnings, incorporate landscaping into facades,
and unifv storefronts.
stablish a consistent bulkhead heioht and use of a
common material such as decorative ceramic file
Introduce a common storefront window
Wall Lattice
with colorful
vines to frame
entrance
Provide decorative entrieswitha similar design -reatment
Replace awnings with a sign band and :wail signs
Provide second floor projecting balconies with decorative
railings
Incorporate planters into second Flocr balconies both for
privacy and to beautiFl facades
Add ground Floor lattices with colorful vines wherever
possible around entrances
.d BALBOA VILLAGE DESIGNGWDELINES ��
FACADE RENOVATION CONCEPTS
Existing Conditions
Remove box signs and
Continue incised masonry Remove existing lava rock Incised Theater Spanish
design from second floor bulkhead and replace masonry detail Colonial facade restoration
to base with decorative ceramic file
Facade renovation concevts
4.Balboa Boulevard and Washington: Southeast
Comer
The basic approach to these facades is to recapture their
positive design features, including sirona horizontal rib-
bon windows, incised masonry detailing, simple wall signs on
a sign band, uniform storefront windows and simplified palette
of wall materials.
Remove box signs, lava rock and wood veneers to sim-
plify appearance
• Establish common storefront bulkhead and window pat -
zern with transoms
Use wail signs on sign band above storefront windows
Emphasize incised masonry pilasters by incorporating
them into the ground floor facade
BALBOA VILLAGE DESIGN GLIIDELINES 129 qq
City of Newport Beach
Planning Commission Minutes
September 19, 2002
SUBJECT: Code Amendment No. 2002 -005 (1
Balboa Village Design Guidelines
Amendment to the Central Balboa Specific Plan District #8, removing the existing
design guidelines from Section 20.45.025 and adding revised Sections 20.45.020 and
20.45.025, establishing the Balboa Village Design Guidelines and establishing
development plan procedures.
Ms. Wood, Assistant City Manager noted the following:
• Comments received from many people including members of the Planning
Commission about what will be done to encourage the private property
owners to improve their properly as the City completes public
improvements.
• The City retained Ron Boers, the same urban designer who worked on the
public Improvement project, to develop a set of design guidelines for the
village. He is here to go over the specifics.
• These guidelines will replace the ones that are in the Specific Plan now.
•
The ordinance is to be amended to establish a development plan review
process at the staff level and then the guidelines will be adopted by City
Council Resolution. The system is the some as in Mariners Mile.
• In Mariners' Mile we said that any new structure or any addition of 2500
square feet or greater would be subject to the review process and the
guidelines. In this case, because things are much smaller in the village and
it's a pedestrian environment, the way we have drafted the ordinance is
that any exterior change that requires a building permit would be subject to
the review process.
Commissioner Tucker noted that Section 20.45.060 says, 'therefore any new or
substantially altered development shall be reviewed for consistency'. Does that
substantial alteration mean a building permit?
Ms. Wood answered that Section 'B' - Application had been revised, specifically:
'Development Plan review and approval shall be obtained from the Planning
Director prior to the issuance of a building permit for any exterior work for any new
building to be constructed, or any existing building to be reconstructed etc...' Staff's
recommendation is to make Section A consistent with the language in Section B.
Continuing, Commissioner Tucker noted that in 'A' the listing of the purposes. I did
not see anything that had to do with the design of a building, yet that is what the
design guidelines covers. Ms. Wood agreed that some language should be
developed to cover that issue.
Commissioner Sellch asked about the exposure of the guidelines to the property
owners and merchants other than the PROP Committee.
Ms. Wood answered the PROP Committee did not review the guidelines, they talked
about doing them. The Balboa Merchants and Owners Association and the Balboa
Peninsula Point Association reviewed the guidelines.
INDEX
Item 1
PA2002 -161
Continued to
10/17/2002
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City of Newport Beach
Planning Commission Minutes
September 19, 2002
Commissioner Tucker noted that the Planning Director could approve a
development plan only if the project is found to be consistent with the Design
Guidelines and applicable ordinances and policies. Each building permit has to go
through this consistency review at the Planning Director level to be consistent with
the design review level. It is more than suggestions, it has the force of compliance
although the guidelines are fairly broad it seems.
Commissioner McDaniel noted that this replaces Section 20.45.025 with the two new
Sections, 20.45.020 and 20.45.025, is there any way there might be confusion
between the old .025 and the new .025?
Ms. Clauson, Deputy City Attorney, noted that amendments or replacements of
existing codes don't necessitate a different number.
Ms. Wood noted she would check on the numbering.
Mr. Ron Baers, urban design consultant to the City, at Commission inquiry noted the
following:
The review process was two years and during that time he met with, and
received input from, the Balboa Merchants and Owners Association, had
two meetings with the Balboa Peninsula Point Association, and an informal
review by two members of the American Institute of Architects.
Specific input was included In the guidelines relating to specific example
issues /pictures.
Commissioner Tucker noted his comments on the guidelines by page number:
• Page 1 - reference to the exemption from the guidelines as single family
residential. Is that single family detached? Definitionally, at what point in
time does It no longer qualify as single family residential, is a four -plex multi-
family? I think this clause should be made clear so that everybody
understands what is exempt and what is not.
Mr. Baers answered, yes, if a single family detached residential project was to be
built within the Balboa Village, it would be exempt from the guidelines. If it was
duplex residential it would also be exempt. It is not necessarily single family
residential. The intent is if there was residential as part of a mixed use building then it
would be addressed in the guidelines.
Commissioner Tucker continued:
• Page 2 - Private Role. Is this something that staff will look at, or will there be
a consultant? Who is going to look at scale and character determination
to see that this is accommodated?
Ms. Wood answered It will be staff who does the plan check and the Director's
approval of permits. It will not be an outside consultant.
INDEX
Lkly
City of Newport Beach
Planning Commission Minutes
September 19,20M
Page 5 - Window Displays seems for afield from the physical aspects of the
building; this is what merchants are doing yet it is in the Design Guidelines. It
seems it is out of place. The implementation of this framework is a building
permit. The window displays are not going to be shown as part of that
permit.
Mr. Boers answered:
• Staff wanted this removed because they felt this was going beyond the
purview of design guidelines. However, one of the tasks in preparation of
the guidelines was to review what other cities are doing. One of the things I
discovered was that many communities have recognized that when you
talk about a village retail environment one of the primary visual and
physical elements is the display windows of the shops. Balboa has
addressed this issue by such programs as employing interior design students
so that the displays will be of high quality. The window display issue is
placed outside the guidelines themselves and is under the section that talks
about character. The design guidelines themselves do not address the
window displays. This is information to consider and Is not part of the
regulations.
Ms. Wood added that the Code section says things that require a building permit
will be subject to review for conformity with these guidelines. Obviously, window
displays will not need a permit so that is there really more for an informational item
for people than for staff to review against.
Commissioner Tucker:
• Page 10 - Views. Suggested placing the word public views to avoid
dealing with concerns from citizens about their private views.
Mr. Boers answered:
This discusses the aspect of public view not views from private property.
There is a diagram on page 3 that further identifies the nature of public view
locations.
Commissioner Tucker:
• Page 11 - Construction of new buildings. 'Buildings must relate first to
human proportions and respect the scale of the buildings around them.'
We have quite often a one story building in an area that is zoned for two
story buildings and this is an admirable goal; however, as improvements are
made sometimes there may be a larger building that is not necessarily out
of scale to what the zoning is. You might want to moderate this language a
bit.
• Page 16 - Roofs. There is a reference in the first bullet point for existing
buildings to maintain roofs in good repair. I don't believe this is a building
permit item, so that probably doesn't belong here. It is a good idea; I just
don't know how this would be implemented.
Page 23 - Painting. The majority of painting isn't going to be done within
INDEX
N1
City of Newport Beach
Planning Commission Minutes
Selotember 19.2002
the framework of a building permit. The City may be able to regulate the
Initial paint job, but the subsequent paintings will not be covered under a
building permit.
Public comment was opened.
Mr. Tom Hyans, resident of the peninsula noted his understanding that this document
was a guideline and doesn't create any demand on applicants. If an applicant
comes for a variance, I could see where the guidelines would be reviewed.
Continuing, he noted:
Neither of the two peninsula homeowners associations were invited to join
the committees (Balboa Peninsula Advisory Committee and Project 2000).
• I am not aware that any public input to the creation of this document was
solicited.
• Three suggestions - stop encouraging the continued commercial uses west
of Adams along Balboa Boulevard by changing the west boundary of this
project to Adams rather than Coronado. Open that corridor to duplex
development with exemptions and permission for this development and
reduction in on -site parking requirements for this small area. Include specific
language to discourage the development of another unimaginative and
repetitious project such as that approved for the twenty -two lots in Cannery
Village.
At Commission inquiry, Mr. Hyans answered that the guidelines document is well
done and if what he understands it to be, not a mandate or requirement but a
recommendation, he agrees with it. Everything in the guidelines says that something
should be' done not' shall be' done.
Commissioner Tucker noted that there is a variety of styles that Is allowed so that the
best of what is there now is preserved and some of the things that don't fit in well
are encouraged to head a different way. So there is no misunderstanding, it says
the Planning Director shall approve a development plan (required for anything in
this area that has a building permit) only if the project is found to be consistent with
the design guidelines. The design guidelines have a lot of flexibility within them. The
Cannery Lofts, in our opinion, met the requirements of the Specific Plan, so we did
not have a lot of design guidelines, features or requirements. What we did have
was very sketchy and talked about an Industrial type of look. We felt overall on
balance the applicant was meeting the requirements.
Public comment was closed.
Commissioner Toerge asked about the notification of this hearing and specifically
the design guidelines.
Ms. Wood answered that all property owners within the specific plan area and
within 300 feet of the specific plan boundaries were sent a mailed notice; we
posted the village with notices of the hearing; notices were sent to the business
owners; and the meeting was listed in the newspaper.
INDEX
N
City of Newport Beach
Planning Commission Minutes
September 19, 2002
Ms. Temple added that we not only sent out the official public hearing notice but
when this item was continued, we sent out a special mailing indicating the delay of
the hearing to everyone who got the first one.
Discussion followed on the timing of consideration of this matter, public input, and
further consideration at the second meeting of October;
Commissioner McDaniel noted his concerns of design review and subjectivity. He
supports the suggestion to reconsider this matter at a later meeting to allow time to
'tighten' (specific items that can be removed) this up and also the full Commission
will be able to look at this item as well. I am not comfortable voting for this at this
point in time.
Ms. Wood noted that the guidelines were intentionally written in 'should' rather than
'shall' language and we intentionally have the guidelines referenced in the
ordinance but adopted by resolution of the City Council so that there is flexibility.
The flexibility is Intended for the properly owner and to give staff the ability to
approve a project that is good and meets the intent of the guidelines and the
majority of the guidelines, and not require the applicant to receive some kind of a
waiver or variance if they don't quite have the design, of the roof exactly as the
guideline might say in a more strict kind of system. We want to get a little more
control on this, we certainly want more than the existing system where the
guidelines are in the code merely as a suggestion. We didn't want to go so far as a
strict design review and inflexible standard; that Is why they are called guidelines.
Chairperson Kiser noted:
• The language of 'should or shall' leaves room for Interpretation.
• Guidelines delve into areas far afield from building permits and he is
concerned about recommending this being passed on to the Council as it
is now.
Commissioner Tucker noted:
• I am not in favor of a 'Laguna Beach' style design review, which gives both
particular and subjective regulations and covers both residential and
commercial.
These guidelines apply to a specific area and the City has a significant
investment that is being put in. The way I view this is now the City is saying
to the private sector they need to also have concerns for quality of design
and materials.
This has enough flexibility and is not difficult to comply with. A highly
modern structure will be hard to approve in a business district.
The guidelines recognize the traditional buildings and more traditional
architecture.
• I am concerned about the lack of public Input.
• I don't think this is much different than what was adopted for Mariner's Mile.
Chairperson Kiser noted that the Mariner's Mile guidelines seemed to be more for
6
INDEX
0
City of Newport Beach
Planning Commission Minutes
September 19, 2002
signage and landscaping from the street side and not general Items such as
window displays. What is to prevent this in ten years or so from being applied in a
manner such as Laguna Beach would? These guidelines are so amorphous that if
we had the wrong people interpreting these guidelines, it could become a
horrendous problem for people and property owners. I definitely want to take
another look at this.
Commissioner Selich noted that these guidelines present a balance. On the one
hand you can have something like we have in Cannery Village, which is less than
nothing, or the other extreme such as Laguna Beach, which is over control. These
guidelines are in between and have some force and effect and a way to
implement them. Yet, they are not so onerous or overbearing. I don't have a
problem with the guidelines and the balance they achieve. Some good points
have been brought out about some of the character versus the regulatory issues
and maybe there should be some language to clarify which is which so that it is
clear to anyone using them, an applicant or staff person doing the administration.
They are certainly not something that is new and unusual. Many cities in Southern
California have design guidelines like this. If there is an ability to get more to the
people out on the Peninsula, that is worthwhile.
Motion was made by Commissioner Tucker to continue this item to October 17,
2002 to allow time for more public input and corrections to the Guidelines.
Ayes: Toerge, McDaniel, Kiser, Selich, Tucker
Noes: None
Absent: Agajanian, Gifford
SUBJECT: Wetherholt Residence
217 301h Street
A Variance request for 3 separate aspects of the proposed addition to an existing
two -story residential structure: to exceed the floor area limit, to exceed the
established maximum building height of 24 feet by 3 feet 3 Inches associated with
adding a third level to the existing structure, and to continue to provide only 1 on-
site parking space for the residence. The subject property is located at 217 30th
Street.
Mr. Campbell, referring to the exhibits in the staff report, noted:
• Lot is small and triangular.
• Existing two -story structure on the property with the addition of a third floor
of 500 square feet necessitates three specific variances, one for building
height, one for floor area and one for the parking. There is a fourth issue,
open space, that also requires a variance, but which was not noted in the
application or public notice.
• The main issue is the inability to provide additional parking. The structure
has a one -car garage; the Code does not allow additional bedrooms or
INDEX
Item 2
PA2002 -102
Continued to
10/17/2002
50