PC 052301 - Laserfiche WebLink

Commissioner Arkin asked the peer-reviewing architect, Mr. Larry Cannon, to describe the ..-- architecture and color scheme for this project. Mr. Cannon advised that he agrees with the attitude that the owners have that they deserve a outstanding building, but he does not think that this is it. He noted that it started as an engineered, tilt-up building, and then some things have been added to it. He stated that it does not have a style. Commissioner Arkin asked if there is any way of gauging what the community would think of a building. Mr. Cannon stated that most people generally like the warmer colors, and when they encounter colder, harsh colors, most people probably wouldn't like it. Commissioner Maas asked for Mr. Cannon's opinion regarding color scheme "c." Mr. Cannon advised that initially he did not look at the site, but he did look at the site following the last Planning Commission meeting. He noted that he was struck by the tight context this new building was going to go into and the strong relationships between the two buildings on either side of the site. He stated that he feels the new building does not have much to do with that context. He further stated that the context is generally what makes people feel comfortable or uncomfortable about buildings. Mr. Cannon stated that the color scheme "C" is muted down and is the best alternative, but it is still quite in contrast to the adjacent building colors. Discussion ensued regarding the proposed color schemes. Mr. Cannon used a color wheel to explain the concept of warm and cold colors, and possible color alternatives. In response to an inquiry from Commissioner Maas as to whether there could be resolution to the colors if the applicant worked with staff to prepare three alternatives, Mr. Cannon stated that he feels it could be resolved. ,..-.- In response to an inquiry from Commissioner Arkin, Mr. Cannon advised that the materials on the walls of the new building will not appear that much different from the adjacent buildings, except that the adjacent buildings have some subtle texturing. He commented that he feels the problems for him on the building design are issues related to form, window proportions, the small setback of the second-story, and lack of articulation on the side walls. THE PUBLIC HEARING WAS CLOSED Commissioner Roberts stated that while she feels the building is not in the context of the existing buildings, she is not sure why she would want it to be in the same context, as she is not happy with the existing buildings. She stated that the proposed building adds to the street scene. She noted that the Commission has not considered that a brick fire station is being constructed at the end of the block. She further noted that the building behind the site is a standard metal commercial building which is yellow. She commented that as shown by Mr. Gerton's photos, there are some wild colors and a variety of architecture in the Stanley Business Park. She stated that she feels it is a good idea to get away from the standard tilt-up building. She commented on the Commissioners' positions taken at the last meeting on the design of the building, noting that she did not feel there was a strong direction to completely redesign the building. She stated that she feels the "eyebrows" element is distracting and she would like to see any metallic components painted a flat non-reflective color. She also stated that she can accept color scheme "C," noting that Mr. Cannon stated that he feels these colors are going to wash out in the sunlight. - May 23, 2001 Page 10 PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES