20 - Laserfiche WebLink

project in Emeryville, constructed in 1989, that makes use of EIFS, and which appeared in good condition, with no significant or unusual damage evident, even in areas adjacent to a sidewalk and subject to heavy public traffic. Staff further notes EIFS has been widely used in projects throughout the State and the country for at least 30 years and has proven to be a durable and reliable product. The materials and colors, as shown in the project plans (Attachments 2A and 2B), are a relatively muted palette of greys, using instead a variety of different finishes, offering different levels of reflectivity and which take advantage of being set at different depths and planes. This approach is intended to create subtle differentiation across each facade that allows changes in orientation to the sun and reflectivity of the sky and of the viewer's perspective, to create contrast across each façade, versus achieving that with bright or contrasting colors and materials. During its review of the project, the Planning Commission commented the grey-toned color palette, might appear rather "bland" and included, in its recommendation, the applicant "work" with staff to develop an alternative color scheme that would not be bright or garish, but could add visual interest to the building or provide more contrast between the different materials used. In response, the applicant's architect prepared a revised scheme (see Attachment 2B), which incorporates lighter colored metal panels above and below each window, which would provide slightly more contrast between these elements, and adjacent windows and panel elements. 10x Genomics has indicated they have a very strong preference for the originally-submitted design, noting that alternative schemes with more color contrast were considered and rejected during the design process, in favor of an intentionally more subtle/muted color palette. As noted, staff was supportive of the original color scheme proposed. The revised scheme would address the Planning Commission's concern in terms of adding a degree of variety/contrast to the facades, and as such, a minor improvement. However, in staff's view it represents a modest change that would not drastically enhance the visual character of the building, nor be substantially superior to the originally proposed color scheme. Thus, staff is supportive of retaining the original color scheme as reflected in the project plans. Staff also acknowledges concerns raised by one Commissioner the building could benefit from more articulation (potentially through use of different materials), at the base and corners of the building; and the vertical standing seam material used in the proposed roof screens may accentuate the prominence or height of these features. However, the other Commission members did not direct further changes to these elements of the building. provided by the manufacturer to illustrate color and finish only and was lacking a layer of"impact resistant mesh" that would be included in the actual installed product, specifically to improve durability. 23