Reso PC21-11 0086 PC Reso Recommending Approval of ZA Amendment 1616 Gordon Street

Browse Search

ATTY/RESO.0086/PC RESO RECOMMENDING APPROVAL OF ZA AMENDMENT – 1616 GORDON STREET REV: 10-13-2021 VR Page 3 of 21 Although the bedroom module is repeated in the plan, the principal façade contains a variety of form. The building is broken up into two bedroom wings set at slight angles from each other. This creates interest on the outside and breaks up the monotony of an otherwise long structure. The two wings are also separated by a glass connector. A large overhang protects the principal facades and is supported by wooden brackets for emphasis. The entry wing is perpendicular to the bedroom wings exposing the end view of the shed roof creating interest and additional variety of form. B. The size and design of the structure shall be considered for the purpose of determining that the structure is in proportion to its building site and that it has a balance and unity among its external features so as to present a harmonious appearance; The size and design of the proposed structure is intended to be consistent with the existing building on site. Gordon Manor is a single-story development. The proposed building has been setback at a distance from the existing buildings in recognition of its taller height. The setback is also intended to reinforce the courtyard feeling for which the site is organized. The shed roof design allows for the tallest portion of the roof to face inwards and away from the neighbors. This design presents a residential scale facade intended to complement the existing neighborhood. Existing trees help to diminish the bulk as seen from neighboring properties and Hawes Court. C. The extent to which the structure conforms to the general character of other structures in the vicinity insofar as the character can be ascertained and is found to be architecturally desirable; The general character of the proposed development is architecturally desirable. The design complements the existing buildings at Gordon Manor by using the main materials, including the bright yellow stucco and composition shingle roof. The façade presented to the Southern neighbors shows a low eave of the shed roof and residential scale windows to complement the scale of those adjacent homes. The project retains a large Oak tree facing Hawes Court to allow the bulk of the new building to be obscured from that side in order to present a soft appearance on the court. These design choices make the new design architecturally desirable as seen from the neighboring lots. D. The extent to which excessive ornamentation is to be used and the extent to which temporary and second-hand materials, or materials which are imitative of other materials, are to be used; The ornamentation of the façade is muted to be consistent with the existing complex at Gordon Manor. The proposed design includes high quality detailing including wood braces, horizontal banding and building mounted trellis’s to add interest. The proposed materials are true to their nature including cement plaster, natural wood and aluminum windows.