HLC grants project-design approval for adaptive-reuse conversion at 133–135 East Ortega with conditions

The Santa Barbara Historic Landmarks Commission on May 21 granted project design approval for an adaptive-reuse project at 133–135 East Ortega Street, a mixed set of existing commercial/industrial structures proposed to be converted to 26 rental units.

Applicant agent Lonnie Roy described the proposal as adaptive reuse of three existing structures — including two Quonset-hut–type volumes at the rear — and said the project would provide 26 units (four two‑bedrooms, the rest studios) with no on-site car parking. The team said the metal canopy over part of the property will be “peeled back” roughly 20 feet to increase light and air, facades will be repaired or retained where feasible, and the Quonset-hut facades will be preserved while creating an open-air corridor for unit access.

Commissioners praised the applicant’s overall approach but asked the team to study a short list of refinements before final sign-off on details. The commission’s comments, incorporated into the approval motion, included: study adding a fourth window on the Ortega Street facade between the large storefront/door and adjacent openings; study simpler, more usable materials and arrangement for the interior courtyard; “add a little poetry” or other refinement to the large Ortega Street storefront door; integrate downspout color with wall color so gutters/downspouts do not visually contrast heavily; and study the color palette for windows and awnings.

The project will replace existing windows with fiberglass units that retain original proportions where possible, add skylights under the canopy to bring light into units and provide bicycle parking and a trash enclosure along the Santa Barbara Street frontage. The project team said mechanical equipment would be screened at the roof and that the roof parapet treatment would be adjusted to match existing parapet lines on the site.

Commissioner Jordan made the motion for project design approval and then requested the item be referred to consent for final approval if the study items are judged to be minor; the motion maker amended the motion to continue to consent for final approval and the seconder agreed. The commission voted to approve project design and to refer final details to consent; roll call showed unanimous approval by members present.

Staff noted the project previously received additional community-benefit floor area from the City Council on April 29. The commission recorded project-compatibility findings required for design approval and advised the applicant to return with any changes if the study items result in substantive revisions.