Design Review Board reviews Bluebird Canyon home project amid community concerns

The Design Review Board (DRB) meeting in Laguna Beach on May 23, 2025, focused on a proposed residential project that has sparked significant community interest and concern. The applicant presented a revised design aimed at addressing previous criticisms regarding neighborhood compatibility, mass, and scale of the home.

The applicant detailed several modifications made to the original design, including a reduction in total living space from 3,600 square feet to 2,443 square feet. Key changes included pulling back the upper floor and south wall, reducing the main deck, and lowering the roof profile. The design shift from modern to contemporary craftsman style, featuring wood and stone elements, was intended to better align with the neighborhood's character. Additionally, landscaping enhancements were proposed, including the addition of trees and green living walls to mitigate the visual impact of the structure.

Despite these adjustments, community members expressed ongoing concerns. Resident Pamela Adams criticized the project for remaining at the ridgeline rather than being integrated into the terrain, arguing that the perceived reduction in mass was misleading due to the introduction of a large accessory dwelling unit (ADU) with a deck. She also raised issues about potential noise pollution from a proposed spa or pool and the feasibility of construction access routes.

Another resident, Susan Whiting, echoed similar sentiments, asserting that the project appeared unchanged from a previous review and did not comply with local policies regarding landforms and visual compatibility. Whiting emphasized the need for a redesign that adheres to state and local regulations, particularly concerning the proposed retaining walls and driveway.

The discussions highlighted a broader tension between development aspirations and community preservation in Laguna Beach. As the board deliberates on the project, the outcome will likely reflect the ongoing challenge of balancing new construction with the established character of the neighborhood. The next steps will involve further review and potential modifications to address the concerns raised by residents and ensure compliance with local guidelines.