08-19-15 Minutes - HPC SpecialTOWN OF LOS GATOS
110 East Main Street, Los Gatos, CA 95030 (408) 354-6872
SUMMARY MINUTES OF SPECIAL MEETING OF THE HISTORIC PRESERVATION
COMMITTEE OF THE TOWN OF LOS GATOS FOR AUGUST 19, 2015, HELD IN THE
TOWN COUNCIL CHAMBERS, 110 E MAIN STREET, LOS GATOS , CALIFORNIA.
The meeting was called to order at 3:58P.M. by Chair Len Pacheco.
ATTENDANCE
Members Present: Len Pacheco, Bob Cowan , Kathryn Janoff
Members Absent: Michael Kane, Tom O 'Donnell
Staff Present : Jennifer Savage, Senior Planner
VERBAL COMMUNICATIONS
None.
ITEM 1 140 FOSTER ROAD
Rob Weiner (property owner) was present.
Kathryn Janoff commented that the previous package contained compelling
historic information and when you are close to the structure you can observe the
unique architecture style. She commented that the existing structure should be
retained due to architectural interest and history.
Bob Cowan commented that the existing structure has some redeeming
architecture and provided sketches of ideas to retain the structure. The existing
building is significant. He is interested in retaining the existing architecture but
not the existing building. He suggested an outbuilding, second unit, or pool
house.
Rob Weiner commented that cut and fill limits, creek setbacks, fire department
turnaround , and slope issues may prevent them from including an outbuilding. He
can consider the other side of the bridge but the building envelope is restrictive
and he has a limit for square footage.
Bob Cowan discussed other alternatives.
Kathryn Janoff commented that the applicant 's proposal is to design a new
structure reflecting the historic structure but the Committee is asking for the
existing structure to be maintained.
Historic Preservation Committee
Augu st 19 , 2015
Page 2 of4
ITEM2
Len Pach eco asked if the proposed breezeway size co uld be reduced to provide
area for outbuilding.
Bob Cowan recognizes materials of the existing structure are in disrepair.
Len Pacheco commented the Committee request s that the project preserve the
history and example of unique architecture even though the structure is in
disrepair, and suggests incorporating the existing building into the new one.
Kathryn Janoff commented that it appears the application assumed the existing
structure could be demolished . Could the proposal incorporate the design of the
old building.
Bob Cowan believes there is an opportunity to incorporate the existing
architecture into the proposed project.
Kathryn Janoff commented the project should preserve the structure in some form
and that the look is more important than the use.
Bob Cowan would support some flexibility for frame changes to fit into the new
building.
Kathryn Janoff recommends approval of the reque st to demolish the existing
structure provided that the original structure shall be rebuilt on the property or
integrated into the new structure as deemed appropriate by the Historic
Preservation Committee, Town staff, and the deciding body. Kathryn Janoff
commented th at if the structure is rebuilt and incorporated into the new structure
then the wa ll height of the existing architecture may be adjusted to work with the
proposed architecture. The motion was seconded by Bob Cowan and approved
unanimous! y.
45 BROADWAY
Jay Plett (architect) and Brad Fourcier and Laurie Baker (property owners) were
present. Jay Plett explained the changes include Sheet A-4 showing additional
windows for optional cellar noting that board and batten will be on the cellar level
(below first floor) and the size of rear yard would be the same.
Len Pacheco asked about context and how the new front setback compares to
neighboring properties.
The Committee wants to preserve the grand front yard .
Historic Preservation Committee
August 19,2015
Page 3 of4
ITEM3
Jay Plett explained that the adjacent structures have similar setbacks and there is a
lot vegetation screening. The project maintains grand front yard .
Kathryn Janoff commented that the project loses the tall narrow Italianate
Victorian look with the proposed hori zontal windows at cellar.
Len Pacheco agrees that if windows go away on the street facing elevation it
would be good; the windows on the sides are okay.
Bob Cowan commented that the proposal looks good as is.
Kathryn Janoff commented that the street elevation windows, especially with
lites, detract from the existing architecture.
Kathryn Janoff recommends approval of the request with the condition that the
two front windows under bay window be removed from the proposal. The motion
was seconded by Len Pacheco and approved unanimously.
21 OAK HILL WAY
Bob Hightower (architect) and Sandy Kay (property owner) were present.
Len Pacheco commented that there is a mix of horizontal siding and shingles but
he does not recognize the architectural style.
Sandy commented that the siding has not been changed and her mom was told the
part of the existing structure was the post office for the novitiate.
Kathryn Janoff commented that the addition is tastefully incorporated and it is
nice that the shakes will be maintained.
The Committee consider whether there was historical significance of the colors or
if certain colors would be more appropriate.
L en Pach eco recommended rustic, non-pastel, earth tone colors. Kathryn Janoff
commented that the rich red is appropriate. The Committee commented that there
is no historic significance of white trim but the Committee has no issue with it.
Bob Cowan commented that some windows have sills and some are picture
windows.
Historic Preservation Committee
August 19 , 2015
Page 4 of4
ITEM4
ITEMS
Kathryn Janoff commented that it would not be appropriate to introduce another
window design.
Bob Cowan moved to recommend approval of the request in that the plans are
consistent with Town's guidelines and based on findings that the work will not
adversely affect the exterior architectural characteristics or other features of the
property. The motion was seconded by Kath1 y n Janoff and approved
unanimously.
OTHER BUSINESS
a. 222 Bella Vista A venue
Yana Kushn e r and John Gilred (buyers) were present. The buyers explained
that they want to restore traditional Spanish mission mullions and grids on all
windows , doors, and sliding doors.
The Committee reviewed the plans approved in 2008, examples in "A Field
Guide to American Houses," and books presented by the bu ye rs.
Len Pach eco commented that gridded windows are not objectionable, that the
grids should be dark, and not too thick , thin, or too multiple.
Kathryn Janoff commented that too large of a grid will read contemporary,
both grids and no grids are acceptable, and that and odd number of grids
across the vertical on arched windows may look more appropriate.
Len Pacheco and Bob Cowan agreed grids should not be too heavy and not
too fin e.
The Committee agreed the buyers can choose the minimum amount of grids to
preserve the verticality and that the windows have to be wood.
The Committee agreed that the columns on the front windows are not required
but the original window recession should be maintained.
The Committee agreed that a metal front door is okay, but the height cannot
increase.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 5:39p.m. The next regular meeting is scheduled for August 26,
Historic Preservation Committee
August 19,2015
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2015, at 4:00p.m.
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