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Commission gives mixed feedback on Aura Santan design review; fire variance denied
Summary
Design review for Aura Santan (DR24-137) drew comments on building massing, parking, and materials; staff said a requested fire variance was denied and recommended the applicant refine plans to address parking and sight‑line comments.
The Planning Commission heard a design‑review presentation for Aura Santan (DR24‑137), a mixed‑use project in the Val Vista Square PAD, and offered a mix of critiques and suggestions on building design, parking and landscaping.
Sandra (staff) summarized the proposal as part of a larger rezoning and general‑plan filing: the site sits in the Central 202 core growth area within Val Vista Square PAD, is roughly 12.25 acres, and proposes three buildings with a mix of residential and office uses. The applicant increased proposed office area (staff noted the increase from the prior submittal) and requested a minor parking deviation supported by a parking study and shared parking assumptions. Staff said the applicant had requested a fire variance; that request was denied on review the prior day.
Commissioners praised increased office/ground‑floor activity but flagged building façades, material choice and the amount and location of commercial uses. Commissioner Davis said some elevations looked “blank” and suggested additional materials and articulation. Commissioner Simon suggested the center building (the 100% residential building) could include ground‑floor retail or more active uses to improve frontage along a large parking field. Vice Chairman Faye said the reduced commercial percentage and rounding down of parking remained concerns but that the current submission was “more palatable” than a prior iteration.
No formal action was taken at the study‑session feedback stage; staff requested the applicant refine building elevations, confirm parking justification and respond to the denied fire variance when the project returns for formal review.
