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Building Height. The VACSP allows primary buildings in the HR District to be two stories and 30 feet in height below elevations of 540 feet. Above that elevation, buildings are limited to one story and 25 feet in height. The proposed home on Lot 2, which would be located below 540 feet, is a 29-foot tall, two-story home, meeting the requirements. The proposed 28-foot 4-inch tall, two-story home on Lot 1 would be located above an elevation of 540 feet and does not meet the height and story requirements. The VACSP states that flexibility in applying site development standards such as building height may be granted to allow for unusual site conditions as long as any new standards are consistent with the intent of the Specific Plan. It further indicates that minor variations in lot size, building setbacks, and building height may be permitted subject to the PUD development plan approval process where necessary due to physical site conditions. As proposed, the second floor of Lot 1 is significantly smaller than the first floor. Additionally, the proposed home would not be visible from nearby streets but would be visible from the rear yard of private homes. The photosimulations prepared for the project, using the view from the rear yard of 2832 Gray Fox Court, show that the second story of Lot 1 would not substantially increase the visibility of that residence. The photosimulations for both homes are part of Exhibit B. Staff recommends a condition prohibiting additions on the second floor of Lot 1 to minimize any changes to the Lot 1 residence that would increase its prominence. Additionally, staff recommends a condition clarifying that building height for both lots is measured vertically from the lowest finished grade adjacent to an exterior wall of the house to the highest point of the house, excluding chimneys. The applicant agrees with these conditions. Architecture Styles. The Specific Hillside Residential District Design Guidelines of the VACSP states the following: a House designs should be limited to traditional architectural styles and forms adjusted to conform to the natural character of the site. o Architectural design should emphasize the blending of buildings into the natural surroundings and minimizing building visibility from off-site areas. o Medium to dark earth-tone building colors shall be used to complement the surrounding natural setting. Darker colors will generally be less conspicuous when viewed from a distance. White, tan, light gray, blue, and yellow are inappropriate building base colors. The proposed two-story homes are designed with articulated wall lines that provide a break in the massing of the home and promote visual interest. The roof lines vary to help mitigate the massing of the structure and the front facade of the home on Lot 2 incorporates stone veneer and stucco. As proposed, the massing of both buildings will be compatible with others in the area. The home on Lot 1 includes a Juliet-style balcony and the home on Lot 2 includes a balcony on the front elevation. The window shutters on both homes would add architectural interest and the home designs incorporate high quality materials and elements. The front entry and sectional garage doors for both homes are detailed and compatible with the design of the Case No. PUD-116, 88 Silver Oaks Court Planning Commission Page 10 of 16