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Commission waives transparency standard, approves façade update at 3391 12 Mile Road
Summary
The Planning Commission approved a façade renovation at 3391 12 Mile Road that adds windows and updates the exterior. The commission waived the 40% first-floor transparency requirement because the existing building’s configuration limits window area; the project aims to bring the frontage into greater alignment with downtown design guidelines.
The Berkeley Planning Commission on April 22 approved a façade renovation for 3391 12 Mile Road, allowing a reduced amount of first-floor transparency because the existing building’s structure constrains the ability to meet the code’s 40 percent window standard.
Darren Atesian, the applicant representing CNH Land and Atesian Properties, told the commission the building contains two interior roof lines and a two-story portion that limit the free-span clearance and window height. Atesian said the design team elected nine-foot windows and continuity of the storefront rather than varying window heights to try to improve the building’s appearance.
Atesian said his real-estate company will occupy a little over half of the building and the east portion will be offered for lease to a retail tenant. The applicant said the project will leave and match the existing masonry, then paint it a lighter earth tone for continuity. The commission and applicant discussed future exterior improvements, lighting and signage; the applicant said signage will be submitted separately for approval.
Staff recommended the commission find that the site-plan standards (section 138-678 in the transcript) are met and to waive the transparency standard (cited in the meeting as section 138-4 21 or related transparency code) because the renovation increases transparency relative to the existing condition and brings the building closer to the downtown design guidelines.
A motion to approve the site plan (PSP 04-20 for 3391 12 Mile Road) and to waive the transparency standard passed on a roll-call vote. Commissioners Dahlen, Stapp, Hamame, Arnsman (Ernsman/Ernzmann as transcribed), Woods, Vargas and Chair Kempner voted yes.
