ADBmemo_08-03-11+AttachmentsReduced.pdf
CITY OF EDMONDS
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121 5Avenue North,Edmonds WA 98020
Phone: 425.771.0220 • Fax: 425.771.0221 • Web: www.ci.edmonds.wa.us
DEVELOPMENT SERVICES DEPARTMENT • PLANNING DIVISION
Memorandum
DATE:August 3, 2011
TO: The Architectural Design Board
FROM: Gina Coccia, Associate Planner
RE: GRE Edmonds Way, file PLN20110007
On June 15, 2011, the Architectural Design Board (ADB) met to review a project known as “GRE Edmonds Way” file
number PLN20110007 (Attachment 2).The mixed use project was APPROVEDwith the condition that that the
applicant re-approach the board with plans for monument signage, lighting, and a modified modulation design on
the street facades of the buildings.The applicant has submitted a response to the board’soutstanding concerns
(Attachment 1).
Monument Signage
is proposed along the main parking entrance and is approximately 3.5 feet tall and 5 feet
wideconstructed from a weathered steel panel, internally illuminated, and set upon a concrete base.It is shown
on the RM-EW parcel, which has different size constraints than the BC-EW parcel(ECDC 20.60.045). Freestanding
signs in multifamily zones are only permitted to be up to 10 square feet in size, while freestanding signs in the BC-
EW zone could be anywhere from 32-48 square feet in size. The Comprehensive Plan’s design objectives for
signage include: “Project the streetscape from being cluttered,” “Provide clear signage for each distinct property,”
“Use graphics/symbols to reduce the need tohave large letters,” and“Signs should be related to the circulation
element serving the establishment”(Comprehensive Plan, p. 96).The sign is shown set back from the sidewalk in a
visible location. It appears as though the monument sign shown would either need to be reduced in size or moved
onto the BC-EW parcel.
Lighting
is proposed around the site in the form of bollards and sconces attached to the buildingthat direct light
down towards the pedestrian walkways, entrances, and parking areas.The Comprehensive Plan’s design
objectives for lighting include: “Provide adequate illumination in all areas used by automobiles, bicycles and
pedestrians, including building entries, walkways, parking areas, circulation areas and other open spaces to ensure
a feeling of security,” “Minimize potential for light to reflect or spill off site,” “Create a sense of welcome and
activity,” as well as“Provide adequate lighting for sign panels”(Comprehensive Plan, p. 95).Attachment 1
illustrates how the site will be illuminated at night.
Façades
have been re-designed and three options are depicted through various perspectives. A variation of color
and the application of fiber cement panels is utilized so the differences between these options is subtle.The
Comprehensive Plan’s design objectives for massing, building façade, and wall modulation include: “Encourage
human scale elements in building design,” “Reduce the bulk and mass of buildings,” “Masses may be subdivided
vertically or horizontally,” “Break up large building mass and scale of a façade,” “Avoid stark and imposing building
facades”and “Building façade objectives ensure that the exterior of a building – the portion of a building that
defines the character and visual appearance of a place –is of high quality and demonstrates the strong sense of
place and integrity valued by the residents of Edmonds”(Comprehensive Plan, p. 97-98).The ADB is being asked to
compare the three options shown in Attachment 1 and choose the option that works best to break up the mass of
the buildings.
Staff recommends that the ADB review the meeting minutes from June 15, 2011, as well as the proposal shown
in Attachment 1 and provide the applicant with guidance on the monument sign, lighting, and the building
façades as requested.
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DRAFT
CITY OF EDMONDS
ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN BOARD
Minutes of Regular Meeting
June 15,2011
ChairKendallcalled the meeting of the Architectural Design Board to order at 7:05 p.m., at the City Council Chambers,
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250- 5
Avenue North, Edmonds, Washington.
Board Members PresentBoard Members AbsentStaff Present
Valerie Kendall, ChairRick Schaefer, Vice Chair (excused)Gina Coccia, Planner
Lois BroadwayMike Clugston, Planner
Bryan GooteeKain Noyes, Recorder
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Michael Mestres
Bruce O’Neill
Tom Walker
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
BOARD MEMBER BROADWAYMOVED THATTHE MINUTES OF MARCH16, 2011BE APPROVED
AS SUBMITTED. BOARD MEMBER O’NEILLSECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
BOARD MEMBER WALKER MOVED THAT THE AGENDA BEACCEPTED AS PRESENTED. BOARD
MEMBER GOOTEE SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
REQUESTS FROM THE AUDIENCE:
No one in the audience expressed a desire to address the Board during this portion of the meeting.
CONSENT AGENDA:
There were no items on the consent agenda.
MINOR PROJECTS:
File Number PLN-2009-0047: An application by Richard Kirschner for an amendment to an existing
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landscaping plan for two duplexes located at 7616 – 7618 and 7620 – 7622 202Place Southwest
Mr. Clugston presented the Staff Report, and Richard Kirschner was present to represent the applicant.
Mr. Clugston reviewed that in late 2009 the applicant applied for a Type II permit (staff decision with notice) to update
an existing landscaping plan in order to remove three mature Douglas fir trees on the northern portions of the subject site.
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applicant to plant one fir tree somewhere on the site to replace each of the trees being removed. Mr. Kirschner referred
the Board to the numerous pictures he provided to illustrate the existing landscaping in the area. Chair Kendall agreed
there is significant landscaping, but there would be no fir trees.
Board Member Walker said he supports the proposal to remove the three trees. However, he suggested the existing
landscaping should be trimmed and better maintained. The areas where the stumps would be located are open enough
that they could be ground out so that new trees could be planted. He suggested smaller growing species such as Hinoki
Cypress, Serbian Spruce, etc., which would provide additional variety in the landscaped areas. Board Member Gootee
agreed with Board Member Walker that it would not be a tall order to ask the applicant to grind out the stumps and plant
replacement trees that are smaller and easier to maintain. This approach would be consistent with the intent of the
original landscape plan. Board Member Broadway expressed her opinion that leaving the stumps behind would be
detrimental to the appearance along the front of the building.The tree removal should be dealt with in an aesthetically
pleasing way. She would support a requirement that the stumps be ground out and thatreplacement trees be planted.
Once again, Board Member Walker emphasized the need to prune back the existing shrubs before planting the new trees
so there is more light. This is particularly important when planting small coniferous trees.
BOARD MEMBER O’NEILL MOVED THAT THE BOARD ALLOW THE THREE LARGE DOUGLAS FIR
TREES TO BE REMOVED AND REPLACED WITH THREE MINIMUM-SIZED, 8-FOOT EVERGREEN
TREES. THE STUMPS SHOULD BE GROUND BELOW GRADE. HE FURTHER MOVED THAT THE
BOARD ALLOW STAFF DISCRETION TO DETERMINE THE SPECIES AND LOCATION OF THE
REPLACEMENT TREES. BOARD MEMBER WALKER SECONDED THE MOTION.
Board MemberMestres questioned if the ADB’s purview allows them the authority to require stump removal. Mr.
Clugston answered that the Board can require that the stumps be ground out to accommodate the replacement trees.
However, some leeway is necessary to determine whether it is actually possible without damaging existing landscaping.
He summarized that the Board is not against the applicant’s proposal to add hedge rows along the south and west
property lines. However, the hedges would not constitute an appropriate replacement for the trees. Instead, the Board
would require three replacement trees. Chair Kendall agreed that the Board is not opposed to the proposed hedge, but it
is not a requirement of the proposal.
THE MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
PUBLIC HEARINGS - MAJOR PROJECTS:
File Number PLN-2011-0007: A Type III-B design review application for a new mixed-use commercial and
multi-family development at 23014 and 23020 Edmonds Way in the RM-EW and BC-EW zones. The project
proposes 89 dwelling units, 6009 square feet of commercial office space, parking for 144 cars, grading of 10,000
cubic yards, and 500 cubic yards of fill
Ms. Coccia presented the Staff Report and Chris Davidson, Architect, Studio Meng Strazzara, and Mark Brumbaugh,
Landscape Architect, Brumbaugh Associates, were present to represent the property owner, GRE Edmonds Way, LLC.
Ms. Coccia advised that the proposal is for design review approval of the site, landscaping, and proposed building
designs of the GRE Edmonds Way mixed-use projectlocated at 23014 and 23020 Edmonds Way in the Community
Business Edmonds Way (BC-EW) and Multiple-Residential Edmonds Way (RM-EW) zones.
Ms. Coccia explained that she would briefly describe the review process and then the applicant’s representatives would
be invited to present their proposal. The public comment period would follow the applicant’s presentation, and then the
ADB would conduct their deliberations. A synopsisof the ADB’s final decision would be mailed out to parties of record
on Friday.She advised that after the Staff Report was sent out, the City received an additional comment letter from
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Linda Nomellini on June 13. The letter was identified as Exhibit 2. She noted that the applicant’s representatives may
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also submit revised pages,which would be entered sequentially into the record to replace any existing pages in
Attachment 1.
Ms. Coccia announced that a pre-application meeting was conducted between the applicant and staff to review the initial
proposal and identify potential concerns.Because issues were sorted out early in the process, staff’sdesign review was
able to move quickly. She also announced that because the project prompts review under the State Environmental
Policy Act (SEPA), review by the Architectural Design Board (ADB) is required as a Type III-B development
application. The ADB will review the proposed design and make the final decision on whether the proposal is consistent
with the design review criteria found in ECDC 20.11 (general design review), ECDC 16.30and ECDC 16.50 (zoning
ordinance), ECDC 20.13 (landscaping), and the Comprehensive Plan.
Ms. Coccia reviewed that a SEPA review was requiredbecause the project wouldcontain 89 dwelling units, as well as
6000square feet of commercial office space, parking for 144 vehicles, and grading of 10,000 cubic yards. The proposal
was reviewed by several City departmentsto identify probablesignificant adverse environmental impacts that are not
already covered by the City’s codes and ordinances. It was concluded that no extra mitigating measures would be
required, and the City issued a Determination of Non-Significance (DNS) on May 27, 2011 (Attachment 8). No
comments or appeals were received. She concluded that both the City and the applicant have complied with the SEPA
requirements. She referred to a project that was proposed for this same site a few years ago, for which the City issued a
Mitigated Determination of Non-Significance (MDNS). She explained that because the access would be different, the
mitigation proposed at that time would not be required of this project.
Ms. Coccia explained that in order to approve the project, the ADB must find that it is compliant with applicable
Development Code requirements. She briefly reviewed the purpose of each code section as follows:
ECDC 16.30.030 – RM-EW
To reserve and regulate areas for a variety of housing types and a range of greater densities than are available in
the single-family residential zones, while still maintaining a residential environment.
To provide for those additional uses which complement and are compatible with the multiple residential uses.
Ms. Coccia explained that only residential development is proposed for the northern site, which is zoned RM-EW.
Therefore, it appears the proposal meets the zoning requirements of ECDC 16.30.
ECDC 16.50.005 – BC-EW
To reserve areas for those retail stores, offices, service establishments and amusement establishments which
offer goods and services to the entire community.
To ensure compact, convenient development patterns by allowing uses that are operated chiefly within
buildings.
To allow for mixed-use development which includes multiple dwelling unit(s) that support business uses.
To implement the policies of the Edmonds Comprehensive Plan forthe Edmonds Way Corridor.
To meet the goals of the Growth Management Act and the City of Edmonds’ Comprehensive Plan for housing
diversity and economic vitality.
Ms. Coccia reminded the Board that there is no density limit for the southern BC-EW zoned parcel. The number of units
would be determined by height, setback, landscaping, and parking requirements. It appears the zoning requirements of
ECDC 16.50 can be achieved by the proposal.
ECDC 17.50.000 (Parking)
To reduce street congestion and avoid crowding of on-street parking space.
To require adequate landscaping of off-street parking areas.
To protect adjacent property from the impact of a use with inadequate off-street parking.
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Ms. Coccia stressed the need to provide adequate on-site parking so that the surrounding neighborhoods arenot
negatively impacted. She explained that the plan shows 144 stalls provided across both parcels, leaving 13 for the
commercial uses. If the commercial uses were solely retail, 20.03 spaces(1:600 square feet)would be required. Office
space(1:800 square feet)would require 15.02 stalls, while a service use would require 10.02 stalls. The applicant has
indicated that future tenants would be offices with no customer service, which would only require 8 stalls. However,
because they are not sure who the tenant spaces willbe leased to in the future, staff is concerned that problems will come
up down the road. Staff would like to avoid the need to deny a business license to a company that would like customers
to visit because the new building is under parked. She emphasized that the parking requirements willhave to be worked
out prior to the applicant submitting for a building permitapplication. This is usually accomplished through a mix of
uses that require different ratios as outlined in proposed Condition 2.
ECDC 20.10.000 (Design Review)
To encourage the realization and conservation of a desirable and aesthetic environment in the City of Edmonds.
To encourage and promote development which features amenities and excellence in the form of variations of
siting, types of structures, and adaption to and conservation of topography and other natural features.
To encourage creative approaches to use of land and related physical developments.
To encourage the enhancement and preservation of land or building of unique or outstanding scenic or historical
significance.
To minimize incompatible and unsightly surroundings and visual blight which prevent orderly community
development and reduce community property values.
Ms. Coccia explained that the ADB has certain leeway to condition various aspects of the project to meet the intent of
this section of the code.Staff believes the project, as conditioned, meets the general design review criteria.
ECDC 20.13.000 (Landscaping)
Ms. Coccia explained that the landscape requirements found in this chapter are intended for use by City staff, the ADB
and the Hearing Examiner in reviewing projects as set forth in ECDC 20.11.010. The ADB and HearingExaminer are
allowed to interpret and modify the requirements, provided such modification is consistent with the purpose found in
ECDC 20.10.000. She referred the Board to the thorough landscape plans submitted by theapplicant to identify the
type, size and location of proposed plantings, as well as existing vegetation that would remain intact. She said the
landscape plan appears to fulfill the requirement that some mature trees be preserved.
Ms. Coccia advised that the application was reviewed by the Fire District, Engineering Division, Public Works
Department, Parks and Recreation Department, Building Division and Planning Division. The Fire Marshal warned that
the fire lane striping will need to be identified on the site plan. He also noted that guest parking is typically anissue for
residents. The Engineering Department reviewed the low-impact development (LID) techniques proposed and found
them to be satisfactory. They encouraged the applicant to provide pervious pavement and rain gardenswhere feasible.
The downstream analysis and traffic impact analysis have been reviewed and found to be acceptable. The Parks
Department has requested that the street tree species should be changed to "Acer Rubrum Bowhall Maple" for
consistency with an adjacent project. She reminded the Board that a thorough review by all affected departments would
be conducted with a complete building permit application.
Ms. Coccia referred to a public comment letter from Claudia Olney (Exhibit 1, Attachment 9), which voiced concerns
about height and privacy. Ms. Coccia noted that projects canbe built to the maximum height allowed in the zone, but
the ADB could help mitigate the concerns by requiring a privacy hedge, etc. She also referred to the public comment
letter submitted by Linda Nomellini.While none of her issues were related to design, Ms. Coccia felt it was important to
briefly respond to the concerns she raised. She pointed out that some mature trees would be preserved as required by the
code. Noise issue would be addressed by the noise ordinance found in ECC 5.30. Property values are handled by the
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County Assessor and not the City. Apartment buildings are a permitted primary use. The proposal is a high-quality
design with no indication of Section 8 housing. The units will consistmostly of studios and 1-bedroom units for urban
professionals, and there will likely be few children. Traffic issues are reviewed by the Engineering Department. The
owners did not apply for a rezone. They designed the project around the existing zoning designations and regulations.
Ms. Coccia recommended the Board approve the new GRE Edmonds Way mixed-use project as shown in File PLN-
2001-0007, with the following conditions:
1.Update the street tree species to “Acer Rabrum Bowhall Maple.” The streettree species shall be re-reviewed by
the City of Edmonds Parks and Recreation Department prior to building permit issuance.
2.The parking will need to be recalculated at the numbers provided in the code by:
Reducing the number of residential units, and/or
Reducing the amount of commercial space, and/or
Reassigning a portion of the commercial space to a lower parking ratio providing for a mix of
commercial uses throughout the site.
Board Member O’Neill asked what would happen if the parking requirement is established based on a certain percentage
of office and retail space and then the uses change over time. Ms. Coccia said that staff would review each tenant
improvement application to ensure the parking requirement can be met. She referred to the building located at the corner
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of 220Street and 76Avenue, which has a parking ratio of 1 space for every 800 square feet of commercial space.
However, the actual uses require a higher parking ratio, which cannot be met on site. She said the purpose of Condition
2 is to prevent a similar situation from occurring with the proposed new development.
Chair Kendall asked if the commercial and residential uses could share parking since their highest demands are at
different times. Ms. Coccia answered that jointparking is addressed in the use chapter, but it does notoffer a credit for
joint-use situations. Chair Kendall stressed the importance of making sure the residential uses are not restricted from
using the commercial parking spaces during non-business hours. Ms. Coccia pointed out that parking requirement issues
are not within the Board’s purview.
Chris Davidson, Architect, Studio Meng Strazzara, Renton,
said the subject property is located on Edmonds Way
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and 232Street. He provided photographs ofthe site, which is currently vacant. He said that, at one point, it was a
series of residential lots, but the homes were demolished. There is a substantial amount of vegetation overgrowth, and
the property is a “dead area” along the Edmonds Way Corridor.He referred to the site survey that illustrates the unique
nature of the site, which had a significant impact on the way the site was designed. He explained that moving from north
to south on Edmonds Way, there is approximately 15 to 20 feet of grade change across 670 linear feet of frontage. As
you move east to west, the site is relative flat until you get close to the southern end where there is anywhere between 20
and 24 feet of vertical grade change over a 70-foot area. He noted that, with the grade change on the south side, the
mixed-use building ends up with a good portion being screened from the single-family residential development to the
west.
Mr. Davidson reviewed that 144 parking stalls are proposed for the site, 120 of which would be accessed from Edmonds
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Way. The remaining 24 spaces would be accessed from 232Street, which is where the primary entrance to the
residential units would be located. Three access points are identified; two on Edmonds Way and one mid block of the
site. He noted that as part of their initial review, the Fire District asked them to add an additional egress on the northern
portion of the site.
As part of the additional height allowed for the project, Mr. Davidson said the applicant is required to incorporateLID
techniques to mitigate storm water runoff. The proposed project would utilize an infiltration pipe in the northern parking
aisle, which will mitigate up to 80% of the runoff from the site. The remaining 20% would be mitigated by the rain
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garden thatis proposed in the southern portion of the site. The rain garden wouldalso help create a more park-like
atmosphere and soften the edge of the parking area.
Mr. Davidson advised that the southern mixed-use building would be four stories, with three stories of residential units
(20 units per floor) above the ground floor. The ground floor would be designed for office and retail uses and residential
amenities. Some of the critical design elements of this building were influenced by the way the propertyline sawtooths
in and out. The code also requires astep back on the upper floor in order to gainan extra five feet in height.The lower
portion of the building would be setback five feet from the property linealong Edmonds Way. Although the code only
requires a four-foot setback, they are proposing five feet to provide an extra buffer between the building and the street.
The building’s façade along Edmonds Way would be modulated with 30-inch offsets. The original plan was for the
entire lower level to be occupied by office uses. However, to address the parking concerns raised by staff, they are now
proposing to dedicate 2,500 square feet of the lower level for residential amenities. The residential amenities would be
centrally located so they are easily accessible to residents in both buildings.
Mr. Davidson said the northern building was designed to be a contemporary take on a traditional walk-up apartment
design. This was partly driven by the height restrictions and step back requirement. The design is also intended to tie
into the surrounding multi-family development, which provides open circulation. They are proposing a large
fenestrationpackage to make the façade more engaging. An additional street buffer with landscaping was added by
setting the building back 15 feet. This allows space for individual patios for the lower units to make the development
more street friendly and reduce the scale of the building. Twenty-five open parking spaces would be located behind the
building. Therewould be five units on the ground floor, with 12 additional units on each of the upper floors, for a total
of 29 residential units.
Mr. Davidson provided a materials board to illustrate the colors and types of materials proposed for the buildings. He
explained that because the southern building is intended to have a contemporary, urban feel, they are proposing to start
with a very strong base. They originally discussed using concrete masonry units (CMU), butin an effort to use more
sustainable materials, they decided that architectural concrete with design fenestrationwould be more appropriate
because it has a higher recycling material value. The exterior materials for the residential units on the south building
wouldbe smooth face cement fiber panel sidingand stainless steel edging material. The bay wall would be charcoal
gray, which is a fairly trendyand tiesin well with the residential products. The accent color will be an orange “pop”
color to add to the movement of the building. For the north building, they are proposing LPsiding material on the push
outs at each of the bases and smooth face cement fiber panelsiding for the remainder of the building.
Mr. Davidson advised that the applicant has decided to pursue LEED certification for new construction(NC). He
pointed out that the proposal already incorporates the following sustainable features:
Energy efficient lighting, appliances and equipment.
Over 60% of the parking would be located underground.
Three electric car charging stations in the southern building.
Large glass windows for solar access and increased ventilation.
ark Brumbaugh, Landscape Architect, Brumbaugh AssociatesKenmore,
M,responded to Board Member
Broadway’s request for a description of the “Acer Rubrum Bowhall Maple” tree. He explained that they had originally
proposed a red maple species, but they understand the City’s desire to have consistent street tree species in the area. He
said he believes the Bowhall Maple is an excellent street tree choice for this areabecause it grows tall and narrow and
provides great fall color.
Mr. Brumbaugh explained that because the north building is all residential, the team felt it important to set it back to
provide more privacy and garden-like landscaping. The goal is thateach ground unit wouldhave a sense of having their
own front yard. A wide variety of planting materials have been proposed as per the landscape plan. He pointed out that
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with most development along Edmonds Way, the sidewalk abuts the street. However, the applicant is proposing a five-
foot planting strip between the sidewalk and the street. He advised that the south building would be situated closer to the
street. Because of its retail aspect, they do not want a lot of landscaping separating the use from the building. The
proposed landscaping represents a three-tiered approach, using ornamental native plants. A rain garden would be located
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at the corner of Edmonds Way and 232Street, and it is intended to capture rainwater before it enters the storm water
system. Placing the rain garden in this prominent corner would demonstrate the sustainable aspect of the project to the
community. It is intended to be planted with native and adaptive plant materialswith seasonal interest and water tolerant
characteristics. A small grove of deciduous canopy trees would provide a garden scale for pedestrians. He said another
primary element of the landscaping is behind the southern buildingwhere the property abuts single-family residential
lots. The City requires Type II Landscaping in this location, which is a heavier screening to provide separation of use.
For this area, theexistingmature native conifers would be preserved. Additional native trees of a larger size would also
be planted, as well as avariety of native ornamental species.
Mr. Brumbaughreferred to the photographs he provided to illustrate the proposed species of vegetation proposed. He
also referred to the detailed planting plan that identifies exactly what species wouldbe planted, as well as the size and
location.
Board Member Broadwayasked if the applicant considered the option of pervious pavement in the parking areas. Mr.
Davidson said they investigated the option but found that maintenance was a significant deterrent. They are proposing
an infiltration pipe because it has a greater ability to remain functional.
Board Member Broadwayasked what type of landscaping is proposed on the slope behind the parking area. Mr.
Brumbaugh said the landscaping would consist of a combination of large and small native vegetation. The existing
conifers would be retrained, as well. Because there is no existing understory in this location, ground cover and shrubs
would be added.
Chair Kendall asked if any of the existing fir trees along Edmonds Way would be preserved. Mr. Brumbaugh answered
that the trees in this area would be removed to accommodate the construction of the buildings and sidewalks.
Ms. Coccia invited Mr. Davidson to specifically identify the changes that have been made to the proposal since the Staff
Report was published. Mr. Davidson pointed out that the four separate windows were changed to one large window, the
accent color on the northern building was changed, and the ground floor material proposed for the southern building was
changed from CMU to concrete.
Board Member Walker observed that the rain garden would be located at the lowest point on the property. He asked if it
would collect storm waterfrom other portions of the site, as well. Mr. Davidson answered that it would be designed to
collect water from the south parking lot. Storm waterfrom the remaining portionof the site would be directed towards
the infiltration pipe.
Board Member Broadway asked the overall street façade length of the north and south buildings. Mr. Davidson
answered that the north building façade is 300 feet and the south building façade is about 275 feet. Board Member
Broadway said she appreciates the modulation provided on the south building, but the depth does not appear to be more
than 18 inches. Mr. Davidson said the depth of the modulation is actually 30 inches. Board Member Broadway
expressed concern that the proposed modulation on the south building façade is insufficient to break up the mass of the
building. Mr. Davidsonpointed out that the façade is broken up both horizontally and vertically. There is a protrusion
between the ground floor and second floor, as well as modulation between each individual unit. Board Member
Broadway said she is not as concerned about the vertical modulation. She suggested the applicant could provide more
horizontal modulation for both the north and south buildings by shifting the units. There are also opportunities to use
color to break up the facades.
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Board Member Gootee asked if theapplicant has done any preliminary design for site lighting. He noted that a
significant parking lot has been proposed, and lighting should not be allowed to impact adjacent single-family properties.
Mr. Davidson answered that no lighting plans have been done at this point. Board Member Gootee said he would like
the lighting plan to include lighting on the building so it is visible at night from Edmonds Way.
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Ann Brudvick, Edmonds,
said she owns property across 232Street. She said she is pleased with the proposed
landscaping plan, which is compatible with the landscaping that is proposed for her new development. She expressed
concern that the plan does not propose any guest parking. She also asked exactly how much commercial space would be
providedon the site. Mr. Davidson answered that the commercial space has been reduced from 6,000 square feet to
3,500 square feet. Ms. Brudvick saidshe understands it is not possible to know how the commercial space will be used
at this time, but it is important that the property can accommodate a wide variety of commercial uses. She noted that she
was required to provide oneparking space for every 200 square feet of space at her veterinary clinic. She asked the City
to keep parking in mind when they review the development permit application. There is no on-street parking in this
location so it is important that all parking needs can be accommodated on site. She asked if the applicant has prepared a
sign plan. Mr. Davidson answered that signage has not been addressed at this point. Ms. Brudvick questioned where the
individual commercial tenants would provide signage on the façade of the building.
Karen Goldsmith, Edmonds,
also expressed concern about parking. The applicant is proposing 89 residential units
and only 144 parking stalls. She said she is concerned about spill over parking in front of her house if there is not
adequate parking on site. She asked where the main access would be located. Mr. Davidson said the primary residential
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entry wouldbe off 232Street. However, most of the tenants would park in the garage, which is accessed from
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Edmonds Way. Ms. Goldsmith expressed concern that 232already has too much traffic. She questioned what would
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be done for the current single-family property owners to help them gain access onto 232Street once the additional
traffic associated with the proposed project is added. She said she doesnot believe the Department of Transportation
would change the emergency light to a regular light, nor would they likely add a left hand turn lane. She summarized
that the building looks great, but she is concerned about parking and traffic.
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Tom Fagnan, Edmonds,
said he lives next to theparking lot that isproposed on 232Street. He asked if decks and/or
balconies would be added to the residential units so that his yard becomes a television screen for the tenants. He noted
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that the proposed parking area appears to be two levels from 232Street, and most parking lots have extra lighting. He
questioned how this would impact his property. Mr. Davidson said there would be Juliet balconies at a depth of about 6
inches to allow the tenants to open the windows for ventilation. They wouldnot be accessible. Again, he said they have
not designed their lighting plan yet, but they would be very sensitive to keep lighting on site. Mr. Fagnan asked if the
setback area on the west side of the building would be accessible to tenants of the new buildings. Mr. Brumbough
replied that the setback area wouldbe heavilyvegetated with native plants. While they cannot preclude people from
walking in the landscaped areas on the property, there would be no reason for people to be back in this setback area. It
has a significant slope, and would not be easy to walk through.Mr. Davidson said there would also be a fence to keep
people off the retaining wall. He summarized that the setback area would be very difficult to access.
Mr. Fagnan pointed out that the north side of the property is almost at the Edmonds Way grade level. Mr. Davidson said
there is a significant amount of retaining wall on the southern portion, specifically at the corner of Edmonds Way and
nd
232Street. Most of the parking surface parking is located at the same grade as Edmonds Way. The only location with
nd
double level parking is on 232Street. Mr. Fagnan noted that the roofs of the cars would be below the grade of the
property.
THE PUBLIC PORTION OF THE HEARING WAS CLOSED.
Chair Kendall summarized that public concerns were related to traffic, which is not really the purview of the Board. A
traffic study was completed. Citizens were also concerned about light spilling over onto single-family residential
properties, and she assumes this issue would be thoughtfullypondered by the applicant. She would have liked to see at
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least preliminary plans for lighting and signage as part of the proposal. She agreed with Board Member Broadway’s
concern about the horizontal line of the building and the potential to break it up using color, etc.
Board Member O’Neill said he is disappointed with the modulation, as well, but the project, as proposed, meets the
design criteria outlined in the Code. Chair Kendall agreed the proposal meets the design criteria, but the purpose of the
ADB is to offer their design opinions. She emphasized that the proposed buildings would be high profile. They are
nicely designed and wouldbe a significant improvement to the site and the neighborhood, but she questioned the visual
impact the long buildings would have on Edmonds residents who drive by on a daily basis. Board Member Broadway
added that the ADB exists to provide guidance to the applicant, not to change the zoning code requirements. Board
Member Gootee agreed that it is within the Board’s purview to require some modulation, but their direction should be
clear and the solution should be cost effective for the developer. He cautioned against requiring significantly more
modulation that places an undueburden on a building that already meets the code requirements.
Board Member Mestres expressed his belief that the oblique nature of the south building in conjunction with the green
space at the corner, offsets the impact of the large building mass. From the street level, the buildings would not appear
as harsh or drastic. He reminded the Board that the buildings would be located on Edmonds Way, which means most
people would pass byquickly.
Board Member Walker observed that if the Board requires the façade to be undulated more to provide modulation, the
buildings might have to be pushed closer to the single-family residential properties. Board Member Broadway clarified
that she is not necessarilysuggesting a different undulation, but the applicantcould use color and materials to break up
the façades without changing the footprint of the buildings.
Chair Kendall summarized that she has not heard any significant criticism of the proposed building design. The Board
has discussed modulation, and generally agreed that perhaps the applicant should take a second look at potential
opportunities to further modulate the façades using techniques such as color and materials. She said the building is well
designed, and she is excited to see the project move forward.
Board Member O’Neill suggested the Boardrequire the applicant to come back to them with a proposed plan for
lighting, modulation and signage. Board Member Gootee agreed that would be appropriate given that the buildings
would be high profile. However, he cautioned against slowing down the process for too long.
BOARD MEMBER BROADWAY MOVED THAT THE BOARD ALLOW THE APPLICANT TO MOVE
FORWARD WITH THE DESIGN DEVELOPMENT OF THE PROJECT, UNDERSTANDING THAT A
SECOND PRESENTATION BEFORE THE ADBWOULD BE REQUIRED TO ADDRESSLIGHTING,
MONUMENT SIGNAGE, AND THE FINAL RESOLUTION OF THE MODULATION OF THE BUILDING.
BOARD MEMBER GOOTEE SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED 5-1, WITH BOARD
MEMBER MESTRES VOTING IN OPPOSITION.
Board Member Mestres said he finds the proposed building modulation sufficient to meet the code requirements.
Board Member Broadway asked if the applicant’s recent change to reduce the commercial space to 3,500 square feet
would address the parking issue outlined in Condition 2. Ms. Coccia said she has not seen an updated floor plan that
illustrates the proposed change. She said she would like to leave Condition 2 as a placeholder so staff can review the
change and determine if parking would be adequate for the proposed uses. If the amount of commercial space has been
reduced, then the parking problem may be resolved.
Ms. Coccia asked for clarification about whether or not the Board agrees with the findings and conclusions in the Staff
Report. The Board agreed they needed to provide further direction to both the applicant and the staff.
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BOARD MEMBER BROADWAY MOVED TO RESCIND HER PREVIOUS MOTION. BOARD MEMBER
O’NEILL SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
BOARD MEMBER O’NEILL MOVED THAT THE BOARD APPROVE PLN-2011-0007 WITH THE
FOLLOWING CONDITIONS:
1.UPDATE THE STREET TREE SPECIES TO “ACER RUBRUM BOWHALL MAPLE.” THE
STREET TREE SPECIES SHALL BE RE-REVIEWED BY THE CITY OF EDMONDS PARKS AND
RECREATION DEPARTMENT PRIOR TO BUILDING PERMIT ISSUANCE.
2.THE PARKING WILL NEED TO BE RECALCULATED AT THE NUMBERS PROVIDED IN THE
CODE. THE APPLICANT COUD EITHER:
REDUCE THE NUMBER OF RESIDENTIAL UNITS; AND/OR
REDUCE THE AMOUNT OF COMMERCIAL SPACE; AND/OR
RE-ASSIGN A PORTION OF THE COMMERCIAL SPACE TO A LOWER PARKING
RATIO PROVIDING FOR A MIX OF COMMERCIAL USES THROUGHOUT THE SITE.
3.THE APPLICANT MUST RE-APPROACH THE BOARD WITH PLANS FOR MONUMENT
SIGNAGE, LIGHTING AND A MODIFIED MODULATION DESIGN ON THE STREET FACADES.
BOARD MEMBER BROADWAY SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED 5-1, WITH
BOARD MEMBER MESTRES VOTING IN OPPOSITION.
CONSOLIDATED PERMIT APPLICATIONS(No Public Participation):
No consolidated permit applications were scheduled on the agenda.
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS/ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION
There were no administrative reports.
ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN BOARD MEMBERCOMMENTS
Election of 2011 Officers
Chair Kendall announced her plan to tender her resignation from the Board, effectively immediately. The Board agreed
to wait until the next meeting when all Board Members were present to elect 2011 officers.
Board Member Gootee said he is disappointed to lose Chair Kendall as a member of the Board. It will be a tremendous
loss. Board Member Mestres commended her for her dedication and enthusiasm.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 9:20p.m.
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