PC 070908 - Laserfiche WebLink

b. PDR-717, Tarlochan Sidhu Application for design review approval to construct an approximately 4,716-square-foot two-story single-family home on an approximately 18,285-square-foot site located at 6047 Sycamore Terrace. Zoning for the property is PUD-LDR (Planned Unit Development -Low Density Residential) District. THE PUBLIC HEARING WAS OPENED. Greg Munn, Project Architect, Design Tech Associates, Pleasanton, noted that he had designed similar homes in the City and was aware of the City's design philosophies. He stated that the site was challenging due to its limited footprint as a result of the bioswale around the perimeter of the upper pad where the house would be placed. He indicated that he took into account that there are two residences that looked down upon the site and that in his design, he oriented the house to place the least used rooms such as an office, a guest room, and the living room in the rear facing northwest, looking towards the graveyards, so as not to impact the neighbors below, and the master bedroom and bath upstairs. He noted that there are secondary bedrooms along the back only a volume ceiling above the living room to achieve light and architectural impact. He added that he had moved all high-traffic living areas in the back facing northwest which overlooks the graveyard. Mr. Munn noted that the lot had so many restrictions as far as a 27-foot height limit and that they went through six or seven design scenarios in order to have the house fit on the lot with the client's criteria. He indicated that he had met on-site once with the Greene's who had problems with them not planting on the slope bank along their side. He noted that trees do not grow well on a slope bank when planted and that if the Greene's wanted screening from the property, it would be better to locate it on their property where they could grow it as mature as they wanted. In summary, Mr. Munn said they tried to take into account the best design with the least impact on the neighbors. Commissioner Olson inquired if there was a view easement from this property to the west, and Mr. Munn said there was none; the actual views to the west were very limited because there were eucalyptus trees blocking the views. He stated that they mainly went to the southwest corridor if they could, noting there was no real backyard to the home because of the bioswale. He stated that it was very difficult to get the house design to work, given height limits, and added that there was concern with sun reflecting off of the windows. He noted that he had designed two other nearby homes and that there is no way of controlling windows and reflections from the sun. Commissioner Olson confirmed with Mr. Munn that it looks like there were two additional lots that could be built on. Mr. Munn said the lot orients toward the uphill side more than anywhere. PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES, July 9, 2008 Page 5 of 39