Item 4 - Staff Report and Attachments 1 - 4
PREPARED BY: SALLY ZARNOWITZ, AIA, LEED AP
Planning Manager
110 E. Main Street Los Gatos, CA 95030 ● 408-354-6874
www.losgatosca.gov
TOWN OF LOS GATOS
HISTORIC PRESERVATION
COMMITTEE REPORT
MEETING DATE: 10/23/2019 ITEM NO: 4
DATE: OCTOBER 22, 2019 TO: HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMITTEE FROM: JOEL PAULSON, COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR SUBJECT: PROJECT LOCATION: 50 UNIVERSITY AVENUE. PROPERTY OWNER: SRI OLD TOWN LLC. APPLICANT: FEDERAL REALTY. REQUESTING APPROVAL FOR DEMOLITION AND REPLACEMENT OF A STRUCTURE IN THE UNIVERSITY EDELEN HISTORIC DISTRICT (OLD TOWN) ON PROPERTY ZONED C-2:LHP:PD. APN 529-02-044.
RECOMMENDATION:
Review the applicant’s request and make a recommendation to the Community Development
Director regarding demolition and replacement of the structure.
BACKGROUND:
A. Property Details
1. Date primary structure was built: 1923/ Remodeled 1980s
2. Town of Los Gatos Historic Status Code: R
3. Does property have an LHP Overlay? Yes
4. Is structure in a historic district? Yes
5. If yes, what district? University Edelen District
6. If yes, is it a contributor? No
7. Findings required? Yes
8. Considerations required? Yes
B. Comments
The gate stands in the rear parking lot at the southeastern edge of the property,
adjacent to the property at 20 University Avenue (St. Luke’s Episcopal Church). The
applicant has submitted a structural evaluation by MRS Consulting Engineering,
recommending stabilization, demolition, and replacement of the structure.
PAGE 2 OF 2 SUBJECT: 50 UNIVERSITY AVENUE OCTOBER 22, 2019
N:\DEV\HISTORIC PRESERVATION\HPC Scanned Reports\2019\10-23-19\Item 4 - University 50\University 50_10-23-19.docx
DISCUSSION:
A. Findings
As required by Town Code Section 29.10.09030(c) Demolition of historic structures, a
demolition permit for a historic structure may only be approved if:
1. The structure poses an imminent safety hazard; or
2. The structure is determined not to have any special historical, architectural or
aesthetic interest or value.
Any request to demolish an historic structure shall be reviewed by the Historic
Preservation Committee. All applications to demolish an historic structure which has
been identified as a contributor to an existing historic district, a potential historic
district, or is eligible for local designation shall be accompanied by a detailed report
describing all aspects of the structure’s physical condition and shall incorporate
pertinent information from the Town’s Historic Resources Inventory describing the
structure’s historical and architectural characteristics.
B. Sec. 29.80.290. Standards for review.
In evaluating applications, the deciding body shall consider the architectural style,
design, arrangement, texture, materials and color, and any other pertinent factors.
Applications shall not be granted unless:
(2) In historic districts, the proposed work will neither adversely affect the exterior
architectural characteristics or other features of the property which is the
subject of the application, nor adversely affect its relationship, in terms of
harmony and appropriateness, with its surroundings, including neighboring
structures, nor adversely affect the character, or the historical, architectural or
aesthetic interest or value of the district.
Should the HPC find merit in the request, the demolition permit could be approved by
the Community Development Director. Design review of the replacement structure could
return to the Committee prior to issuance of the Building permit at the request of the HPC.
Attachments:
1. Structural Evaluation
2. Photographs
3. Anne Bloomfield Survey form
4. Ordinance 1920 University/Edelen Historic District
Distribution:
Cc: SRI Old Town LLC, 356 Santana Row, Suite 1005, San Jose, CA 95128
ATTACHMENT 1
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ATTACHMENT 2
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ARCHITECTURAL/CULTURAL SURVEY
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PARCEL MAP INFORMATION ,
ARCHITECTURAL HISTORY
(41 5) 922·1 063
2229 WEBSTER STREET
SAN FRANCISCO. CA 94 1 1 5
Parcel # 5~ , -;... -o <14/ Lot size: 3. q (.) ').."11)-front ft . x ~ ft . deep
Lot shape: Rectangle__ L___ Rectangle with small rear jog_ Other t:O,J,) -f!..rt:; vr<-
Location: N s E W / side of ---=c.)=---------------S t Ave / Other _________ _
distance to cross st: I~~ ft. N / S E W --'-=-'------- --- --- ---
from /1/1 ~ 1 .r,
at NE NW SE SW /corner of /f/1 u 1/ e,
HISTORIC INFORMATION ON PARCEL MAP J.~-rrJLo 1 s
Old tract or subdivision name 10(.).1"'-p(> LG -<:><' Old Block # Old lot # --------------------
FIELD SURVEY INFORMATION (handwritten in red) 0
(2-. "'' <7 .s. 0 Preliminary rating ~ Estimated age 11"~ Style ;f//"' J, ,:;..~v, # stories A
Alterations skbl CL'r tl q,r kd ~ "'7WO P· o/ l'nd ll· n.l.M) ::::i-rvc.-ofvr<~ ;/I u.. ,._..f<..r
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COUNTY ASSESSOR--PROPERTY CHARACTERISTICS (paste on copy)
OWNERSHIP SHOWN ON MAPS
Source
Name
Source
Dat e
---------1891
Blk Book 1908
Survey 1944
Source
Page
Location of property, or Lot
Old tract/block/lot Size
Own er
Nam e
EFFective dat e --------
MISCELLANEOUS PHOTOS: Roll /frame #tJ;ok 7-/.s-Date/G-Il:'??
I (-t ) National Register listed date __________________ _
County Inventory 1979~----------~~--~----~
Town of Los Gatos: Designation ____ Recog n ition~· ~
District Name '7,
Previous Survey
Gebhard: page # illustration page #
Butler/Junior League -------
ATTACHMENT 3
f(J...., 10
Commercial Design Guidelines
73
APPENDIX B
University/Edelen Historic District
Town of Los Gatos
ORDINANCE 1920
ORDINANCE OF THE TOWN OF LOS GATOS
AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. 1844 RELATING TO THEMODIFICATION OF THE DEVELOPMENT STANDARDSWHICH EFFECTED
ZONE CHANGE NO. 88 (UNIVERSITY/EDELEN HISTORICDISTRICT)
The Town Council of the Town of Los Gatos does
hereby ordain:
SECTION I
The district delineated on the attached map is hereby
designated historically and culturally significant as the
University/Edelen Historic District HD-86-1B.
SECTION II
The district is designated to be historically, architec-
turally, or aesthetically significant for the reasons listed
below:
A. Property:
University/Edelen District Boundaries:
North - Saratoga Avenue
South - Main Street
East - Los Gatos Creek
West - Old Southern Pacific Railroad
(see map - Exhibit A)
B. Historic Designation HD-86-1B
C. Description of Designation:District
D. Description of Characteristics which justify des-
ignation:
Historical:
The University/Edelen area was originally part of
the Mason Tract. In September 1880, the area was
subdivided into five parcels ranging from 6.75 acres
to 10 acres. These parcels were further subdivided
and became the Miles/Edelen Subdivision (The
Vineyard Lots), the Hagerty Subdivision, the Quick
Subdivision, the Bentley/Pierce Subdivision and the
Engrish Subdivision which created the lots forming
the University/Edelen Area. These subdivisions pre-
dated the turn of the century.
Architecture:
Victorian is predominant architecture, including in-
formal wood frame cottages and impressive homes,
intermixed with Craftsman/Bungalow style cottages
built somewhat later. Also present in smaller num-
bers are Colonial Revival. Contributing structures are
both residential and commercial. Individual archi-
tectural distinction is not as important in a historic
district as the neighborhood entity created. The Uni-
versity/Edelen district has easily identifiable bound-
aries which add to its perception as a distinct neigh-
borhood.
SIGNIFICANT RESIDENTIAL STRUCTURES:
Harry Perrin Home - 315 University Avenue: This
house is estimated to have been built in 1895. The origi-
nal owners were Harry and Theresa Perrin. Mr. Perrin
was a brick mason and contractor and built the house
with his own hands for his bride. They sold the house in
1906. Mr. Perrin later constructed the revetments for the
Presidio of San Francisco. The house has been called
“Honeymoon House.” The home is an excellent example
of romanesque style architecture.
In 1972 a major remodeling job was redone under
the direction of Boris and Nancy Baranowski. The inte-
rior was redone and made into law offices. In 1989 the
structure was significantly damaged by the earthquake
and in 1990 the building under went major repair and
the seismic retrofit was completed in 1991 by VSL Cor-
poration.
Miles House (Los Gatos Museum Restoration
Award, 1971), 130 Edelen: This Queen Anne, two-story
Victorian was built by contractor-land developer O. E.
Miles in 1886. The house was converted to a duplex in
1932 and was then reverted to a single-family house in
1963. The home was used as a movie set for the 1970
Orson Wells movie “The Toy Factory.”
Skinkle House, 129 Edelen: This Queen Anne, two-
story Victorian was built by pharmacist A. Skinkle, Jr., in
1890. He was co-owner of Watkins Skinkle Drug Store
on Main Street and Santa Cruz Avenue. Skinkle was
president, in 1895, of the Borad of Trade (forerunner
to the Chamber of Commerce).
ATTACHMENT 4
Commercial Design Guidelines
74
APPENDIX B
University/Edelen Historic District
Town of Los Gatos
CONTRIBUTORS TO DISTRICT
Street Address Estimated Date of Construction
91 Bentley 1910s
107 Edelen 1890s
110 Edelen 1930-50s
114 Edelen 20th century
117 Edelen 19th century
124 Edelen 1900s
217 Edelen 19th century
219 Edelen 1920s
233 Edelen 1890s
239 Edelen 1890s
252 Edelen 1910s
255 Edelen 1920s
258 Edelen 1920s
68 Miles 1920s
72 Miles 1890s
40 University 1901
112 University 1930s
123 University 1900s
205 University 1900s
210 University 1920s
217 University 1910s
229 University N/A
230 University 1920s
241 University 1930s
242 University 1860s
245 University 1930s
250 University 1920s
251 University. 1930s
254 University 1890s
266 University 1890s
313 University 1920s
324 University
,1920s
326 University 1920s
327 University 1890s
329 University 1920s
330 University 1900s
333 University 1910s
259 University 1940s
111 Edelen 1880-90s
118 Edelen 1890s
129 Edelen 1890s
130 Edelen 1886
260 Edelen 1880s
115 University 1910s
118 University 1880s ,
122 University 1870
.80’s
126 University 1880s
128 University 1890s
201 University 1890s
202 University 1870s
215 University 1880-90s
221 University 1920s
231 University 1930s
232 University 1920s
237 University 1880s
256 University 1880s
262 University 1890s
301 University 1910s
303 University.1910s
315 University c.1895
321 University 1890s
350 University N/A
611 University 1950s
SIGNIFICANT COMMERCIAL STRUCTURES:
Old Town - 50 University Avenue: The most popular
commercial structure in the Historic District are located
at Old Town (formerly the University Avenue School
and Auditorium). The property was a school site from
1881 to 1964. At one time (1893-1908), the site included
both a grammar school and high school. Although the
structures have been remodeled over time, they still
maintain the historic character and charm of the old
school site.
The first school opened on August 8, 1881. The
structure was added to in 1885 and an addition for a
high school was constructed in 1893. A final addition
was constructed in 1916.
The old building was demolished and a new one
built in 1923. The original two-floor school built in 1923
was modeled after the early California-Spanish mission
of San Juan Capistrano. The school was abandoned in
1961. The property was sold in 1964 and converted
into a Fine Arts Center housing more than 50 shops and
restaurants the school auditorium and was the home of
California Actors Theater and other performance groups
until 1982. Today, the stripped Spanish Colonial Revival
stucco schoolhouse has been reconstructed to work
neatly as a shopping center in the woodsy contempo-
rary style. The result is a complex and pleasing design,
curiously recalling the Monterey Colonial Revival. The
school auditorium/theater remains available for theatri-
cal performances and cultural events.
E. Description of particular features subject to
preservation in addition to items covered under Section
Source : Historic Inventory
Survey conducted by Anne
Bloomfield.
Street Address Estimated Date of Construction
Commercial Design Guidelines
75
APPENDIX B
University/Edelen Historic District
Town of Los Gatos
4.86.120 of the Zoning Ordinance are as follows:
1. Date stamps in concrete sidewalks.
2. All existing picket and ornate wire fences, rock
walls and front yard concrete walls shall be repaired and
retained.
SECTION III
The intent and purpose of this section is t6 preserve
and protect the Town of Los Gatos’ historic heritage,
neighborhoods, streetscapes, and districts.
A. Demolitions:
Demolition of any contributing structure is for
bidden absent cataclysmic event or upon deter-
mination by the deciding body that demolition
is necessary for the proper restoration of the
structure. In the event of demolition as a result
of cataclysmic event, the structure shall be re-
constructed to match the structure existing im-
mediately prior to the cataclysmic event or a
previous structure on that site.
B. Remodels or Additions:
1. Standards for review as required by Section
29.80.290 of the Town Code as follows:
a)Architectural Review: Modification of
the existing style or overall design of a con-
tributing structure in the district is prohib-
ited. A non-contributing structure may be
remodeled into the architectural style and
design of a contributing structure in the dis-
trict (see list of contributors in Section II
and Section III, C. herein). New architec-
tural features may be added to the protected
exterior facade only upon a demonstration
by the applicant proving consistency with
the existing architectural style and design as
determined by the deciding body. Any pro-
posed new architectural features must be
proven to demonstrate architectural excel-
lence, as well as be stylistically accurate and
must clearly enhance the existing architec-
tural style and design of the structure. Any
uncertainty by the deciding body regarding
the consistency, excellence or enhancement
of the proposed new features to the exist-
ing structure must be resolved by the de-
ciding body against the applicant.
b)Contributing_ Structures: The structures
identified herein as contributors to the dis-
trict have been determined to be. histori-
cally, architecturally or culturally significant.
Great care and scrutiny is required to prop-
erly remodel or add on to any of the con-
tributing structures so that the structure’s
historic or architectural integrity is preserved
and not destroyed or damaged in the re-
modeling or addition process (see Section
III, A. herein regarding demolitions). The
following provisions are guidelines and re-
quirements for the proper historic rehabili-
tation and alteration of a contributing struc-
ture.
c)Non-Contributing Structures: A non-
contributing structure, if not rehabilitated
into a contributing style or design as pro-
vided herein, should be remodeled or ex-
panded consistent with its existing architec-
tural style and design. Introduction of en-
tirely new architectural styles (i.e. other than
Victorian, Craftsman/Bungalow, Mission
Revival/Mediterranean) is prohibited.
2. Restoration/Rehabilitation Guidelines
a)General Guidelines: All protected ele-
ments as described in Section III, B.2.(e)
herein, of the existing exterior facade must
be maintained. Any alteration of or addi-
tion to an existing structure shall incorpo-
rate and continue the same style patterns and
design on the new construction as is on the
existing, and also incorporate and continue
in a consistent manner the protected exte-
rior elements. Original, existing, protected
exterior elements shall be repaired and re-
used whenever possible. When an addition
or remodel requires the use of newly con-
structed exterior elements, they must be
identical in size, dimension, shape and loca-
tion, and must use the same materials as the
existing protected exterior elements (except
as provided in Section III, B.2.(e)).
b)Front yard setbacks: The prevalent front
setback for existing houses is 15 feet. Front
yard setbacks for new construction may be
increased or decreased in accordance with
the prevailing setback on the block. (refer-
ence Section. 29.40.050 and 29.40.055 of
the Town Code, note these sections only
apply to front yards, not side, rear or side
yards abutting streets.)
c)Heights and proportions: Heights and
Commercial Design Guidelines
76
APPENDIX B
University/Edelen Historic District
Town of Los Gatos
proportions of additions and alterations
shall be consistent with and continue the
original architectural style and design. All
exterior elements including, but not limited
to, rooflines, porches, doorways, windows,
trim and siding shall be consistent with and
continue the original architectural style and
design. New construction should maintain
the existing scale and character through com-
patible design and attention to detail. The
height and proportion of an addition or a
second story shall not dominate the original
structure.
d)Building Materials: Use of natural/ origi-
nal construction materials (e.g., real wood
siding, rock, brick, shingles, plaster) match-
ing and consistent with existing materials is
required. Composite, synthetic, metal, vinyl,
plastic or fabricated/ imitation wood prod-
ucts, painted brick or imitation used brick
are prohibited. New materials shall identi-
cally match original materials in shape, size,
dimension, texture and pattern. (metal used
as flashing, screening, gutters, and utility ser-
vices and other traditional elements are ac-
ceptable). Upon a demonstration of hard-
ship by the applicant, the decision making
body may approve an acceptable alterna-
tive to the original building material if use
of the original material is unfeasible due to
unreasonable cost and commercial availabil-
ity, or health and safety considerations.
e)Protected Exterior Elements: The pro-
tected exterior elements of a structure in-
clude all elements on the building’s facades
and roof; however, minor structural alter-
ations (e.g., addition of windows, doors,
skylights, porches or decks) not visible from
the public right-of-way are exempted from
the provisions of this ordinance. Except for
those minor alternations not visible from
the public right-of-way, the protected exte-
rior elements are defined to include, but are
not limited to, doors, windows, glass,
porches, posts, railings, stairways, cupolas,
gables, bay windows, widows’ walks, ar-
bors, siding, chimneys, towers, turrets, trim,
mouldings, corbels, plaster features, rock
walls, picket fences, shingles, roof lines, eaves
and overhangs, colors, gingerbread, shingle
siding, tiles, wrought iron and other deco-
rative materials. Other exterior elements of
a particular building may be protected as
determined by the deciding body. Consis-
tent with these requirements, further speci-
fications regarding particular protected ele-
ments is provided as follows:
(1)Doors: Original doors should be re-
tained and restored. New replacement
doors for Victorians should not be flush,
but of raised or flat panel design. Front
doors generally should be painted not
stained (not applicable to Mission Revival/
Mediterranean style structures). Screened
doors shall be real wood framed of simple
design unless patterns can be shown to fit
the existing style. Glass or windows in doors
shall meet all requirements immediately fol-
lowing.
(2)Windows and Glass: Original windows,
glass and window decorations shall be re-
tained and restored. It is recommended that
only the deteriorated portions of the win-
dows shall be replaced rather than the en-
tire window. New or replacement windows
shall be wood-sashed and mutined if ap-
plicable. Sills, lintels, frames, sashes, mutins,
and all decorations shall be identically re-
placed. All elements of new windows shall
be identical in size, shape, proportion, and
dimensions as original windows
of the building, or consistent with traditional
sizes, proportions and dimensions of build-
ings of the same architectural style, design
and era. Windows must be constructed of
real glass and window frames must be con-
structed of real wood, not vinyl, metal or
plastic. All lites (panes of glass) shall be true
divided lite, not artificial or snap-in grids.
New arched, angled, octagonal and stained
glass windows are discouraged. Large ex-
panses of blank exterior walls without win-
dows are discouraged.
(3)Bay Windows: Size, shape, proportion,
dimension, type of foundation, and -roof
material and style of bay windows, whether
restored or of new construction, must be
identical to the original or existing bay win-
Commercial Design Guidelines
77
APPENDIX B
University/Edelen Historic District
Town of Los Gatos
dows of the structure. New bay windows
may be added to the building in locations
where no bay windows previously existed;
however, such new bay windows must be
identical and replicate the style, design, size,
shape and proportion, type of foundation
and roof of other bay windows existing
on structure; or in the alternative, any said
new bay windows must be built in the same
size, shape, dimension, proportions, mate-
rial and type of foundation and roof es-
tablished by original Victorian structures of
the same design and style. New bay win-
dows are permitted only when the appli-
cant proves to the deciding body that said
bay window is consistent with existing style,
design and character of the contributing
structure.
(4)Chimneys: Wood-framed chimneys are
prohibited unless their exteriors are covered
with brick or river rock
(3) veneers; stucco Mission. Revival or Medi-
terranean style houses may have stucco cov-
ered chimneys.. Painted metal stove pipe
projections of less than four feet are per-
mitted in less visible locations of the struc-
ture. The size, shape, dimensions, design and
patterns of new and reconstructed chim-
neys must match those features of existing
structure. Chimneys shall not be cantilevered
and shall be narrower at the top than at its
base.
(5)Porches: Existing front porches, railings,
posts, corbels,. roof coverings, ceilings,
floors, steps, mouldings, trim; gingerbread,
and other decorative features must be re-
tained and restored using original materials,
or identical material of same size, shape,
proportion, pattern and in same locations.
Construction of new porches must consist
of materials of same size, shape, dimen-
sion and pattern as contributing structures
of similar style and design in district and be
in appropriate locations on structure. New
concrete or masonry porch floors are pro-
hibited on Victorians or Craftsman/Bun-
galow style houses. Minor alternations of
existing porches are permitted only when
the applicant proves to the deciding body
that said alteration is consistent with the ex-
isting style, design and character of the con-
tributing structure.
(6)Roofs, Gables, Eaves and Overhangs:
Roofs shall maintain their original size, shape
and pitch. Any changes in roof area, roof
line, roof coverings, and eave depth and
materials shall be consistent with the exist-
ing structure. In general, original gables shall
be retained. New gables may be added only
where consistent with the
existing style and design and approved by
the deciding body. In general, gable ends
should be symmetrical. Eaves and fascias
are to be constructed of wood. Roof cov-
erings of fireproof composition materials
and dark colors in a heavy profile are ac-
ceptable where they are made to resemble
wood, if they are compatible with the ar-
chitectural style of the building. Mission Re-
vival or Mediterranean style structures shall
have tide roofs of a color, texture, thick-
ness and shape to look like the original clay
roof tile. Plastic-and modern style tiles are
prohibited.
(7)Siding: Siding materials and placement
on structure shall be appropriate to the ex-
isting style and. design. All existing siding is
to be restored and. retained wherever pos-
sible.
a.Wood siding, (Victorian/Craftsman):
Siding must be real wood and not a com-
posite, synthetic or fabricated wood prod-
uct. Metal and vinyl siding products are pro-
hibited. New siding must identically match
existing in size, depth, width, pattern, and
must match the existing cut or bevel in sid-
ing in angle, slope, type width and depth of
cut, if any. Old deteriorated shingles may
be replaced, however, new shingles must
match existing shingles in size, shape, dimen-
sion and pattern. Siding material must run
from the foundation to the roof, unless ex-
isting pattern of house varies, in which case
it must match pattern.
b.Stucco Siding, (Mission Revival/Medi-
terranean/ Craftsman): Stucco and stucco
pattern must be retained and duplicated to
identically match existing. The stucco should
Commercial Design Guidelines
78
APPENDIX B
University/Edelen Historic District
Town of Los Gatos
be sand textured, finished and colored to
match existing, or to match other contrib-
uting structures of the same style in. the
District.
(8)Fences/Walls: All existing picket and
ornate wire fences, rock walls and front yard
concrete walls shall be repaired and retained.
Replacement or newly constructed fences
or walls shall match those existing on the
property, or shall match those of other con-
tributing properties on that block. Introduc-
tion of new rock wall patterns. or new. types
of rocks or veneers in walls, not already
existing in the district, is prohibited. Mortar
should also match existing in color, texture,
joint width and profile. New fencing shall
be of open design, shall be constructed of
wood, ornate wire (does not include chain
link) or wrought iron and shall be consistent
with those existing in the district. Covered
gateways are permitted. Side and rear yard
fencing shall be of traditional construction
and materials and shall be consistent with
prevalent fencing in the district.
(9)Decorative Trim/Mouldings/Ginger-
bread: All existing to be repaired and re-
tained. Replacement must match .existing in
materials, size, shape; dimension, location
and pattern. Addition of new trim, mould-
ing, gingerbread, etc., on new construction
must be located and continued in the exist-
ing pattern around the exterior of the struc-
ture so as to maintain consistency with the
original style and design. Excessive or inap-
propriate use of gingerbread or other deco-
rative materials is prohibited. Addition of
new trim, moulding, gingerbread, etc. on
areas where not previously existing is dis-
couraged.
(10)Colors: For Victorians, traditional
3 or 4 color paintings patterns are encour-
aged. For Craftsman, traditional colors are
encouraged. For Mission Revival/ Mediter-
ranean, the traditional use of earth tones and
red-hued roofing materials is required.
(11)Garages: Style, roof pitch, propor-
tions, and overall design of the garage (or
carriage house, etc.), as well as building
materials and architectural details shall be
consistent with those of the era of the house.
Exterior features of garages which are more
modern or contemporary than the style of
the house for which the garage is being built
are discouraged. This includes features such
as aluminum or roll up doors, aluminum
frame windows, etc. This restriction applies
only to features visible from a public right-
of-way. Garages should be detached (may
be attached by a breezeway) and set back
behind the front facade of the house.
12)Interior Features: Only in cases where
the owner desires to take advantage of the
1976 Tax Reform Act, the owner must re-
tain original material, architectural features,
hardware, original paint colors, plaster, wall-
paper, etc., wherever possible. Repair and
restore original materials wherever possible
or replace with identical, replicated materi-
als. Further information regarding consis-
tency with interior remodels is available upon
request.
C. Construction of New Structure or Rede-
sign or Remodel of Non-Contributing Struc-
ture into a Contributing Style:
1.Entire New Structure: Construction of
a new structure must be built in the style
and design of contributing structures in the
district. Exact duplication is neither required
or encouraged. Strict adherence to achiev-
ing consistency with a traditional, recognized
architectural style and design of a contrib-
uting structure in the district is required. New
Victorian and Craftsman style structures
must accurately replicate the traditional style,
design and integrity of those contributing
structures in the district. All doubts or in-
sufficiencies regarding an applicant’s proposal
regarding the consistency of a proposed new
structure, style and design with that of a
contributing structure in the district are to
be resolved against the application by the
deciding body’
2.Remodel Non-contributor into Con-
tributing Style and Design: An owner who
wishes to remodel a non-contributing struc-
ture into the style and design of a contrib-
uting structure in the district may do so.
However, the same requirement of Section
III, C.I. herein, must be adhered to by the
Commercial Design Guidelines
79
APPENDIX B
University/Edelen Historic District
Town of Los Gatos
applicant.
3.Standards for Review:
a)Intent and Purpose:
The intent and purpose of this section is to
protect Los Gatos’ historic heritage, neigh-
borhoods, streetscapes, and districts. Great
care and scrutiny is required to properly
build or remodel a structure so that it be-
comes an asset to a historic district. Approv-
als for applications under this section shall
be granted only where these guidelines have
been met.
b)Acceptable Architectural Styles and De-
signs: In general, Victorian, Craftsman/Bun-
galow, and Mission Revival/ Mediterranean
styles are the contributors to Los Gatos’
historic districts. An applicant must produce
photographs, counts, and documentation of
the location of existing structures of that
style in the district or reference materials in-
dicating consistency with contributing styles
in the district. All exterior elements subject
to review shall be consistent with the pro-
posed style.
4.New Construction/Remodeling into
Contributing Style and Design - Construc-
tion Guidelines:
a)Front yard setbacks: The prevalent front
setback for existing houses is 15 feet. Front
yard setbacks for new construction may be
increased or decreased in accordance with
the prevailing setback on the block. (refer-
ence Section 29.40.050 and 29.40.055 of the
Town Code these sections only apply to
front yards, not side, rear or side yards abut-
ting streets). The front facade shall be par-
allel to the street.
b)Heights and proportions: Heights and
proportions of altered or new structures
shall be consistent with those of contribut-
ing structures of the same style in the dis-
trict. They should not be significantly taller,
more massive, or in greatly different pro-
portions from other contributing structures
of the same style in the district.
c)Required Building Materials: Use of
natural construction materials (e.g. real wood
siding, stucco, rock, brick, wood shingles,
plaster) is required. Composite, synthetic,
metal, vinyl, plastic or fabricated/ imitation
wood products, painted brick. or imitation
used brick are prohibited. Materials used
shall be the same as those used in existing
contributing buildings of the same style in
the District (except that masonry or stone
veneers on chimneys are acceptable).
Upon a demonstration of hardship by the
applicant, the decision making body may
approve an acceptable alternative to the
original building material if use of the origi-
nal material is unfeasible due to unreason-
able cost and commercial availability, or
health and safety considerations.
d) Exterior Elements Subject to Review:
To be reviewed are: all elements on the
building’s facades and roof, including but
not limited to, doors, windows, glass,
porches, posts, railings, stairways, cupolas,
gables, bay windows, widows’ walks, ar-
bors,’ siding, chimneys, towers, turrets, trim,
mouldings, corbels, plaster features, rock
walls, picket fences, shingles, roof lines, eaves
and overhangs, colors, gingerbread, shingle
siding, tiles wrought iron and other decora-
tive materials. Other exterior elements of a
particular building may be protected as de-
termined by the deciding body. Consistent
with these requirements, further specifica-
tions regarding particular protected elements
is provided as follows:
(1)Doors: Doors should not be flush but
of raised or flat panel design and painted,
rather than stained, on. Victorian and Crafts-
man-Bungalow style structures. Screened
doors shall be real wood framed of simple
design unless patterns can be shown to fit
the existing style. Glass or windows in doors
shall meet, all requirements immediately fol-
lowing.
(2)Windows/Glass: New or replacement
windows shall be wood sashed and, if
mutins are appropriate, wood mutined. All
elements of new or replacement windows
shall be consistent with the traditional’ sizes
and proportions of those in buildings of
the same architectural style in the District
(e.g. the long, narrow windows of Victo-
rian Architecture).
Commercial Design Guidelines
80
APPENDIX B
University/Edelen Historic District
Town of Los Gatos
Victorian style structures shall have windows
constructed in the proportion and dimen-
sions matching original Victorians. Vinyl, alu-
minum or other types of window frames
are prohibited. All lites (panes of glass) shall
be individual lites, not artificial or snap-in
grids. Arched windows are discouraged in
Victorian styles. Octagonal windows are
discouraged in Victorian, Craftsman/Bun-
galow, and Mediterranean/Mission Revival
styles.
(3)Bay Windows: Size, shape, proportion,
scale, materials, type of foundation or sup-
port, type of decorative elements, and style
of new bay windows must replicate those
in existing contributing structures of the
same architectural style in the District. In
general, bay windows are only appropriate
to Victorian styles. Victorian style structures
shall have windows constructed in the pro-
portion and dimensions matching original
Victorians.
(4)Chimneys: Chimneys of Victorian or
Craftsman/Bungalow styles shall be of re-
inforced masonry or stone, or wood frame
with brick or stone/rock veneer and be
smaller at the top than at the bottom. Chim-
neys on Mission Revival/Mediterranean
buildings may also be of a stucco to match
the exterior of the building.
(5)Porches: New porches must be of the
same materials, relative size, shape, dimen-
sion, and having the same type of decora-
tive elements as those of contributing struc-
tures of the same style in the district. New
concrete or masonry porch floors and steps
are prohibited on Victorian or Craftsman/
Bungalow style houses.
(6)Roof Lines. Gables, Eaves and Over-
hang: For Victorian and Craftsman/Bun-
galow style structures, fire retardant wood
shingles are the preferred material; fireproof
composition materials are acceptable in dark
colors and with a heavy profile, especially
those which resemble wood. Mission Re-
vival/ Mediterranean style structures shall
have tile roofs of a color, texture, shape,
and thickness to look like traditional tiles.
Plastic and modern style tiles are prohib-
ited.
(7)Siding: Siding on Victorian or Crafts-
man/Bungalow style structures must match
those of a contributing structure of the same
style in the District in size, depth, width,
material, pattern, cut or .bevel, angle; slope,
type; and width or depth of cut, if any.
(a)Wood siding (Victorian/Craftsman): All
wood siding material shall be real wood and
not .a composite or fabricated wood prod-
uct. Shingles must also be of a size, shape,
dimension, and pattern to be consistent with
singles of one or more contributing build-
ing of the same style in the District. Siding
materials must run from the foundation to
the roof unless the applicant can cite other
contributing houses of the same style in the
District on which the siding pattern varies
in the manner proposed.
(b)Stucco Siding (Mission Revival/Medi-
terranean/Craftsman: Stucco pattern, color,
finish, and texture should closely resemble
that on other houses of the same style in
the district.
(8)Picket Fences/Rock Walls/Arbors:
Picket fences/rock walls/arbors shall match
or be very similar to those on a contribut-
ing building of the same style in the Dis-
trict. Excessive or inappropriate use of “gin-
gerbread” or other decorative elements is
prohibited. New fencing shall be of open
design, shall be constructed of wood, or-
nate wire (does not include chain link) or
wrought iron and shall be consistent with
those existing in the district. Covered gate-
ways are permitted. Side and rear yard fenc-
ing shall be traditional construction and
materials and shall be consistent with preva-
lent fencing in the district.
(9)Decorative Trim/Mouldingss/Ginger-
breads:
Excessive or inappropriate use of ginger-
bread or other decorated elements is pro-
hibited. Size, shape, dimension and location
of these decorative materials shall be con-
sistent with that on other contributing struc-
tures of same style and design in the dis-
trict.
(10)Colors: For Victorians, traditional
3 or 4 color paintings patterns are encour-
Commercial Design Guidelines
81
APPENDIX B
University/Edelen Historic District
Town of Los Gatos
aged. For Craftsman, traditional colors are
encouraged. For Mission Revival/Mediter-
ranean, the traditional use of earthtones and
red-hued roofing materials is required.
(11)Garages: Style, roof pitch, propor-
tions, and overall design of the garage (or
carriage house, etc.), as well as building
materials and architectural details shall be
consistent with those of the era of the house.
Exterior features of garages which are more
modern or contemporary than the style of
the house for which the garage is being built
are discouraged. This includes features such
as aluminum or roll up doors, aluminum
frame windows, etc. This restriction applies
only to features visible from a public right-
of-way. Garages should be detached (may
be attached by a breezeway) and set back
behind the front facade of the house.
D. All structures (including accessory buildings)
included in the district are regulated by this or-
dinance and subject to all of the provisions of
Article VIII, Division 3 of the Town Code.
However, the permit requirements of Section
29.80.260 of the Town Code only apply to
work which is considered a material change. A
material change is any exterior alteration for
which a building permit is required or which
will affect the protected exterior elements as
defined in Section II, B.2.(e) herein. This does
not include painting and ordinary maintenance
which do not require a permit.
SECTION IV
This Ordinance takes effect 30 days after the
date it is adopted. Within 15 days after this Or-
dinance is adopted, the Town Clerk shall cause
it to be published once in a newspaper of gen-
eral circulation published and circulated in the
Town.
This Ordinance was introduced at a regular
meeting of the Town Council of the Town of
Los Gatos on October 5, 1992, and adopted
by the following vote as an ordinance of the
Town of Los Gatos at a meeting of the Town
Council of the Town of Los Gatos on Octo-
ber 19, 1992..
COUNCIL MEMBERS:
AYES: Randy Attaway, Joanne Benjamin,
Steven Blanton, Brent N. Ventura
Mayor Eric D. Carlson
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN:None
SIGNED:/s/ Eric D. Carlson
Mayor of the Town of Los Gatos, California
ATTEST:
/s/ Marian V. Cosgrove
Clerk of the Town of Los Gatos, California
Commercial Design Guidelines
82
APPENDIX B
University/Edelen Historic District
Town of Los Gatos
BIBLIOGRAPHY
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Bruntz, George G. History of Los Gatos. Santa
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Howard, Hugh. How Old is this House? A Skel-
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