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9.A - Page 4 <br />House Desiqn <br />features <br />F. The parking provided is accessible <br />I. Permeable surface areas are <br />sufficient <br />Neiqhborhood Character <br />Findings G. and H. are not applicable to single-family residential projects. <br />In addition to all objective standards being met, the above findings must be made in <br />order for the project to be approved. In order to make the neighborhood character <br />finding, staff typically considers the following site layout and architectural design factors: <br />• Placement, size and prominence of garage <br />• The "step -back" of the second story from the first story <br />• Plate height of each story (total distance from floor to ceiling) <br />• House width <br />• Placement and size of front porch <br />• Front setback as compared to neighboring properties <br />The degree to which each of these factors is stressed depends upon the neighborhood, <br />particularly the homes closest to the property. <br />It is important to note that architectural style can be challenging to regulate, both <br />objectively and subjectively. Style is a collection of characteristics including roof pitch, <br />window shape, length of eave, and exterior materials, which together do not lend <br />themselves to objective measurement. Homeowners also have strong personal <br />preferences on architectural style, whether it be Craftsman, Ranch, Mediterranean, <br />Eichler, or contemporary. Contemporary tends can be the most controversial style (both <br />in Redwood City and surrounding communities), with residents having strong feelings <br />about its attractiveness and value to the community. <br />There are often several rounds of revisions prior to Zoning Administrator review. Often, <br />property owners are required to alter the site plan, and/or adjust the architectural style <br />of the building. Property owners often are initially reluctant to make any changes <br />suggested by staff. One example of an original submittal versus an approved project is <br />provided in Attachment 3. Staff believes this project was significantly improved by the <br />Architectural Permit process. On the other hand, there are times when nearby <br />neighborhood residents feel revisions did not go far enough, and the neighborhood <br />compatibility finding was not met. In one recent case, neighbors appealed the Zoning <br />Administrator approval of a project, and the Planning Commission agreed with the <br />