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Home My WebLink About0412.0911 I 1 - .-~.' ....... . :,' ~. 0 Ita , ~', -: September 12, 1991 HONORABLE tlTY COUNCIL Palo Alto, California SINGLE·fAMILY RESIDENTl~S!GN GUIDELINES Members ;:)f the Council: Report in Brief "- Tn i S 1 _,1\ .. ill be p heed on the agenda of the P.10 Alto City C~uncil meeting of September 23, 1991. This report forwards to tne City Coundl the final version of the Single family Residential Design Guidelines dated September 1991. BaCKground 1he final dYaft of the Cuidelines was reviewed and approved by the (ouncil on June Jl. 1991. The Council requested twelye minor changes in the guidelines. These modifications ~ave been made, exc~pt for a requirement to include a sentence delineating He current City policy on prolliding a discount for instal11n9 act1v~ solar design featuT~s. S1nce the City no longer offers a discount, the reference was not included. Other ~inor c~anges as pre~iously recommended by the Guide1ines Prepar&tion (ommitte~ ha~e a1so been fncorporated. Recpmmenda tj on The Guidelines Preparation Committee r€CO~end5 t~at the City (ouucil adopt the Sin91t-fa~ily Resid~ntial DeSign Guide11nes for Pi10 Alto dated Sept~mber 193]. as an ad'f'isory docJJment to be used by City staff. Respectfully submitted, /1; .. ·[,11 t;,'d,'u{ ~;s E. GJ Lll LAND . ;Aanage~ Planning Projects / ~~ Assistant City Manager .1'/> . _/ / ;(' j ~£.It< 11.v, .. ·/~ "f':' ,// KENNETK R. SCH~EIB£K Director of Planning and Community Environment Attachments: Action Agenda of July ]7, ]991 City Council Meeting (Excerpt) Singh-family Residential Design Guid'elines dated September 1991 CMR:412:91 L .•. ,·w , • . ..-1 ! I ! I 1 • Pllnn'~9 Comm,ssion Arcnitect~ril Re~iew Soard Historic Resources Board o Head Miller Associa~es~ Architects, 60 Federal Street. San francisco, CA Q4107 Leis Vanderbeek, 736 Barron Avenue, Palo Alt~, (A 94306 Stepha.n Crothel"S and' Charlene Gliniecki. 30ll P_oss Road, Pal. Alto, CA 94303 Alice Sachs, Cornish and Carey, 1000 (1 Camina R~a1. Suite 150, Menlo Park, CA 94015 Juiie Barney 3418 W~yerleYI Palo Alto, CA 94306 Suzanne langley, 1550 Walnut Drive, Pa10 Alto, CA ~4303 Carleyn Reese, 80 kirby Place, Pilo Alto, CA 94301 Ms. Heidi Hansen, AlA, 423 (~urch Street, Mt.Wiew, CA 94041 Bob Jenks~ Boyd-Jenks, Architects, 460 forest Street, Palo Alto, CA 94301 John Mock, 1813 Alma Street, Pilo Alto, CA 94303 Dayid Schrom, Magic, 80x 5S94, Stanford, CA 94309 Grant Nisbet, 644 Rorke Way, Palo Alto, CA 94306 CMR:412:91 p: \cmr\cmrrl gdl 9/11/91 Fag' 1 .• .,."0-- -- PUBLIC H£hR!NG (continYed) ,--, ~~ from the Action Agend~ of the Pa10 Alto City Council meeting of June 17, 1991. 9R1lIN.\lreS GF 'FIlS eGIRIGn. GF 'I'IIS CI'I''{ eF --!'AI e .'dOTe AM'61111llfG SBeq'ISIt l:S i &8 i 9 '0 (:IF lPilE Pt'lr:lo9 .u,rpa UUnI€II1.1d:. (,'095 (i'iIE ZG'UHIG 'ilcP) 'I'S" eiL'dIGE 'PHE eUS6IFIS1.i'IG'n "r PFl9PER'PY lQ'TQHn AS 32', 226, 23e, 332, 33., ldH3 349 &lERET'J ,.vEnUS ~OM';f~}( 38 'Fe PC Cob~/1ni •• -Continue the ite~ to the meeting of July 22, 1991 -MOTION PASSED 7·0, Mccown, Sutorius absent REPORTS OF COMMITTEES AND COMMISSIONS RESOLUTIONS ORDINANCES REPORTS OF OFFICIALS 9. single Family Residential Design Guidelines ,250J (CHR:321:91) .OOll~Y/And.r8en -Approve the Guid~lines Preparation Commit tee and city staff recommendation to adopt the May 1, 1991, Final Draft of the ·Single-Family Residen";;.ial Deslgn Guide- lines for Palo Alto" as an aa',lisory d.ocument to be used :by City staff. The Design Guidelines are also being adopted and published pursuant to the city's Zoning Ordinance for the Zoning Administrator's use in connection with determining whether or not to qrant minor exceptions tor home improvements and minor additions. FUr~~er that a checklist be added to the Guidelines; on page 33 of the Guidelines, Flood Plain, OJ, after the words -•.• those exceeding 50 percent of the value of the home-add the following wording -excluding the land-; on paqe 34, second paragraph, after the third sentence, add language indicating how a house may be addeci to the Historic Inventory; on page 36, add information en how to date the age of 4 house; on page 6, of the map, indicate neigh~rhoods by qenerall), perceived neighborhood boundaries; on page e, under -Hixed a add a final sentence to rea~ -Nonetheless, there can exist el~ments of bu1lding appearance, size, placement on a lot. and/or landscaping~ which give areas within ~ixed Nei9~bor boods a unifYlll9 feel .. -; on page 20, add a sentence that -Fences shoul~ be avoided in front yards except vher~ they are consistent with existing neighborhood patterns.-; on page 4~ fourth ~aragraph, delete the words -rules or-; and on the same page, f~fth paragraph, change the woras ·Planninq Oepartment to ·City"; on page 22, the ad coPy fro:n 'Water and energy services should be increased in Slze; on pa~e 25, the line lI'Whan there is a rear alley, it may be l09~cal to 'Use the alley Lor auto access-shall be moved to the bottom of the drawlng; and on page 32 under Energy Considet-ations, add a sentence to delineate what the City policy is for dlsco~nts relative to installing active solar design featureG. -MOTtOK PASSED 7-0, McCo~, sutor ius absent RECESS: N5 PM, TO 9:55 P.M. -3-OE/17/91 -, , . \ i rr-, , , ' ~ -; ; 1 l· j [.j I: ' .. I c • • -. - SINGLE FA,\HLY RESIDENTIAL DESIGN GUIDELINES FOR PALO ALfO • \ , , - --, ---~~ ~~------""'--~ ~--~-~ '':':' .. ' o SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL DF~<;IGN GUIDELINES FOR PALO ALTO September 1991 _ ..... _-----_ .... -- TABLE OF CONTL"lS PAGE SECTION I: INTRODVCTlO:-l Backgroond and Purpose of the Design GuideIinE> ___________ I Use of t.r,e Design Guidelines ______ 2 SF,cnON Il: PAW ALTO NEIGHBORHOODS MiD ARCHITECTITRAL STYLE Neighborhood Character __ 3 ___ 6 Architectural Style _" _______ _ SECTIONll: ADDING ON TO A HOrSE, .It. BRIEF PRIMER ON REMODELING ____ _ _____ 13 SECTION IV: RESIDE.'>jIAL DESIGN GL1DELJlI.ts A. Neighborhood Patterns _______ _ _ ______ 15 Streetscape and Open Space __ _ _ ________ 15 AI. Setback Pattern A2. Mature Trees A3" Cum Cuts A4. Drivc .... "2.ys M. Fences A6_ Front Yards as Part of Streetscape Lands"~ing ________________ _ 19 A7. AS. A9. Street Trees Greenery in Front Yard Planting Strips Garages ________ _ AIO. AIL A12. Garage Patterns Rear DeW:hed Garages Double Garage Doors ______ 22 Relationship to Adjacent Properties _______________ 24 Wmdows ___________ 24 BI. Privacy for Wmdows Balconies and Patios ____ " ____ _ ___ 26 L [~ '(, ',.0. " . \ - o o PAGE B2. Privacy for Patios Landscaping for Privacy ____ _ ________ 26 B3. Rear and Side Yards Lighting ________ _ 27 84. Outdoor Lighting House Design Elements ____ _ Building Form ___________ _ _ __ 27 ___ 27 C 1. Overall Shape of Building 0. Panern of Front Porches C3. Second Story Additions Walls ___________ _ _ ___ 30 C4. Blank Walls Finishes. _____ _ ________ 30 CS. Quality C6. Nu:nber of Finishes Energy Considerations _______ _ _ __ 32 C7. Passive Solar Design C8. Solar Collectors D. Miscellaneous ________ _ ____________ 32 D1. Cottages D2. Flag Lots D3. Flood Plain SECTION V: fffSTORlC BUILDING GUIDELU.LS _____ _ SEr.TION VI: ADDITIONAL RESOURCES: __ ....,.-________ _ RELEVAJI;T CODES A.1IID REFERENCES SELECTED BIBLIOGRAPHY _________ . ____ _ CREDITS ___________________ ___ INDEX ____________ _ WORKSHEET ii p:\SFOOUl 'C .- 35 35 39 41 42 43 • ~ i I J , I " ! ! • ,1 ". 1 j . I 1 .,. - SECTION I: INTRODUCTlO]\" BACKGROVND AND PURPOSE OF THE DF.~IGN Cl'IDELINES Much of the cherished character of Palo At:o derives from its residential areas: mature trees. arch acroSS v.ide streets bordered by park-tike front yards_ The landscape connects and softens homes with a 'Wide vari'-!ty of archite-eturaJ styles, from the spacious, craft-style homes of Professon.il1e to the spare {,OnlOntal Er,es and ij'lterior courtyards of Eichler homes. In some neigh!>orhoods, the garage is unobtrusive, hidden from the street rn other neighborbocds. the garage is part of Ihe strectscape. The success and appeal of the"se neighborhoods are 'Widely recognized. These guidelines are intended to preser .. e atld enhance the desirable qu.a1itics of each individual neighborhood. As changes in life style, family size, tednology. cultural background, economic conditions, and even rainfall occur, there are corresponding pressures for .:hange in individual buildings and i.., the community~ It is importarlt that ar1)' changes are cOf'lpatible with the 5urroLmding neighhorhfxx1 and respectful of the ex.isting privacy of neighbors. Th-is booklet suggests. how to rel.ain the ,",'ery qualities which make Palo Alto neighborhoods appealing while making necessary chaJ!ges in ir,:ilviduat buildings. If the Guidelines are foDowed, change can occur positive1y, and each home project ~ill contribute to the strengths of the neighborhood. By analyzing IDe existing ne[ghborboods and architecture, it is possible to identify patterns which COrltnoute to its special character. Each neighborhood is distinct. The owner or project sponsor should identify and respe-et the c:x.isting patterns and cha.racteris~ics of the neighborllood. The quality of Pall) Alto neighborhoods stems from many individual decisions. Individuality is important because it creates variety, inlerest, and texture. However, commona!ity is also vital in neighbornoods. These guidelines provide for individu<lI initiative and: creativlty whlle still reflecting common. characteristic neighborhood patterns. The guidelines an:: not mandatol)'~ but they are strongly recommended by the City. It is important 10 remember that these guidclEne_s are an adjunct to the Zoning Code. The Zon1.'g Code sets precise rules with respect to height, buIlc, and setbacks, which must be ronowed througbout tbe City .. These design guidelines are mo~ flexible and subject to individual interpretation. They are strongly reconunended [or aU new houses and remodeling but are not maodatory. During the consideration of new single-family zonir,g regulatiuns in 1989, the Planning Commission and City Council realiz.ed that mere were many important elements which cou.ld not easily be covered by wning, but. which were critica1lo preserving and improving Palo Alto's residential neighborhoods. This booklet helps to define those elements. Please join the Planning Commission, staff, and authors in recognizing and reflecting Ole strengths of Palo Atto's, residential architecture and neighborhoods when you undertake your own project The appealing quality of each neighborhood is the product of many separate ,:ISFOO L .- I I l • - Ci..:ts of creativity. By fol1,,~ir.,g tlle.se guideEnes, each individual home owner or project sponsor can contributt: to the quality or the neighborhood and be assured that his or her investment in Palo Alto will be protected when othen initiate their projects. USE OF 'ffiESE DESIGN GtlDELIJI;ES \Vho shouTd use th~,,! The fOllo",,",ing groups will use the guidelines. in differi!r:!t ways. • Project sJ!i.losors, such al homeowners., architects, irlterior designers, contractors, .and developers should identify Ille guidelines applicable to Illeir projects. Then, .hey should interpret the guidelines in the design of the planned addition or new construction. • P\a.nning staff will refer to the guidelines when Ie .... 1cwing proposed projects, and will make suggestions to project sponsors to improve design. This m.ay include recommending Home Improvement Exceptions in certain cases. • The ZoniD, Administrstor !,!,rill use the guidelines to assist in determining whether to approve or disapprove propo~d Hvll1e !mproyement Exc.eptioQ.o; to the Zoning COOl!. A Home !:l1provernent Exception is a \o'ehic1e for permitting exceptions [0 the Zoning Code (City of Palo Alto Muni<:ipal Code Zoning Ordinance, Chapter 18). Some horne, do not meet lite current Zoning Ordmance regulations. for e.(ample, Victorian hou~s often exC<Cd tile height limit beau", Illey generally have higher ceiling. than contemporary bomes. Home Improvement Exceptions rdthcr Wan ~ stricter Variance p.roceduTe may be recommended in case..s where the eJ:ce-ption will result i.., improved iSchil«.ture and neighbNhood compatibility. • Neipborbood Jroups may use these guidelines to be1p protect the c~teristics which they value in their communities. By calling them to the attention of prospective project sponson, they can develop effective criteria before design has begun Of moved on to working drawings. How tan project sponsQrs use tbe guidelines? A project sponsor should begin as foUows. • Analyze !he type of neighborhood in which Ille proposed projec1 is located. Section If - Palo Alto Ncighl=!lood, and Arctci!eCturai Style wiD help to distinguish the neighborllood and to define the architectural s.yle. Listing Ille main fealure.< to be preserved 0< followed is !he fmt ,tel' tow.,d design. • Tum to Section IV • Resi6entiaI Design Guidelines to detennine which guidelines are applicable to the project. Make a list of l'lte relevant guidelines. • Incorporate tile guidelines Illal are appropriate foc the neighborhood. Each design guideline may have a slightly different expression in a particular neighbo;hood and f'Jf a particular archit<ctural program. It is very important to understand t~ nothing in the guidelines is intended to discourage contempcnary design. Innovation and creativity are encouraged 'U,lithin the context of surrounding neighborhood patterns. 2 I I [ [ I I ~ I , l i , - SECTION n, PALO ALTO NElGHBORHooDS A."'D ARCID1ECTURAL STYLE NEIGHBORHOOD CHARACTER As mentioned in the IntroouctiO!'l, Palo Alto's neighborhoods have much in common, i.e., beautifu! street trees, q1.i.tet streets, conLinlJous front la"1dSl.:aprng. and va..'ied houses. Individu.aJ neighborhoods also have characteristics which set them apart. While there are DO st:rilcingly visible boundaries beN-'een neighborhoods. o .... er a long period of time, YafloU5 areas have become known by dlffe!'en( names, Distinct neighborhoods are recognized in real esta[e advertising by original subdivisions, locations of schools and !l:; practice as sho'Wn on the map below. WIthin each of these districts, there may be numerous smaller "neighborhcxx!s," perhaps only a block 'Or two of houses with special chara.::tcr. The best way of analyzing the blockface is by photographing tilese houses and Iand.scaping on one or both sides of the street and defining whar is special about Liem, ie., patterns of landscaping, style, setbacks, and streetscape. o.i / J C~rt )li { j ,-" ) . > '" -..... ~.\ ,:I.SF'DG \ i r Pa1rJVn~ ; • I Mi4to"'''' :: 1.0.1 ,,,,,.OOU.I 3 '. ,..---"",- Why is it importanllo <flSlinruish the particular neigbborbood or. proposed project? As suggested by the preceding map iI1d discussion of neighborhoods, to some exlent the definition of -neighbortlood ,• like beauty, is in the eye (If the beholder. Different people may have different notions of what a neighborhood is; its boundaries, size and character. The impertaDt 'issue.is: what characteristics are there in tbe surrounding area which O";:hl 10 be reflected in the desi&D of your partieulllr project ~ ldenlllyhlz and def"winj: each nei;:bllorbood by Its owo special cbaracter helps 10 define important desian crite-ria lor an izufi'Vidual project. }~ere are some broad chan;.(teristics t6 derme IlDd distin&ulsh \'BriOn! districts in PaID AJt o. Crafts Mixed EKamplcs: Professor .... illc, Communi~ Center and Old Palo AHa The neighborhoods tha.!: can be grouped as a crafts type are usually older, with most homes bunt prior to the 1940s. The streets are lined wit.1ot rrtature trees which provide rich texture in the neighborhood. Adding to this texture are landscape strip~ along the street. The lots are generuly narrow ",'1th houses consistently set back e'n the lot. often e,,'en beyond the minimum setback required by loning. The arerutecturaI style in these neighborhoods varies, but bungaiow and craftsman style are dominant. Porches are common and garages are detached wd inconspicuously located in the rear of the lot with a narrow driveway to the street. Examples: College Terrace, Venrura, Downl.Own North Mixed or eclectic neighborhoods are the least uniform in Palo Alto. The amount of Ia'ldsco.piIlg varies as does the type and placement of street trees. Streets may be wide or narrov.' and curbs may be rolled or vertiCi:tl. These neighborhoods are mixed in density and architectural style. There is no unifonn pattern with respect to number of stories, lot size or ga.. ... ge location. Nonetheless, there can exist elements of building appearance, Si7..e, placement 00 a lot and/or landscaping, \Iw'hich give areas .... ithin mixed neighborhood, a unifying feel. In this case, the relationship to adjacent houses bec{)mes most important in determining neighborhood compatibility. Refer to Section IV: G~idelines to detennine which patterns ought to be reflected in your new construction or remodeling. ,:\SFDO 4 L ; f t I f ·l 1 T",ct Rural Eumples: Crescent ParI<. "me parts of Old Palo Alto The estate !Ieighborhoods are also found in the older parts of Palo Alto. The lots a.re very lIIride and large y v..ith substantial house.s which are set baclc 40 feet or more. Trees aru:! lush landscaping dominate the streetscape, wit.~ shrubbery and otiJer planting dense near the street. Planter strips add to the rich greenery along the street. House styles in these neighborhoods are more traditional with tudor and mediterranean most prominenl The houses are Nw'O and three stories and ganges are deached i.~ the rear. Examples: Portions of Green Gables. East and We.s.t Charleston, Midtown, South Palo Alto Most of the neighborhoods built after World War [] fall into lhe tract category. They are usually large subdivisions built by a single deveJ-Jpcr. Typical homes, such as Eichler and nnch. make up some of the tract neighborhoods. The streets are wide and infonna1 with a rolled curb and g utter and no pI an ting strip. Street trees may be planted in we front yard. Tract houses are usually one story with little or no stope in the roof. The architectural style is uniform throughout a partkular subdivision, but may vary between subdivisions. ::.amples: Barron Park. Palo Alto Hill 5 Tne. cbaracter of .rural neighborhoods is dominated by trees and foliage. Vegetation is abundant and streets have a natural look:. There are maIlY trees, but no 1Jniform street tree type. The rural character is emphasized by the lack of curbs and sidewalla. Streets are rambling and narrow. There is no dominant house style or garage pattern. Most houses are one story and setbacks vary. ,:ISFDG 5 L [~~1°~;· .,..:-~ " ""', ~ _.-.-.;: '~-I - /) . ,.--~ ARCHI'TECTh'RAL STYLE The extent to which there is a prevaiLing MchitecturaI style in a neighborhood varies widel,. For example, in the Eichler tract dcvelopmenu of the 1940s and 19505, OJ. single developer and designer built all of t.'1e houses ~:ithin a reiativeiy short period of til':le. The houses. are very similar in design and chanctet, a.i1d the architecture itself defInes the neighborhood to a large Cl{tenl This !,mifonnity ma.1i:es remodelling a real challenge. South Palo Alto - Example of Consistent Style In other cases, such as Professorville, there is no single type of architectural style, however, the way in which the buildings vary is common to all. The illustration below shows a block of especiaIly attractive homes i.-, which every one is a different "stYle" from its neighbors. In this instance, it is the craftsman-like CO!lstruction, the variety of traditional styles, and the prevailing size and elegance of each home \A:hich distinguish this block and this neighborhood. Professorville :~~~~~~~~~~~I~(~ Example of Mixed Styles p:\5FDG 6 L , . \. '"'"', ~ I ,~, ! ;' j ~J I I 1 -. ---~'.---'-'" ' These two exampies illuSotrilt.e the difficuiry of defining ·archj~tural style" and its relationship to neighborhood character. There is tremendolJs variety and no :;ooner is a role made t..'Ian it i's' brokert. Neighborh<xx!s are often perceived as being typically of one coherent style, yet upcm closer inspection many of We most highly regarded actually comist of a variety of "st)'~es." How then caD one distinguish wbat is meanl by conforming to tbe arcbitedural st)'le or a Deighborbood~ Many contemporary efforts to copy older homes in a neighborhood ring: hollo\.l,r. They copy trite elements such a5 trim or forms withOllt uniting all of the various elemenlS. in a consistent "Il.'hoJe. It is interesting to note that some of the best houses arc eclectic; that is they are a mixture of previous architectural styles. The eKtent to which a!1 eclectic hou~ succeeds depends upon whether the design is unified; tach pan should contn"bute io the ~hole and have \ln~ty in. COrtcepL ""11er. borrowing diverse etemer.ts, it is. important to transfoml these elements into a single, harmon:ous whole. It is interesting to look at the -Jariety of styles in some older homes. The folJo .... 'ing Is a de.iCription of a bouse on Alma Street frem the Historic BuildIng Inventury compiled by the City of Palo Alto. -An idiosyncratic varia11t of the Mission R£;vival, this bungalow contrasts the textures of stucco and stone, and conventional ~fissjon Revival elements with fragments reminiscent of Craftsman, Prairie Schoot, and even Europn Secesslonist styles, • This charming exa..-nple mixes materials, influ.ences., and elements from many period~. Yet the skill of the de-signer and builder have res.ulted in a house which seems c:a1m, attractive, and appropriate. Despite the fact that there are no hard ii..1:d fast rules about style, it i:; u~ful to identify several major architectural styles and to analyze their particuiar form in Palo Alto, Keep in mi,d. however, t1'1at the architect or designer should not think that these styles must be slavishly copied. ur..less exact historic replication is intended. The illustrations on the follQwing pages serve as a reference for distinguishing the predominant st}'les of houses found in Palo Alt,,}. 7 ·L ' .. ' Typical Palo Alto Architec!ur.ll St) les BUNGAWW - 1 or 2 stories with .second story set back. -Raised entry porch on front of bouse -Shallow roof pitch -Wood delan prevalent -Materials: wood siding, SI'Ucco, or shingles wiL':! true di"'ided light window~ COWNIAL REVIVAL - 2 stories -Medium to steep roof pitch -Stately. symmetdcal massing -Cla.ssica1 details such as pediments ..... ith columr.s -Raised portico entry -Materials: horizontal wood siding with shingle roof a..'1d wCXld \Vir-dow shutter 8 I -- ,:.<-..,. I I , " , ! I ! I I r ..... - ..•. ~ .-j .~:~ I , , I I l CONTEMPORARY - 1 or 2 stories -Simple geometric forms -r1at or sloped roofs -Hat wall planes wit!l abstract details -Materials: many examples, stuc<::o common • EICHLER -Single starf typical -Horizontal emphasis -Simple: forms and details -Shallow or flat roof pitcb \/with deep overhangs -Solid, planar surfaces contrasting with large expanses of glass -Exposed roof beams -Materials: wc-oo, stucco, stone, or brick (wood predominanl) 9 - I I I ~ .~ - MEDITERRA1'IEAN!SPANlSlI - 1 or 2 stories -CompIe;{ massing and rocf forms -.M.assive looking walls with reces!ed windows -ShaIlow to medium sloping roof pitch -Materials: stucco w211s with wood trim and clay tile roof - 1 or 2 stories -Formal massing, sometimes with towers or bays -Porch or ver4Ilda common -Lacy wood ornament and trim 'li1th f.sh sciiIe shingles -Materials: contrasting wood slding materials with shingle roof 10 • , i t I I { f \ . . , .. _,.." ~-,-:., t- --<.:' RAr-,"CH -Typically single story -Horizontal emphasis -Hipped or ,hed roof with ,hingle, -Perch with columns along frollt -M:Herials: predominalely wood with horiz.ontal or vertical slding and s.ningle roof SHINGLE - 1 or 2 stones -Interesting roof forms with ~1.ee_per pitch -Brackets com mon at eaves -Emphasis on wood craftsmanship and details -Wood windows '\o\ith divided panes of glass -Matcria1s: wood. shingles on roof and cn s.ome vertical s.urfaces. wood siding typical II ------- TUDOR - 2 stories typical -Vertical emphasis -Steep slate roof with shallow overhangs -Sense of mass in walls with recessed windows -Materials: stucco waIls with wood tri m and acce., ts VICTORIAN - 2 stories typical -Unusual massing with donner projections, bay windows and porches -Vertical emphasis -Steep roof pilCh -Fanciful wood trim and siding -.Materials: varied wood siding and trim with shirgle roof p:ISFDG 12 -..J " , " " ,..: ",;, -' .' .; '"_.: ...... :>,."'., ~ c '- SECTION III: ADDING OS TO A HOUSE: A BRIEF PRIMER 0:-; REMODELING A:s a fanuly grows or living patterns change, there may be iI need for more space in L'Je home. One option is simply to purchase a new, l.arger hi'Ju~. But for some people, the cos.t of moving to a. larger house is. prohibitive. In these cases, remo(kEng or add~ng on to the exjsting house may be the only alternative. L'1Creasing the size of a home presents many probiems as well as opportunitie.s. Since many parts of the house m;.y be disturbed during me remodeling process, there is also an opportunity to improve the layout of the entire house and to enhance cornpatib£hty with the: neighborhood , The fL.-st step in planning an addition is to study the Zoning Ordinance regulations to determine what may be built. The next s~ep is to rev:ew the guidelines of this booklet for design goals. You may wish to consult a.."l architect to help you with this process. A professional's knowledge of the design aI1d (Orlstruction proce!los can save you time and money while helping to realize your aesthetic goals. Identif; dlSU:lguisning cbaracteristics of the ne~ghDarhood, looking at both sides of the block. Pbotograph tile streelscape, patterns of piGIlting, .anyt;'ing which makes the neighborhood special. Identify elements that gj'/c the neighborhood charm. Don't, however, just copy what is found in the neighborhood. -Tacking on" elemellL~ or details. found in the neighborhood can lead to a cnaotic and disjointed composition. To achieve a deeper and unified whole, ~tudy all of the pattems which conmDute to the richness of the neighborhood and choose those that apply to your home. Then plan a house that win respect all of these patterns while maintaining individual integrity. Using the Design Guidelines, Se<:tion IV, will help identify neighborhood patterns. Fcllo\\'1ni the guirleli.nes beiow wm allow an addition to be b1.l11t on an ex~sting house v.-hi1e maintaining the overall ullegrity vf that house, In planning an addition, it is important to c.onsider the ,r.tical elemenl.s. of the ex.isting house as they will relate to the addition. The addition should blend with the existing pa.rt5 of the house, Dot appear as if it were -tacked on. -The fOUowing eiements (a.mong olhers) should be identified before planning an addition. • • • p:\S}-";)G What are the z.oning requirements in the neighborhex>d? \Vha.t is the style of the house? Is it dis.tinct and consistent or is. it a loose mixture o{ styles? What are the exterior fir.ish materials? If (here tS a mix. of materials, is one always used in a certain location or manner'? \3 - o • "''hat is the slope of the roor? • What type of windows are there, It tbert 15 • distinct st.)'ie, then tbe addition should rouow lind bannonize witb that ~yle. Under the An:hjlecturat Style section, there are deSCriptions of some cha."Ccteristics common 10 styjes found in Palo A1!o. An addition should trj to follow the massing and flavor of the style found in the original house. The-materials used for an addItjon should blend with the material-; wied on tbe e:dsting hou.se~ A shing1ed addition to a stucco house may disrupt L.ie character of the house and present a. chaotic image. A 3tUO::O addition with the same son of massing, materia1s., ;.nd detailing may be appropriate. The root slope or an addilion should match tbe slope or tbe uisting roor. To pre~rit a unified appearance, the roof of an addition should follow the example of the existing house in materials, slope, and de:ailing. AD addition should have the same type or windo","'s that aN used in the originar part or the boose~ """'mdows contnoute a great deal to the character of the house. An add:tion that uses v..fudows that are significantly different from those used in the original house will severely disrupt Lie character of the house. For im,tance, using sliding aluminum windo~:s in 2. house: that has wood double hung windows would detract from the house. \Vhen you have confirmed the zoning requirements and anaiyzed )'our neighborhood's distinct features, you should go through the next section~ Residential DcsigJl Guidelines, and identify which are applicable to your street, blockface, and the style of your home. Your addition should foDow these guidelines. p:\SFDG 14 I t ! I f t .-1.0 • ;"~' -------------~--------- :"~~~Ir, :.------,,~,,~- - SECTION IV: RESIDF~"'TlAL DESIGN GI.TlDELINF.5 It is importa!lt to maini:.a..in aIld improve the charm and specjzJ character of each neighborhood. ldentif)'iIlg the neighborhood patterns and applying the following design gu[deline.s 'Will allow gro""1h and change to occur while ~rotectir!g the quality of each neighborhood, These guidelines are a series of recommendations for \'ariocs elements of neighborhood design. The drawings in these guidelines are used only t.;:o i!1ustrate t.o1e text. They are schematic and not intended to be used literally. \\011.i1e each iLlustration shows Or'Jy cne aspect of the design guideiinei. all of the guidelines s.hould be addressed in planning a new house or addition. A. NEIGHBORHOOD PA lTERNS STREETSCAPE AND OPL'i SPACE The front yard, £dewalk, street trees, fences, street, <:urn, street Iig;'tst planting strips, driveways; everything in front of the house, all contrib'Jte lO our experience as we walk or drive down the stree!. These elemerHs combmed give us a sense of how to approach the houses and determine bow we experience the neighborhood from the public spaces. This combination of elements constitutes the strect.scape, which can be very appealing. neighborIy~ attractive or chaotic, bland ar,d without character. AI. lbe from and rear setback pattern on the block should be identilled and nspected~ The front setback ~s the distance from the front of the house to the fron.t property line. The minimum front yard specified .in Ole zoning regulations is 20 feet If there is a strong pattern of houses set back: further than the minimum required by code, then a. ne\o~r house should respect that pd..tern and be located mo.e th<.ln 20 feet back from the front property Ime, If the setback pattern on the block is such that houses are set back less \ban 20 feet, then there may be .reason to ask for a variance or hDme improvement exception. The rear yard setback is also important in deftning the character of the neighborhood. If very large rear yards are predominate in the neighborhood, a house addition inlo the rear yard can adversely impact your rleighbors.. p:\SFOO A s.etbGck. that doesn't fonow .an established. pattern wlll be disruptive to the character of the neighborhood (see the illustration on the following page). 15 L •• "f '0 Actual Setback : --Zoning or L..egal Setback 2:;~~:t:::52:E=~~~~:t.==;;~8S -.1-l'roperty Line --Zoning or Lega! Setback ~ Actual Setback This bouse doesn't respect 1..te actual setback though it meets the legal setback Respect (he pattern of actual setbacks Al. AU m.atUl1~ trees should be saved. Trees provide shade and canopy and are a visual asset to both the individual property and all the properties on tbe s~ Keep driveways at leasi 5 feet away or further to :avoid harming all public and private trees in ex:cess of 6 inches in diameter. Al. Maintain oo-street parking by providing a minimum or 20 reet betwet'!n curb cuts. 5' Min. Better ~ min. between 4~~b' cutS to al1m,,' for a parking space Locate drh'eways (0 maximize street parking and minimize harm to existing streel trees p:\SFDG 16 A,,'oid will likely not survive in tbe long run becau.\e driveway is too close . . . . • < !.~<~ -~ -.. tr";o~--" ~ -.-.- ,"" --: ~-;" ",,..; ,.4':';t=~~~· _ .... "'.,._~~ , ...,~.,._,_,, __ ~ __ ,.-..-.... A,4. MinimIze tbe width of dd'l'ew2),s 10 avoict e:)!.:tensh'e pa'o'ing in the rrant selb-ack4 As the. number of C.aiS per home !'1avc increased, and double and triple garages become commonplace, drivcW'3)'s tend to eat cp much of the greenery in the front yard. Avoid this 'by reduc:ng the driveway width as shown in the diagram below. Tandem parklng is {Jow allowed so the parking area can be narrower allowing for more greenery in the front yard. Too much palJing in fronl yard BeUer A5. Fences should ~ nQided in the front }'ard except: where consistent witb uisting neighbornocd patterns. If they mus< be built, they .hould be kept .way from the property line with a planting buffer. In most cases, the propeny line is nOl. at the edge of the sidewalk. but a few feet into the front yard. This provides an idea! location for a. planting buffer. It is the homeowner's responsibility to maintain the planting in the buffer area. The impact of os. fence may be so:tened by having it putly made of lattice planted \/d.th c-!imbing .... ines. Landscaping and trellises C3n soften a fence ,:\SFOO 17 'L \ • '--" .. f J .. f .. -.. I . i , -- .!"'" ~ Jl'Qtu ............. :..:. It is important to note that fences must meet zoning requirern-enu reg':rrdtr:~ height and location. The Planning Department provides il fence handbook: summarizing the requirements. A fence permit is also required prior to constructing a (ence. If fences are u.sed, they should contribute a sense of enLJ' to the house and should match the scale and size of tile house. Hlgh fences on a smali lot can look \lnnej8hborly~ like a fortress. Preferred Less Desirable A planting huffer is tronl 01 • fence can make the entrance more attracth'e. Line A6. 'lbe front yard is an important part of the streetscape. Patterns of planting . .setbacks and entry location should be jdentified in neighboring front yards and emulated'. Patterns or fences and porches should also be a~unted for in any new design. Front yard and public landscaping is covered under Streetscape and Open Space (Section lV, A). For landscapes in the side and rear yards, refer to Relationship to Adjacent Pruperties (Section lV, B) . ..... :--L" .. . -'--. . , I r f ! ·~l~' :~;2~,:3i: ~-~,-. ·:;l:'i::~ -. LANDSCAPING A7. .Mature trees aDd 1Iaried plaotin& are primary elements in Palo Alto's special duiracter. Greal care must be ti3Jrer'. when planning a new building or an addition to inChlde appropriate landscaping. Drought tolerant landscaping for new planting is highly recommended. Limit width of driveways to preser .. 'e or aIloe:.' for green pl::u1ts and trees. Any existin# lrees should remain and be cared Cor. Street trees are porticularly important and should be considered before other factors in the de~ign. Palo Alto is kno\ll'D. for its beautiful and plentiful trees including over 26.(1()() street trees. The Palo Alto street tree program~ like those of most cities in the country, was created to provide the r.!Sidents wjth the beauty and comfort of shad)' streets .and sidewalks. The City requires the retention and mainlenance of al1 trees wlthin the puhli<: right of-way. The City is espeda1!y pmud of its trees and strongly encolJrages retention and maintenance of ail trees. City street trees are usually located between the side'oll.'alk.and curb or where the sidewalk is cfuectly against the curb, in tile '""easement" or right-of-way area behind the sidewaJlc, usually 5 feet. The City h>.s retained the authority to c~ntro! any ,,'or< dor.e in the sL.-eet right-of-way, inc1L!ding that relating to street trees. The planting, prunL'lg, trimming, root cutting or removal of trees along tile street may onty be done after obtaining a permit from the Public Works Operations Division. Waterin&: GC street trees is the citizens' responsibility. Caution must be exercised in reducing 'i\'atering during drought conditions, as the trees have become acclimated to lawn watering and r.ligbt not survive the removal of regular watering. The planting of any new street tr.c:es should be cone in consideration of drought tolerance, 19 L • - ,:ISFDG Don't let your trees become victims of the drought. .. Palo Allo is !<no ..... ror ils rnagnillcenl trees. They are part of our dty's history and cullure. Our numerous trees~ whether city or privat-ely-owned, are jmport~t to the community spin! and overall Jook of PaTa AHo. Doe to the slNss of drought conditions, maDY of Palo Alto's historic t..-Ire dyiDg. 11Ie extreme cold weather in December further aMed to iliis problem. Trees roqui'" ",lalivelylitu.. water aDd .honk! he your watering . priority-reduce landsC4ipe and lawn watering jns~ead. 11Jirsty trees can surviv~ a SO% reduction ofwater~ wjth a 1ittle help. o Place a Ihr'" incb layer of mulcb Over most of Ibe root ar,a. Mulch should b-ogin at leasl One foo! from Ih" trunk and extend oul from beneath the tree to the tips afthe branches or "drip linc." Use wood chips or leaves for murch. o To leach tree roots, appl) water 10 the area under the !.ree canopy. Do not directly Wafer the tree trunk. . o Waler trees deepty once or twice a month. o Soaker hoses or deep roo( watering de .. ices rna y be used to wal er your trees. For iDronnalion on sa.ing your lrees aDd landscaping duliag the drougbt, caU Water and Energy Senices at 329-2241. Rememher, we all must do our pan 10 use waler wisely. COy" I'0Io _ -Ii w_ Mot e-w. s.mc.. 20 L i I I , i i I \ f t f , , \ . '.-"" 'I' • . .d 1 - City Provided ~n'ice5;: The City will proYlde and plant 3. s.treet tree in a valid street tree site when a TeG,uest arid .a commitment to provide .... "ater is re~ived from a residenL Species selection is limited to those found ~o be appropriate by the City Arborist. Mo!'eover, the City provides all types of basic tree care for t.fte life of City street trees except regular watering. ConLact the City Ar!:>orl.st for maintel1a11ce suggestions. Routine maintenance is prioritized around safety issues. Because of the need to provide safe conditions, the tree maintenance work prov!ded by the City is often at a minimum lelo'el of service. Individual re,quests are scheduled after basic: safety work is complcled. Applications from residents fOf permits to provide additional servlce to improve appe.arance art ~,:elcomed. The City Arborist v.,ill pro,ride specifications. Construction Around Street Trees: 'Vhen laJ1d~dPi.ng, constructing driveways. and walbvays, or trenching for pipes, care must be taken to prevent serious damage to tree roots. The roots of a tree genef211y e~tend to the dlip ti:'le of the tree. This tree rOO( structure should not be disturbed. Upon receipt of an application for a permit to cut City trees (IOOls or tops), a Ci!y tree spe.:ialist will inspect, advise and provide specifications for the work, if the work is to be permitted. AS. Keep as much greenery as possible in the front )'ard. The balance of greenery and land.s.c.ape in the front yard is 'Io'cry important. Planting -can soften and/or emphasi7.e entry .... a1kways and driveways. Mir.imlze the amount of paving in L"tJ.e front yard. A dri .... eway wide enough for two cars can ()C(..upy a1most half of the front yard width. If t\'!'Q cars are left in each rlrivew'ay, tilen the emphasis of the stre*'.....tscape is on the car rather than on trees and greenery. M. U the neighborhood pattern includes a planting strip along tbe street, any new building should provide :I similar ptarlting strip. A pla.. .. ,ting strip is. a tremendous visual asset to the street. The strip should be appropriately plMted with trees and greenery. p:\SfDG 'C;rclun.d<,ov,,, in plantiilg strip is typical Continue planting strip and st["eet trees at e\'el)' house where these patterns are charaderistic or the neighborhood. 21 L - • ...•. ~~. o GARAGES Garages are part of almost every house in Palo Alto. They deserve S"pe(::ial attention since the elements associated with them, i.e .• dri ... ·ew·ays, curb cuts, and garage doors, can contrib"Ute to the design of the hou3e and quaE!}' of the streets.cape or severely detract from it. AID. Re:ipecl garag~ patterns round in the neighborhood. New garages should fo11ow the setback and location on 101: patterns of neighboring houses. If garages are typically located at the front of the house, then a new garage snould aj'so be located at the front of the house. Locatirlg a new gar.age in the rear of the house may be disruptive to neighboring properties. ,:ISFDQ L I -L New garage here should be avoided because a rear garage may cHsrupt neighbors. Street I "---r- Respecl the exisling garage paftel""n 22 + I I I [ • : \ o All. ""oeo tbp,re is • pattern of rear cietached garages, it is a good idea for any new carages to roHow that paltern. ,:\SFDQ + =-..:--) C==:,-_ c.=:= __ --2L AI/oid placing new garage here . . I I , I .... -~ __ J_~ __ Alley ---_._---- Garage may disrupt streetscape. Where there -" a.rear alley, it may be logic:u to use the alley for auto access. 23 - o AU. In oei.&hbornoods cl\aradel"ized b, single gantge doors, US'! tWQ smaDe.r doors instead or one larger double door. The size ofa double car ga."'age door can oveCVw'helm the front of a bouse and overi), effipbasiz,e the car. By using two smaller garage doors rdther thar. one large one, the garage may be abte to fit the scaie of me hou~ betteL [)ou ble size garage door may be appropriate in. some neighborhoods. Two smaller doors articulate the facade in netgboorhoods Dot cha['j.cterized by double garage doors. B. RELATIONSHIP TO ADJACENT PROPERTIES WINDOWS Wmdows allow light and air into the house. Unfortunately, where houses can be as close as. 12 feet apart,. we)! can also CClrnpromlse privacy between hO\l5eS. 24 . \ • ~ 1 'I 1 I I i I - o B.1 Place Dew windows wbere the)" promote priYa('y behn-en properties. Place windows carefully. C~restory windows can be placed high on a waH to allow light and air, but no ,,·jew. They C<ln be made of nonclear glass, again aIlo\\:ing tight but no view. ]f they are made of clear glass and are low enough to see out? they should be offset or staggered from neighboring windows 10 maintain privacy between houses.. "Where a second story addition is planned, the new wlndoVo's and wal:s shouid be lXY.Jticned to promote visLJ21 and s')und privacy between houses. Plan No view into next house Property Line Roof Roof No view from deck or interior space into next house . Section Plant appropriate trees and o(1'sel "indo,,"'s Bnd decks to maintain. privacy between houses 25 ~ , - BALCONIF.s AND PATIOS Outdoor space that is useJ on the ground floor is usually 0.1 a patio, deck, or yard. Balconies or decks provide outdoor space O~ the 5e(;ond story. B2. lliintain pri1o'ac:y betwet:ll' hOI..!se5 when buHding a new balcony which o,"'crlooks an existing patio or lard. The privacy impacts of a second-story addition. on neighboring properties can be le:S5,ened by pla."1ting trees or other greene!)' to screen vie'W·s. New second floor balcony Neighbor's privacy is Existing Patio New second floor bakony Privacy is maintaine d Locate and design Dew second floor baIcoojes and add landscaping to minimize the loss of prlvACJ' in adjacent patios &nd gardens LANDSCAPING FOR PRIVACY Landscapdlg is one of the most important elements in: the rear and side yards for promoting privacy and providing shade. Latldscaping can soften the edges of buildings and add beauty to views out. 83. Provjde appropriate landscaping in the rear and side yards. Use trees and shrubbery to mair.tain privacy and shape spaces. Prot~t and care for any existing trees in the rear or side yards. ,:\SFOO 26 I t t I ...• t.· ~. i~ I , .~ i I I I I - .... : .. LIGHTING Outdoor lighting provides safely and seclJrity for the areas ar::>tlnd.a hcu5e. 84. Position outdoor lighting so that no direct J..jght e",1ends ohIo neighboring properties. Take care in chooslng and locating outdoor lighting fixtures .so that privacy is maintained between properties. There are three purposes for Eghti~g; safety, security~ and aesthetics. The;-e are many fIxtures and bulbs with various lighting pat~ems. Select a fix!Llre and b\.lIb to sl.:it your need. Do not direct ligbt iH 10 Deighbors property C. HOUSE DESIGN ELEME.NTS BUILDING FOR>'I t r -j4, ~~L . . Direcl light d?Vru into own property There are many elements which contribute to the Vi3UaJ impact of a house. The layout of the waIls, the shape of the roof, whether there are any bay w'::nd'ows, all give !.he building i~ shape. Cl. The ovtraD shape of the butIding should be kept simple and elegant. 111at is not 10 say that aU houses should be plain boxes. But too many bumps, bays., and roof cha."l.ges may result in a chaotic and incompallbIe building. Better A·mid Chaos 27 'L • '~J ,,:::"' , I I ~ --'.--~, ,'. ~-r-: ___ .:.1_.~ __ _ o C2. The pattern or rront porches Of' entry r~lures in the neighborbood sbould be respectedo If all the houses on t~e block face have a front porch to define tJle entry. then a new house should also pro\'lde a porch_ The roof of the porch c.an be solid or made of a trellis to allow greenery to frame the entry. Facades Plans 1 • Facades Plans 1 New entrance House v.ithout porch disrupts pattern o Hou~ without entry fe.ature does not follow neighborhood pattern Respe<:1 Ihe pattern or porches and other' entry features char-acteristi<: of 'he block p:\SFDCi 28 L • I I < ~ •• - ~"--" ~-"""-'<"----"'-~-""'~'--------' C3. Design I second !l1ory addition to be compatible \t'ith the sc~le and char.Jctlr of the neighb9rnood. 111. a predominantly single-story neighborhood, it ls pref~rable to expand' the house in a single story rather than in a second story. Adding a second :st.ory in a single story neighborhcod may cause privacy problem.". To reduce tl'le apparent mass of it new two-story house, the .s....~ond story can be set back from the front of Ole house. Tre.es can a!s.o be used to scften the impact of a s.econd story. Wben adding a second story, minimize shading of adjacent properties if possible. s;--- Less Desirable III a neighborhood of bungalows, this would have 8 strong impact on the slreel~ New addition with flat roof Less Desir. ble Avoid a second slol)' th at bas a boxy~ plain appearance 'M-ith no rel81ion to tbe original house. p:\SFOO 29 __ ,~r--= ------ 1II0re De.irable This would less<;n tbe imp act of • seeon If sto I)' ad dition. More DesIrable The second stor')' is set back :and relates to the original house. '- "'-'0,"'''''-''' "_.;,-;: ~.~-~-~--'-------- o () The appareIlt .size of a two story building can also be reduced by using dormer windows and lowering Ihe :second~story roof. Cross Se<:lion __ L-__ -''-_ Side Facade Front Facade rn rn More ~sir.abJe f...ess Desirable WALLS The location of thr:: walls of the hou~ ar~ limited b:; the Zoning Code. But how t.he walls are placed within those limits de;ides whether or not a hou.sc is. 'i\eU designed. C4. Al'oid loag blank W.iiiilts. In attempting to maximize floor area by building to the limits of the Code, a halJ~ may be designed with long bla.1k waIls along the side yards or setbacks. This situation s.hould Ix avaided. Instead, provide ""indo ...... s and/or building articulation along blank sIde 'oJr.aI1s. ,>/ "/ Too PJain "/ ;/ 30 [ Prop< rIJI Line /' MOff Desirable t It:.I ,,:;;0> I ' i I I \ ! • I - ! o FINlSJITS The futishes are all the materials used tv seal and coat the house. Like the placement Df the walls, the fmishes ronlnbutt to Ille overall quality of tlle house design. Botll the quality of the fi:lishcs and how they are installed contribute to the final impression of the house. CS. Provide fifiisbes which aN of hieh quality and are well crahed. Choose finishes which are approp~4te for tlle st}'le and sccl.e of the house. If \1;;ndows with divided lights are p18.-'l.'1ed. use only true divided rights. Snap-in grids or aluminum grids between double glass look fake. If true divided lights art too expen sive. tben use another type of windo'~'. C6. Umit tlIe Dumber of finishes to be appropriate "jIb tlIe house 51yle. Each style of house calls for 3: different mixture of finishes. For some houses, only one or two finishes are appropria.te, while others can support more. Too many materials of ::he wrong sort can result in a Chaotic and unpleasant facade. ,",",ood is used consistentJ~'. Mix or materials is Ch3'Jtk. 31 • \ - o ENERGY CONSIDERATIOl'S C1. Piau. Dew house or addition t{1 make best use or tbe a\'ailallte suo and lighl. Passive solar de~ign is a meelod of phnning t~e layout of a house to take advanta.ge o{ sunlight and the sun's heat to ..... arm the house. Rdther than IJsing acti .... 'e devices such as sola: collectors or even furnaces. passhre design uses thermal mass and appropriate glazing to ealch and s~ore the energy from the sun. The amount of soutIl facing glazing, building orientation, and proper shading can help the sun warm the house. Proper use of materials, such as a tile floor in a south facing breakfast room, C4ID be used to store L'I)e slln's heat. CS. II you have solar coll~tors, locate them (0 minimIze visibility, espedaJly from the :s1reet. Avoid placing them on the front facade or on the roof facing the street. MISCELLANEOUS COTTAGES In Palo Alto~ cottages are allowed on larger Jots which meet certain requirements of the Zoning Ordinance. DL Cottages on the rea?' or the lot should be inconspicUOUS. New cottages 5hould fl.t in the neighborhood rear yard pattern if other cottages exist. Cottages can be screened by planting to maintain the privacy required by adjacent neighbors. Since they can have a great impact OJ] the privacy of the neighovrs, they must be destgned to minimize noise. vlews, and light, from disrupting the netghboring property. Cottages are required by the Zoning Code 10 be architectur.Jly rompatible with the primary residence. They must also receive a Conditional Use Pennll from Ole Planning Department before they may be built. FLAG LOTS D2. The rormation of nt!w nag lots is prohibited. Flag lots are parcels of land located behind other lots. Flag lots usually have access to the street only by means of a driveway_ Any remodeling or addltion La existing hO\Jses on flag lots must meet roning requirements. Jlouses on flag 101 s are restricted to a single story unless a variance for the second story is granted. Since they are not directly on the street, relatir:g to the stree,tscape is not as important for flag-lot houses as addressing priV9:C¥ i.ssues. \Vit..'t neighboring 32 - o houses on four or five sides of a flag lot, location of windo\ ... ·s, landscaping and position of lighting all become vel)' important. Plan of neighborhood ~;th nag J/)ts FLOOD PLAIN D3. Majo[' improvtments (those exceeding 50 percent of the .... alue o( the home, exduding the land) must be above the flood plain. The flood plain is tllat area which would be flooded during a iOO year flood. Some of Palo Alto is located below the flood plain as defined by maps .vailable in the Department of Public Works. If your site is in t.'1e flood plain, significant restrictions apply to what you may bl!ild. Review your project with City staff before beginning design or remodeling. Because many major additions must be above a certain elevatiQ!1, the rnand2.ted height limit may be exceeded by a proposed addition. This may be reason 10 seek a Variance or Home Improvement Exception. p:\SFIXi 33 I t , I I ' __ • __ J---,_ ,:\SFDG ---~---~---~------------~,----... ~-'""III o 34 \ '!.-' '. " t I i 1 I I ~ ! j j 1 I I I - .r"" • -,.._~_-_ 1 ___ _ SECTION V: JOSTORIC BL'ILDINGS AA'D RESIDENTIAL J}ESIGN GUIDEL(]\'ES Palo Alto has a rich history a.1d tradition of significant buildings in its 100 year ex.istence. Chief among these buildings are many residences which are a valuable resource, both historically and culturally. The character and charm of these older homes is AIl imponant part of the City and highly worth)' of preserva.ticm. Local Sou rcE'S, Boards, and Gu iddines The City maintains an im'entof)' of Historic Structures,. This is a listing of significan! buildings) including many homes, importinl for cultural, historica!~ and/or architectural re.a.sons. The Planning Department can teli you if your home is on the Inventory of Histonc Structures. If.so, a.."1d you are plarming any exlerior alterations, re\01ew by the Historic Re5Curces Board (HRB) is required. The City has created a HislOnC Resources &.ard lo encourage and help homeowners who seek to preserve the historic and architectural character of their homes. The HRB is composed of local design professionals and laypersons. They provide review and recommendations Oli the modification of histortC buildings. Houses 50 years or older might be considered historic and added to the inventory. In addition to formal review, anyone is welcome to C(lme in the early st.agcs of the design process to get help and seek consultation from Ule HRB. Historic bui!dings arc especially important to neighborhood character and deserve special consideration with respect to these Residential Design Guidelines. Historic buildings may violate current zoning, thereby requiring a Home rmprovcmenl Exception or Variance for remodcling. National Guidelines At Ule natiooaI level, Ule Secretary of the Interior has published federal Standards Cor R.ehabWtation~ which are quoted for reference belOw. I. 2. ,.\SJ'l)G L Every reasonable effort shall be ma~ to provide a comyatihie use for a property which requires minimal alteration of the building, structure, or site and its en ... ironment, or to use a property for its original intended purpose. The distinguishing Original qualities or character of a building, structure or site and its environment shall TlO( be destroyoo. The removal or alteration of any historical mOlteria! or dis.tinctive architectural features should be a .... oided when possible. 3S .' • , 4" 5" 6" 7" s. 9. 10. -" Changes which may hav~ taken place in the course of time a:e e ... idence of UH: history and d~veloprr,ent of a building, structure or site and its environment These changes may l"Jave acquired signifLcance in their 0',1.'11 right, atld this sig:1ificance sn::ul be Tecogni:;o:e("\ and re!lo~ted. Distinctive stylistic fea,ures or examples of skilled crdftsmanship which characterizes a bLJi1dlng, structure Of s!te :shall be trealed with sensitivity. Deteriorated archit.ectur.:tl features SI-lalJ be repaired rather lh.an replaced whenever possible. In the evenl rep!a~ment is neces.:.ary. the rna:erial should match the material being rt::placed in composition, design, color, texture, and other visual qwa!ities. Repair OT replacement of missing architectural features should be based on accurdle duplications of featuI""'...5, substantiated by historic, physical, or pictorial evidence rather than en conjectural designs or the availability of different architectural elements fram oll'1er buildings or structures. The surface deaning of structures s.hall be undertaken with the gentlest means possible. Sandblasting and other clean~ng methods that will damage the historic building malerials shall nO( be undertaken. Every reasonable effort shaH he made to protect and preserve archeological resources affected by, or adjacent to any project Contemporary desigfl for alterations Oind additions to existing properties shall not be discouraged when such alterations and additions do nO( destroy significant historical, architectum! or cultural material, and such design is compatible Vroi.th the size, scale. color, material and character of the property, neighborhood or environment. \Vherever possible, new additions or ailerations to structur~s shall be done in such a maImer that if s~ch additions or alterations were to be removed in tile future, the essential form and in!cgcity of the structure WQuld be \,mimpaired. 36 "~ i f\? !~ " f I· I r ! I I I ~. t . - o SECTION VI: ADDmONAL RESO!)RCES: RELEVANT CODES AlIiD REFERENCES In addition to the guidelines, there are Codes and References which affect how an existing house can be rem~eled or a new house constructed. These are outlined En the table below. CODE OR REFERENCE AGE.'I'CYICONTACT 11.-1 Single Family Resident District Regulations Tree Maintenance For Public Ar= Flood HazMd Area Requirement!. Historic Resources Inventory Plat and Subdivision Maps, Aerial Photos Architr<:tural Styles Fence Handbook ,:'.SFDG City Planning Department 329-2441 City Arborist 496-6905 City De;mtment of Public \Vorn 329-2151 City Pl.inning Department 329-2441 City Pl.inning Department 329-2441 City Libraries, Books(o"",, 329-2664 City Planning Department 329-2441 37 PURPOSE \\'hat am I aIlov.'oj to build? How large an addition can ] bulld? v..l1ere on my Jot can I build? V¥llat kind of trees rna)' be pla.'1ted in the public area in front of my house? How are they maintained? How do I determine if [live in the flood plain-:» ·Wbat restrictions apply to additions or new construction? How do [ know if I live in a hlsrork house' How old is my house? When was. it built? \\1hat limil5 or controls apply'? \\llere do I get information about nei£hboring houses so I can add on to mine in OJ. compaubJe manner? ·Where are my property lines in relation to the sidewalk' I'd like to know more about architectural styles of houses so I can add on to mine in a compa6ble way. (See selected Bib:iography belo..-)_ I'd like to build OJ. fence in my front yard _ What do I need to krlOw' • Landscape G:Jidelines Handouts .:\$F\)O o Utility Department 329-2441 Deparunent of Public WOiks j29·2 iS1 38 --........... ? .su ilti ., o Where would J find in(onna!Jon about drought (olerant plants? What is an Encroachment Penni!? Wl'tal is a Street Vlork. Pennit? • i , ~ I 1 I - / ' ... ·i~~;r:;~ . . ' , r-. ~.' , . .' . SELECTED BIBLIOGRAPHY The following Seixted Bibriography conllins a variety of books re!aled to house design. Some are books describing a certain slyre of house in greater depth than is found in these guidelines. Other books provide design ideas and methods for planning a new house or addition. Still others describe Palo Alto~s a.r-chitectural history. Historic: and Archileclura: Resources or the Cit)' of Palo Alto, City of Palo Alto Historical description of Palo Alto architectural styles and neighborhoods. Available in the Main Librasy. Historic Building lnYentor),. Cit)' of Palo Alto Excellent summary of a][ historic buildings in Palo Alto with photographs and a historic deSCription of each. Available in the Main Library . ... Gone Tomorrow. Palo Alto American Associatio:J of University \Vornen Describes the history of Palo Alto's early homes and neighborhoods. Available in tlJe Main Library. Streel"i of Palo Alto, paro Alto Hi5tcrical Association Provides historical background of street names in Palo Alto. There is some hlstorj of the early gro~1h of Palo Alto. Available in the Main Library. The Place of Houses, Moore, AIlen, and Lyndon, 1974. Ricl'JY illustrated book descnoing ways of relating spaces in a house to each other in a deep anc! unifying manner. The Sbingle Style and The Stkk SI)'", , Scully, Jr., 1955 rev. 1971. Description of architectural styles <:ommD[l in early Palo Alto. Ma)beck, DTdwel1, 1977. In-depth study of one of the Bay Area'.s most important architects. Greene aDd Greene Architects, Current, 1974. Descnbes how Greene and Greene Architects elevated t.ie architectural style of the California Bungalow to an art form. Some of Greene and Greene's houses :are found in Palo Alto. A Pattern Language, Alexander, 1977. Describes approximately 250 ·patterns" of des.ign. May be 1.Is.ed by the h()meowner, architect, or designer. WeD illustrated. The Decorating Book, Gilliatt, 1981. This is a pioblem solving source book for each room in the house. It focuses primarily on interior design. 39 L i i. j - Bay Area Homes, edited by Woodbridge, 1976. Description of Bay Area sIy1es throl.Jgh photographs and drdwings of actual houses. ue some Palo Alto examples. lbe Simple Home, Keller, 1979. Histodcal description of home design in Ole Bay Area. The Passiye Solar Energy Handbook, .Mazria, 1979. There Discusses the basics of conserving non-renewable energy sources and solar energy and passive solar desi~n. Traditional Bu ilding Historical Products for Toda)".s Prcressional, PeriodiC'.al Discusses how to remodel a t1ome. and where to ftnd materials, finishes, and fixtures appropriate (or older homes. Old House Journal. Periodic21 Roh.b Right How to Realize the Full Value or Your Old House, 1978, 1986 Home and Gardea, Jekyll, 1900 reprinted 1982. Very good description of the design 2.l"1d philosophy of gardens and bow they can relate to the house. The Image of the Crty, Lynch, 1960. Descn"bes the imp:>rtance of making memorable and meaningful places in a city. Eq>eriencing Architecture, Rasmuss.en, 1962, Provides insight into how we perceive the buildings and spaces that surround us. Streets tor People, Rudofsk)" 1964. Descnbes the importance of the pedcslrian str~et i,1 cuntributing to the richness and civility of i. town. Gardens are for People, Church, 1955, 1983. Generously illustrated book descn.bing how beautiful and simple gardens may be planned as a IogicaI extension of the bouse. Sunset New Western Garden Book, Sunset Magazine. 1979. Comprehensive description of aU p'Iants found in the western United States. 40 L I ! I " j 1 i I • - CREDITS Palo Alto City Council Ron Andersen Mike Cobb Gary F?zzino Liz Kniss Lelan~ Levy Jeat1 MCCo"lin Emily Renzel lack Su!orius Gail Woolley Palo Alto Planning Commission Bernard Beecham Ellen Christensen Patrida Cul ien Bill Glazier Joe Hirseh Joseph Huber Pam Marsh Sin:1e Family ResidemiaI Design Guidelines Preparation Committee Marni Bunes, An::h[lectural Review Board Bern Beecham, Planning Commissioner Jim Gi1liland~ Managt'r Planning Projects Nancy Lytle, Zoning Administrator Linda Scott, Historic Resources Board Jim McFall (Alternate) Gu\deUues Preparntioo -HOQd 1'-tHler A:ssoc1ates, Architect Bobbie Sue Hood FAIA, Principal James L. Ti.i:ly, Project Manager Louis Patrick LePeIch, Graphics p:\SFOO 41 ~~ti1 ~t: · . JNJ)£X PAGE Additions 2, 7, 13, 29 Alley ___ 23 Balconies __________ 26 Bungalow Style _ 8, N Colonial Revival Sryle 8 Omditional Usc Pennit 32 Contemporary Style 9 Cottages 32 Curb Cuts 16 DQnne~ 30 Driveways 16,17,21,22,23 Eichler Style I, 9, 24 Fnergy Consideration 5 32 Entry Features __ _ 28 Fenre< 17,18 Finishes ___________ 31 Flag 1<>ts 32 Flood Plain 33 Garage 22, 23, 24 Historic Buildlngs 35 Home Irr.pcovement Exception 2, 35 Landscaping 11, 18, 19,20,21,26 Lighting 27 Materials 14,31 Meditemnean Style 10 Neighborhood Compatibility 1,3,6,13, IS, 16,21,22,23,32,33,34 Parking 16, 22, 23 Patio 26 Planting Strip 4,5.11 Porches 28 Privacy 25. 26, 29 Property Line 25 Queen Anne Style _____ 10 Ranch Style II Remode!u. g 13 Resources I References 39 Second Story 29 Setb",k :---c---------15,16 Shingle Style _______ 11 Streetscapc _________ 11 Tandem Parking _________ 17 Trees 15, 16,19, 2Q, 21, 25, 26, 29 Tudor Style 12 Victorian Style 12 V.mdows 14, 24 Zoning Regulations I, 2, 13 ,"I.SFOG 42 L f I r ! I ~ I ~ j , I ! - , SINGLE FAMILY RESIDEl'.'TlAL GUlDEL~ES FOR PALO ALTO Worksheet This worksheet is meant to help you app!y the Single Family Residential GuidelinE's to your partkular project and neighborhood. It can also assist you in develcp[ng irJormation that should be included on your drawings, prior to your Planning Department re\'iew. Including this informatio:1 on your drawings can facilitate a rapid Zoning plane-heck or HIE !t'view. It v.ill probably be helpful to have a site plan to use in conjunction v.ith this worksheet. Your site plan. should accurarcly depict your property boundaries, and pr1,-ate easements_ The 'best source for this is the legal description in your deed. It should also accurately depict public easements, public right-of-v."ays, and pubU-: improvements, such as sidewalks. The best sourCe for this. information is the reference material ... such as the Block books, in the Planning Department on the 5th floor of City Hall. Pleast! note: It is vrry importa.nt that you also review the Palo Alto Zoning Guiriebopl For the R-i. Property Owner and Builder, availabIt! in the Planning Department. Project Address: _____ _ Project Neighborhood: (see map page 3} CI Barron Par],; o Boyce Addition (1 Cha:rlestar'l Terrace [,J College Terrace a Community Cen ler o Cre5C"ent Park Q DeAnza o Downtown North Q EI CarmeUo o Evergreen Park o Fau-Meadow o Garland U Gn."t!n Acrcs ] Seo!", of Project Q G.een Acn.~ II :.J Green Meadow :l Hoover Park U Indu .. trial Park a Leland Manor ~ Los Arboles U Midtown [I Miranda Green ;,J Monroe Park Q North Green Gables o Oak Creek Q Old Sou th Palo AIto (J Ortega o Addition or remod·~l '.J New home page 1 of Worksh~t 43 J PalG Alto Hllb .:J PaTo Verde :J Pr.')fes.sonrille :J Seale Addition Q Southgalt> :J So, Gn."er1 Cable''; :r t':nivcrslty Park o Ventura ::J Walnut Grove ~ ,\-Vest Bay .. hare \ Gn."'eI Pad:) o """c"t Charles'Lon :J Othf'r: , f I i c , f ;,' , I [ I --"- '.,.,,--- • 1 ,> ! j l I j - o o NEIGHBORHOOD PA TTER1'IS: In general, both n.e"~ houses and additions should be dE'Signed to be compatiblf ""ith the existing dtaracter of the neighborhood. The first step is identifyir:g neighoorhccd patterns that ought to be reflected in the design of your particular projE'Ct Setback pat:erns: (see p"ge 15) Determine the prevailing front setbacks in your neighborhOC>!..i by measuring ("t',:ith your neighbors' permission) the setbacks on yOW' blockIace and the blo •. :kface across the street. If t.'l-tere is a strong pattern of houses set back further than the minimum required by code then a new house or addition should respect that pattern, If the pattern tS less t!ta.'PJ. the minimum required by code, that may be a reason to apply for an HIE If there seems to be no prevai!ing pattern~ the setback of the houses to either side should be y()ur guide. Ir.dicate your neighborhood setbacks, My existing front setback ft Existing front setback for; H()use on left _____ ft Hou...:;.es on the same side of stn .. >et: ___ It ____ I,t ____ I,t. ___ Ie ___ fl ___ Ie Prevailing setback on blockf.ce, Average setback on blockface: My proposed front setbaoc ___ ft ___ ,ft. ___ ft House on right-________ ft. Houses across the street: ____ ft ___ ft. ____ ft ____ ft. ft. ____ ft Single story vs. Two story house: (see page 29 and 30) In a predominantly single story neighborhood it is preferable to build a new single story house or to expand an existing nouse in a single story rather than add a second story. (In fact, SDme neighborhoods have legal restrictions prohibiting f.ecorrd stories.) If the predominane pattern is two story.. then that pattern should be respected. page 2 of Worksheet 44 I I ! , ~ I I t I .- • • o Indkate the prevaHmg story pattern for your neighborhood~ Hou..", on right House on left House to reat House across the street Prevailing on blockf2:ce Prevailing on opposing blockface Proposed new house or addition Single story U Q Cl U Cl o o Two sfory U U Q o U o o If you are proposing a second story in a predominantly single story neighborhood~ indkate h()w you are reducing the apparent mass: Q Setting second story ba ck from fron t of .house U Adding trees to reduce \,lsibHity Cl Designing a lower second story roof v.i&. dormer v.indm·.s o Other NOIe: Seccmi stories can sigmficantly IIffed the sense of privacy between neighbors. If you are proposing II second flocr be s;.ae to examine the PRI\lACY ISSUES section of this 'Worksheet. Garages Patterns: (see pages 22-24) If there is a strong pattern for garage location, then a new house or addition should respect tha t pattern. Indicate the prevailir-.g garage pattern for your neighborhood; House on nght House on left House across the street Prevailing on blockIace Prevailing on opposing blockf.ce Proposed new house or addi tion Garage in Front 0 lJ Cl U Q Cl page .3 of W orksheel 4S Ga.rage in Reoar 0 D 0 0 ::J Cl Garage on Side \:) 0 U U 0 D • I , , r , ' , i- " - , . ,.:7-i: . o A double garage dCKK' at t..'1e front of the house can detract from the quality of the stl'eetscape in a neighborhood where t'hat is not the prevail~ng patten" .. If yo~.l are proposing a double garage at the front of L.~e house, indicate how you propose to reduce its impact on the streetscape: o Using tv.-o smaller doors rather than one large one Note: o Jogging the fa,ade between th e doors a MininUzil'g the v.~dth of the driveway o Landscaping o Other: _____ _ In som! neighborhoods a rear "Ut;! provides acce.ss: tJ the rear detached garages. Driveways, Curb Cuts, and Street trees: (see pages 16,-23) Poorly designed driveways can erode the streef tree canopy, ebminate on-street parking spaces, and in general detract from the quality of the strcetscape. Indicate how you propose to reduce your driveway's impact on the streetscape and maintain street parking: Nofe: Q Keeping d:'i\~eway 5' from all trees especially street trees o Minimizing the width of the paving o Using attracth'e driveway pa .... ·i,"'!g rr..atNial a Maintaining 20' bet-v.~een curb cuts a Other: _____________ _ On your silt plP.1'l show your property lines, the right-ot-way, existing and proposed drivewa.y~ sidewalk, curb ~ut, and indicate the distance to your neighbor's drit}t,"U.'ays. Be particularly careful to accurately show al/ of the ·street trees· that are within the public right-at-way. Also, shaw the mature trees on your properly. Remember trimming, root-cutting or removal ol street trees may be done only after obfa~ning a permit r~om the Public ~Vcrks OperatiDns Division. AttrlUtive drive'way materials art encauraged. Please review your proposed drir)f!7.l.'ay nUlterial with tht! Planning Department. Fmnt Porches I Entry Features: (see page 28) In general .. front porches and entry fe~tures are desirable eiement:;. In a neighborhood with front porches it i~ preferable to build a new house ""'ith a front porch. \Vhen expanding an existing house in a neighborbood. with front porches, it is preferable to add or maintain a front porch. Front porcl1es should not be enclosed. In a neighborhood, such as an Eichler tract wr.ere there are no front p.:>rches ~ a front porch may be disruptive to the existing pattern. Other entry features, su(h il5 a trellis, may be more compatible. page 4 {)f Work.5heet 46 , f I i i ::~'., . ,,.. .. ',;M -", . -'-"::~;0#0--~~:_":2'_'_"_' ~""",.~~_ .... ___ ._~ _.-_."----,.,, "'-- • • • ....... o Indicate the prevaiHng front porr.h pattern (or your neighoc1rhood: House on right House on lefl House across the street PrevaiJing on blockface Prevailing on opposing blockface Proposed new house or addition l'lolr: Front Porch CI CI Q :::l :J No FrolLt porch CI Q :J Q :J Certai?t port:h designs are gllowabl'e protrusions into the requi.>'ed front yard setback. Check your Zoning Guidebook pages 19, 21. If the zoning regula-tions prohibit adding a front porch to an exfsti~g hou.se In a neighborhood where front porches pretlail, you may be eligible for Q Hcm;e improvement Exception. (HIE). Contact the Planning Dcpar!menf for infarmation regarding HIE's, S~cial considerations if you are addL"g on to an existing. house: (See p~gcs 5 -12) In general, the addition should be designed in the same architectural style as ilie existing house. If your existing house has a di. .. tlnct ardtitectu.ral stylE'. ider.tify th~ sfyle: (see pages 5-12). o BungalDw Q' Colonia1 R~vival Q Contempo~ary o Eichler Q Medi terranean / Spani sh OQu~n Anne i:) Ranch Q Shingle Q Tudor o Vi.:l{)rian :J Other: In generall tbe addltion shou1d harmoniz€' v..'iili the ex:sting house by matching the existi ____ lg materiaisl roof slope, ""indow typeJ etc. Identify these features as they exist and are proposed: Roof Ma terial Exterior \II ails Roof Slope Window s Type Other FeaturE'S Existin~ page 5 of Worbhect 47 I 1 I r I t , i \ ! • : i .. -, -'~-...' . }:~~~f~;~_··_ •• __ o H you are changing the sty1e/ identify the new style you are creating or the concept ),OLl are following: Is the new style compatible with the e:xisting u"-tar~cter of yDt'1 nelghborhood? ___ _ PRIVACY ISSUES: Both new houses and additions should be des1gned to minimize the 1055 of privacy between you and your neighbors. Windows (see page 24 and 25) Wmdows can significantly affect the sense of prh .. acy. Indicate how you propose to rrd,nirniu the loss of privacy between you and your n€'ighbors: IJ OffsetUng or staggering window locations from neighbor's v.1,ndows a Loc:ating windows high, as in a clerestory D Using obscure glass a LaI\dscaping DOth"" Balconies (se< page 26) Balconies can significantly affect the sense of privacy between neighbors 1£ you are proposing baloonies, indicate how you propose to minimize the loss of privacy betv·,reen you and your neighbors: . a Designing a balcony that .... ill not impact my neighbor's property Q Locating the balcony where it will not impact my neighbor's privacy D Landscaping D Other: _________ _ Outdoor Lighting (see page 27) Outdoor lighting can impact your neighbor substantially. If you are proposing outdoor lighting.. indlcate how you propost' to minimize the iI:;-.pact on your neighNrs: :;;) Locating and directing lighting SO that no direct light extends onto neighboring property. D Shielding r,xtures so that no direct light extends onto neighboring property. D Other: ____________ _ 'L page 6 of Worksheet 48 I I I ! I I , i , I y , J i t t l t J~; • I t !