Architectural Commission Report

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1 City of Beverly Hills Planning Division 455 N. Rexford Drive Beverly Hills, CA TEL. (310) FAX. (310) Architectural Commission Report Meeting Date: Wednesday, February 21, WILSHIRE BOULEVARD Echo Lake Entertainment (PL ) Request for approval to allow building identification signs and ground signage for Echo Lake Entertainment. Pursuant to the provisions set forth in the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the Architectural Commission will also consider adoption of a Categorical Exemption for this project. Project Agent: Recommendation: Ryan Ybarra Conduct a public hearing to discuss the project details and provide the applicant with an approval. REPORT SUMMARY The applicant is requesting review and approval to allow a building identification sign and the installation of signage on an existing ground sign for Echo Lake Entertainment located at 9696 Wilshire Boulevard. The project includes the following components: Building Identification Signage BUILDING IDENTIFICATION SIGN Location Size Quantity Illumination Material North Elevation SF 1 Back-Lit Reverse Illuminated Brushed Aluminum West Elevation SF 1 Back-Lit Reverse Illuminated Brushed Aluminum TOTAL SIGN AREA: SF (2 SIGNS) Pursuant to of the Beverly Hill Municipal Code (BHMC), the Architectural Commission may grant a sign accommodation to allow a greater number of building identification signs or to allow such signs to be located in areas other than those otherwise permitted, provided that the signs located on any one side of a building do not exceed two percent (2%) of the vertical surface area of that side, excluding penthouse walls. Based on a vertical surface area of approximately 14,216 square feet, the maximum building identification sign area permitted is 284 square feet. As proposed, the proposed Building Identification sign is below the allowable signage area for this site. Attachment(s): A. Detailed Design Description and Materials (Applicant Prepared) B. Project Design Plans C. DRAFT Approval Resolution Report Author and Contact Information: Fernando Solis, Associate Planner (310) fsolis@beverlyhills.org

2 Architectural Commission Report 9696 Wilshire Boulevard (Echo Lake Entertainment) February 21, 2018 Ground Signage GROUND SIGGE Location Size Quantity Illumination Material Along Roxbury Drive 2 SF 1 Non- Illuminated TOTAL SIGN AREA: 2 SF (1 SIGN) Brushed Aluminum Letters The applicant is proposing to install aluminum letters to an existing ground sign. Pursuant to BHMC , the maximum allowable sign area for a ground sign is 55 SF with a maximum height of As such, the proposed signage shall be reduced in size to comply with the maximum standards set forth in the BHMC. URBAN DESIGN ALYSIS The building identification signs proposed are constructed of individual channel lettering in a brushed aluminum finish with halo illumination. Additional directory signage will be placed on an existing monument sign on Roxbury Drive. The proposed signage is of a high caliber overall and appropriate to this commercial site. The applicant should undertake the necessary repairs to the parapet wall caused by the removal of the previous building identity sign and restore the wall surface in advance of the installation for the new signage. Further consideration may be given to reducing slightly the scale of the building identity signs proposed to better integrate with the façades and so as not to not overwhelm the corner location and to coordinate with the existing regulating lines of the building. ZONING CODE COMPLIANCE Applications for architectural review are preliminarily evaluated for compliance with the zoning code. Applicants are encouraged and have the option of requesting a comprehensive review separate and apart from this application. Formal compliance review will occur when a building permit application is filed (plan check). The applicant has been advised that changes during plan check may require revisions and subsequent approval from the Architectural Commission or staff, as appropriate. ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT The subject project is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA Public Resources Code ), pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) of the State CEQA Guidelines in that the project includes the review of building design, colors and materials to the façade of the building, front yard landscaping or minor low-scaled accessory structures, such as fences or walls. It can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the subject activity could result in a significant effect on the environment. The project has also been reviewed and found not be a historic resource. The existing improvements to be demolished or altered were not designed by an architect or builder identified on the City s Master Architect list and the site and improvements are not listed on the City s historic resource inventory. PUBLIC OUTREACH AND NOTIFICATION Public outreach and notification was not required for this project.

3 Attachment A Detailed Design Description and Materials (applicant prepared) Architectural Commission Report 9696 Wilshire Boulevard (Echo Lake Entertainment) February 21, 2018

4 0. City of Beverly Hills Architectural Review Application Page 2of 12 0 SECTION 1 AUTHORIZATION & APPLICANT TEAM A Property Information Project Address: 9696 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills, CA Adjaceht Streets: SEC Wilshire and Roxburry B Address: Property Owner Information Name(s): Levine Investments 2201 Camelback Rd., Suite 650 City: Phone: Pheonix (602) State & Zip Code: AZ Fax: tony@levineinvestments.com C D E Applicant Information (individual(s) or entity benefiting from the entitlement] Name(s): Echo Lake Entertainment/Andy Spaulding Address: 9696 Wilshire Blvd. City: Beverly Hills State & Zip Code: CA Phone: (310) Fax: andyecholakeentertainment.com Architect I Designer Information (Employed or hired byapp!icantj Name(s): Signs And Services Co. Registered Architect? Yes fl Address: City: Boatman Ave. Stanton State & Zip Code: CA Phone: Fax: RandySignsAndServicesCo.com Landscape Designer Information [Employed or hired by Applicant] Name(s): N/A Address: City: Phone: State & Zip Code: Fax: No F Agent [Individual acting on behaif ofthe Applicant] jjqjj: All communication is made through the Agent. Name(s) Signs and Services Co / attention Rick Denman / Ryan Ybarra Address: Boatman Ave., City: Stanton State & Zip Code: CA Phone: Rick/ 1.95t Ryan Fax: Rick@SignsAndServicesCO.com_/ RyanWithStellargmail.com G I hereby certify that I am the owner(s) of the subject property and that I have reviewed the subject app cation and authorize the Agent to make decisions that may affect my property on my *// Property 0 ne Signatu Date Property wner s Signature & Date If the owner is a corporate entity, the names of two corporate officers are required from each of the following Groups: Group A Chairperson or president of the board; Group B board secretary or chief financial officer. 2 A signed and dated authorization letter from the property owner is also acceptable.

5 Archit ctural City of Beverly Hills Pagé3ofl2 Review Application SECTION 2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION / ZONING INFORMATION A Indicate Requested Application LI Staff Review Three (3) sets of plans required (all plan sets must be 11 x 17 in size). Architectural Commission Review Eight (8) sets of plans required (all plan sets must be 11 x 17 in size). Public Notice materials required for Sign Accommodations (see Section 5 for public notice requirements). B C Identify the scope of work (check all that apply): LI New construction LI Remodel: mt. & Ext, no floor area added LI Façade Remodel ONLY LI Remodel: mt. & Ext, floor area added Business Identification Sign(s) LI Awning(s): LI New LI Recovery Number of signs proposed: 3 LI Building Identification Sign(s) LI Open Air Dining: #Tables # chairs Number of signs proposed: LI Sign Accommodation (explain reason for the accommodation request below): LI Other: Describe the scope of work proposed including materials and finishes: Number of signs proposed: The sign proposed is understated in size, illumination and contrast, The size of the sign is 35% of the sign area it could be. The illumination is done with energy efficient white LEDs. The illumination type is a Halo ot light that only washes the wall behind the letter and defines the shape of the character. Your eye sees only reflected light and no direct light. The letters are done in a metallic gray on the aluminum silver metallic curtain wall. This is enough contrast for visibility, however it is a subtle contrast. D E F Identify the Project Zoning (City Zoning Map: LI R-4 LI R-4X LI R-4 LI R-4-P LI R-4X2 LI R-3 LI RMCP C-3 LI C-3A LI C-3B LI c-s LI C-3T-1 LI C-3T-2 LI C-3T-5 LI C-5 LI Other: ] Lot is currently developed with (check all that apply): I1 General Office Building LI Multi-family Building LI Other (specify below): LI Retail Building LI Vacant LI Medical Office Building LI Restaurant Has the existing structure been designed by a notable architect or is it identified on any historic resource inventory, including the City of Beverly Historic Resources Survey (Verify with the Planning Division if the property is listed on the City s survey)? Yes LI No If yes, please list Architect s name: j

6 Architrtural City of Beverly Hills Page4ofl2 A Review Application \j SECTION 3 PROJECT DETAILS AND MATERIALS (Continues Ofl next page) Indicate in the chart below all applicable signage details: Type of Sign Quantity Dimensions Square Ft Maximum Area Permitted by Code One (1) x sq ft Sign area max square feet 1 Rev Pan Channel Ltsw Ha 12107/8 X22 1/2 One (1) x sq ft Sign area max square feet 2 Rev Pan Channel Lts w LE /B x2-2 1/2 3 3d brushed aluminum lett 0n1) 3-0 x sqft Directorymaximum6squarefeet 1 7/8 x 1-75/B 4 5 B List the specific materials and finishes for all of the architectural features proposed in the project (List N/A, not applicable, for features that do not apply.): FACADE (List all material for all portions visible from the Street) Cast concrete with exposed aggregate sandblasted finish corrugated vertical mold. Texture /Finish: sandblasted exposed aggregate Color! Transparency: Natural color of concrete and aggregate WINDOWS/DOORS (Include frame, trim, glass, metal, etc.) Texture /Finish: Color! Transparency: ROOF Texture /Finish: Color/ Transparency: COLUMNS Texture /Finish: Color/ Transparency: BALCONIES & RAILINGS Texture /Finish: Color/ Transparency: OUTDOOR DINING ELEMENTS (List all material for all outdoor dining elements.) Texture/Finish: Color/ Transparency:

7 Archit ctural City of Beverly Hills Page5ofl2 Review Application SECTION 3 PROJECT DETAILS AND MATERIALS (continued from previous page) AWNINGS, CANOPIES Texture /Finish: Color! Transparency: DOWNSPOUTS I GUUERS Texture /Finish: Color! Transparency: BUSINESS ID SIGN(S) Texture /Finish: Color! Transparency: Fabricated reverse pan channel letters with LED halo illumination, aluminum construction smooth satin finish painted aluminum Faces: Brushed Aluminum color painted faces, Black painted returns, Blue LEDs. BUILDING ID SIGN(S) Texture /Finish: Color! Transparency: EXTERIOR LIGHTING Texture /Finish: Color! Transparency: Energy efficient LEDs interior illumination, halo effect no exposed light, all light is reflected off of the wall to which it is attached. LED illumination color is blue PAVED SURFACES Texture!Finish: Color! Transparency: FREESTANDING WALLS AND FENCES Texture!Finish: Color! Transparency: OTHER DESIGN ELEMENTS 1/4 thick brushed aluminum individual letters on a freestanding directory Texture /Finish: Color! Transparency: Brushed aluminum Silver brushed aluminum C Describe the proposed landscape theme, if applicable. Explain how the proposed landscaping complements the proposed style of architecture:

8 ArchitcturaI City of Beverly Hills Page6ofl2 Review Application SECTION 4 DESIGN ALYSIS AND FINDINGS (for Commission level applications only) A Clearly identify how your project adheres to each of the required findings of the Architectural Review Commission: 1. Describe how the proposed building or structure is in conformity with good taste and good design and, in general, contributes to the image of Beverly Hills as a place of beauty, spaciousness, balance, taste, fitness, broad vistas and high quality. The proposed signs are compliment to the sign types as seen in the Beverly Hills Wilshire Corridor. These signs emulate the high end fabrication process of the reverse pan channel letter types. The halo illumination is a sophisticated method of night signage using the easy on your eyes reflected light. The proposed signs are understated in size, illumination and contrast. The size of the signs are under the maximum sign area (sign A max sq ft we are requesting sq ft = sq ft smaller (30% smaller) than what is allowable / sign B max is sq ft, we are requesting sq ft = sq ft. smaller (32% smaller) than what is allowable. The illumination is done with energy efficient blue LED5. The illumination type is a Halo of light..,......i.. 2. Describe how the proposed building or structure indicates the manner in which the structure is reasonably protected against external and internal noise, vibrations, and other factors which may tend to make the environment less desirable. These channel letter signs are illuminated with solid state power supplies that will drive the energy efficient blue LED5. These are without noise or vibration. This is compared to the alternative which would be blown glass neon and transformers. We have all heard a neon sign buzzing in the night and the vibration of the neon transformer. 3. Describe how the proposed building or structure is not, in its exterior design and appearance, of inferior quality such as to cause the nature of the local environment to materially depreciate in appearance and value. The proposed signs are in scale and proportion to the size, architectural wall and location of the building to which they are attached. The fabrication of the reverse pan channel letters is done by journeyman craftsmen that are working to Best Practices processes. The material used are specified to be done with high quality materials, durable metals, non-corrosive fasteners and hardware, 5 year warranty on product quality and performance. Paints are best in the industry and meet AQMD requirements. Illumination is done with state of the art long lasting, durable, energy efficient LEDs. 4. Describe how the proposed building or structure is in harmony with the proposed developments on land in the general area, with the general plan for Beverly Hills, and with any precise plans adopted pursuant to the general plan. As you travel throughout Beverly Hills you will see the sign type selection of a reverse pan channel letter is the preferred sign choice by those who want to protect their brand and image. The illumination of these reverse pan channel letters is one of the most sophisticated looks available with the projected image of quality and style. This is achieved using LED light engines that will throw light out of the back of the fabricated letters. This light follows the contour of the letter torm and defines the letter s shape by 5. Describe how the proposed development is in conformity with the standards of the municipal code and other applicable laws insofar as the location and appearance of the buildings and structures are involved. The proposed sign package illustrates with drawing, survey photos, inventory of what is existing and specifications that all together create a cohesive signage package that will be consistent with the desired image that the City of Beverly Hills would embrace. The municipal code along with the zoning standards were the bases for the design of the proposed submittal.

9 Attachment B Project Design Plans Architectural Commission Report 9696 Wilshire Boulevard (Echo Lake Entertainment) February 21, 2018

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16 Attachment C DRAFT Approval Resolution Architectural Commission Report 9696 Wilshire Boulevard (Echo Lake Entertainment) February 21, 2018

17 RESOLUTION NO. AC XX-18 RESOLUTION OF THE ARCHITECTURAL COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF BEVERLY HILLS CONDITIOLLY APPROVING AN ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW PERMIT FOR APPROVAL TO ALLOW BUILDING IDENTIFICATION SIGNS AND GROUND SIGNS FOR THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT 9696 WILSHIRE BOULEVARD (PL ECHO LAKE ENTERTAINMENT). as follows: The Architectural Commission of the City of Beverly Hills hereby finds, resolves and determines Section 1. Ryan Ybarra, agent, on behalf of the property owner, Levine Investments, and the tenant, Echo Lake Entertainment, (Collectively the Applicant ), has applied for architectural approval to allow building identification signs and ground signage for the property located at 9696 Wilshire Boulevard. Section 2. Beverly Hills Municipal Code Article 30, Chapter 3 of Title 10, authorizes the Architectural Commission the authority to approve, approve with conditions, or deny design-related aspects of projects located in the city s commercial and multi-family districts, subject to findings set forth in Beverly Hills Municipal Code Section Section 3. Consistent with Beverly Hills Municipal Code Section , this resolution documents the official action of the Architectural Commission with respect to the project. Section 4. The subject project has been reviewed pursuant to the provisions set forth in the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA Public Resource Code Sections 21000, et seq.), the State CEQA Guidelines (California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Sections et seq.), and the city s local CEQA Guidelines. The subject project is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA Public Resources Code ), pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) of the State CEQA Guidelines in that the project includes the review of building design, colors and materials to the façade of Page 1 of 5 AC XX-18

18 the building, front yard landscaping or minor low-scaled accessory structures, such as fences or walls. It can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the subject activity could result in a significant effect on the environment. Section 5. The Architectural Commission conducted a duly noticed public hearing on February 21, 2018 at which time oral and documentary evidence was received concerning the application. Section 6. Based upon the evidence presented at the hearings, including the staff report(s), oral and written testimony, the Architectural Commission hereby makes the following findings: A. The plan for the proposed building or structure is in conformity with good taste and good design and, in general, contributes to the image of Beverly Hills as a place of beauty, spaciousness, balance, taste, fitness, broad vistas, and high quality. Specifically, the project incorporates an appropriate balance of color, high quality materials and appropriate architectural design principles to reinforce the city s urban form and promote the image of Beverly Hills. B. The plan for the proposed building or structure indicates the manner in which the structure is reasonably protected against external and internal noise, vibrations, and other factors which may tend to make the environmental less desirable. The proposed project is proposed to be constructed using contemporary building materials and practices, and, as conditioned, compliant with all applicable building codes, including standards that protect against unwanted noise and vibrations. C. Proposed building or structure is not, in its exterior design and appearance, of inferior quality such as to cause the nature of the local environment to materially depreciate in appearance and value. Specifically, the commission has reviewed the design and construction materials proposed for the project, which incorporates contemporary building material of known quality and durability. Moreover, the project design is appropriate to the building and surrounding improvements and is well matched to the selected materials. Page 2 of 5 AC XX-18

19 D. As conditioned, the proposed building or structure is in harmony with the proposed developments on land in the general area, with the general plan for Beverly Hills, and with any precise plans adopted pursuant to the general plan. The proposed project complies with the applicable goals and policies set forth in the general plan, and, as conditioned, designed in a manner that complies with local ordinances. The overall design is consistent with and appropriate to other improvements in the general vicinity. E. The proposed development is in conformity with the standards of this code and other applicable laws insofar as the location and appearance of the buildings and structures are involved. As conditioned, the project will be designed in compliance with all applicable regulations. F. The proposed development is designed in a manner that protects and preserves those exterior elements of the building which the Planning Commission found contributed to the determination of the project as a character contributing building in accordance with section of this title. The proposed project does not include a request and has not been determined by the Planning Commission to be a project that qualifies as a character contributing building under section Therefore, this finding is not applicable to the subject project. Section 7. Based on the foregoing, the Architectural Commission hereby grants the request defined in this resolution subject to the following conditions: Project-Specific Conditions 1. No Project Specific Conditions. Standard Conditions 2. Revised Plan Submittal. For all projects that are approved with project-specific conditions, a revised plan set that has fully incorporated all such conditions shall be submitted to the project planner, both Page 3 of 5 AC XX-18

20 in hard copy format and in electronic format, prior to submitting for the building permit plan check process. 3. Architectural Approval. Project approval is for the design-related aspects of the project only. No approval is implied or granted with regard to applicable city zoning or technical codes, which may require review and approval from other city commissions or officials. 4. Compliance with Municipal Code. Prior to issuance of a building permit, the applicant shall demonstrate compliance with all applicable provisions of the city s municipal code and applicable conditions imposed by any discretionary review approval. 5. Compliance with Special Conditions. Any special conditions that require approval by the Director of Community Development, or designee, shall be submitted to the staff liaison to the commission within fourteen (14) days of approval or prior to submittal of the plan check review application, whichever is greater. 6. Project Rendering. Prior to issuance of a building permit, the applicant shall incorporate into the building permit set of plans, an updated color rendering of all building facades. The quality and detail of the rendering shall be subject to approval from the Director of Community Development, or designee, and shall include sufficient design information to evaluate project compliance during construction. 7. Approval Resolution. A copy of the signed resolution of approval shall be scanned onto the cover sheet(s) of the building permit set of plans. 8. Substantial Compliance with Approved Plans. The Director of Community Development, or designee, shall determine if changes to the approved project are in substantial compliance with the Page 4 of 5 AC XX-18

21 commission s action. This determination shall be subject to applicable fees and charges. A substantial modification to the approved project requires approval from the Architectural Commission. 9. Validity of Permits. The rights granted by this approval shall remain valid for three (3) years from the date of approval, unless extended pursuant to Beverly Hills Municipal Code Section Section 8. The Secretary of the Architectural Commission shall certify to the passage, approval, and adoption of this resolution, and shall cause this resolution and its certification to be entered in the administrative record maintained by the Community Development Department. Section 9. Decisions of the Architectural Commission may be appealed to the City Council within fourteen (14) days of the final action by filling a written appeal and paying appropriate fees with the City of Beverly Hills City Clerk. Approved as to Form and Content: Adopted: February 21, 2018 Mark Odell, Urban Designer Community Development Department Michelle Kaye, Chair Architectural Commission Page 5 of 5 AC XX-18